Lada Ray's Blog, page 87
September 29, 2013
The Biggest Show On Earth! Sochi Olympics Torch’s Record Journey Through Russia and Outer Space
Historic Soviet resort, Sochi, Russia
Sochi center
In February 2014, Sochi, the unique Russian resort on the Black Sea will be hosting Winter Olympics. What makes it unique? While the climate on the Black Sea coast of Sochi is sub-tropical, with palm trees and warm sea even in the winter, the nearby Caucasus Mountains have snow caps even in the summer. It is here, in the Caucasus Mountains, at Krasnaya Polyana (meaning, Red Meadow or Beautiful Meadow), that the Winter Olympics 2014 will take place.
Sochi, Olympic venues. Black Sea in the foreground and magnificent Caucasus Mountains in the background. (Click on image to see more detail)
Sochi, Black Sea, Russia
Sochi beach
The Olympic torch ceremony for the Sochi Olympics is just as unique and record-setting as the host city itself. The Sochi torch relay has started in Olympia, Greece and will continue through the entire Russia, whose territory stretches through 9 time zones. It will visit Russia’s 83 regions and almost 3000 cities and villages. The Olympic torch will pass through many beautiful and unique nature spots, including the Earth’s largest body of potable water, Lake Baikal in Siberia, featured prominently in my metaphysical fantasy thriller THE EARTH SHIFTER. In addition to trains, planes and boats, the torch will be traveling through Siberian wilderness in a reindeer sleigh and in hot air balloons!
Sochi and Krasnaya Polyana on the map. Notice Odessa on the other side of the Black Sea and Crimean Peninsula in the middle.
From there, for the first time in the history of mankind, the Olympic torch will leave the confines of our planet to fly to Outer Space via a Soyuz rocket. The Sochi Olympic flame will be a welcome guest at the ISS, where it will take a Space Walk with Russian Cosmonauts.
Another record: Sochi to host the greenest Olympics ever
It will take 123 days, 65,000 kilometers and 14,000 torch bearers to cover the entire Sochi torch relay. This is by far the longest and most spectacular journey the Olympic torch has aver made, which has never been attempted before. The idea is to showcase Russia’s history, nature and many achievements in science, art and economy; to celebrate its vibrant, diverse and forward-looking culture. According to organizers, throughout this journey, every Russian citizen will be close enough to the Olympic torch to enjoy it live.
Sochi, Olympic Rings Island at night
During this breathtaking torch relay, many interesting videos are planned. I’ll be posting some of them on my blog as they become available. Till then, enjoy the first reports and vids about the Sochi Olympics Torch Relay, courtesy #RussiaToday!
Olympic torch lit in Greece before epic journey to Sochi. The first Russian torch bearer is the hockey star Alexander Ovechkin.
Olympic Torch Relay: RT’s Special Coverage (Promo)
********
Also check out the new related post on Futurist Trendcast blog:
Venture Capital: Oligarch Money Games and Sochi Olympics
Read my analysis of the history of the Russian oligarchs and their present day evolution. What secret agreement was reached between Putin and the oligarchs behind the closed doors? What does the future hold ?
The attached video is about Russian oligarchs’ investments in Sochi, including new sports complex, ski launch, Olympic village, hotels, new airport, marina, resorts and many other things. The cost of the entire Sochi Olympic project is so far 4 times over budget and is the record-setting $50bln compared to planned $12bln. The question the interviewer asks is whether investors will ever see their money back? It is a very interesting discussion – must watch!
Also, this vid is well worth watching for the beautiful views of Sochi. A lot has changed since I was there last. Can’t recognize the place!
Ah, and here’s is a nice surprise contributed by Darlene Foster @ Darlene Foster’s Blog, a children’s author from Vancouver, British Columbia, CA and a friend of #LadaRayBlog.
Darlene’s photo taken at the Sochi Olympics pavilion at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games. The view looks like real, even got me fooled for a sec. 
******
Also read my posts about Odessa, another beautiful city on the Black Sea, where I grew up:
Odessa, the Pearl of the Black Sea
Childhood Memories: Sun, Black Sea, Fun, Odessa
The Biggest Show On Earth! Sochi Olympic Torch’s Record Journey Through Russia and Outer Space
Historic Soviet resort, Sochi, Russia
Sochi center
In February 2014, Sochi, the unique Russian resort on the Black Sea will be hosting Winter Olympics. What makes it unique? While the climate on the Black Sea coast of Sochi is sub-tropical, with palm trees and warm sea even in the winter, the nearby Caucasus Mountains have snow caps even in the summer. It is here, in the Caucasus Mountains, at Krasnaya Polyana (meaning, Red Meadow or Beautiful Meadow), that the Winter Olympics 2014 will take place.
Sochi, Olympic venues. Black Sea in the foreground and magnificent Caucasus Mountains in the background. (Click on image to see more detail)
Sochi, Black Sea, Russia
Sochi beach
The Olympic torch ceremony for the Sochi Olympics is just as unique and record-setting as the host city itself. The Sochi torch relay has started in Olympia, Greece and will continue through the entire Russia, whose territory stretches through 9 time zones. It will visit Russia’s 83 regions and almost 3000 cities and villages. The Olympic torch will pass through many beautiful and unique nature spots, including the Earth’s largest body of potable water, Lake Baikal in Siberia, featured prominently in my metaphysical fantasy thriller THE EARTH SHIFTER. In addition to trains, planes and boats, the torch will be traveling through Siberian wilderness in a reindeer sleigh and in hot air balloons!
