Simple Living Works!

Posts Tagged ‘Treasury of Celebrations’

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Simpler Living Weekly Nudge

Posted by: on: January 15, 2019

Safe Harbors Network–providing safe shelters for refugees

1/15/19

SLW eNews #88

In This Issue–FREE Daily NUDGE // First-Hand Podcast on Immigration // Jerry’s Top 10 Progressive Podcasts // What to Expect Here in 2019 // Much More!

# # #

Simpler OneEarth Living Episode 01/19–Immigration and Borders: Horrors, Opportunities, and Needs—Talking with Jimmy Marcelin of Safe Harbors

# # #

Free Subscription: Today’s Simpler Living Nudge

Receive a brief daily nudge toward Simpler Living, such as the ones here, at no charge. Simply reply to this email with NUDGE at the top. You can unsubscribe at any time by replying Unsubscribe Nudge. You needn’t unsubscribe to this invitation. You won’t receive the Daily Nudge unless you request it. If you already receive it, thanks! You needn’t re-subscribe.

# # #

Jerry’s Top 10 Progressive Podcasts

All available from iTunes, Stitcher or your favorite podcast service. Not in priority order. They’re all great! There are many more but one of my New Years resolutions was to be less extensive/overwhelming!

The Fallon Forum with Ed Fallon // Best of the Left // GrowthBusters // Ralph Nader Radio Hour // RePros Fight Back // The Hartmann Report with Thom Hartmann // The OverPopulation Podcast from Population Balance // Jim Hightower’s Radio Lowdown (3 min.!) // Alternative Radio // and, of course, my own, Simpler OneEarth Living, now a co-production of Simple Living Works! and Jubilee OneEarth Economics

Others that are excellent though not political: Homilies by Fr. Richard Rohr // On Being with Krista Tippet

# # #

What Others Are Doing – So Much Help! – Latest Posts

I gladly pass along links from simple living bloggers, podcasters, coaches and others. Some faith-based, some not. You needn’t read them all. Choose just FIVE links to investigate. COMPLETE LIST (Monthly Digest). For links to earlier entries, check the previous SLW! Weekly Digests or Monthly Digests.

What’s Happened

What to Expect Here in 2019

All services are free of charge!

Every Day–Simpler Living Nudge (brief) by email or Twitter. To subscribe send Nudge to SimpleLivingWorks@yahoo.com or follow @GeraldIversen.

‘Most Every Day–multiple FaceBook posts

Each Week (1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd)–Simpler Living Weekly Nudge. Subscribe at Blog (window #2) at SimpleLivingWorks.org; Linked-In post (Gerald Iversen)

1st of Each Month–San Luis Obispo County, CA, Social Justice eNews. To subscribe send SLO Co. to same address.

8th of Each Month–New episode of monthly Simpler OneEarth Living podcast (co-produced with http://www.Jubilee-Economics.org). Subscribe in iTunes, Stitcher and other podcast services to predecessors Simple Living Works or The Common Good Podcast. (NOTE: Episode numbers have been dropped. We now use the month of release, e.g. Ep.01/19.)

15th of Each Month–Siouxland (Sioux City, IA) Social Justice eNews. To subscribe send Siouxland to same address. Email monthly Simple Living Works! eNews version of weekly Nudge.

# # #

Will the New Tax Laws Affect Our Charitable Giving?

On the recent annual #GivingTuesday (11/27/18) we were urged to support non-profit organizations. It’s a real relief from the hyper-consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Now some of us are planning our year-end giving. How much can we afford to give away while we look Christmas in the face?

I normally give away as much as possible AND itemize deductions on my Income Tax returns, not only to be helpful but also to get above the standard deduction. This way I can keep my share of taxes from supporting the war machine and force-feeding the military.

The Republican Tax Scam of 2018 has thrown ordinary citizens a bone by doubling the standard deduction (in contrast to the monumental tax deductions for the wealthy and corporations!). This ploy could have a serious negative effect on charitable organizations—now we can get the deduction without giving the money away. (Yes, the deduction also includes property taxes, state income taxes and medical expenses.)

Our plan is to double our giving one year and reduce it the next. That way we get the benefit of the higher standard deduction in “lean “ years and go above it in “fat” years. Likewise, we’ll give to progressive political causes  and candidates (which are not tax deductible) in even-numbered/election years (2018, 2020), to help balance the doubling of charitable donations in odd-numbered years (2019). 

This plan is called “bunching.”  It won’t work for everybody. I am not giving tax advice. I urge you to talk to a tax professional. In the meanwhile, here’s an article that may help: “Bunching Charitable Donations Could Help You Save onTaxes This Year—https://www.cnbc.com/2018/01/04/bunching-charitable-donations-could-help-you-save-on-taxes-this-year.html

We can live our consciences and still keep the system from negating our generosity.

