Regardless of what Conservative Republicans are spewing about ObamaCare, the truth is that this allows all individuals in our country to have health insurance, which is absolutely the way it should be. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) will expand access to insurance for all individuals, small groups, and young adults who do not presently have health insurance; including those with pre-existing conditions. It will create a market for those who are unable to get insurance through their job.
Most likely, individuals who already have coverage or receive coverage from a large employer will probably not see any changes. And if you are happy with your insurance, you do not have to do anything-you keep it just the way it is.
THE BIGGEST CHANGE: NJ LAW NOW ALLOWS QUALIFIED DEPENDENTS OF INSURED PEOPLE TO CONTINUE COVERAGE UNTIL AGE 31-IT USED TO BE AGE 26.
The law defines an eligible dependent as a child of a subscriber who is:
unmarried or not in a civil union
has no dependents
is 30 years old or younger
is either a NJ resident, or enrolled as a full time student at an accredited school
People can shop for health insurance on the Health Insurance Marketplace and the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) starting 10/1.
You can see side by side comparisons of various plans and decide what's best for you.
Once you purchase your plan, you can start using the health insurance on 1/1/2014.
The Affordable Health Care Act broadens member benefits. The new plans you purchase MUST cover 10 categories of services:
Hospitalization, Outpatient services, Emergency service, Maternity and newborn care,
Prescription drugs, Lab services, Pediatric service (oral and vision included), Mental health/substance abuse, Rehabilitative services and devices, AND most important, Preventative and wellness services(blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol screenings, mammograms, colonoscopies, flu and pneumonia shots, osteoporosis screenings.
What everyone should realize is that:1) Obamacare created penalties to hospitals that had high rates of patient readmission and also, high rates of infection. And guess what? This year Medicare has stated that patient readmission fell. 2) Obamacare created Accountable Care Organizations where " Doctors get paid based on their patients medical outcome, instead of how many tests/procedures they perform."
3) Electronic records and new technology now being utilized by Doctors and hospitals has created more efiicient and cost saving practices.
Health-care inflation is at its lowest level since 2011. Six hundred BILLION has already been cut from the anticipated 10 year spending total for Medicare&Medicaid.
Premiums are significantly lower than forecasted.
You are now asking who pays for insurance for people who are too sick or too poor to purchase insurance on their own? Well, the money will come from a)
higher taxes on the rich b)the savings I mentioned above from Medicare and c) having young, healthy people (who previously did not have coverage) to enroll in the new system. These 25 million new customers to the insurance industry will ultimately keep costs down. And, lo and behold, "evidence so far suggests that Obamacare's cost reforms are a staggering success."
As Jonathan Chait states in New York Magazine, "permanent health-care reform would define Obama as a Reaganesque transformative figure, rather than the failure conservatives still hope him to be remembered as."
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Friday, September 6, 2013
Can You Feel It In The Air?
Here we are again-the warm days of September are here with a hint of crispness in the air. There is no better season, and no more beautiful time of the year in the Northeast. With the weather change, comes the new fashions for fall. Spending lots on clothes is not my thing, but I love fashion and a good find. After paging through tons of catalogues, these are my recommendations.
Bang for the Buck
SHOES
Forget Jimmy Choo, Christian Loubitin, Manolo, Ferragamo, and Giuseppe Zanotti!
Head for Lord and Taylor and check out: Sam Edelman's Della Pump in black and
camel for $139.95. Ivanka Trump's entire shoe line is priced well and looks fabulous,
Check out her Caria Flat for $99.95. DV by Dolce Vita "Joust" bootie in black or
brown suede is $99.00 and simple and cool.
At Nordstrom's Vince Camuto's Bocca buckled over the knee boot for $228.95
Finally, Check out all of Tory Burch's boots-they are all great with a skinny jean.
Available at Tory Burch Stores.
PURSES
Who needs Gucci, Prada, Chanel, Miu Miu or Philip Lim?
Visit Nordstrom and check out Rebecca Minkoff's Cross body Dexter bucket bag in
Port for $295. I love Coach's new soft legacy pebbled leather shoulder bag in
Midnight for $358-available at Saks.
PANTS&TOPS
Lord and Taylor's private brand: crepe dolman and medallion brocade pant in
evergreen. ($60 and $70). Amazing color-great for the holidays!
Nicole Richie's line for QVC has two great items: a leather and canvas jacket for
under $90 bucks and a brocade ankle pant in black or red for under $70.00. She has
a great sense of style and these are cool.
brocade pant
JEWELRY
Pomellato's small band silver ring at Saks for $310. Buy two and wear as ring guards
with your diamond band. The large band is $350 and great on its own.
COATS
Saks has a gorgeous DKNYC colorblock wool coat with faux fur. Navy/Charcoal/
black for $299.
Gotta Have It-Willing to Splurge (and it's not even that bad!)
PURSES
Saks again: Michael Kors Miranda tote in Royal/Black for $1495.
PANTS
9/15 ponte leggings also at Saks for $110. One pair of black ponte pants are great
for every season. Worth the price. Wear with boots, stilletos or ballet flat-super look.
JEWELRY
Meira T necklace in blue chalcedony and diamonds at Bloomies for $1595. also
comes in a variety of stones. Simple, Elegant, Everyday or black tie.