Sochi and Krasnaya Polyana on the map. Notice Odessa on the other side of the Black Sea and Crimean Peninsula in the middle.
From there, for the first time in the history of mankind, the Olympic torch will leave the confines of our planet to fly to Outer Space via a Soyuz rocket. The Sochi Olympic flame will be a welcome guest at the ISS, where it will take a Space Walk with Russian Cosmonauts.
Another record: Sochi to host the greenest Olympics ever
It will take 123 days, 65,000 kilometers and 14,000 torch bearers to cover the entire Sochi torch relay. This is by far the longest and most spectacular journey the Olympic torch has aver made, which has never been attempted before. The idea is to showcase Russia’s history, nature and many achievements in science, art and economy; to celebrate its vibrant, diverse and forward-looking culture. According to organizers, throughout this journey, every Russian citizen will be close enough to the Olympic torch to enjoy it live.
Sochi, Olympic Rings Island at night
During this breathtaking torch relay, many interesting videos are planned. I’ll be posting some of them on my blog as they become available. Till then, enjoy the first reports and vids about the Sochi Olympics Torch Relay, courtesy Russia Today!
Olympic torch lit in Greece before epic journey to Sochi. The first Russian torch bearer is the hockey star Alexander Ovechkin.
Olympic Torch Relay: RT’s Special Coverage (Promo)
********
Also check out the new related post on Futurist Trendcast blog:
Venture Capital: Oligarch Money Games and Sochi Olympics
Read my analysis of the history of the Russian oligarchs and their present day evolution. What secret agreement was reached between Putin and the oligarchs behind the closed doors? What does the future hold ?
The attached video is about Russian oligarchs’ investments in Sochi, including new sports complex, ski launch, Olympic village, hotels, new airport, marina, resorts and many other things. The cost of the entire Sochi Olympic project is so far 4 times over budget and is the record-setting $50bln compared to planned $12bln. The question the interviewer asks is whether investors will ever see their money back? It is a very interesting discussion – must watch!
Also, this vid is well worth watching for the beautiful views of Sochi. A lot has changed since I was there last. Can’t recognize the place!
Ah, and here’s is a nice surprise contributed by Darlene Foster @ Darlene Foster’s Blog, a children’s author from Vancouver, British Columbia, CA and a friend of #LadaRayBlog.
Darlene’s photo taken at the Sochi Olympics pavilion at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games. Looks like real, even got me confused for a sec.
******
Also read my posts about Odessa, another beautiful city on the Black Sea, where I grew up:
Odessa, the Pearl of the Black Sea
Childhood Memories: Sun, Black Sea, Fun, Odessa
September 17, 2013
I’ll be Donating Profits From My Book Sales to No-Kill Animal Shelter in USA and Siberian Tiger Rescue in Russia
Each of the books I’ve written is about justice, peace and/or kindness amid the most adverse circumstances. Most of my books feature amazing and beautiful animals, both wild and domestic. I am very passionate about the beauty of our Mother Earth and about her animals being treated with respect and care they deserve.
THE EARTH SHIFTER features one of the miracles of Lake Baikal – its endemic seals (Nerpa), Siberian Bear, wolves, White Eagle, as well as the majestic Siberian Tiger; both STEPFORD USA and GOLD TRAIN feature rescued super-intelligent and heroic cats and dogs; and even my sci-fi novelette CATHARSIS includes a note of warning against cruelty and about the need for animal protection and preservation.
For a while, I’ve been considering donating profits from my book sales to a no-kill animal shelter and animal rescue in New York State, USA and in Siberia, Russia. I’ve done some research, and these are the organizations that clearly stand out.
NEW YORK, USA
Tompkins County SPCA http://www.spcaonline.com/ The first ever no-kill animal shelter in US History! Provides shelter to 3,000 animals annually.
September 28, 2013 March for the Animals, Ithaca, NY
The Tompkins County SPCA was incorporated in February 1902 in an effort to prosecute individual cases of cruelty. In 1999, the SPCA Board of Directors resolved to become a “no kill” shelter, maintaining its no-kill status continuously since 2001-2002. Animal People, a prominent national journal on animal issues, ranked Tompkins County (Ithaca, NY) the safest community for companion animals in the United States. P.S. Ithaca (home to Cornell University and Buddhist Monastery – Dalai Lama’s Seat in North America) has also been voted the most spiritual city in the USA.
Buy links for my books (ebooks and paperbacks)
Catskill Animal Sanctuary, Saugerties, NY http://casanctuary.org/
Located in the New York’s Hudson Valley, Catskill Animal Sanctuary (CAS) is a 110-acre haven for horses and farm animals rescued from cruelty and neglect. In addition to emergency rescue, CAS provides innovative programs that educate the public about the sentience of farm animals, and the devastating impacts of agribusiness and institutionalized cruelty on animals, people, and the planet.
