In four days we will celebrate the birth of our nation. For 236 years the United States of America has been a beacon of freedom shining around the world, but it was not without great pains. On this day in 1776 a motion had been put forward for a vote in the Continental Congress to declare independence.
The motion, presented by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia on June 7th, read in part: "resolved, that these colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that hey are absolved of all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved."
Nine of the thirteen colonies voted in favor of the resolution while two voted against and New York abstained. Three weeks earlier, the Congress voted to postpone further discussion of Lee's proposal but it also decided to form a committee to prepare announcing and explaining independence in the event that Lee's resolution was approved when it was brought up again in July.
The vote on this day 236 years ago was in danger of not having unanimous support with one of Delaware's voting in favor and a second against. The third and deciding vote that would give the passing of the resolution laid with Brigader-General Caesar Rodney, commander of that colony's militia.
Like Paul Revere, Caesar Rodney became famous for his midnight ride. Rodney's ride ended at the doorstep of Independence Hall where he cast the decisive Delaware vote for Independence. He had been forced back to the colony in his role as military commander to quell a riot by Loyalists. On June 30th he received word his vote was desperately needed in Congress. All night, as the first of July turned into the second, Rodney rode through a thunderstorm. He covered 80 miles and arrived in time to cast his vote in Independence Hall.
Years later Thomas McKean, another Delaware delegate remembered meeting him at the door "in his boots and spurs."
The vote of June 30th will forever be recorded in our history books but greatly overshadowed by the event of four days later.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
Ponderables
The other night I was watching something on television and the description "go to the corners of the earth" was used. As a thinking man I wondered, since the earth is sort of round where the hell are the corners?
Its Monday once again and time to begin the week with questions that seemingly have no answer. But they generally put a smile on someone's face or, at the very least, give you something to think about in the coming week.
How important does a person have to be before they are considered assassinated instead of just murdered?
Why do you have to "put your two cents in" ... but its only a "penny for your thoughts?" Where's that extra penny going?
Once you're in heaven, do you get stuck wearing the same clothes you were buried in?
What disease did cured ham actually have?
How is it we put a man on the moon before we figured out it would be a good idea to put wheels on luggage?
If a deaf person has to go to court, is it still called a hearing?
Why do people pay to go up tall buildings and then put money in binoculars to look at things on the ground?
Why is "bra" singular and "panties" plural?
Why is there a light in the fridge and not in the freezer?
Can a hearse carrying a corpse drive in the carpool lane?
Is Disney World the only people trap operated by a mouse?
Why does the Alphabet song and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star have the same tune?
Why did you just try singing those two songs?
Have a great week and remember ... think fun thoughts.
Its Monday once again and time to begin the week with questions that seemingly have no answer. But they generally put a smile on someone's face or, at the very least, give you something to think about in the coming week.
How important does a person have to be before they are considered assassinated instead of just murdered?
Why do you have to "put your two cents in" ... but its only a "penny for your thoughts?" Where's that extra penny going?
Once you're in heaven, do you get stuck wearing the same clothes you were buried in?
What disease did cured ham actually have?
How is it we put a man on the moon before we figured out it would be a good idea to put wheels on luggage?
If a deaf person has to go to court, is it still called a hearing?
Why do people pay to go up tall buildings and then put money in binoculars to look at things on the ground?
Why is "bra" singular and "panties" plural?
Why is there a light in the fridge and not in the freezer?
Can a hearse carrying a corpse drive in the carpool lane?
Is Disney World the only people trap operated by a mouse?
Why does the Alphabet song and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star have the same tune?
Why did you just try singing those two songs?
Have a great week and remember ... think fun thoughts.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Three Days and Thoughts
Events of Wednesday, Thursday and today seem to beg for some editorial comment. The nice thing about writing a blog is the freedom to say what I think and not really give a damn if it's politically correct. I don't look for agreement or approval but simply hope to accomplish two things, to either inspire one to think or to have the reader open a dialogue for discussion.
It seems Wednesday's prime news story, around the world, was acceptance of the resignation of Gen. Stanley McCrystal by President Obama. Or, the firing, by the commander-in-chief, of yet another Special Forces (SF) officer who exhibits a prized trait of individualism.
