The Internet Murders - Continues https://www.silvaredigonda.ca

“Tomasso was leaving the Church with Philip. The Investigation team had taken over and they were no longer required. “Who would kill a priest? Why? He was old – and strangled like that! He didn’t have a chance!” Philip listened to Tomasso. He knew Tomasso was Catholic and that this was his church. They weren’t meant to take the call, but said they were in the area because Tomasso wanted to attend. His childhood friend was a pastor here and on occasion Tomasso would go tell him whatever secrets he was holding onto. Philip didn’t think that Tomasso could have any secrets, because he couldn’t keep his mouth shut for more than five minutes. He actually timed him. Philip respected Tomasso’s beliefs but he couldn’t share them. Where was God when his father died? Where was God when his sister was taken and killed? He could feel tears forming again. “Hey Philip, you crying cause they killed a priest? Stop being a baby. You can’t be crying in uniform. What are people going to think if they see a big guy like you crying? You can’t cry in uniform. Nobody ever tell you that? Philip, get rid of that tear. Wipe yourself. Man-up!” Philip smiled at his friend. No matter how sad he could be, Tomasso always made him feel better by just being himself. “My mom is making gnocchi tonight, home-made with that sauce you like. If I tell her you’ll be coming, she will probably make tiramisu for you too. What do ya say?” Philip smiled consent. ” Excerpt From: Silva Redigonda. “The Internet Murders.”

Stuck at home during the holidays - Omicron

I had lots planned today but last night while watching the news an epidemiologist asked that if we didn't need to go anywhere, not to do so for the next three weeks because Omicron is highly contagious. Another said that walking by someone and breathing the same air can do it. So, this morning I had breakfast at home and after getting dressed decided that my health and life is too important for me to not heed the advice of experts. I love life and have plenty left so I can halt for another while. I can still enjoy my vacation. My pets are happy to have me all to themselves. This Christmas as well as last I have limited myself to the extreme in seeing people. After I was double vaccinated with pfizer I was flying. I felt safer than ever knowing that if not 100% safe, it was close enough to still maintain safety regulations but socialize more and eat out once again. I was concerned when three different MacDonald locations did not ask for proof of vaccine. I was concerned when I got my hair done and the mask I was wearing was loosened over my face. However, now that I know that my vaccines may not protect me against Omicron like I thought it may, it is time for battle once again. I am on a waiting list with Shoppers Drug Mart for the Pfizer booster. The government is saying that we are running out of Pfizer and will be provided with Moderna shortly until we get more. There are line ups for the hope of getting vaccinated which I don't do. People wait from early hours in the cold and I feel for them. I know that I don't have to go anywhere to work because I work from home. I have closed down my office after replacing furniture which was clean friendly with what I needed to disinfect. I was surprised to see a hairdresser clear her client's seat with air disinfect. During this pandemic it has been a wake up call to see in practise how people react to a pandemic. There are still those who protest against sanctions feeling their rights are being infringed. However, the health care is quickly becoming overwhelmed. They now want health care persons to work if tested positive but not suffering symptoms. Our nurses and doctors are overwhelmed and yet they are still pushing them to collapse. What then? I remember physicians being pushed beyond imagination when I was an Intern. They are not super robots. Now more then ever they are being tested to the extreme. This is not sustainable in the long run. As our medical experts warn politicians such as it is not a good idea to allow a game for 10,000 people to attend, this is ignored by those trying to maintain a balance. I know that after the holidays Omicron will surge more than ever. I have concern for those who are not vaccinated. They are more worried about a needle, than dying from COVID. At least the majority of us are offered some protection where hospital stay may be prevented as well as death. Of course, once they get sick they realize their error with regret. However, I believe that in many ways we have failed them by their lack of education and awareness in medicine. Some feel that there is no way we could have devolped a vaccine in such a short time. They are unaware of how medicine has progressed and how when we unite as a world what can be accomplished. I see that in other avenues such as PTSD. Progress is consistent when minds seek. If only one person reads my blog and thinks about getting vaccinated than I shall have accomplished hope which is my goal in helping others. I did venture out before Omicron became disturbing. I went to Pioneer village, one of my favourite spots. I also bought more in their gift shop than I needed because I could. I social distanced with Santa Clause. I went out for high tea which is a favourite treat. But, now for the rest of my vacation, I shall stay put and wait to be called for my booster. Then, once again I shall venture out. I shall work less and play more offering my clients the best of me. I have been enjoying my vacation watching Christmas movies but I must admit that there was a tiresome amount of the same theme. Girl must decide between two men ..........one is the one she is stuck with and then viola she meets her prince - literally. I did enjoy watching Anny, Tom Kinkade (I love his art), unfortunately he died too young, and a few other true stories and classics. I am reading Vatican 11. I have read Sports and Psychology and my routine magazines. I am reading a book from a British writer which is somewhat interesting but disturbing so I won't name her. I have done some crosswords which are more difficult than I wanted. I have enjoyed Christmas and am looking forward to New Years. I have done nothing resembling any work except for this blog and checking emails in case someone orders a book from me. I have another week of blissful nothing to do if I don't want to do it and I like it. Next year is another year of hope and adventure. I was almost thinking of taking an overnight trip before Omicron came along. I am thankful that we still have vaccines that can protect us because one day as per my studies, we will have a super bug that we won't have a vaccine, but that time is not now. I do hope that the world can work a bit better together and ensure that deseases to not initiate because of disregarding the importance of caring for our animal life and our planet. We have lots of work to do but we can do it. I want to wish you the best and for those who are feeling isolated and sad here are a few things to do. Go for walks and greet people. Nod your head, smile and say hello. I am surprised at how often men greeted me with my mask on. I thought I knew them. It is ok. Start a new hobby. Consider something you have not tried before or perhaps renew something. Taking pictures with your camera or phone is a consideration, take a cooking class, learn to paint - you may just have a talent waiting to be discovered. Listen to music, pray, practice your religion or spirituality. Help others in some way. Connect with others safely. Focus on self care. Consider forgiving those you are not at peace with. As the year ends reflect, but do not forget any positives. Even though we are restricted, we have options. Write.....how you feel, what you are doing....write your story...write a story.....laugh and dance and find joy in pets, family and children. There are great neighbours out there as well and perhaps let them know in some gesture. I wish you a happy new year. Talk soon. https://www.redigondapsychotherapy.com