CAS offers weekend and special group tours, vegan cooking classes,speaking engagements, a summer day camp for kids, and a host of compassionate programming year round at its primarily solar-powered Sanctuary. Since 2001, CAS has rescued over 2,000 animals, and has worked in tandem with law enforcement to bring animal abusers to justice. Catskill Animal Sanctuary’s mission is to rescue and rehabilitate farm animals and horses, to advocate for the abolition of institutionalized cruelty to animals through education, and to help people adopt a cruelty-free lifestyle.
Buy links for my books (ebooks and paperbacks)
Siberian Tiger, aka Amur Tiger, aka Ussurian Tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) – IUCN Red Book endangered species. The largest cat and most magnificent tiger in the world, currently, only about 350 adult tigers are left in the wild (about 450 individuals all together), 95% of them in the Russian Far East.
Siberian Tiger habitat
I have written about Siberian Tiger in THE EARTH SHIFTER, in the scene where Sasha encounters, and psychically helps, 2 tigers (and their yet unborn baby) dislodged from their habitat.
Victor, tiger rescued from a poacher, released into the wild
Wildlife Conservation Society – WCS Russia – Siberian Tiger Project
Проект “Амурский тигр” – пятнадцать лет спустя
In 1992 WCS (initially as the Hornocker Wildlife Institute) in cooperation with the Sikhote-Alin Reserve, Siberia, Russia began intensive studies of tiger ecology under the Siberian Tiger Project, today the world’s longest running radio-telemetry based tiger research and conservation effort.
Buy links for my books (ebooks and paperbacks)
WWF staff member Pavel Fomenko has helped catch up to 2,000 poachers in a single year. Watch this cool video as Pavel takes us through what his work entails in protecting the Amur tigers of Russia. Watch Siberian wilderness and listen to a nice Russian song, too.
Pavel Fomenko, Protector of Tigers
Tigers are majestic, beautiful creatures; their furs are highly prized, and various parts of their body are considered extremely valuable in Chinese medicine, which is why they’ve been hunted mercilessly. They are practically extinct in China and the Korean Peninsula. Most of the living Siberian tigers survive only in the Russian Far East.
Siberian Tiger surveyed and monitored in Russia’s Far East.
Vladimir Putin and Russian scientists affix GPS monitor on a sedated Siberian Tiger. The Russian President cares deeply about animals and does everything, including using his high profile status, to support and promote animal preservation and welfare.
***Why monitoring a Red Book endangered species, like Siberian Tiger, is important and how it’s done? More at the bottom of this post.
Although The Amur region of the Russian Far East is mostly wilderness, even there the relentless human encroachment on tigers’ habitat results in more tigers being displaced or confused. In 1949 the Amur Tiger was on the brink of extinction, with no more than 40 individuals remaining in the wild.
Anti-poaching brigade in a Russian State Park
Thanks to vigorous anti-poaching and other conservation efforts in Russia with support from global animal protection organizations, the Amur Tiger population recovered and has remained stable at around 450 individuals throughout the last decade or so. Whether this effort will bring sustainable result depends on all of us!
A new generation of Amur Tigers and humans who protect them. Graduate biology student Svetlana Soutyrina with a recently collared tiger cub.
Photos above from WCS Russia – Siberian Tiger Project. More info on this topic on WCS site. Or follow links above for more on WCS and WWF.
Watch Siberian Tiger in the wild
In conclusion: Siberian Tiger may be the largest wildlife predator on our planet, but it’s up against an even larger predator: IRRESPONSIBLE HUMAN. For those of us who are responsible and care deeply for our living planet: there is a lot of work and a lot of money that goes into keeping tigers alive and well. This is a massive effort by both the Russian government and international community, which is why contributions are so very important.
As a result of human greed, cruelty and lawlessness, fewer than 3200 tigers of all sub-species currently remain in the wild worldwide! Help protect them!
Buy links for my books (ebooks and paperbacks)
Please help me promote this effort! All retweets, FB/G+/In mentions, reblogs, and my book purchases are greatly appreciated!
Reposts are welcome with linkbacks and proper credit given to the source. Thank you!
*******
Hello, I am Tiger Lily, aka, Lily Cat. I am 19, and I approve my Mommy’s message!
Lily Cat is a Russian American kitty, born in Long Meadow, MA on August 9, 1994. Ever since her birth, she has been my faithful companion and my oldest friend in the USA. At 19 years and 1 month, she is still going strong!
Related articles
Beautiful Compilation of Random Acts of Kindness that Won’t Leave Anyone Untouched
My friend, Paulette Mahurin, has been in part an inspiration behind my decision to donate my book sales profits to no-kill shelter and animal rescue. Paulette donates profits from her book, The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap, to the first and only no-kill animal shelter in Ventura County, CA. http://thepersecutionofmildreddunlap.wordpress.com/
This is in response to a comment that the photo of a sedated tiger with Russian President Vladimir Putin was “sad.”