COATS
This is my favorite: Dawn Levy Coat. Very streamlined with black ponyhair. Ok-it
may not be pc with the antifur crowd, but they don't kill the horse-they just give
it a trim. At Saks (where else?) for $1095.
FINAL THOUGHTS AND MUST HAVES:
Coolest dress: Cynthia Steffe's rose print jacquard fit and flare dress in black and
gold. Great for dinner or black tie-really pretty and reasonably priced for $248.
Get it at Lord and Taylor
If you only buy one item on trend this season make it a "haircalf" purse, belt, or shoe.
Bargain: Betsey Johnson's studded haircalf belt for $48; or Sam Edelman's strappy
okala pump for $120. Both items at Lord and Taylor.
If you want to transform your dull skirt or dress, jazz it up with an embellished tight.
Go look at DKNY'S embellished black seam tight, or geometric patterns by Pretty
Polly, Wolford, or Spanx. All at Nordstrom. Spend $20-$60 and you have a rockin'
look that's hip and pretty.
Coolest new running show is Nike's free fly knit in pink/white for $160(Nordstrom)
And finally, a splurge that might make you feel regretful next fall, but happy this season is Valentino's Rockstud Sling pump in Nude or blue patent. $945 at Saks.
Bang for the Buck
SHOES
Forget Jimmy Choo, Christian Loubitin, Manolo, Ferragamo, and Giuseppe Zanotti!
Head for Lord and Taylor and check out: Sam Edelman's Della Pump in black and
camel for $139.95. Ivanka Trump's entire shoe line is priced well and looks fabulous,
Check out her Caria Flat for $99.95. DV by Dolce Vita "Joust" bootie in black or
brown suede is $99.00 and simple and cool.
At Nordstrom's Vince Camuto's Bocca buckled over the knee boot for $228.95
Finally, Check out all of Tory Burch's boots-they are all great with a skinny jean.
Available at Tory Burch Stores.
PURSES
Who needs Gucci, Prada, Chanel, Miu Miu or Philip Lim?
Visit Nordstrom and check out Rebecca Minkoff's Cross body Dexter bucket bag in
Port for $295. I love Coach's new soft legacy pebbled leather shoulder bag in
Midnight for $358-available at Saks.
PANTS&TOPS
Lord and Taylor's private brand: crepe dolman and medallion brocade pant in
evergreen. ($60 and $70). Amazing color-great for the holidays!
Nicole Richie's line for QVC has two great items: a leather and canvas jacket for
under $90 bucks and a brocade ankle pant in black or red for under $70.00. She has
a great sense of style and these are cool.
brocade pant
JEWELRY
Pomellato's small band silver ring at Saks for $310. Buy two and wear as ring guards
with your diamond band. The large band is $350 and great on its own.
COATS
Saks has a gorgeous DKNYC colorblock wool coat with faux fur. Navy/Charcoal/
black for $299.
Gotta Have It-Willing to Splurge (and it's not even that bad!)
PURSES
Saks again: Michael Kors Miranda tote in Royal/Black for $1495.
PANTS
9/15 ponte leggings also at Saks for $110. One pair of black ponte pants are great
for every season. Worth the price. Wear with boots, stilletos or ballet flat-super look.
JEWELRY
Meira T necklace in blue chalcedony and diamonds at Bloomies for $1595. also
comes in a variety of stones. Simple, Elegant, Everyday or black tie.
COATS
This is my favorite: Dawn Levy Coat. Very streamlined with black ponyhair. Ok-it
may not be pc with the antifur crowd, but they don't kill the horse-they just give
it a trim. At Saks (where else?) for $1095.
FINAL THOUGHTS AND MUST HAVES:
Coolest dress: Cynthia Steffe's rose print jacquard fit and flare dress in black and
gold. Great for dinner or black tie-really pretty and reasonably priced for $248.
Get it at Lord and Taylor
If you only buy one item on trend this season make it a "haircalf" purse, belt, or shoe.
Bargain: Betsey Johnson's studded haircalf belt for $48; or Sam Edelman's strappy
okala pump for $120. Both items at Lord and Taylor.
If you want to transform your dull skirt or dress, jazz it up with an embellished tight.
Go look at DKNY'S embellished black seam tight, or geometric patterns by Pretty
Polly, Wolford, or Spanx. All at Nordstrom. Spend $20-$60 and you have a rockin'
look that's hip and pretty.
Coolest new running show is Nike's free fly knit in pink/white for $160(Nordstrom)
And finally, a splurge that might make you feel regretful next fall, but happy this season is Valentino's Rockstud Sling pump in Nude or blue patent. $945 at Saks.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
YEA-Summer's Ending/Fall is coming..
We have a few more weeks of summer, before Autumn, my FAVORITE season, begins. Many of you will have August vacations coming and I have a few new recommendations you might want to explore on your down time.
On the television front, there's lots happening. Beginning on August 19th, Regis Philbin returns to television. He will be hosting a show called "Crowd goes Wild" for
Fox Sports network everyday at 5p.m. Now he can sleep late before work.