A Christmas Tale - Published

I found myself standing alone, as the snow fell gently, Creating a pure white blanket on the asphalt, I was standing on. Looking at the Christmas scene outside St Charles Church, I felt sad that I did not have enough money for Christmas to shop; that I still had to prepare for a four hour exam. As I looked at the empty cradle of Jesus, my sadness increased. “Oh Lord, we have made such a mess of things. Here it is Christmas approaching, and our planet is suffering from global warming, we still fight and kill, in the name of God. The middle class is disappearing and corporations are merging and becoming powerful. The rich are getting richer while our poor are getting poorer. Our governments are deserting us Lord. Please do not give up on us. Please forgive us.” “I am hungry miss?” I turned and found a beggar beside me. I wondered why I had not heard him approaching. He was big framed, with dirty long hair, a fat and heavily pimpled face and a foul smell that not even the cool air could dissipate. His face was so dirty that I could not determine his skin color. His mittens were black and he wore a long woolen brown coat that looked frayed but thankfully warm and he wore heavy worn boots that had seen too many winters. “I am hungry miss.” He repeated with patience. I was holding my submarine sandwich which I had just bought. I had decided to give myself a treat. After all, Christmas was approaching and I deserved something. I had just stopped to admire the Nativity scene. I looked into those sorrowful big brown eyes and saw more sorrow than I could ever bare being reflected back to me. I handed him my submarine and whispered “Merry Christmas.” I didn’t know if wishing him a Merry Christmas was politically correct, but I did not care this evening. I wanted to be free, in my seemingly democratic country to say “Merry Christmas.” What has happened to my city, to my country, to my world? I thought with sadness. I had lowered my head and looked up to see my hobo gone. He had taken my sandwich and I wished him well. I walked back to my old, rusted car in the Church parking lot and unlocked it. There was my submarine sandwich waiting for me. I looked back towards the nativity set and saw the boot prints on the snow from the Nativity area, I had just come from. There was only one set of boot prints this late night that marred the soft blanket of snow.