# # #

Podcast Reminder

You can access all SLW! podcast audio and the show notes at SimpleLivingWorks.org (then click window #3). Complete Episode Index. Listen through your computer, iPod, iPad, iPhone (or equivalent).

SUBSCRIBE through iTunes, Stitcher.com or your favorite podcast service. To SUBSCRIBE to email notices, click Comments at the bottom of Show Notes, then check ‘Notify me of new posts by email.’ Please rate us in iTunes and leave a review.

Send us your email address to receive the free monthly SLW! eNews. Remember to like us on Facebook. Urge your friends to do the same. Do your friends a favor. Share our blog and podcast.

Like SLW! on Facebook. | Follow us on Twitter. | Follow us on Pinterest. Share your thoughts on our podcast and blogs. Email SimpleLivingWorks@yahoo.com, leave a message on our Facebook page or on the SLW! blog.

Peace, Gerald “Jerry” Iversen, Chief SLW! Activist

Copyright: Creative Commons non-commercial attribution share-alike license.

Through social media, we extend the mission and resources of the non-profit organization Alternatives, 1973-2011.

*We choose to use month numbers rather than the traditional names because the names are inaccurate (September means “7” but it’s the ninth month?!) and they honor gods and emperors from warring ancient Roman culture. For more, see Weekly Nudge, 8/8/18.

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Simpler Living Weekly Nudge

Posted by: on: January 8, 2019

Jimmy Marcelin, playmaker at Safe Harbors Immigration Center

1/8/19

In This Issue–First-Hand Podcast on Immigration // Jerry’s Top 10 Progressive Podcasts // What to Expect Here in 2019 // Much More!

# # #

Simpler OneEarth Living Episode 01/19–Immigration and Borders: Horrors, Opportunities, and Needs—Talking with Jimmy Marcelin of Safe Harbors

# # #

Jerry’s Top 10 Progressive Podcasts

All available from iTunes, Stitcher or your favorite podcast service. Not in priority order. They’re all great! There are many more but one of my New Years resolutions was to be less extensive/overwhelming!

The Fallon Forum with Ed Fallon // Best of the Left // GrowthBusters // Ralph Nader Radio Hour // RePros Fight Back // The Hartmann Report with Thom Hartmann // The OverPopulation Podcast from Population Balance // Jim Hightower’s Radio Lowdown (3 min.!) // Alternative Radio // and, of course, my own, Simpler OneEarth Living, now a co-production of Simple Living Works! and Jubilee OneEarth Economics

Others that are excellent though not political: Homilies by Fr. Richard Rohr // On Being with Krista Tippet

# # #

What Others Are Doing – So Much Help! – Latest Posts

I gladly pass along links from simple living bloggers, podcasters, coaches and others. Some faith-based, some not. You needn’t read them all. Choose just FIVE links to investigate. COMPLETE LIST (Monthly Digest). For links to earlier entries, check the previous SLW! Weekly Digests or Monthly Digests.

What’s Happened

What to Expect Here in 2019

All services are free of charge

Every Day–Simpler Living Nudge (brief) by email or Twitter. To subscribe send Nudge to SimpleLivingWorks@yahoo.com or follow @GeraldIversen.

‘Most Every Day–FaceBook posts

Each Week (1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd)–Simpler Living Weekly Nudge. Subscribe at Blog (window #2) at SimpleLivingWorks.org; Linked-In post (Gerald Iversen)

1st of Each Month–San Luis Obispo Co., CA, Social Justice eNews. To subscribe send SLO Co. to same address.

8th of Each Month–New episode of monthly Simpler OneEarth Living podcast (co-produced with http://www.Jubilee-Economics.org). Subscribe in iTunes, Stitcher and other podcast services to predecessors Simple Living Works or The Common Good Podcast. (NOTE: Episode numbers have been dropped. We now use the month of release, e.g. Ep.01/19.)

15th of Each Month–Siouxland (Sioux City, IA) Social Justice eNews. To subscribe send Siouxland to same address. Begin emailing monthly Simple Living Works! eNews version of weekly Nudge.

# # #

Will the New Tax Laws Affect Our Charitable Giving?

On the recent annual #GivingTuesday (11/27/18) we were urged to support non-profit organizations. It’s a real relief from the hyper-consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Now some of us are planning our year-end giving. How much can we afford to give away while we look Christmas in the face?

I normally give away as much as possible AND itemize deductions on my Income Tax returns, not only to be helpful but also to get above the standard deduction. This way I can keep my share of taxes from supporting the war machine and force-feeding the military.

The Republican Tax Scam of 2018 has thrown ordinary citizens a bone by doubling the standard deduction (in contrast to the monumental tax deductions for the wealthy and corporations!). This ploy could have a serious negative effect on charitable organizations—now we can get the deduction without giving the money away. (Yes, the deduction also includes property taxes, state income taxes and medical expenses.)