Keith Olbermann who, as you may remember, was fired from Current TV in 2012 returns to tv and is going back to his roots. He will be discussing sports, not politics, on ESPN starting August 26th at 11p.m. Don't be surprised if he sneaks in a few liberal opinions about the country's government. Interestingly enough, Nate Silver has left the New York Times to be a regular contributor on the Olbermann show. Stay tuned.
Finally, if you missed Larry David's tv movie, Clear History, on HBO last Saturday-
try to catch it on demand. If you are a David fan, you will enjoy it. It's basically a long episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm. The cast is terrific, especially Liev Shreiber
(who doesn't even have a credit). And the band Chicago plays a large role in the movie so there are lots of great songs throughout. If Larry makes you cringe, avoid this at all costs.
On the movie front, check out Woody Allen's new movie, Blue Jasmine. Cate Blanchett is fabulous and the movie is good, not great. The cast is great, not good.
Andrew Dice Clay and Bobby Cannavale are superb.
Yes, I was desperate and bored so I went to see We are the Millers. I liked the movie. It was stupid and funny. It's good for a giggle. If you are a guy, it is definitely worth the price of admission to see Jennifer Anniston in a minimum of three scenes in a minimum of underwear. Jason Sudeikis and Emma Roberts also star in the flick. Bottom line: it's a good "bad" movie. Wait for it to go on demand.
Keep an eye out for The Butler and Jobs coming out this weekend.
If you prefer to read, check out a young new author debuting her first novel. It has gotten rave reviews by all. The book is: The People in the Trees by Hanya Yanagihara.
Now for the shoppers out there-Check out designer Philip Lim's clothing and accessories made especially for Target. The line will be in stores on September 15th. I can't wait!
Then stop over at Sephora for your makeup fix. Products I love are Buxom's pen and ink long last eyeliner; Highbeam highlighter by Benefit; and Jin soon nail lacquer which is only available on line. This polish is the Best! It is a long lasting chip proof polish that comes in exquisite colors. Try their power coat and top coat too. It's expensive but well worth it.
And, if you need the gift of the moment for young girls between ages of 8-15, the newest craze is Rainbow Loom bracelets. They are easy and fun to create on a mini loom. Good luck finding the kit in stock. Available at Michael's arts and crafts stores.
http://www.michaels.com/Rainbow-Loom-Kit/kd4167,default,pd.html
Enjoy the rest of August-See you in September! Oneb
On the television front, there's lots happening. Beginning on August 19th, Regis Philbin returns to television. He will be hosting a show called "Crowd goes Wild" for
Fox Sports network everyday at 5p.m. Now he can sleep late before work.
Keith Olbermann who, as you may remember, was fired from Current TV in 2012 returns to tv and is going back to his roots. He will be discussing sports, not politics, on ESPN starting August 26th at 11p.m. Don't be surprised if he sneaks in a few liberal opinions about the country's government. Interestingly enough, Nate Silver has left the New York Times to be a regular contributor on the Olbermann show. Stay tuned.
Finally, if you missed Larry David's tv movie, Clear History, on HBO last Saturday-
try to catch it on demand. If you are a David fan, you will enjoy it. It's basically a long episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm. The cast is terrific, especially Liev Shreiber
(who doesn't even have a credit). And the band Chicago plays a large role in the movie so there are lots of great songs throughout. If Larry makes you cringe, avoid this at all costs.
On the movie front, check out Woody Allen's new movie, Blue Jasmine. Cate Blanchett is fabulous and the movie is good, not great. The cast is great, not good.
Andrew Dice Clay and Bobby Cannavale are superb.
Yes, I was desperate and bored so I went to see We are the Millers. I liked the movie. It was stupid and funny. It's good for a giggle. If you are a guy, it is definitely worth the price of admission to see Jennifer Anniston in a minimum of three scenes in a minimum of underwear. Jason Sudeikis and Emma Roberts also star in the flick. Bottom line: it's a good "bad" movie. Wait for it to go on demand.
Keep an eye out for The Butler and Jobs coming out this weekend.
If you prefer to read, check out a young new author debuting her first novel. It has gotten rave reviews by all. The book is: The People in the Trees by Hanya Yanagihara.
Now for the shoppers out there-Check out designer Philip Lim's clothing and accessories made especially for Target. The line will be in stores on September 15th. I can't wait!
Then stop over at Sephora for your makeup fix. Products I love are Buxom's pen and ink long last eyeliner; Highbeam highlighter by Benefit; and Jin soon nail lacquer which is only available on line. This polish is the Best! It is a long lasting chip proof polish that comes in exquisite colors. Try their power coat and top coat too. It's expensive but well worth it.
And, if you need the gift of the moment for young girls between ages of 8-15, the newest craze is Rainbow Loom bracelets. They are easy and fun to create on a mini loom. Good luck finding the kit in stock. Available at Michael's arts and crafts stores.
http://www.michaels.com/Rainbow-Loom-Kit/kd4167,default,pd.html
Enjoy the rest of August-See you in September! Oneb
Thursday, August 1, 2013
It's been a while.....
I haven't blogged in a while so I have many different things to discuss.