Vacation https://www.silvaredigonda.ca

I don’t normally take vacation especially at Christmas, but this Christmas I decided to take a rest and now I am recharging for the following year. Because I was selling my second book/ebook after placing it on facebook groups I belonged to, I decided to read it myself from a fresh pair of eyes. I pondered at my views at the time, my experiences, some written and others came to mind. I marvelled at what I had accomplished, my travels, my work, my energy. I have worked with some great guys. Yes, there were those who I didn’t care for but it also taught me tolerance. Up until I joined the military I only associated with those who I wanted to. My mother was right, that it would be difficult but I am grateful for the opportunity because I am a better person for it. At one point I write that if I had remained in Toronto with my family and friends I would have been happy, but I would not have grown. When I retired I was offered amazing opportunities but I needed to be home and I am glad that I made that decision, because it was not the right time to move again away from my family and home. I am at a comfortable place in my life. I have slowed down and I am ok with it, but boy did it take awhile. A few years back I read my elementary school journal a teacher encouraged us to write. I continued for quite a few years after high school. I marvelled at how much energy I had, dancing, swimming, skating going to school, parties and working part time since I was thirteen years old. Boy, what a life, full of discovery, errors, building resilience and having a genuine love for life. My life has also always been a service to others including my country. Would I do it all over again. Nope. I would want to try new things, explore more places, have different arenas of study. It would be out with the old and in with the new. One of the themes I read was that I need to grow and learn and to be free. I am still on that path of helping others and realized the importance of psychotherapy during my time in the Middle East where I became a trusted ear for those who seeked me out. I have never shared what I heard and never shall. Though I wasn’t a therapist, I realized the need that people have to feel free to talk and release the burden they held onto for many years. I am always looking forward to the next phase of my life. Will it be another career, another place of travel? Right now I have the responsibility of taking care of my elderly pets who seem to need more attention from me than ever. I oblige but sometimes it is rather smothering having them all over me, but I oblige out of love. I cannot imagine not having four legged creatures in my life but realize the responsibility of life long commitments. My last pet was 19 years old when I had to put him down and it was after a small fortune of trying to save him. That little guy saw me while retiring from one career, diving into another and retiring once again and then seeing me in my first years of grad studies. What a precious gift. My book is a legacy of sorts of my life. I sometimes encourage my clients to write their stories because it is quite therapeutic. However, since I deal with a lot of trauma, I encourage them to stop if they are overwhelmed and bring it into the therapy room to work on. Some do not want to journal and that is ok. People know what works for them and what does not and what they need or can work during the stage that they are in. Some have been so overwhelmed from their early years and once they write they can remember good times as well and good people who were in their lives, and they are amazed by that. The bad, at times can overpower any positivity so that has always been refreshing for my clients. I am in a good place because I can do what I want. Yes, I have some obstacles because of the rules and regulations I need to abide in. I had really wanted to live in the States and here and thought I could since I brought my work on line, but there are obstacles there. I always play by the rules so I refrain from being naughty (hear that Santa?). I can’t work in the States for more than a year (our rules). I can’t make money by taking work away from Americans if I decided to work in the States in the winter (their rules, I believe) etc….I am sure that with the times, the rules will change. People are providing therapy throughout the world right now which we can’t from Ontario. Our college is quite severe here in Ontario. Out West they have no regulations and people with an undergrad degree are providing services and going through insurance. So many standards and not, in the entire country. However, what I am seeing is therapists consulting world wide. I can consider that but not right now and I would definitely charge a lot more like my peers for that, but then there is the question of taxes. Since Revenue Canada made my life a nightmare last year, I have decided to do my own taxes this year. I took two mini courses. I can claim 50% of my laptop I bought and so will be doing that. It is kind of sad when you have to do your own taxes because your accountant made a royal…………….Revenue Canada cannot recommend accountants so I am just going to do my own as I used to. Of course I asked some questions like can I claim pro bono that I was not provided an answer to. I paid my fees for my college and Associations for another year. My pets are still thriving though elderly and so I am still grounded. The pandemic has really restricted me but that is ok. I am double vaccinated with pfizer and am waiting for the opportunity to get my booster. I am not willing to line up for six hours. For you who have read me for awhile, know that I am a Disney nut and the only time I have ever lined up for was Mickey Mouse for his autograph which I claimed was for my nieces. I don’t recall if I kept it or gave it to them. Anyhow, Toronto has already had about a half million people getting their third shot. The Premiere has had anti vaccinator dissidents protesting outside his home so he went to his cottage. Of course that got a mini uproar but I can’t blame him. Why would you go home where a crowd is causing a disturbance and the news showed someone using a flashlight beaming into his home windows. Personally, I think there should be a law that people can only protest at the government buildings even though I hated that when going to school at UofT. Disturbing neighbours on residential streets has nothing to do with the protestor rights. Whose rights are we protecting when people cannot go to work at hospitals or get the care they need without being harassed? Toronto the good, I miss you. However, we have many many wonderful people who do so much for others. There is a greater divide due to lack of increases in pay. People should start paying their employees rather than disturbing and making a mess with junk in space. Remember that car? Really? Food prices will increase this year and a family of four will have to pay about 14,000 or 15,000 a year. How can people feed their families and pay rent if they are making the minimum pay? We have a lot of work to do, but I have hope for us and just in case hope is not enough, I have plans to travel as much as possible and see what I have yet to see before we do too much damage to our planet. We live in such a beautiful world and the majority are good. We are a tad rough and not too bright as a professor needed to research to determine. Remember him? He thought he was enlightening me that the average person was not all that bright. My response…..”You needed research to figure that one out?” Yup, just look at the world and all the dictatorship, hate etc…..Does that really make sense? That too is just a fallacy. But again we have amazing people and we need to connect better and display more love for each other. That is not easy at times because some take advantage of it. This Christmas why not think back on this last year and thank God for the blessings you have encountered. It may be one positive experience or more. The pandemic has been challenging for many. What have you learned from that? Has it made your family closer or has there been more of a divide? Sometimes we can lose sight to what is important. What is important to you? Have you shown kindness? Merry Christmas to you all and yours and Happy Holidays. I have had an amazing year and am looking forward to the next surprise. Santa sorry I did not write to you this year personally. But, I promise I have been good because quite frankly I had no choice. There is a pandemic and I am keeping my tiny family safe. What do you think? P.S. For anyone buying a book, I will include Hey Guy Buy Me. That is for actual books and not ebooks. I will just throw it in with either The Internet Murders or For Love of Country - Military Policewoman. Have fun but be safe.