My plan is to double my giving one year and reduce it the next. That way I get the benefit of the higher standard deduction in “lean “ years and go above it in “fat” years. Likewise, we’ll give to progressive political causes  and candidates (which are not tax deductible) in even-numbered/election years (2018, 2020), to help balance the doubling of charitable donations in odd-numbered years (2019). 

This plan is called “bunching.”  It won’t work for everybody. I am not giving tax advice. I urge you to talk to a tax professional. In the meanwhile, here’s an article that may help: “Bunching Charitable Donations Could Help You Save onTaxes This Year—https://www.cnbc.com/2018/01/04/bunching-charitable-donations-could-help-you-save-on-taxes-this-year.html

We can live our consciences and still keep the system from negating our generosity.

# # #

Podcast Reminder

You can access all SLW! podcast audio and the show notes at SimpleLivingWorks.org (then click window #3). Complete Episode Index. Listen through your computer, iPod, iPad, iPhone (or equivalent).

SUBSCRIBE through iTunes, Stitcher.com or your favorite podcast service. To SUBSCRIBE to email notices, click Comments at the bottom of Show Notes, then check ‘Notify me of new posts by email.’ Please rate us in iTunes and leave a review.

Send us your email address to receive the free monthly SLW! eNews. Remember to like us on Facebook. Urge your friends to do the same. Do your friends a favor. Share our blog and podcast.

Like SLW! on Facebook. | Follow us on Twitter. | Follow us on Pinterest. Share your thoughts on our podcast and blogs. Email SimpleLivingWorks@yahoo.com, leave a message on our Facebook page or on the SLW! blog.

Peace, Gerald “Jerry” Iversen, Chief SLW! Activist

Copyright: Creative Commons non-commercial attribution share-alike license.

Through social media, we extend the mission and resources of the non-profit organization Alternatives, 1973-2011.

*We choose to use month numbers rather than the traditional names because the names are inaccurate (September means “7” but it’s the ninth month?! and they honor gods and emperors from warring ancient Roman culture. For more, see Weekly Nudge, 8/8/18.

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Simpler Living Weekly Nudge

Posted by: on: December 31, 2018

1/1/19

In This Issue–Sneak Preview: First-Hand Podcast on Immigration // What to Expect Here in 2019 // Will the New Tax Laws Affect Our Charitable Giving? // Much More!

# # #

Sneak Preview: Simpler OneEarth Living Episode 01/19–Immigration and Borders: Horrors, Opportunities, and Needs—Talking with Jimmy Marcelin of Safe Harbors

# # #

What to Expect Here in 2019

All services are free of charge

Every Day–Simpler Living Nudge (brief) by email or Twitter. To subscribe send Nudge to SimpleLivingWorks@yahoo.com or follow @GeraldIversen.

‘Most Every Day–FaceBook posts

Each Week (1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd)–Simpler Living Weekly Nudge. Subscribe at Blog (window #2) at SimpleLivingWorks.org; Linked-In post (Gerald Iversen)

1st of Each Month–San Luis Obispo Co., CA, Social Justice eNews. To subscribe send SLO Co. to same address.

8th of Each Month–New episode of monthly Simpler OneEarth Living podcast (co-produced with http://www.Jubilee-Economics.org). Subscribe in iTunes, Stitcher and other podcast services to predecessors Simple Living Works or The Common Good Podcast. (NOTE: Episode numbers have been dropped. We now use the month of release, e.g. Ep.01/19.)

15th of Each Month–Siouxland (Sioux City, IA) Social Justice eNews. To subscribe send Siouxland to same address. Begin emailing monthly Simple Living Works! eNews version of weekly Nudge.

# # #

Historical NOTE: The twelve days of Christmas go from Dec. 25 to Epiphany, Jan. 6, which commemorates the coming of the Wise Ones when Jesus was two-ish.

Check out some of these thought-provoking, timely resources.

A Poem for Holy Innocents Day, Dec. 28

Remembering the Holy Innocents

The Holy Family escaped the slaughter by their Flight into Egypt, a good time for us to think and talk about immigrants and welcoming the stranger.

New Years

Legacy Blog: Having an Epiphany for New Years

Consumer Christmas Counter-Offensive

What Others Are Doing – So Much Help! – Latest Posts

I gladly pass along links from simple living bloggers, podcasters, coaches and others. Some faith-based, some not. You needn’t read them all. Choose just FIVE links to investigate. COMPLETE LIST (Monthly Digest). For links to earlier entries, check the previous SLW! Weekly Digests or Monthly Digests.

What’s Happened

Will the New Tax Laws Affect Our Charitable Giving?

On the recent annual #GivingTuesday (11/27/18) we were urged to support non-profit organizations. It’s a real relief from the hyper-consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Now some of us are planning our year-end giving. How much can we afford to give away while we look Christmas in the face?