This is how the monitoring of tigers is done: The tiger is shot with a tranquilizer. He is measured, weighed, his health is checked to make sure he’s okay, GPS is affixed to his collar and then, after he awakens (and yes, someone stays with him till he does, for safety), he is released into the wild. The reason there is a stick that keeps his jaws open is so he could breathe while under sedation; to check his teeth and mouth for health; and so he wouldn’t bite if he awakens prematurely. Could you do any of this if he was awake? Of course not, as Siberian Tiger is the largest predator on Planet Earth.
You go for check-ups, right? If there is a surgery, humans are sedated, right? Do we like that? No. Do we do it for our health? Yes. This is a tiger check-up.
GPS: ideally, I’d frown on GPS or any monitoring device on wildlife. But this is how monitoring of wildlife migration patterns is done all over the world. It is especially important for any endangered species as they have to be kept under vigorous supervision at all times. Humans have not invented a better method of keeping an eye on endangered species and it also keeps poachers away.
And there are only several individuals monitored this way – not all tigers. But this is done for the good of all.
P.S. In response to Paulette Mahurin’s reblog of my post, a very strange exchange ensued about the Siberian Tiger rescue, and a doubt was raised as to whether it was a good idea to donate money to the animal rescue in Russia. I responded to these comments in detail. I thought my replies were so important for clarifying the situation that I decided to post them below. Please read on for a lot of enlightening and enriching info. Please note: my goal in posting all this is to raise awareness and educate. Reblog: http://thepersecutionofmildreddunlap.wordpress.com/2013/09/19/ill-be-donating-profits-from-my-book-sales-to-no-kill-shelter-and-animal-rescue-in-usa-and-russia/comment-page-1/#comment-6051
Let’s CUT the Crap! says:
September 19, 2013 at 2:00 am
Russia too? Do you know they have hunting parks where the elite go to hunt? Have you researched this, Paulette, which I’m sure you have, but I have to throw that out there. What animals are benefiting from your book? Just asking. Not being alarmist here…
Lada says: The woman has obviously failed to read my post before “throwing her comment out there”as my post clearly states that the charity benefits Siberian Tiger. Not to mention, it was strange to say the least that she would be telling me to whom to donate, or not, the money from my own book sales… But I replied very politely nevertheless.
Lada Ray says:
September 19, 2013 at 3:21 pm
Dear “Let’s Cut the Crap…”
I appreciate your concern. I usually wouldn’t respond to something like this, however, I felt the need to clarify a few things.
As Paulette pointed out, I am originally from Russia. I am also a professional researcher and a very inquisitive mind, which my books would attest to. In addition to my research, I calibrate kinesiologically and view clairvoyantly EVERYTHING of importance to arrive at the right decision.
I really appreciate your concern for the “elite parks in Russia.” This was a brief hick-up from the terrible 1990s, when “democracy and capitalism” were introduced to Russia willy-nilly, which created elites and suffering for the majority of the population.
The truth is, your info is extremely outdated and taken out of context. And as much as you appear to like the truth – your info is extremely biased against Russia, which does not surprise me as it is drawn from the conventional US media, which is always ready to jump on any negative bit about Russia, yet always conveniently forgets to publish anything positive.
The truth is that Russia is evolving extremely quickly, and in many respects is way ahead of the US. Current authorities, and citizens, in Russia are extremely concerned for the environment. These “parks” have been outlawed, and anyone caught has gone to jail, following a big scandal in the mid 2000s.
On another note, SIBERIAN TIGER is a Red Book endangered species, with only 450 left in the wild, and as such, it is being monitored EXTREMELY closely by both Russian authorities and international organizations. As such, it would never be in any “parks for the elite,” even if they existed. I’ve written about Siberian Tiger in my book THE EARTH SHIFTER. It is the most magnificent and the largest of the wild cats in existence, and saving it means supporting the living, breathing, diverse Mother Earth.
Again, I am planning to contribute to a no-kill shelter and farm animal rescue in New York State, USA and Siberian Tiger rescue in Siberia, Russia equally – FROM THE SALES OF MY BOOKS – as I want to help animals everywhere, without bias.
I am inviting you to read my very detailed post before posting your off-the-cuff remark, because if you did, you would know all that. And you would also know that the organizations I am planning to contribute to are WORLDWIDE organizations with chapters in Russia.
Finally, you’d also know that Russian authorities, scientists and environmentalists have performed a miracle, increasing the population of Siberian Tiger from 40 in 1949 to a stable 450 now! Meantime, Siberian Tiger is practically extinct in China and South Korea.
I also recommend that you read/watch my post: Beautiful Compilation of Random Acts of Kindness that Won’t Leave Anyone Untouched (incidentally, I found this video via Paulette): http://ladaray.wordpress.com/2013/09/15/beautiful-compilation-of-random-acts-of-kindness-that-wont-leave-anyone-untouched/.
All these random acts of kindness were caught on film within a single year 2012 in Russia. Perhaps this may change your perspective on US and Russia accordingly.
Sincerely,
Lada Ray
P.S. Many, many thanks to Paulette for supporting this effort and to all those who have left wonderful comments and reblogged my post! Peace to all.