Resources for Tornado victims - USA from my Association AAMFT

Support and Resources for Those Impacted by Tornadoes Our thoughts continue to be with those families impacted by the recent severe weather that devastated several states, leaving a trail of destruction and loss of life in Kentucky, Arkansas, and the surrounding region. The systemic impact when tragedies occur has wide effects in families and communities. Many of our members and their clients will be struggling not only with meeting basic needs, but with processing these events or talking it through with their children. The resources below have been created by member MFTs or compiled by AAMFT to help support this process. Resources Disastershock: How to cope with the emotional stress of a major disaster Helping Families Cope with Disaster Attending to the Whole System: Eco-Informed Family Therapy An Overview of the Red Cross and Disaster Mental Health If you or your clients would like to help those in need, this website has an extensive list of local organizations in the impacted areas where you can get information on volunteering and donations including supplies, relief funds, toys, support animals, community help lines, and more.

Helping Tornado Victims in the States (cut and pasted from my Association AAMFT)

Here’s how you can help tornado victims By Jasmine Demers Photo: Liam Niemeyer Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) COMMUNITYDecember 15, 2021 Communities are scrambling to assess the damage after one of the worst tornado events in state history swept across western Kentucky over the weekend. Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency early Saturday morning. On Tuesday, he said 74 people are confirmed dead. And there are over 100 people still missing. More than 30 tornadoes have been reported in at least six states, spanning more than 200 miles from Arkansas to Kentucky. Tens of thousands of Kentuckians remain without power and many are without shelter. As search and rescue efforts continue in impacted counties, here’s how you can help: Categories: Donate to disaster relief funds, donate blood, donate supplies, donate toys, volunteer, support pets/animals, community help lines, report price gouging Donate to disaster relief funds Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund Kentucky Red Cross: Donate online here Text REDCROSS to 90999 to give $10 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. To donate by phone via credit card or to ask questions about donating money to the Red Cross, please call 1-800-HELP NOW (1-800-435-7669) Verified GoFundMe pages created by community members and organizations in need His House Ministries (Mayfield, Ky) United Way of Kentucky Disaster Relief At Work Convoy of Hope Aspire Appalachia Kentucky Baptist Disaster Relief Shop Local Kentucky – purchase a “Kentucky Strong” T-shirt and 100% of the proceeds will go to the Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund The Lee Initiative Mayfield-Graves County United Way Salvation Army Disaster Relief Relevant Church (Mayfield, KY) Rise and Shine (Bowling Green, KY) SOS, a Louisville-based global health organization Global Giving Midwest US Tornado Relief Fund Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Samaritan’s Purse International Relief Churches of Christ Disaster Relief Effort Lutheran Disaster Response Water with Blessings – Text WATER4SURVIVORS to 41444 Kentucky Counseling Center Kentucky Chamber Foundation & Kentucky Sports Radio tornado relief fund Kentucky Association of Health Care Facilities (collecting donations for long-term care staff who have been impacted by the storm) WaterStep Donate blood Kentucky Red Cross: Find your local blood bank here Kentucky Blood Center: Find a drive here Blood Assurance: Schedule and appointment here Donate clothes, blankets, food, water and other supplies *Suggested donations include gas, generators, storage bins/totes, space heaters, lash lights, head lamps, batteries, propane tanks, utility gloves, phone chargers, gas cans, socks, undergarments, blankets, coats, warm clothes, shoes, toiletries, paper towels, plastic utensils, paper plates, feminine hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, wipes, water, snacks, non-perishable foods. The Salvation Army Kentucky/Tennessee Division Northside Baptist Church, 611 W Lockridge St, Mayfield, KY Fairview Baptist Church, 701 West Water Street, Mayfield, KY Mayfield/Graves County Fairgrounds, 1004 KY 121, Mayfield, KY 42066 Redemption City Church, 104 Railroad Ave., Dawson Springs KY, 270-425-4310 Dawson Spring High School, 317 Eli St, Dawson Springs, KY 42408 Mount Zion Baptist Church, 175 Graham Dr., Bowling Green, KY Eleventh St Baptist Church, 1035 Kenton ST. Bowling Green, KY (collecting from Sunday, Dec. 12 through Wednesday, Dec. 15) State Street Baptist Church, 340 State St. Bowling Green, KY (collecting from Sunday, Dec. 12 through Friday, Dec. 