A part of the criteria every applicant for the Army's Special Forces is judged on is his being an individual. While every SF soldier is expected to follow orders, he is also expected to think for himself. Special Forces troopers are elite, they are the top one percent of the U.S. Army. They are the first to be called when the proverbial shit hits the fan and the first to be singled out when they say what they think if it goes against conventional wisdom.
Gen. McCrystal apologized for the comments that found their way into print earlier in the week. As far as I can determine, none of the remarks were quotes from this warrior but rather from members of his hand-picked staff. Nonetheless, he was in command and rightly takes the responsibility for those under him. He is to be admired. His years of unselfish service to our country are to be honored and, in my opinion, our military is losing one of its finest, most respected leaders.
Several hours after the media was focused on the happenings in our nation's capital, in Omaha, Nebraska one of the best baseball games in the college world series had spectators at Rosenblatt Stadium on their feet and television viewers on the edge of their seats.
Texas Christian University (TCU) and Florida State University (FSU) battled one another in what could be described as the game movies are made from.
The bottom of the eighth inning, TCU was at bat and losing 7 to 3 in an elimination game. In the scenario every baseball player dreams of; bases loaded, full count, one swing of the bat and the ball was going, going, gone for a grand slam to tie the game.
First baseman and TCU junior Matt Curry launched the ball into the center field seats to begin a rally that eventually scored eight runs and won the game 11 to 7.
The next day, Thursday, the news being reported was not so grand in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
William Kruse, 55, a charter boat captain was found by his crew lying on the floor of the wheelhouse. He was dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot to the head.
"They said he was real upset and despondent over the oil spill" Stan Vinson, coroner of Baldwin County, said Captain Kruse's crew related to him.
"He's been a charter boat captain most of his life, but all that had come to screeching halt" in the aftermath of the well blowout on the ocean floor that has spewed untold millions of gallons of oil into the Gulf, spoiling coastlines, killing wildlife, and bringing local businesses across the Gulf coast, including the fishing industry, to their knees.
We can only hope this is not the beginning of a pattern for those so deeply affected by the horrific tragedy BP created.
And yesterday in Washington, D.C. a ceremony was held at the Capitol to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Korean War. It was on this date, June 25, 1950 when North Korean troops crossed the 38th parallel and attacked the Republic of Korea.
Often called "the forgotten war" let us not forget the sacrifices of the service members who courageously fought to defend freedom and safeguard peace and security on the Korean Peninsula.
It seems Wednesday's prime news story, around the world, was acceptance of the resignation of Gen. Stanley McCrystal by President Obama. Or, the firing, by the commander-in-chief, of yet another Special Forces (SF) officer who exhibits a prized trait of individualism.
A part of the criteria every applicant for the Army's Special Forces is judged on is his being an individual. While every SF soldier is expected to follow orders, he is also expected to think for himself. Special Forces troopers are elite, they are the top one percent of the U.S. Army. They are the first to be called when the proverbial shit hits the fan and the first to be singled out when they say what they think if it goes against conventional wisdom.
Gen. McCrystal apologized for the comments that found their way into print earlier in the week. As far as I can determine, none of the remarks were quotes from this warrior but rather from members of his hand-picked staff. Nonetheless, he was in command and rightly takes the responsibility for those under him. He is to be admired. His years of unselfish service to our country are to be honored and, in my opinion, our military is losing one of its finest, most respected leaders.
Several hours after the media was focused on the happenings in our nation's capital, in Omaha, Nebraska one of the best baseball games in the college world series had spectators at Rosenblatt Stadium on their feet and television viewers on the edge of their seats.
Texas Christian University (TCU) and Florida State University (FSU) battled one another in what could be described as the game movies are made from.
The bottom of the eighth inning, TCU was at bat and losing 7 to 3 in an elimination game. In the scenario every baseball player dreams of; bases loaded, full count, one swing of the bat and the ball was going, going, gone for a grand slam to tie the game.
First baseman and TCU junior Matt Curry launched the ball into the center field seats to begin a rally that eventually scored eight runs and won the game 11 to 7.
The next day, Thursday, the news being reported was not so grand in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
William Kruse, 55, a charter boat captain was found by his crew lying on the floor of the wheelhouse. He was dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot to the head.