The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap says:
September 19, 2013 at 2:33 pm
Lada: can you have a look at the comment from “Let’s Cut The Crap” above about the hunting and poaching of tigers in Russia. Also. there’s a caption on your post that Putin is pro animal rescue but Russia condones hunting of large game and offers this through their tourist bureau. I don’t want to send out a mixed message here and have no way to verify for sure that the tiger sanctuary you’re donating to does help. Over to you for clarification, and thank you! Love,Paulette
Lada says: If the previous comment saddened me with its ignorant prejudice, this one made me scratch my head. Caption on my post that Russia condones poaching? Wh…at? Where? I was getting totally exasperated. Further detailed explanation followed, which I hoped would finally put all this strange confusion to rest.
Lada Ray
says:
September 19, 2013 at 4:10 pm
Hi Paulette. I responded to the above comment in detail. Here are more thoughts on the subject:
There is a GALAXY of difference between regular “game hunting,” (regular animals that exist in abundance, or over-abundance), which BTW is only permitted during hunting season both in Russia and USA EQUALLY, and poaching a Government and World protected RED BOOK ENDANGERED SPECIES, such as Siberian Tiger.
For the record:
1) I am completely against any hunting, or hurting of any animals anywhere.
2) Hunting is permitted everywhere in the USA as much as in Russia. In fact, Russian laws about hunting are more restrictive, and hunting is more vigorously supervised, than in the US. I live in the Catskill Mountains, Upstate NY, USA, and hunting here is done as a matter of course for sport. Because I am so much against any such practices, I am moving to a more city-like environment, away from any shooting, which I dislike deeply.
3) Poaching, which means illegal hunting of endangered species for profit, unfortunately exists in wilderness areas of Siberia for historical reasons, where people live in villages deep in Taiga and where they may not have many other means of making money. Very precious animals may be sold to China and other Asian countries, where they fetch big bucks. Poaching intensified in Russia during the hungry 1990s, when people couldn’t make any money due to breakdown of the USSR and introduction of predatory capitalism.
Vladimir Putin and his team have to be credited fully with changing the course of Russian development back to a prosperous and conscientious society, and with re-establishing and strengthening laws for protection of animals. Soviet protection laws were very good and well-enforced, but no one could properly enforce them when the country was penniless and falling apart in the 1990s.
The Russian authorities with the help of many international organizations and private donations have turned around this situation. For example, Siberian Tiger population has been kept stable for the past decade at 450 individuals in the wild. In general, Russians performed a miracle, increasing the population from 40 tigers in 1949 (note, the all time low was right after WWII, when people were starving after the devastation of war and had to poach for survival) to 450 now! Meanwhile, Siberian Tiger is practically extinct in China and Korea.
Russian authorities are fighting poaching and also are working on introducing more ways of making money for the remote villages of Siberia and the Far East. I write about that in my book THE EARTH SHIFTER: remember Polianka, where shaman Tengis and the villagers organize a global shamanic healing center, which provides employment for the villagers. In this episode I created a microcosm of my dream for humanity. A sustainable, healing, gentle environment, where wisdom rules and where there is full employment and a wonderful atmosphere. Utopia? Maybe. But I hope one day it will become a reality!
4) Back to our tigers: this is what I, and many other people around the world, are trying to do – help sustain the Russian effort, so Siberian Tiger – this magnificent beast, would have a chance on our planet! Many celebrities have donated money to Siberian Tiger rescue. South Korea has just contributed 3 tiger cubs from its zoo to re-populate the Siberian Tiger in Russia (95% of tigers are in Russia). And Vladimir Putin personally promotes this by participating in tiger monitoring and other effort. See pic and more info in my post.
4) Sales of furs and other parts of endangered species are banned in Russia and in Europe. BTW, it took longer to ban sales of precious furs and other parts of endangered species in the USA – and it took much convincing.
5) In conclusion: yes, there is always a danger that donation money would be misused. As much in Russia as in the USA, and elsewhere. See my reply to comment above about how I determine where to contribute. Beyond that, all we can do is pray that the money reaches the animals and that it is used wisely. Supervision and accountability is key as well. What’s the alternative? Sitting idle and doing nothing? I refuse to do that!
******
“It’s hard to find a black cat in a dark room, especially if the cat isn’t there.” Russian saying
Lada says: Please don’t look for problems and faults where they don’t exist. Please, don’t discourage or shoot down a beautiful sentiment and positive, constructive action because of misplaced ignorance and prejudice. I am looking for support and solidarity in this endeavor, not obstacles.
Thank you!
I’ll Be Donating Profits From My Book Sales to No-Kill Shelter and Animal Rescue in USA and Russia
Each of the books I’ve written is about justice, peace and/or kindness amid the most adverse circumstances. Most of my books feature amazing and beautiful animals, both wild and domestic. I am very passionate about the beauty of our Mother Earth and about her animals being treated with respect and care they deserve.
THE EARTH SHIFTER features one of the miracles of Lake Baikal – its endemic seals (Nerpa), Siberian Bear, wolves, White Eagle, as well as the majestic Siberian Tiger; both STEPFORD USA and GOLD TRAIN feature rescued super-intelligent and heroic cats and dogs; and even my sci-fi novelette CATHARSIS includes a note of warning against cruelty and about the need for animal protection and preservation.