17) Next Level Church, 1405 Veterans Memorial ln., Bowling Green, KY (accepting donations Tuesday, Dec. 14 through Thursday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) The Johnson Bar, 133 S. 3rd St. Paducah, KY. 42001 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 12) First Baptist Church, 2890 Broadway St, Paducah, KY, 270-442-2728 Dry Ground Brewing Company, 3121 Broadway St, Paducah, KY 42001 Paducah Beer Werks, 301 N 4th St, Paducah, KY 42001 Lone Oak Baptist Church, 3601 Lone Oak Rd, Paducah, KY 42003 Community Kitchen, 1237 Martin Luther King Jr Drive, Paducah, KY Hancock’s of Paducah, 3841 Hinkleville Road, Paducah, KY (accepting donations of clean quilts and blankets, Tuesday, Dec. 14 through Friday, Dec. 17, 9 a.m. to 5pm, and Saturday, Dec. 18, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Barrel & Bond, 100 Broadway Paducah, KY 42001 Stepstone Family and Youth Services, 78 Caky Dr, Benton, KY, 270-527-8388 Marshall County Exceptional Center, 198 Old Symsonia Rd, Benton, KY, 270-252-6530 (8 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Sunday, Dec. 12 – Friday, Dec. 17) Central Elementary School, 115 Jim Goheen Road Benton, KY 42025 (accepting donations on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Jefferson County Public Schools, VanHoose Education Center, 3332 Newburg Road, Louisville, KY 40218 (accepting donations from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m through Friday) Ronald McDonald House Charities, 550 South First Street, Louisville, KY and 1300 Sports Center Dr, Lexington, KY (collecting donations through Dec. 17) Against the Grain Smokehouse, 401 E. Main St. & Against the Grain Public House, 1576 Bardstown Rd., Louisville, KY Veteran’s Club Inc., 9419 Seatonville rd. at Fern Creek Christian Church, Louisville, KY 40291 Four Pegs Smokehouse and Bar, 1053 Goss Ave, Louisville, KY 40217 Six Forks Burger Company, 1039 Ash St. Louisville, KY 40217, (Saturday, Dec. 11 through Monday, Dec. 16, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.) Hampton Inn – Louisville Airport, 800 Phillips Ln. (delivering supplies to Graves County Fairgrounds) Independence Bank, 3901 Shelbyville Rd., Louisville, KY and 1900 Colonel Sanders Ln., Louisville, KY Bullitt County Public Schools Stuff the Bus – several locations listed here (accepting donations through Thursday, Dec. 16) Roebling Point Books, 601 Overton Street, Newport, KY 41071 Newport Fire Department, 998 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071 Walnut Grove Baptist Church, 2941 Highland Lick Rd, Russellville, KY Akridge Farm Supply, 724 Fairview Ave, Eddyville, KY 42038, 270-388-2910 – Looking specifically for tarps and gas cans Cave City Community Center (Senior Center), 105 Duke St, Cave City, KY 42127 Jamestown City Park Batting Cages, 123 Park Ave, Jamestown, KY 42629 (drop off from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday through Thursday) Russell Springs City Hall, 487 Main Street, Russell Springs, KY 42642 (drop off from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday) St. Jerome’s Catholic Church, 20 KY-339, Fancy Farm, KY 42039 Calvert City Civic Center, 991 5th Ave SE, Calvert City, KY 42029 (Drop off until 5 p.m. on Saturday Dec. 11 and Sunday Dec. 12) Water drive at Pritchard Community Center, 404 S Mulberry St, Elizabethtown, KY 42701 (need cases of bottled water) Felix Martin Hall, 501 W. Everly Brothers Blvd., Greenville, KY. 42345 Kentucky Education Development Corporation, Ashland office (904 Rose Road) and Lexington Office (118 James Court Ste 60) Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, 208 South Main Street, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342 Winchester Police Department, 16 S. Maple Street, Winchester, KY (accepting donations until Monday evening) Georgetown Fire Department, 101 Jacobs Drive, Georgetown, KY (accepting donations all week) Clarksville Town Hall, 2000 Broadway Street, Clarksville, IN, (accepting donation Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) Hope 2 All Food Pantry, 307 W. Mose Rager Blvd. Drakesboro, KY 42337 Henderson County Schools/Henderson Police Department, 735 N. Elm St., Henderson, KY (will fill a bus to deliver to Dawson Springs, can drop off 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) Oh Sew Sweet Boutique, 210 East Arch Street, Madisonville, Ky. Green River Distilling Co., 10 Distillery Rd., Owensboro, KY, 42301 (accepting donations from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Friday, Dec. 17) Donate toys for children/youth Looking for new, unopened toys, books, electronics and $25 Visa or Mastercard gift cards Western Kentucky Toy Drive Kenton County Government Center, 1840 Simon Kenton Way, Covington, KY 41011 (Drop-offs accepted Tuesday, Dec. 14 – Friday, Dec. 17, 8 a.m.