I normally give away as much as possible AND itemize deductions on my Income Tax returns, not only to be helpful but also to get above the standard deduction. This way I can keep my share of taxes from supporting the war machine and force-feeding the military.

The Republican Tax Scam of 2018 has thrown ordinary citizens a bone by doubling the standard deduction (in contrast to the monumental tax deductions for the wealthy and corporations!). This ploy could have a serious negative effect on charitable organizations—now we can get the deduction without giving the money away. (Yes, the deduction also includes property taxes, state income taxes and medical expenses.)

My plan is to double my giving one year and reduce it the next. That way I get the benefit of the higher standard deduction in “lean “ years and go above it in “fat” years. Likewise, we’ll give to progressive political causes  and candidates (which are not tax deductible) in even-numbered/election years (2018, 2020), to help balance the doubling of charitable donations in odd-numbered years (2019). 

This plan is called “bunching.”  It won’t work for everybody. I am not giving tax advice. I urge you to talk to a tax professional. In the meanwhile, here’s an article that may help: “Bunching Charitable Donations Could Help You Save onTaxes This Year—https://www.cnbc.com/2018/01/04/bunching-charitable-donations-could-help-you-save-on-taxes-this-year.html

We can live our consciences and still keep the system from negating our generosity.

# # #

45th Anniversary: Non-Sentimental Journey

2018 was the 45th year of Alternatives’ service. We celebrated in modest ways, such as the 100th episode of Simple Living Works! Podcast. Of special interest is episode #3, The Saga of Simply Enough. For more about the 45th, read the annual report.

In the process of getting copies of our resources to the ELCA Archives for safekeeping, we found some historic photos, which I uploaded to the SLW! site in our Short History. Of special curiosity might be A/V stories done by others about Alternatives, the hymn written upon my retirement, and moving the Earth Dome (called 2003: A Dome Odyssey – don’t miss the closing credits).

For a brief summary of how Alternatives closed in 2011, before being revived as Simple Living Works!, read “What’s Happened to Simple Living” or listen to SLW! Podcast episode #1.

You don’t need to to send cards or money, though we’re glad to hear from you!

# # #

Podcast Reminder

You can access all SLW! podcast audio and the show notes at SimpleLivingWorks.org (then click window #3). Complete Episode Index. Listen through your computer, iPod, iPad, iPhone (or equivalent).

SUBSCRIBE through iTunes, Stitcher.com or your favorite podcast service. To SUBSCRIBE to email notices, click Comments at the bottom of Show Notes, then check ‘Notify me of new posts by email.’ Please rate us in iTunes and leave a review.

Send us your email address to receive the free monthly SLW! eNews. Remember to like us on Facebook. Urge your friends to do the same. Do your friends a favor. Share our blog and podcast.

Like SLW! on Facebook. | Follow us on Twitter. | Follow us on Pinterest. Share your thoughts on our podcast and blogs. Email SimpleLivingWorks@yahoo.com, leave a message on our Facebook page or on the SLW! blog.

Peace, Gerald “Jerry” Iversen, Chief SLW! Activist

Copyright: Creative Commons non-commercial attribution share-alike license.

Through social media, we extend the mission and resources of the non-profit organization Alternatives, 1973-2011.

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Simpler Living Weekly Nudge

Posted by: on: December 22, 2018

Remembering the Holy Innocents

 

12/22/18

In This Issue:

45th Anniversary: Non-Sentimental Journey // Consumer Christmas Counter-Offensive: “WHOSE Birthday?” Podcast, parts 1-4 // Will the New Tax Laws Affect Our Charitable Giving? // Much More!

# # #

45th Anniversary: Non-Sentimental Journey

2018 was the 45th year of Alternatives’ service. We celebrated in modest ways, such as the 100th episode of Simple Living Works! Podcast. Of special interest is episode #3, The Saga of Simply Enough. For more about the 45th, read the annual report.

In the process of getting copies of our resources to the ELCA Archives for safekeeping, we found some historic photos, which I uploaded to the SLW! site in our Short History. Of special curiosity might be A/V stories done by others about Alternatives, the hymn written upon my retirement, and moving the Earth Dome (called 2003: A Dome Odyssey – don’t miss the closing credits).

For a brief summary of how Alternatives closed in 2011, before being revived as Simple Living Works!, read “What’s Happened to Simple Living” or listen to SLW! Podcast episode #1.

You don’t need to to send cards or money, though we’re glad to hear from you!

# # #

Check out these thought-provoking, timely resources.

A Poem for Holy Innocents Day, Dec. 28

Remembering the Holy Innocents

The Holy Family escaped the slaughter by their Flight into Egypt, a good time for us to think and talk about immigrants and welcoming the stranger.