For a while, I’ve been considering donating profits from my book sales to a no-kill animal shelter and animal rescue in New York State, USA and in Siberia, Russia. I’ve done some research, and these are the organizations that clearly stand out.
NEW YORK, USA
Tompkins County SPCA http://www.spcaonline.com/ The first ever no-kill animal shelter in US History! Provides shelter to 3,000 animals annually.
September 28, 2013 March for the Animals, Ithaca, NY
The Tompkins County SPCA was incorporated in February 1902 in an effort to prosecute individual cases of cruelty. In 1999, the SPCA Board of Directors resolved to become a “no kill” shelter, maintaining its no-kill status continuously since 2001-2002. Animal People, a prominent national journal on animal issues, ranked Tompkins County (Ithaca, NY) the safest community for companion animals in the United States. P.S. Ithaca (home to Cornell University and Buddhist Monastery – Dalai Lama’s Seat in North America) has also been voted the most spiritual city in the USA.
Catskill Animal Sanctuary, Saugerties, NY http://casanctuary.org/
Located in the New York’s Hudson Valley, Catskill Animal Sanctuary (CAS) is a 110-acre haven for horses and farm animals rescued from cruelty and neglect. In addition to emergency rescue, CAS provides innovative programs that educate the public about the sentience of farm animals, and the devastating impacts of agribusiness and institutionalized cruelty on animals, people, and the planet.
CAS offers weekend and special group tours, vegan cooking classes,speaking engagements, a summer day camp for kids, and a host of compassionate programming year round at its primarily solar-powered Sanctuary. Since 2001, CAS has rescued over 2,000 animals, and has worked in tandem with law enforcement to bring animal abusers to justice. Catskill Animal Sanctuary’s mission is to rescue and rehabilitate farm animals and horses, to advocate for the abolition of institutionalized cruelty to animals through education, and to help people adopt a cruelty-free lifestyle.
Buy links for my books (ebooks and paperbacks)
Siberian Tiger, aka Amur Tiger, aka Ussurian Tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) – IUCN Red Book endangered species. The largest cat and most magnificent tiger in the world, currently, only about 350 adult tigers are left in the wild (about 450 individuals all together), 95% of them in the Russian Far East.
I have written about Siberian Tiger in THE EARTH SHIFTER, in the scene where Sasha encounters, and psychically helps, 2 tigers (and their yet unborn baby) dislodged from their habitat.
Victor, tiger rescued from a poacher, released into the wild
Wildlife Conservation Society – WCS Russia – Siberian Tiger Project
Проект “Амурский тигр” – пятнадцать лет спустя
In 1992 WCS (initially as the Hornocker Wildlife Institute) in cooperation with the Sikhote-Alin Reserve, Siberia, Russia began intensive studies of tiger ecology under the Siberian Tiger Project, today the world’s longest running radio-telemetry based tiger research and conservation effort.
WWF staff member Pavel Fomenko has helped catch up to 2,000 poachers in a single year. Watch this cool video as Pavel takes us through what his work entails in protecting the Amur tigers of Russia. Watch Siberian wilderness and listen to a nice Russian song, too.
Pavel Fomenko, Protector of Tigers
Tigers are majestic, beautiful creatures; their furs are highly prized, and various parts of their body are considered extremely valuable in Chinese medicine, which is why they’ve been hunted mercilessly. They are practically extinct in China and the Korean Peninsula. Most of the living Siberian tigers survive only in the Russian Far East.
Siberian Tiger surveyed and monitored in Russia’s Far East
Vladimir Putin, helping affix a GPS monitor on a Siberian Tiger. The Russian President cares deeply about animals and does everything, including using his high profile status, in order to support and promote animal preservation and welfare. Such efforts must be lauded.
Although The Amur region of the Russian Far East is mostly wilderness, even there the relentless human encroachment on tigers’ habitat results in more tigers being displaced or confused. In the 1940s the Amur Tiger was on the brink of extinction, with no more than 40 individuals remaining in the wild.
Anti-poaching brigade in a Russian State Park
Thanks to vigorous anti-poaching and other conservation efforts in Russia with support from global animal protection organizations, the Amur Tiger population recovered and has remained stable at around 450 individuals throughout the last decade or so. Whether this effort will bring sustainable result, depends on all of us!
A new generation of Amur Tigers and humans who protect them
Watch Siberian Tiger in the wild
As a result of human greed, cruelty and lawlessness, fewer than 3200 tigers of all sub-species currently remain in the wild worldwide! Help protect them!
Buy links for my books (ebooks and paperbacks)
Please help me promote this effort! All RTs, reblogs, promotional tips, purchases are greatly appreciated!
*******
Hello, I am Tiger Lily, aka, Lily Cat. I am 19, and I approve my Mommy’s message!
Lily Cat is a Russian American kitty, born in Long Meadow, MA on August 9, 1994. She has been my most faithful companion ever since her birth, and my oldest friend in the USA. At 19 years and 1 month, she is still going strong!