– 5 p.m.) Kenton County Police Department, 11777 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051 (Drop-offs accepted 24 hours a day, Tuesday, Dec. 14 – Saturday, Dec. 18 ) Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, 150 N Limestone #265, Lexington, KY 40507​​, 859-252-1771 (Drop-offs accepted 24 hours a day, Tuesday, Dec. 14 – Saturday, Dec. 18) ​ Pieratt’s, 110 Mt Tabor Rd, Lexington, KY 40517 and 125 E Reynolds Rd Suite 150, Lexington, KY 40517​ (Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Sunday, Noon – 5 p.m., through Dec. 18​) Broadbent Arena, KFEC Gate 4 Dr, Louisville, KY 40209, Off Crittenden Drive (drop-offs accepted Tuesday, Dec. 14 – Friday, Dec. 17, noon – 5 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 18, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) St. Matthews Police Department, 3940 Grandview Ave, St Matthews, KY 40207 (drop-offs accepted Tuesday, Dec. 14 – Friday, Dec. 17, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.) Paducah Police Department, 1400 Broadway, Paducah, KY 42003 (drop-offs accepted 24 hours a day, Tuesday, Dec. 14 – Saturday, Dec. 18) Pieratt’s​, 2031 Lantern Ridg​​e Dr, Richmond, KY 40475 (drop-offs accepted Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Sunday, Noon – 6 p.m., through Dec. 18) Kentucky State Police Posts​ in Elizabethtown, Campbellsburg, Dry Ridge, Richmond, Morehead, Pikeville, Harlan, London, Frankfort, Hazard, Ashland, Columbia and Henderson (drop-offs accepted 24 hours a day, Tuesday, Dec. 14 – Saturday, Dec. 18) Clacey’s Auto Parts and Hardware, 3326 Merle Travis Hwy, Beechmont, KY 42323 (accepting donations through Saturday, Dec. 20) McCracken County Cooperative Extension Service, 2025 New Holt rd., Paducah, KY 42001 (Accepting backpacks and toys through Saturday, Dec. 20) Paintsville Blanket and Toy Drive, 225 2nd St, Paintsville, KY 41240 or 325 2nd St, Paintsville, KY 41240 (collecting donations through Wednesday, Dec. 15. Volunteer ***Advisory: Please avoid obstructing search and rescue efforts by calling/checking-in beforehand*** Kentucky Emergency Management – Fill out the volunteer/donate link here Kentucky Red Cross Kentucky State Parks – Email andy.kasitz@ky.gov to volunteer to help displaced families Mayfield Independent School District – Need translators, mainly for Spanish speaking families, email wecanhelp@mayfield.kyschools.us or call 270-804-1381 Catalyst Church, 114 Kings Dr., Mayfield, KY, (270) 356-1191 South Warren High School, 8140 Nashville Road, Bowling Green, 270-467-7500 Bremen Volunteer Fire Department, 51 College St., Bremen, KY 42325, 270-525-6002 Lone Oak Baptist Church, 3601 Lone Oak Rd, Paducah, KY 42003 Bowling Green Community Action Center, 171 Center St, Bowling Green, KY, 270-782-4437 Gasper Brewing Company, 302 State Street, Bowling Green, KY. – need volunteers to serve food Mayfield City Hall, 211 E. Broadway, Mayfield, KY – Volunteers needed with drills Marshall County High School, 416 High School Rd. Benton, KY 42025 (volunteers will be shuttled to impacted areas starting at 7 a.m. daily.) Kentucky Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster God’s Pit Crew – Crisis Response Team Team Rubicon Disaster Response Covenant Community Church, 1055 North Main Street, Madisonville, KY, 270-821-2000 Mercy Chefs – Mayfield, KY Tornado Response (shifts available throughout the week) Samaritan’s Purse International Relief Kentucky Tornado Relief Initiative by Senate candidate Charles Booker Eight Days of Hope – Rapid Response Event (Mayfield, KY) Support pets/animals in need The Humane Society Animal Rescue & Response Team Kentucky Humane Society Foster a pet or donate to these local shelters: Mayfield-Graves County Animal Shelter Bowling Green/Warren County Humane Society Hopkins County Humane Society Caldwell County Animal Shelter Muhlenburg County Animal Shelter Ceglinski Animal Clinic, 5401 Blandville Rd., Paducah, KY, 270-554-0171 (offering free housing for displaced pets) River Retriever Kennels LLC, 5796 Old Mayfield Rd., Paducah, KY, 270-556-4433 (offering housing for displaced pets) Marcus Rushing, 224 Hughes Rd., Wickliffe, KY, 985-605-4068 (has pasture and barn for cattle/horses, free of charge to victims of the tornadoes) Mociso Farms Livestock Sanctuary & Rescue Ltd., 595 Osborne Rd. Ekron, Ky. (drop off pet supplies, food and any other items for disaster relief from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) Refer community members in distress to these help lines SAMHSA – Call or text 1-800-985-5990 Report Price Gouging It’s illegal for retailers to bump up the prices of certain things during an emergency. If you see it happening you can report it online or call 1-888-432-9257. Per the Kentucky Attorney General’s office, goods and services in this prohibition include: consumer food items; goods or services used for emergency cleanup; emergency supplies; medical supplies; home heating oil; building materials; housing; transportation, freight, and storage services; and gasoline or other motor fuels.