New Years

Legacy Blog: Having an Epiphany for New Years

Consumer Christmas Counter-Offensive

What Others Are Doing – So Much Help! – Latest Posts

I gladly pass along links from simple living bloggers, podcasters, coaches and others. Some faith-based, some not. You needn’t read them all. Choose just FIVE links to investigate. COMPLETE LIST (Monthly Digest). For links to earlier entries, check the previous SLW! Weekly Digests or Monthly Digests.

What’s Happened

Will the New Tax Laws Affect Our Charitable Giving?

On the recent annual #GivingTuesday (11/27/18) we were urged to support non-profit organizations. It’s a real relief from the hyper-consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Now some of us are planning our year-end giving. How much can we afford to give away while we look Christmas in the face?

I normally give away as much as possible AND itemize deductions on my Income Tax returns, not only to be helpful but also to get above the standard deduction. This way I can keep my share of taxes from supporting the war machine and force-feeding the military.

The Republican Tax Scam of 2018 has thrown ordinary citizens a bone by doubling the standard deduction (in contrast to the monumental tax deductions for the wealthy and corporations!). This ploy could have a serious negative effect on charitable organizations—now we can get the deduction without giving the money away. (Yes, the deduction also includes property taxes, state income taxes and medical expenses.)

My plan is to double my giving one year and reduce it the next. That way I get the benefit of the higher standard deduction in “lean “ years and go above it in “fat” years. Likewise, we’ll give to progressive political causes  and candidates (which are not tax deductible) in even-numbered/election years (2018, 2020), to help balance the doubling of charitable donations in odd-numbered years (2019). 

This plan is called “bunching.”  It won’t work for everybody. I am not giving tax advice. I urge you to talk to a tax professional. In the meanwhile, here’s an article that may help: “Bunching Charitable Donations Could Help You Save onTaxes This Year—https://www.cnbc.com/2018/01/04/bunching-charitable-donations-could-help-you-save-on-taxes-this-year.html

We can live our consciences and still keep the system from negating our generosity.

# # #

Podcast Reminder

You can access all SLW! podcast audio and the show notes at SimpleLivingWorks.org (then click window #3). Complete Episode Index. Listen through your computer, iPod, iPad, iPhone (or equivalent).

SUBSCRIBE through iTunes, Stitcher.com or your favorite podcast service. To SUBSCRIBE to email notices, click Comments at the bottom of Show Notes, then check ‘Notify me of new posts by email.’ Please rate us in iTunes and leave a review.

Send us your email address to receive the free monthly SLW! eNews. Remember to like us on Facebook. Urge your friends to do the same. Do your friends a favor. Share our blog and podcast.

Like SLW! on Facebook. | Follow us on Twitter. | Follow us on Pinterest. Share your thoughts on our podcast and blogs. Email SimpleLivingWorks@yahoo.com, leave a message on our Facebook page or on the SLW! blog.

Peace, Gerald “Jerry” Iversen, Chief SLW! Activist

Copyright: Creative Commons non-commercial attribution share-alike license.

Through social media, we extend the mission and resources of the non-profit organization Alternatives, 1973-2011.

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Simpler Living Weekly Nudge

Posted by: on: December 16, 2018


12/15/18
Monthly eNews #87

In This Issue:  Consumer Christmas Counter-Offensive // “WHOSE Birthday?” Podcast, parts 1-4 // Will the New Tax Laws Affect Our Charitable Giving? // Much More!

# # #

Latest Podcast Episode–WHOSE Birthday? part  4 (12/15/18)

Consumer Christmas Counter-Offensive

We’ve begun our Non-Consumer Christmas Campaign early this year. Since SLW! Podcast began in 2013, we’ve had a short series the last two months of the year reprising audio from an edition of “Whose Birthday Is It, Anyway?”

This year we extend the series for four months, issuing a new episode the 15th of each month.

“WHOSE Birthday?” is the Advent-Christmas annual for individuals, families and congregations or groups that at one time was published on paper. Now all editions are free online.

SLW! (and its predecessor Alternatives) has been countering the consumer assault on faith since 1973. But our mission is not just limited to Christmas. Christmas is just the most glaring example of replacing true meaning in life with stuff. It goes on all year–at other holidays, rites of passage and everyday.

In the now 30 annual editions of “Whose Birthday?” we use gentle reminders, helpful tips, Biblical reflections and fun activities, not lectures nor condescending judgments. We try to show how each one of us can resist, non-cooperate in the system for our own health and that of those around us… our families, friends and congregations.

Technical note: The SHOW NOTES for each episode are extensive. You can listen to and/or read any/all the items in all four episode whenever your like by following the links. So, you can binge or wait for each episode to be released.