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#Report/SiberianTiger (yovitaida83.wordpress.com)
#Report/SiberianTiger (one1group.wordpress.com)
Beautiful Compilation of Random Acts of Kindness that Won’t Leave Anyone Untouched
My friend, Paulette Mahurin, has been in part an inspiration behind my decision to donate my book sales profits to no-kill shelter and animal rescue. Paulette donates profits from her book, The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap, to the first and only no-kill animal shelter in Ventura County, CA. http://thepersecutionofmildreddunlap.wordpress.com/
September 15, 2013
Beautiful Compilation of Random Acts of Kindness that Won’t Leave Anyone Untouched
A must watch video! I cried… This is a beautiful compilation of random acts of kindness towards people and animals by total strangers in various Russian towns. Love in action, pure and simple!
As you all know, I am originally from Russia, although I presently live in the US, and I recognize some of the Russian cities and towns on this video. Russians always help each other; it’s embedded in the culture.
Many thanks to: Paulette Mahurin @ PersecutionofMildredDunlap blog who reblogged it; Kindnessblog.com who found it on Youtube
A million thanks to Carlosanchez.co Youtube Channel, for posting this on YT
The drivers in Russia all carry dashcams in their cars to record any potential police irregularities and any car accidents for insurance purposes. But as a result, such beautiful and inspiring moments also get caught on film. It’s so wonderful to know that there is so much kindness still alive in the world!
Blessing to all!
September 13, 2013
What People Want and Vladimir Putin’s Message
This is the kind of time when keeping silence is not possible as some are trying to “lead” us to World War III. I refuse to pollute my beautiful #LadaRayBlog with the names of those ugly excuses for human beings in the US government, congress, as well as other countries who are implicated in doing so. I think everyone already knows who they are. If not, the information is out there for all to see and to make conclusions accordingly.
Due to a very busy time in my life, I have not been able to post new videos. However, I have a lot to say on the subject. Expect new vids on Lada Ray YT channel, as well as new posts on Futurist Trendcast blog. I will analyse the situation and make new predictions.
Till then, here is a message of reason, peace and hope from the Russian President Putin, who is reaching out directly to the American people via NY Times article, bypassing the politicians and warmongers who obviously don’t have our best interests at heart.
Frankly, I was surprised NY Times published his article – and I commend them on doing so. What I’m not surprised about is that Putin’s message has received an incredible amount of support from all over the globe.
P.S. I know, I know, the American media and some politicians have been hard at work molding a very negative, if not an evil persona in Vladimir Putin. The facts have been twisted and turned on their head repeatedly, to which I can attest from my personal knowledge as a Russian, and as a researcher on Russia and geopolitics. Who needs a boogieman to scare kids at night if you have Putin, right?
Interestingly enough, those who are interested in vilifying the Russian President are the same people who are the biggest warmongers. I’m not going to justify or defend Putin. Today’s most powerful world leader doesn’t need my help. He has tons of support in Russia and abroad, unrivaled by any other politician in modern history. I’m not going to bother explaining any of his actions, past or present. Suffice it to say that his actions have huge support of his people, and of many countries around the world.
Just think for a moment: why is he this powerful? Hmm… There must be a good reason for that. Seemingly, USA has a substantially larger war machine, bigger, albeit fledgling, economy, and overwhelmingly louder media. The reason is simple: he reflects what most people and most countries around the world think and want. And that, my friends, no one can defeat. Deep down, people will always feel the truth.
Read my past predictions, including russian, us, french elections; russian meteor; the future of the us economy and world.
Also visit Futurist Trendcast blog.
Related articles
VIDEO: Putin in personal plea to US (bbc.co.uk)
Putin Addresses Americans (elephantnewsgop.com)
Here is Putin’s letter to America (marketsanity.com)
Russian President Putin Personally Writes to the American People: A Plea for Caution from Russia Over Syria (bluedragonjournal.com)
Russian President Putin Personally Writes to the American People: A Plea for Caution from Russia Over Syria (ladaray.wordpress.com)
Хлеб-соль ешь, а правду-матку режь. – Honesty is the best policy
What People Want: Vladimir Putin’s Message
This is the kind of time when keeping silence is not possible as some are trying to “lead” us to World War III. I refuse to pollute my beautiful #LadaRayBlog with the names of those ugly excuses for human beings in the US government, congress, as well as other countries who are implicated in doing so. I think everyone already knows who they are. If not, the information is out there for all to see and to make conclusions accordingly.
Due to a very busy time in my life, I have not been able to post new videos. However, I have a lot to say on the subject. Expect new vids on Lada Ray YT channel, as well as new posts on Futurist Trendcast blog. I will analyse the situation and make new predictions.
Till then, here is a message of reason, peace and hope from the Russian President Putin, who is reaching out directly to the American people via NY Times article, bypassing the politicians and warmongers who obviously don’t have our best interests at heart.
Frankly, I was surprised NY Times published his article – and I commend them on doing so. What I’m not surprised about is that Putin’s message has received an incredible amount of support from all over the globe.
P.S. I know, I know, the American media and some politicians have been hard at work molding a very negative, if not an evil persona in Vladimir Putin. The facts have been twisted and turned on their head repeatedly, to which I can attest from my personal knowledge as a Russian, and as an expert on Russia and geopolitics. Who needs a boogieman to scare kids at night if you have Putin, right?