Television Series
MAGIC CITY-on Starz. This show is in its second season. It takes place in 1959 at the Miramar Playa Hotel in Miami. This hotel, Miramar Playa is very similar to the Fountainbleu or Eden Roc during this time. The owner of the hotel, Ike Evans, is played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan, who is sensational and easy on the eyes. His nemesis is probably the scariest villain on television these days. That character is Ben Diamond, king of Miami's underworld, and is played by actor Danny Huston. These characters have viceral hate for one another and the story plot revolves around their business wars. You will be shaking watching Danny Huston in this role. He literally makes your skin crawl. Violence ensues.
RAY DONOVAN-on Showtime. Jon Voight and Liev Schreiber star in this series about a Professional fixer in L.A.(Schreiber) and the hateful (non) relationship with his father (Jon Voight), who has just been released from prison. Jon Voight is beyond spectacular in this role. A definite must to watch. LOVE the show.
NEWSROOM-On HBO. Great ensemble cast. Irritating dialogue where the characters constantly talk over one another. It is the best of Aaron Sorkin and the worst of Aaron Sorkin. I continue to watch the series, but it is mediocre. Not one his better shows.
THE HAVES AND THE HAVE NOTS-on Own network. This is a nighttime a soap opera developed by Tyler Perry. The acting, however is super. A close second in the villain category (Ben Diamond/Magic City) is played by Tika Sumpter as Candace Young. She is beautiful, smart, and terribly evil. Remember the show Dynasty? Candace is more horrific than Joan Collins in Dynasty.. Tika Sumpter deserves an emmy for this role.The actress, Crystal Fox, playing her mother, Hanna Young is equally great. Has a fabulous cast. The women will like this show. Men will not!
MILLION DOLLAR LISTING NYC-on Bravo. Three realtors battle for the opportunity to get pricey listings in NYC. It makes you see firsthand how morally corrupt and dishonest many of these brokers are, and how often they play the buyers against the sellers. Tune in to see Frederik, Luis, and Ryan. It's fun to see locations you know and what they actually sell for in NYC- the prices are insane, but you know that!
Who Knew About This?
Television
LARRY KING-on RT America Network. Check out his new show about politics. You can catch it on Hulu.Com or Rt.com
FUNNY OR DIE'S BILLY ON THE STREET-on Fuse. Comedian Billy Eichner is hysterical in little vignettes.
The Web
IMMACULATE INFATUATION-a website that is right up my alley. Discussions about food in the NYC area. And, it also tells you the stars favorite spots to chow down.
Upcoming Shows
A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN-opening at The Lyceum Theatre on Broadway on 9/20. Mary Bridget Davies stars as Janis. If you haven't heard her sing-she is extraordinary. This will be a hard ticket to come by.
Food/Restaurants
Do or Dine- Brooklyn. Many options. Are you up for a foie gras donut? yuck!
Blue Ribbon Beer Garden-190 Allen Street in the Thomson Hotel. Nice outside terrace on the 2nd floor. Loads of beer choices but only 3 entrees: Cornish hen, ribs, vegetable platter. And there's ping pong! cool..
Dominique Ansel's Bakery-189 Spring Street. By now you have all heard of the infamous cronut. If you haven't, you most likely live under a rock. Anyway, a cronut is half croissant and half donut. They are hard to acquire and most likely you will need to wait on line for hours. However, I can't understand why people just don't buy the infamous DKA instead. This is a croissant with carmelized crust. OR his other delectable creation, The Paris? This is a pastry with chocolate, caramel, and peanut butter filling-YUM! Mr. Ansel rose to fame as Daniel Boulud's executive pastry chef, before going out on his own. Worth the wait?
Movies
THE WAY WAY BACK-Best movie of the summer. May even be in my top 20. Coming of Age story about an awkward, insecure teen played by Liam James. He gains his confidence by working for an offbeat manager of a water park, played by Sam Rockwell. Rockwell steals the movie and deserves an academy award. Run don't walk to see this. You will smile for days afterward.
FRUITVALE STATION-a true story about a young black boy killed for no reason, on New Year's day in 2009. . Takes place in the San Francisco Bay area. Stars Michael B. Jordan who is absolutely riveting. His mother, played by Octavia Spencer, also gives (another) award winning performance. VERY difficult to sit through. As one reviewer said, "Imagine Trayvon Martin as a white kid. Would there be as many commentators speculating that Trayvon's attitude caused his own death at the hands of a man who stalked him with a gun?" This movie is so timely and so powerful.Go see this movie. Make your teens see this movie!
Television Series
MAGIC CITY-on Starz. This show is in its second season. It takes place in 1959 at the Miramar Playa Hotel in Miami. This hotel, Miramar Playa is very similar to the Fountainbleu or Eden Roc during this time. The owner of the hotel, Ike Evans, is played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan, who is sensational and easy on the eyes. His nemesis is probably the scariest villain on television these days. That character is Ben Diamond, king of Miami's underworld, and is played by actor Danny Huston. These characters have viceral hate for one another and the story plot revolves around their business wars. You will be shaking watching Danny Huston in this role. He literally makes your skin crawl. Violence ensues.
RAY DONOVAN-on Showtime. Jon Voight and Liev Schreiber star in this series about a Professional fixer in L.A.(Schreiber) and the hateful (non) relationship with his father (Jon Voight), who has just been released from prison. Jon Voight is beyond spectacular in this role. A definite must to watch. LOVE the show.