What Others Are Doing – So Much Help! – Latest Posts

I gladly pass along links from simple living bloggers, podcasters, coaches and others. Some faith-based, some not. You needn’t read them all. Choose just FIVE links to investigate. COMPLETE LIST (Monthly Digest). For links to earlier entries, check the previous SLW! Weekly Digests or Monthly Digests.

What’s Happened

Will the New Tax Laws Affect Our Charitable Giving?

On the recent annual #GivingTuesday (11/27/18) we were urged to support non-profit organizations. It’s a real relief from the hyper-consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Now some of us are planning our year-end giving. How much can we afford to give away while we look Christmas in the face?

I normally give away as much as possible AND itemize deductions on my Income Tax returns, not only to be helpful but also to get above the standard deduction. This way I can keep my share of taxes from supporting the war machine and force-feeding the military.

The Republican Tax Scam of 2018 has thrown ordinary citizens a bone by doubling the standard deduction (in contrast to the monumental tax deductions for the wealthy and corporations!). This ploy could have a serious negative effect on charitable organizations—now we can get the deduction without giving the money away. (Yes, the deduction also includes property taxes, state income taxes and medical expenses.)

My plan is to double my giving one year and reduce it the next. That way I get the benefit of the higher standard deduction in “lean “ years and go above it in “fat” years. Likewise, we’ll give to progressive political causes  and candidates (which are not tax deductible) in even-numbered/election years (2018, 2020), to help balance the doubling of charitable donations in odd-numbered years (2019). 

This plan is called “bunching.”  It won’t work for everybody. I am not giving tax advice. I urge you to talk to a tax professional. In the meanwhile, here’s an article that may help: “Bunching Charitable Donations Could Help You Save onTaxes This Year—https://www.cnbc.com/2018/01/04/bunching-charitable-donations-could-help-you-save-on-taxes-this-year.html

We can live our consciences and still keep the system from negating our generosity.

Podcast Reminder

You can access all SLW! podcast audio and the show notes at SimpleLivingWorks.org (then click window #3). Complete Episode Index. Listen through your computer, iPod, iPad, iPhone (or equivalent).

SUBSCRIBE through iTunes, Stitcher.com or your favorite podcast service. To SUBSCRIBE to email notices, click Comments at the bottom of Show Notes, then check ‘Notify me of new posts by email.’ Please rate us in iTunes and leave a review.

Send us your email address to receive the free monthly SLW! eNews. Remember to like us on Facebook. Urge your friends to do the same. Do your friends a favor. Share our blog and podcast.

Like SLW! on Facebook. | Follow us on Twitter. | Follow us on Pinterest. Share your thoughts on our podcast and blogs. Email SimpleLivingWorks@yahoo.com, leave a message on our Facebook page or on the SLW! blog.

Peace, Gerald “Jerry” Iversen, Chief SLW! Activist

Copyright: Creative Commons non-commercial attribution share-alike license.

Through social media, we extend the mission and resources of the non-profit organization Alternatives, 1973-2011.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Simpler Living Weekly Nudge

Posted by: on: December 8, 2018

Anne Pacheco, Lee Van Ham and Diane Hartley discuss Fair Trade in schools and congregations on the current episode of Simpler OneEarth Living Podcast.

12/8/18

Will the New Tax Laws Affect Our Charitable Giving?

On the recent annual #GivingTuesday (11/27/18) we were urged to support non-profit organizations. It’s a real relief from the hyper-consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Now some of us are planning our year-end giving. How much can we afford to give away while we look Christmas in the face?

I normally give away as much as possible AND itemize deductions on my Income Tax returns, not only to be helpful but also to get above the standard deduction. This way I can keep my share of taxes from supporting the war machine and force-feeding the military.

The Republican Tax Scam of 2018 has thrown ordinary citizens a bone by doubling the standard deduction (in contrast to the monumental tax deductions for the wealthy and corporations!). This ploy could have a serious negative effect on charitable organizations—now we can get the deduction without giving the money away. (Yes, the deduction also includes property taxes, state income taxes and medical expenses.)

My plan is to double my giving one year and reduce it the next. That way I get the benefit of the higher standard deduction in “lean “ years and go above it in “fat” years. Likewise, we’ll give to progressive political causes  and candidates (which are not tax deductible) in even-numbered/election years (2018, 2020), to help balance the doubling of charitable donations in odd-numbered years (2019). 

This plan is called “bunching.”  It won’t work for everybody. I am not giving tax advice. I urge you to talk to a tax professional. In the meanwhile, here’s an article that may help: “Bunching Charitable Donations Could Help You Save onTaxes This Year—https://www.cnbc.com/2018/01/04/bunching-charitable-donations-could-help-you-save-on-taxes-this-year.html

We can live our consciences and still keep the system from negating our generosity.