The Internet Murders - Continues https://www.silvaredigonda.ca

“Chapter 4 Fr. Francis was returning to Toronto from Parry Sound. His family owned a third generation waterfront cottage at the edge of town, hardly used nowadays. Everyone seemed to be too busy. Spring had barely arrived, and with the climate change, winter was lingering longer than usual. He normally stayed in Toronto, aside from his annual retreat. Because he had been alone at the cottage, he had the time to discern and rest, barely leaving the cottage except for his daily walk. He felt renewed driving back to Toronto. He wondered how long he would feel that way, once he encountered the increasing speed on the highway, in the GTA. He wondered why traffic speed wasn’t controlled more. Fatalities increased with higher speeds. Francis decided to stop at a small restaurant to have a coffee. It was one of the few remaining locally owned diners. Everything is being taken over by large corporations, he thought. He wondered how long this particular ma and pa stop would last? Could they keep up with the costs and change? Would someone buy them out? Francis always did his best to support the local small businesses. “Hi Father, what’s your poison?” “Coffee please: black, no sugar.” He smiled up at the redheaded middle-aged woman. “Coming right up!” She provided him with a matronly smile.

For Love of Country - Military Policewoman https://www.silvaredigonda.ca

This book is dedicated to my mother who was such an inspiration in my life. She taught me so much. Thank you Mom, for always asking me how this book was coming along. https://www.silvaredigonda.ca

My sympathies to all those suffering in the States due to the tornadoes

It was sad to see Kentucky so devastated, the hardest hit by the Tornadoes. Kentucky is a State where I normally like to spend the night when on-route to Disney World. I remember one night staying at a motel where next door was an ice-cream parlour and a cinema on the other side of that. I never could find that place again in other trips. I also saw a huge manor, hotel type I saw from the highway and meant to stop to spend the night in future. I couldn’t find that again either. I found the people in Kentucky pleasant and charming. When I travel through the States I am often mistaken as being from New York and then I explain I am from Canada. I miss going to the States and so it is painful when I see places I care about being torn apart by nature’s fury. We have had problems here as well on our West and East coasts and again, it is difficult to see so much suffering. Grief is an emotion that is quite painful. What happens when you lose everything? What happens when people you love are no longer, in an instant? What happens when your physicality, emotions and spirituality is challenged? Be a supportive ear for those who need to grieve and come to you. Don’t give advice. As how you can be supportive? Don’t judge. Walk with them. Grief is expressed differently from those who suffer from one another. When grief is complicated than individual therapy is required. My condolences to the families and survivors.