NEWSROOM-On HBO. Great ensemble cast. Irritating dialogue where the characters constantly talk over one another. It is the best of Aaron Sorkin and the worst of Aaron Sorkin. I continue to watch the series, but it is mediocre. Not one his better shows.
THE HAVES AND THE HAVE NOTS-on Own network. This is a nighttime a soap opera developed by Tyler Perry. The acting, however is super. A close second in the villain category (Ben Diamond/Magic City) is played by Tika Sumpter as Candace Young. She is beautiful, smart, and terribly evil. Remember the show Dynasty? Candace is more horrific than Joan Collins in Dynasty.. Tika Sumpter deserves an emmy for this role.The actress, Crystal Fox, playing her mother, Hanna Young is equally great. Has a fabulous cast. The women will like this show. Men will not!
MILLION DOLLAR LISTING NYC-on Bravo. Three realtors battle for the opportunity to get pricey listings in NYC. It makes you see firsthand how morally corrupt and dishonest many of these brokers are, and how often they play the buyers against the sellers. Tune in to see Frederik, Luis, and Ryan. It's fun to see locations you know and what they actually sell for in NYC- the prices are insane, but you know that!
Who Knew About This?
Television
LARRY KING-on RT America Network. Check out his new show about politics. You can catch it on Hulu.Com or Rt.com
FUNNY OR DIE'S BILLY ON THE STREET-on Fuse. Comedian Billy Eichner is hysterical in little vignettes.
The Web
IMMACULATE INFATUATION-a website that is right up my alley. Discussions about food in the NYC area. And, it also tells you the stars favorite spots to chow down.
Upcoming Shows
A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN-opening at The Lyceum Theatre on Broadway on 9/20. Mary Bridget Davies stars as Janis. If you haven't heard her sing-she is extraordinary. This will be a hard ticket to come by.
Food/Restaurants
Do or Dine- Brooklyn. Many options. Are you up for a foie gras donut? yuck!
Blue Ribbon Beer Garden-190 Allen Street in the Thomson Hotel. Nice outside terrace on the 2nd floor. Loads of beer choices but only 3 entrees: Cornish hen, ribs, vegetable platter. And there's ping pong! cool..
Dominique Ansel's Bakery-189 Spring Street. By now you have all heard of the infamous cronut. If you haven't, you most likely live under a rock. Anyway, a cronut is half croissant and half donut. They are hard to acquire and most likely you will need to wait on line for hours. However, I can't understand why people just don't buy the infamous DKA instead. This is a croissant with carmelized crust. OR his other delectable creation, The Paris? This is a pastry with chocolate, caramel, and peanut butter filling-YUM! Mr. Ansel rose to fame as Daniel Boulud's executive pastry chef, before going out on his own. Worth the wait?
Movies
THE WAY WAY BACK-Best movie of the summer. May even be in my top 20. Coming of Age story about an awkward, insecure teen played by Liam James. He gains his confidence by working for an offbeat manager of a water park, played by Sam Rockwell. Rockwell steals the movie and deserves an academy award. Run don't walk to see this. You will smile for days afterward.
FRUITVALE STATION-a true story about a young black boy killed for no reason, on New Year's day in 2009. . Takes place in the San Francisco Bay area. Stars Michael B. Jordan who is absolutely riveting. His mother, played by Octavia Spencer, also gives (another) award winning performance. VERY difficult to sit through. As one reviewer said, "Imagine Trayvon Martin as a white kid. Would there be as many commentators speculating that Trayvon's attitude caused his own death at the hands of a man who stalked him with a gun?" This movie is so timely and so powerful.Go see this movie. Make your teens see this movie!
Monday, March 25, 2013
GOING OUT ON A LIMB
Driving home this weekend, a song came on the radio. Not just any song-the BEST song!
This precipitated a discussion with my husband as to what songs, Broadway shows, food, books, etc. are favorites. I may be going out on a limb, and keep in mind that I was a teen in the 60's and 70's, which has a definite impact on my opinions. The following are my choices. Keep an open mind.
BEST SONG EVER
Suite Judy Blue Eyes-Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young. This is still my all time favorite band.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Hey Jude-The Beatles
Norwegion Wood-The Beatles
Rocketman-Elton John
BEST PLAY/SHOW EVER
Guys and Dolls
HONORABLE MENTIONS
The Sound of Music
Gypsy
Pippin
BEST ALBUM EVER
Beatles White Album (there is not one bad song on this, not one!)
HONORABLEMENTIONS
Born To Run-Bruce Springsteen. I know many of you out there think Bruce is the best
ever. Keep in mind-I am not as young as you. He's is great-just not my great.
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, & Thyme-Simon and Garfunkel
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band-The Beatles
BEST MOVIE EVER
The Graduate-hands down, the best from my generation. It exemplified the angst of my
generation and the stress of what to do once college was over-Much like today!
HONORABLE MENTIONS
The Godfather I and II
Goodfellas
Pulp Fiction
The Shining
Rear Window
Annie Hall
The Shawshank Redemption
BEST BOOK EVER
Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Candide by Voltaire
Atonement by Ian McEwan
Almost everything written by John Irving (A Prayer for Owen Meeney, Cider House Rules, In One Person,
etc.)