# # #

LATEST Episode–Fair Trade in Schools and Congregations (12/1/18)

Podcast Episode–WHOSE Birthday? part 3 (11/15/18) // Coming part 4 (12/15/18) [Preview Now]

Good-bye, Santa! Hello, Saint Nick!  — St. Nicholas Day, Dec. 6

Consumer Christmas Counter-Offensive

We’ve begun our Non-Consumer Christmas Campaign early this year. Since SLW! Podcast began in 2013, we’ve had a short series the last two months of the year reprising audio from an edition of “Whose Birthday Is It, Anyway?”

This year we extend the series for four months, issuing a new episode the 15th of each month.

“WHOSE Birthday?” is the Advent-Christmas annual for individuals, families and congregations or groups that at one time was published on paper. Now all editions are free online.

SLW! (and its predecessor Alternatives) has been countering the consumer assault on faith since 1973. But our mission is not just limited to Christmas. Christmas is just the most glaring example of replacing true meaning in life with stuff. It goes on all year–at other holidays, rites of passage and everyday.

In the now 30 annual editions of “Whose Birthday?” we use gentle reminders, helpful tips, Biblical reflections and fun activities, not lectures nor condescending judgments. We try to show how each one of us can resist, non-cooperate in the system for our own health and that of those around us… our families, friends and congregations.

Technical note: The SHOW NOTES for each episode are extensive. You can listen to and/or read any/all the items in all four episode whenever your like by following the links. So, you can binge or wait for each episode to be released.

What Others Are Doing – So Much Help! – Latest Posts

I gladly pass along links from simple living bloggers, podcasters, coaches and others. Some faith-based, some not. You needn’t read them all. Choose just FIVE links to investigate. COMPLETE LIST (Monthly Digest). For links to earlier entries, check the previous SLW! Weekly Digests or Monthly Digests.

What’s Happened

Podcast Reminder

You can access all SLW! podcast audio and the show notes at SimpleLivingWorks.org (then click window #3). Complete Episode Index. Listen through your computer, iPod, iPad, iPhone (or equivalent).

SUBSCRIBE through iTunes, Stitcher.com or your favorite podcast service. To SUBSCRIBE to email notices, click Comments at the bottom of Show Notes, then check ‘Notify me of new posts by email.’ Please rate us in iTunes and leave a review.

Send us your email address to receive the free monthly SLW! eNews. Remember to like us on Facebook. Urge your friends to do the same. Do your friends a favor. Share our blog and podcast.

Like SLW! on Facebook. | Follow us on Twitter. | Follow us on Pinterest. Share your thoughts on our podcast and blogs. Email SimpleLivingWorks@yahoo.com, leave a message on our Facebook page or on the SLW! blog.

Peace, Gerald “Jerry” Iversen, Chief SLW! Activist

Copyright: Creative Commons non-commercial attribution share-alike license.

Through social media, we extend the mission and resources of the non-profit organization Alternatives, 1973-2011.

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Simpler Living Weekly Nudge

Posted by: on: December 1, 2018

 

12/1/18

LATEST Episode–Fair Trade in Schools and Congregations (12/1/18)

Podcast Episode–WHOSE Birthday? part 3 (11/15/18) // Coming part 4 (12/15/18) [Preview Now]

Good-bye, Santa! Hello, Saint Nick!  — St. Nicholas Day, Dec. 6

Consumer Christmas Counter-Offensive

We’ve begun our Non-Consumer Christmas Campaign early this year. Since SLW! Podcast began in 2013, we’ve had a short series the last two months of the year reprising audio from an edition of “Whose Birthday Is It, Anyway?”

This year we extend the series for four months, issuing a new episode the 15th of each month.

“WHOSE Birthday?” is the Advent-Christmas annual for individuals, families and congregations or groups that at one time was published on paper. Now all editions are free online.

SLW! (and its predecessor Alternatives) has been countering the consumer assault on faith since 1973. But our mission is not just limited to Christmas. Christmas is just the most glaring example of replacing true meaning in life with stuff. It goes on all year–at other holidays, rites of passage and everyday.

In the now 30 annual editions of “Whose Birthday?” we use gentle reminders, helpful tips, Biblical reflections and fun activities, not lectures nor condescending judgments. We try to show how each one of us can resist, non-cooperate in the system for our own health and that of those around us… our families, friends and congregations.

Technical note: The SHOW NOTES for each episode are extensive. You can listen to and/or read any/all the items in all four episode whenever your like by following the links. So, you can binge or wait for each episode to be released.

What Others Are Doing – So Much Help! – Latest Posts

I gladly pass along links from simple living bloggers, podcasters, coaches and others. Some faith-based, some not. You needn’t read them all. Choose just FIVE links to investigate. COMPLETE LIST (Monthly Digest). For links to earlier entries, check the previous SLW! Weekly Digests or Monthly Digests.