Interestingly enough, those who are interested in vilifying the Russian President are the same people who are the biggest warmongers. I’m not going to justify or defend Putin. Today’s most powerful world leader doesn’t need my help. He has tons of support in Russia and abroad, unrivaled by any other politician in modern history. I’m not going to bother explaining any of his actions, past or present. Suffice it to say that his actions have huge support of his people, and of many countries around the world.
Just think for a moment: why is he this powerful? Hmm… There must be a good reason for that. Seemingly, USA has a substantially larger war machine, bigger, albeit fledgling, economy, and overwhelmingly louder media. The reason is simple: he reflects what most people and most countries around the world think and want. And that, my friends, no one can defeat. Deep down, people will always feel the truth.
Read my past predictions, including russian, us, french elections; russian meteor; the future of the us economy and world.
Also visit Futurist Trendcast blog.
Related articles
VIDEO: Putin in personal plea to US (bbc.co.uk)
Putin Addresses Americans (elephantnewsgop.com)
Here is Putin’s letter to America (marketsanity.com)
Russian President Putin Personally Writes to the American People: A Plea for Caution from Russia Over Syria (bluedragonjournal.com)
Russian President Putin Personally Writes to the American People: A Plea for Caution from Russia Over Syria (ladaray.wordpress.com)
Хлеб-соль ешь, а правду-матку режь. – Honesty is the best policy
Russian President Putin Personally Writes to the American People: A Plea for Caution from Russia Over Syria
Reblogged from The Aquarius Paradigm:
Thanks to Golden Age of Gaia.
By Vladimir V. Putin, President of Russia, NY Times – September 11, 2013
MOSCOW — Recent events surrounding Syria have prompted me to speak directly to the American people and their political leaders.
It is important to do so at a time of insufficient communication between our societies.
Relations between us have passed through different stages.
President Putin's article that appeared in NY Times, which calls for peace, reason and friendship.
Хлеб-соль ешь, а правду-матку режь. - Honesty is the best policy
Reblogged from Life in Russia:
Хлеб-соль ешь, а правду-матку режь.
Literal:
Eat bread and salt, cut the mother truth
-
Honesty is the best policy
visit: http://wp.me/p2ROdc-13N
Speaking Russian from the heart! Great blog: LIFE IN RUSSIA (the bridge between two countries) by an American expat living in Kazan, the capital of the Autonomous Republic of Tatarstan on River Volga. ***Those who've read my thriller, GOLD TRAIN (Accidental Spy Russia Adventure), will recall that Kazan is mentioned in the book. The Bank of Kazan served as storage for the huge Gold Reserve of the Russian Empire. This is where GOLD TRAIN's intrigue begins as the Russian Gold Reserve vanishes during the 1918 Civil War. About GOLD TRAIN and my books. *** Anyone interested in truth, Russian culture, expat living, world travel and beautiful spots from all over the world should visit Life in Russia!
September 7, 2013
Andre Rieu – The Man Who Loves to Bring Joy
Paraphrasing Julie Andrews in the Sound of Music:
When my faith in fellow humans takes a hit,
When world events make me sad,
I listen to Andre Rieu‘s beat
And suddenly my heart doesn’t feel as bad.
And more from me…
He is famous for spilling the stuffy classical music halls
Into squares of towns all over the world;
For infusing the immortal music’s sound
With fresh air (literally) and crowd’s joyful bout.
******
I love him for giving permission to himself and others to have fun while performing, and for the contagious, unadulterated joy he brings me every time I listen. Bravo, Maestro!
My favorite waltzes with Andre Rieu
Number 1 favorite pick-me-upper: the immortal Second Waltz (Russian Waltz) by great Dmitry Shostakovich. Andre Rieu’s live performance in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I love the people’s participation, all that singing along and dancing. And as many pointed out, people are well dressed and have manners – how refreshing!
My feelings in Spanish:
André Rieu es increíble! La alegría que transmite con su música no tiene comparación! Puedo oírla todo el día!
By the way, hear in the end people chanting in the background: “Mo-lo-dtsi, mo-lo-dtsi,” which is plural for “molodets” – famous Russian word loosely translated as “awesome person/people” (synonymous with “bravo”)…and the concert is taking place in Argentina! He truly is a global citizen – how awesome!
Another favorite: The Blue Danube by incomparable Johann Strauss. I’ve waltzed to this beautiful tune ever since I can remember myself.
Andre Rieu was born in Netherlands, where he is considered a national hero, and I can certainly see why! He isn’t just a musician, composer and mood-lifter par excellence, but turns out, also an accomplished comedian, as seen in this complete concert from his native city of Maastricht, Netherlands.
P.S. Amazing man! Andre Rieu was born in 1949. Did you notice how great he looks at 64? They say orchestra directors live some of the longest in the world, and can have productive careers well into their 80s. This is undoubtedly because being around music, doing what you love, and bringing joy to people keeps you eteranally young.
Molodets, Andre!
Related articles
Andre’ Rieu’s Summer Concert: Review (jandws.wordpress.com)