Almost everything written by Philip Roth
Almost everything written by John Updike
BEST MEAL EVER
Stretch's Belmont Tavern-Bloomfield Ave. Belleville. You either get this place or
you don't. You always have to wait-no reservations. Eat the chicken savoy, long hot peppers
and ziti with pot cheese. Also fab is chicken murphy, mad chicken, shrimp beeps. Serious
ly, you will dream about this food weeks after you consumed it. It is THAT good!!!
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Pommes Frites -2nd Ave. East Village, NYC. I know -this isn't a meal, but these fries and
all the sauce choices are to die for. When you decide to throw your diet to the wind, go here
after a night of drinking-beyond good, I promise!
Donut Plant-Grand Street, NYC. If you don't like donuts, stop reading now. If you love them
as much as I do, then this is THE SPOT! Try peanut butter and jelly, crème brulee, and
carrot cake. Bring a ton of dinero-each donut is costly. You must buy a dozen, because there
is no way you are stopping after one. Again, I realize this isn't a meal but it is worth the
trip and giving up eating for a week after you indulge.
The Meatball Shop-4 locations in the city. You customize the "balls": either chicken, pork,
beef, veal, veggie. You customize the sauce: tomato, pesto, etc. You pick the sides: pasta,
polenta, beans, spinach. It is a great meal. End with a custom ice cream sandwich between
two cookies. Forgot the 4 star restaurants-this is nirvana.
BEST WRITTEN TELEVISION IN A LONG TIME!
The Girls-by Lena Dunham and Jud Apatow. I totally loved this season's final episode.
I am still smiling about the clever script. I was literally glued to the screen and have
watched the episode two more times. Where do I begin? I love the depth and com-
plexity of every character. The series touches on the social anxiety of these people, how
technology transforms our communication skills, and the struggle for identity. The series
focuses on twenty somethings, that are over educated, upper middle class youths competing for jobs
with thousands of others in NYC just like them.
The episode opens where Hannah is in emotional and physical pain. Her OCD has re-
appeared. She is vulnerable and scared. She reaches out to her dad, her editor, leaves an
insanely hysterical message to her friend, Jessa, and calls Adam. The only person who is "there" for
her is Adam. He literally drops everything and comes running. Up until this moment, you
hated the guy. Now, suddenly, he seems likeable and kind.
Shoshanna desperately wanted a boyfriend and suddenly realizes the one she has is
holding her back. She becomes more confident, gains independence, and despite her
earlier protests to her boyfriend, Ray-the show ends with her hooking up with a "blond"
guy in a bar. Her confrontation with Ray where she breaks up is masterfully written: She
tells him: "You hate colors, you hate pillows, you hate ribbons, you hate everything!"
I can't be the only thing you like.
As for Marnie, I am unsure if getting back with Charlie is a satisfying ending to the
season. She seems self absorbed and to like him (again) because he is successful. I am not
falling for her protests to Charlie that she doesn't care about his financial success. We will
see.
This finale was a "dazzling piece of filmmaking". You don't have to like the
characters to enjoy this show and its genius. Lena Dunham is spectacular.
This precipitated a discussion with my husband as to what songs, Broadway shows, food, books, etc. are favorites. I may be going out on a limb, and keep in mind that I was a teen in the 60's and 70's, which has a definite impact on my opinions. The following are my choices. Keep an open mind.
BEST SONG EVER
Suite Judy Blue Eyes-Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young. This is still my all time favorite band.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Hey Jude-The Beatles
Norwegion Wood-The Beatles
Rocketman-Elton John
BEST PLAY/SHOW EVER
Guys and Dolls
HONORABLE MENTIONS
The Sound of Music
Gypsy
Pippin
BEST ALBUM EVER
Beatles White Album (there is not one bad song on this, not one!)
HONORABLEMENTIONS
Born To Run-Bruce Springsteen. I know many of you out there think Bruce is the best
ever. Keep in mind-I am not as young as you. He's is great-just not my great.
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, & Thyme-Simon and Garfunkel
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band-The Beatles
BEST MOVIE EVER
The Graduate-hands down, the best from my generation. It exemplified the angst of my
generation and the stress of what to do once college was over-Much like today!
HONORABLE MENTIONS
The Godfather I and II
Goodfellas
Pulp Fiction
The Shining
Rear Window
Annie Hall
The Shawshank Redemption
BEST BOOK EVER
Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Candide by Voltaire
Atonement by Ian McEwan
Almost everything written by John Irving (A Prayer for Owen Meeney, Cider House Rules, In One Person,
etc.)
Almost everything written by Philip Roth
Almost everything written by John Updike
BEST MEAL EVER
Stretch's Belmont Tavern-Bloomfield Ave. Belleville. You either get this place or
you don't. You always have to wait-no reservations. Eat the chicken savoy, long hot peppers
and ziti with pot cheese. Also fab is chicken murphy, mad chicken, shrimp beeps. Serious
ly, you will dream about this food weeks after you consumed it. It is THAT good!!!
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Pommes Frites -2nd Ave. East Village, NYC. I know -this isn't a meal, but these fries and
all the sauce choices are to die for. When you decide to throw your diet to the wind, go here
after a night of drinking-beyond good, I promise!