The Internet Murders - Continues https://silvaredigonda.ca

The dark figure entered the Church. It was time to confess completely to the priest he had spoken to the other evening. The discomfort that radiated from the priest had been arousing. The Church was now empty except for an old priest kneeling before a statue. The killer walked up the centre aisle to the priest, who was oblivious to anyone except the statue of a young woman, dressed in white and blue robes. She stood firmly with her feet on a snake’s head, its poisonous venom held firmly in check. The statue seemed transfixed in time. “Father, can you hear my confession?” The priest turned his head to look at the person who had interrupted his prayer to Mary. “Confession is on Saturday from two to four.” “Well father, I won’t be able to come during that time, and that is why I am here now.” The elderly priest smiled. However, there was something disturbing about the polite young person before him. There was a small cut … the cut is recent, he thought. “All right, come and sit with me in the pew.” The priest moved slowly towards the pew. The church was quiet and dark. He had forgotten to lock the door and it was late. No one would disturb them at this hour. The priest momentarily closed his eyes for his own act of contrition, because he suddenly felt frightened. He felt death was looming over him.” Excerpt From: Silva Redigonda. “The Internet Murders.”

Approaches to Elder Abuse: A family physician’s perspective by Elder Abuse Ontario

I attended another live webinar by Dr Bachir Tazkarji, M.D, UofT. and Dr Mark Yaffe, Prof, St Mary’s hospital (Investigation), McGill- Developed tools to help detect elder abuse. I have been to St Mary’s Hospital in Montreal and so was quite pleased. St Mary’s has a warmth about it from my perspective. It is where a cousin of mine died from cancer. His care was amazing. I had promised him I would visit him once a month until he died. I took that train trip once a month for more than a year. My heart is still there. Anyhow, I attended this webinar on 22 Nov 21, so I hope I can read my notes. This too should be posted so if you have the time, I suggest you watch it. It will provide you with video examples of abuse (actors). Elder abuse is 10% international. 16% is under reported. There was a 13 year cohort study, of 2812 community dwelling seniors. Abuse of the elderly promotes premature deaths. Survival of the abused group was 9% compared 40% in non-abused. Safety line for seniors is 1-866-299-1011. Reference for police is EASI-leo. - Yale. www.mcgill.ca/family med I won’t go into a lengthy detail because it is available for you on EAPO. Well worth watching.

Preventing Domestic Homicides with Older Couples

Preventing Domestic Homicides with Older Couples: Lessons learned from Tragedies by Dr Peter Jaffe, Psychologist, Prof Emeritus and Margaret MacPherson, Research Associate, 24 Nov 21. I encourage you if interested to watch this video at eapon.ca. I attended this while it was being recorded. From 2003 to 2017 there were 311 cases of 445 deaths. 65% were homicides and 35% were homicide/suicides. 72% had a history of domestic violence. Of course I asked about men and they are exposed to less than 20% of domestic violence. Women ages 15 - 24 have the highest exposure to domestic violence. Older women have the lowest rate but it is still significant. Close to 3000 individuals over age 55 reported spousal violence in Canada, 2011. Reporting rates are conservative. Older women are less likely to report to police or disclose to others. There is a risk in males with a caregiving role. There is access to firearms. Mercy killing is likely in couples murder suicide. As women age they feel they have less life choices. Dr Jaffe suggested talking about homicide and suicide ideation with clients. As Christmas approaches That is all for now. I want to keep it lighter that Christmas is coming. However, Christmas is a very depressing time for people who are suffering. This entry has been focused on Canadian stats however the content applies to everyone. The most dangerous time for someone in a domestic situation is when they are leaving. In the city there are many resources and support programs. If you live in a rural area it may be more difficult because of the isolation. The pandemic has compounded isolation. There is help out there. Reach out. If you are a therapist reading this you are aware that you may suffer from vicarious trauma. What I do is decrease my work load to incorporate more fun and R + R. Self care is paramount. For victims suffering and feeling shame remember or look up my earlier blogs about abuse and the Honeymoon Effect. If you ever have any questions please do not hesitate to ask.

Need signatures to stop abusers of animals to own them

Six years ago I began a petition to change the law so animals can have support that if they are abused their owners will never be able to own a pet again. I had over 600 signatures but that wasn't enough. I am trying again.https://chng.it/jmRbYh97Kx

Hey Guy Buy Me is now on sale at half price - www.silvaredigonda.ca

Well it took awhile but I managed with a lot of help from Shopify to reduce the price of my first book from 9.95 to 4.98 plus shipping costs world wide. There were a few blunders I caused so I appreciated the help. Hey Guy is my first book and I really wrote it just for fun. I have had some men really get mad at me and others more charming, loved it. I don't have an ebook to cut and paste, but if you order any I shall sign it. Let me know who you want to send it to and what you would like me to say. I cannot use any bad language, sorry. The Christmas sale is on til 12 Jan 2022. So, buy one for that man you love or hate. It works....Have a good weekend.