What’s Happened

  • Classic SLW! Blog: Celebrating Thanks-a-weenie 11/18/14
  • Non-Conform Freely Celebration–Buy Nothing Day (a.k.a. Black Friday)
  • 11/1/18 Podcast Episode: Jubilee Circles in Mexico–The Power of Small, Jubilee Circles to Bring Change
    This is episode #101  of The Common Good Podcast with co-hosts Lee Van Ham and Jerry Iversen, featuring Lee’s conversation with Angelica Juarez de Swanson and Lindsey Mercer Robledo from the September gathering of three Jubilee Circles in San Cristobal de las Cases in Chiapas, Mexico.

  • Post-Mid-Term Elections

    Here’s an update on my mini-campaign “I Buy Blue. How About You?” which I started in early 2017. Read the revised list of states here.

    Now that the result of the 2018 midterm elections are in, some states have turned from red to purple, thereby escaping the dreaded “avoid” status for purchases, conferences, etc.

    If you’re retirement age, you may remember the “red scare” back when Communists were called “reds.” Now predominantly Republican states are called “red.” I prefer “regressive” or even “repressive” because many of them are heavily committed to voter suppression.

    I avoid the conservative vs. liberal distinction. It’s more meaningful to use identifies such as “corporatist” for those who work for profits over people and “militarist” for those who would continue to force-feed the military. Most Republicans and some Democrats are corporatists and militarists.

    Progressives—Sanders Democrats and Greens—tend to be neither corporatists or militarists. Our motto is “people, peace and planet.” We realize that without health care for Earth’s air, water and soil, the human race will be vastly reduced by 2100. In that regard, we environmentalists are “conservatives,” working to conserve Earth’s resources rather than exploit them. We say “Tax the Rich!” instead of penalizing present and future retirees by blaming social programs for the growing national debt. Fix the tax scams passed for the wealthy and corporations.

  • Another Worthwhile Resource The Overpopulation Podcast from. . .

    World Population Balance – sustainable world and US population  http://www.worldpopulationbalance.org/

  • Bonus Episode: Casady’s at the Calif. Climate Summit — The Common Good Podcast #100–Actions on Climate Science When National Decision-Makers Are Hostile and Big Business Won’t Do Nearly Enough
  • Climate Crisis Drivers: Overpopulation and Overconsumption + Jerry’s new YouTube video (see Resources)
  • Why We Podcast–We truly believe in the missions of SLW! and Jubilee OneEarth Economics! The mainstream corporate media — left, right or center — exist to sell us more stuff. Though we are only the tiniest whisper, we cannot stop offering an honest alternative to that MultiEarth message. There is no Planet B. Here’s a list of worthwhile media. And even more.
  • Our Daily Simpler Living Nudge — What It Is / How It Works / How to GET It – Subscribe by sending NUDGE to SimpleLivingWorks@yahoo.com. / How to SHARE It
  • Healthy Political Practices & Spiritual Disciplines  // Banishing Fake News  READ MORE // Simple Living SANITY // READ MORE
  • Previews of Simple Living Blogs, Podcasts and Sites // Collaborators & Champions
  • Recent Responses to SLW! media
  • Simpler Formats for 2019–The complete SLW! Monthly Digest on the SLW! site features the latest posts from colleague organizations and is updated weekly. Simpler Living Weekly Nudge will feature offerings from SLW! It comes as your free subscription to  SLW! Blog. The Daily Nudge comes by email (send NUDGE to SimpleLivingworks@yahoo.com) or by Twitter @GeraldIversen. Choose the options that work for you.
  • Subscribers to SLW! Podcast and The Common Good Podcast (TCGP) will receive one episode of Simpler Living OneEarth Podcast each month. This makes good sense since the missions of both SLW! and Jubilee OneEarth Economics are so complementary and the two work together closely. Your comments on these changes are welcome.

Podcast Reminder

You can access all SLW! podcast audio and the show notes at SimpleLivingWorks.org (then click window #3). Complete Episode Index. Listen through your computer, iPod, iPad, iPhone (or equivalent).

SUBSCRIBE through iTunes, Stitcher.com or your favorite podcast service. To SUBSCRIBE to email notices, click Comments at the bottom of Show Notes, then check ‘Notify me of new posts by email.’ Please rate us in iTunes and leave a review.

Send us your email address to receive the free monthly SLW! eNews. Remember to like us on Facebook. Urge your friends to do the same. Do your friends a favor. Share our blog and podcast.

Like SLW! on Facebook. | Follow us on Twitter. | Follow us on Pinterest. Share your thoughts on our podcast and blogs. Email SimpleLivingWorks@yahoo.com, leave a message on our Facebook page or on the SLW! blog.

Peace, Gerald “Jerry” Iversen, Chief SLW! Activist

Copyright: Creative Commons non-commercial attribution share-alike license.

Through social media, we extend the mission and resources of the non-profit organization Alternatives, 1973-2011.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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