Donut Plant-Grand Street, NYC. If you don't like donuts, stop reading now. If you love them
as much as I do, then this is THE SPOT! Try peanut butter and jelly, crème brulee, and
carrot cake. Bring a ton of dinero-each donut is costly. You must buy a dozen, because there
is no way you are stopping after one. Again, I realize this isn't a meal but it is worth the
trip and giving up eating for a week after you indulge.
The Meatball Shop-4 locations in the city. You customize the "balls": either chicken, pork,
beef, veal, veggie. You customize the sauce: tomato, pesto, etc. You pick the sides: pasta,
polenta, beans, spinach. It is a great meal. End with a custom ice cream sandwich between
two cookies. Forgot the 4 star restaurants-this is nirvana.
BEST WRITTEN TELEVISION IN A LONG TIME!
The Girls-by Lena Dunham and Jud Apatow. I totally loved this season's final episode.
I am still smiling about the clever script. I was literally glued to the screen and have
watched the episode two more times. Where do I begin? I love the depth and com-
plexity of every character. The series touches on the social anxiety of these people, how
technology transforms our communication skills, and the struggle for identity. The series
focuses on twenty somethings, that are over educated, upper middle class youths competing for jobs
with thousands of others in NYC just like them.
The episode opens where Hannah is in emotional and physical pain. Her OCD has re-
appeared. She is vulnerable and scared. She reaches out to her dad, her editor, leaves an
insanely hysterical message to her friend, Jessa, and calls Adam. The only person who is "there" for
her is Adam. He literally drops everything and comes running. Up until this moment, you
hated the guy. Now, suddenly, he seems likeable and kind.
Shoshanna desperately wanted a boyfriend and suddenly realizes the one she has is
holding her back. She becomes more confident, gains independence, and despite her
earlier protests to her boyfriend, Ray-the show ends with her hooking up with a "blond"
guy in a bar. Her confrontation with Ray where she breaks up is masterfully written: She
tells him: "You hate colors, you hate pillows, you hate ribbons, you hate everything!"
I can't be the only thing you like.
As for Marnie, I am unsure if getting back with Charlie is a satisfying ending to the
season. She seems self absorbed and to like him (again) because he is successful. I am not
falling for her protests to Charlie that she doesn't care about his financial success. We will
see.
This finale was a "dazzling piece of filmmaking". You don't have to like the
characters to enjoy this show and its genius. Lena Dunham is spectacular.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Bad JuJu
Recently, I traveled to Hawaii for a little rest and relaxation in Lanai. While in Lanai, we would walk the exquisite beaches each day and see the springer dolphins. The sand was pristine and it was most unusual because there wasn't one shell to be found. I would watch crabs run into their holes and wonder why no shells were washed onto the beach. On all of my travels, I either collect rocks or shells and place them in small boxes around my home. So, needless to say, I was disappointed to come up short in Hawaii. As I was walking, it occurred to me that I could collect the beautiful lava rocks that bordered the ocean. I began to pick up red, black, and brown rocks and I was happy in the knowledge that I would have some beautiful reminders from this trip to bring home.
On the last evening of our stay in Lanai, we were having a great dinner at Nobu. We got into a discussion with our waitress about the lack of any shells on the beaches. She informed us that on some beaches, there were shells and on others, there were none. I then proceeded to tell her that I had collected lava rock in lieu of the shells. Her smile instantly turned to a grimace and she told me that I must NEVER displace the lava rock from the beach. I would get "BAD JUJU"! What the hell is bad juju? Someone who doesn't observe the Jewish Holidays? Or a bad piece of candy?
JuJu is a term that originally travelled to America from West Africa. You can receive good juju
by saving a kitten or returning someone's lost wallet. In other words, if you perform any good deed, you can have good juju. Apparently, what I did by taking the rocks and displacing the natural habitat was very bad. I, or my family and friends would forever be haunted by a bad vibe or aura. Terrible things would come my way if I didn't return those rocks. Oy vay, I started to shake. A panic attack ensued. More vodka was needed. Everyone knows you don't walk under ladders; you never open an umbrella inside the house; you can't put a hat on the bed; if you enter at the front door, you must exit by the same door, and heaven forbid a black cat crosses my path, I will take an alternative route an hour out of my way just to change my direction. You get the point-I am very superstitious.
The waitress suggested that we return the rocks to the exact spot we removed them from and all would be right with the world again. Don't you know I was on that beach the next morning with those rocks in hand? I walked back to the place where they had been and quickly replaced them. NO MORE BAD JUJU for me!!!
However, once I returned home, something happened. I was walking in my daughter's apartment without my shoes and stubbed my toe. I didn't just stub it-upon closer inspection, it was hanging off my foot. So, today, I went to see the foot Dr. and guess what? I fractured the toe. Now for 4 weeks I must tape it and wear a crazy shoe to keep it stable. Was this bad juju or just a mere coincidence? I don't know which it was. I am not taking any chances. Tomorrow I will go out and feed a homeless person, donate clothes to the salvation army, and give some money to a needy charity. I have to get some good juju ASAP so I can reverse the spell.
On the last evening of our stay in Lanai, we were having a great dinner at Nobu. We got into a discussion with our waitress about the lack of any shells on the beaches. She informed us that on some beaches, there were shells and on others, there were none. I then proceeded to tell her that I had collected lava rock in lieu of the shells. Her smile instantly turned to a grimace and she told me that I must NEVER displace the lava rock from the beach. I would get "BAD JUJU"! What the hell is bad juju? Someone who doesn't observe the Jewish Holidays? Or a bad piece of candy?
JuJu is a term that originally travelled to America from West Africa. You can receive good juju
by saving a kitten or returning someone's lost wallet. In other words, if you perform any good deed, you can have good juju. Apparently, what I did by taking the rocks and displacing the natural habitat was very bad. I, or my family and friends would forever be haunted by a bad vibe or aura. Terrible things would come my way if I didn't return those rocks. Oy vay, I started to shake. A panic attack ensued. More vodka was needed. Everyone knows you don't walk under ladders; you never open an umbrella inside the house; you can't put a hat on the bed; if you enter at the front door, you must exit by the same door, and heaven forbid a black cat crosses my path, I will take an alternative route an hour out of my way just to change my direction. You get the point-I am very superstitious.
The waitress suggested that we return the rocks to the exact spot we removed them from and all would be right with the world again. Don't you know I was on that beach the next morning with those rocks in hand? I walked back to the place where they had been and quickly replaced them. NO MORE BAD JUJU for me!!!
However, once I returned home, something happened. I was walking in my daughter's apartment without my shoes and stubbed my toe. I didn't just stub it-upon closer inspection, it was hanging off my foot. So, today, I went to see the foot Dr. and guess what? I fractured the toe. Now for 4 weeks I must tape it and wear a crazy shoe to keep it stable. Was this bad juju or just a mere coincidence? I don't know which it was. I am not taking any chances. Tomorrow I will go out and feed a homeless person, donate clothes to the salvation army, and give some money to a needy charity. I have to get some good juju ASAP so I can reverse the spell.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
GROWING OLD
Just yesterday I was 20. I was at Penn, getting a great education and also partying a lot of time with my wonderful friends (who are still very much a major part of my life today). Often, I would leave my dorm for one date, come back around 11p.m. and change my clothes, and then go out on the next date! I loved to dance, meet new people, and stay up all night. Well, not much has changed. I still have amazing friends (both from my college years and now from my current life), I still love to party and stay up all night, I still love to dance (but no one wants to go with me!), and most of all, I enjoy meeting new people.
But the big difference is, it is years later and I am now 58! I have been married for over 35 years to the man of my dreams(STILL!). I have two married daughters and one grandson. I have downsized and moved out of my house into a condo. And I am closer to death than birth. It's a scary scenario. When I get together with friends, the discussion often turns to our ailments, our medications, our post menopausal symptoms, and what body parts could use refreshing. Some of us are doing our faces, others are replacing hips or knees, and still others are buying lots of new cosmetic dentistry. Boy, did my (dentist) dad retire too soon! He would have made a fortune if he was still practicing. And that leads me to another topic: people I know are retiring or are already retired. How can that be?
This morning when my husband jumped back into bed, I told him he needed to have a dermatologist check something new on his face! That was so romantic! Is this what our lives have come to! He replied: "when did we get so old?" We used to be so young!
Well, this is what I have decided. I am going to face everyday from here on in with a positive attitude. I am going to get excited about going to Hawaii and not moan about the long plane ride which could cause blood clots if I don't get up enough and walk around! I am going to crawl around on the floor with my grandson and pretend I, too, am a toddler full of curiosity and wonder. I will not be a jaded cranky old lady. EVER. I will get more apps for my I phone! I will no longer talk about my ailments, cholesterol, medications and heartburn. And I WILL dance my ass off, just as soon as I get that new hip! And for all of you that don't know it yet, that is a lot sooner than you think.
But the big difference is, it is years later and I am now 58! I have been married for over 35 years to the man of my dreams(STILL!). I have two married daughters and one grandson. I have downsized and moved out of my house into a condo. And I am closer to death than birth. It's a scary scenario. When I get together with friends, the discussion often turns to our ailments, our medications, our post menopausal symptoms, and what body parts could use refreshing. Some of us are doing our faces, others are replacing hips or knees, and still others are buying lots of new cosmetic dentistry. Boy, did my (dentist) dad retire too soon! He would have made a fortune if he was still practicing. And that leads me to another topic: people I know are retiring or are already retired. How can that be?
This morning when my husband jumped back into bed, I told him he needed to have a dermatologist check something new on his face! That was so romantic! Is this what our lives have come to! He replied: "when did we get so old?" We used to be so young!
Well, this is what I have decided. I am going to face everyday from here on in with a positive attitude. I am going to get excited about going to Hawaii and not moan about the long plane ride which could cause blood clots if I don't get up enough and walk around! I am going to crawl around on the floor with my grandson and pretend I, too, am a toddler full of curiosity and wonder. I will not be a jaded cranky old lady. EVER. I will get more apps for my I phone! I will no longer talk about my ailments, cholesterol, medications and heartburn. And I WILL dance my ass off, just as soon as I get that new hip! And for all of you that don't know it yet, that is a lot sooner than you think.
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