"They said he was real upset and despondent over the oil spill" Stan Vinson, coroner of Baldwin County, said Captain Kruse's crew related to him.
"He's been a charter boat captain most of his life, but all that had come to screeching halt" in the aftermath of the well blowout on the ocean floor that has spewed untold millions of gallons of oil into the Gulf, spoiling coastlines, killing wildlife, and bringing local businesses across the Gulf coast, including the fishing industry, to their knees.
We can only hope this is not the beginning of a pattern for those so deeply affected by the horrific tragedy BP created.
And yesterday in Washington, D.C. a ceremony was held at the Capitol to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Korean War. It was on this date, June 25, 1950 when North Korean troops crossed the 38th parallel and attacked the Republic of Korea.
Often called "the forgotten war" let us not forget the sacrifices of the service members who courageously fought to defend freedom and safeguard peace and security on the Korean Peninsula.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Worth Passing On
We all receive emails from folks sending us various stories. Some we simply hit the delete key when we see them, others we may read then consign to the recycle bin and others, for some reason, we read and keep. The following is one I kept and is worth passing on:
A handsome, middle-aged man walked quietly into the cafe and sat down. before he ordered, he couldn't help but notice a group of younger men at the table next to him. It was obvious they were making fun fun of something about him, and it wasn't until he remembered he was wearing a small pink ribbon on the lapel of his suit that he became aware of what the joke was all about.
The man brushed off the reaction as ignorance, but the smirks began to get to him. He looked one of the rude men square in the eye, placed his hand beneath the ribbon and asked, quizzically: "This?" With that the men all began to laugh out loud.
The man he addressed said, as he fought back laughter, "Hey sorry man, but we were just commenting how pretty your pink ribbon looks against your blue jacket!"
The middle-aged man calmly motioned for the joker to come over to his table, and invited him to sit down. As uncomfortable as he was, the guy obliged, not really sure why. In a soft voice the older man said, "I wear this ribbon to bring awareness about breast cancer. I wear it in my mother's honor."
"Oh sorry dude. She died of breast cancer?"
"No she didn't. She's alive and well. But her breasts nourished me as an infant, and were a soft resting place for my head when I was scared or lonely as a little boy. I'm very grateful for my mother's breasts and her health." "Ummm," the stranger replied, "yeah."
"And I wear this ribbon to honor my wife," the man went on.
"And she's okay too?" The other guy asked.
"Oh yes, she's fine. Her breasts have been a great source of loving pleasure for both of us, and with them she nurtured and nourished our beautiful daughter 23 years ago. I am grateful for her breasts and for her health."
"Uh huh.And I guess you wear it to honor your daughter also?"
"No. It's to late to honor my daughter by wearing it now. My daughter died of breast cancer one month ago. She thought she was too young to have breast cancer, so when she accidentally noticed a small lump, she ignored it. She thought that since it wasn't painful, it must not be anything to worry about."
Shaken and ashamed, the now sober stranger said: "Oh man, I'm so sorry mister."
"So, in my daughter's memory too, I proudly wear this little ribbon, which allows me the opportunity to enlighten others. Now, go home and talk to your wife and your daughters, your mother and your friends. And here," the man reached in his pocket and handed the other man a little pink ribbon.
The guy looked at it, slowly raised his head and asked: "Can ya help me put it on?"
It is most probable that each of us knows someone who has battled this dreaded disease called cancer. Like the victims it strikes, there are many types of cancer. Its victims fit no demographic, they are of all colors, both genders and it crosses economic and social lines with impunity.
This year alone it is estimated more than 1,500 people a day will die from some form of this disease, according to the American Cancer Society. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the United States, exceeded only by heart disease.
Most cancers are treatable and the number of cancer survivors increases every year. The key to effective treatment is early detection. Talk with your health care provider if you have any concerns. Don't wait until its too late. It's your life and what you do with it affects those you love and those who care about you.
A handsome, middle-aged man walked quietly into the cafe and sat down. before he ordered, he couldn't help but notice a group of younger men at the table next to him. It was obvious they were making fun fun of something about him, and it wasn't until he remembered he was wearing a small pink ribbon on the lapel of his suit that he became aware of what the joke was all about.
The man brushed off the reaction as ignorance, but the smirks began to get to him. He looked one of the rude men square in the eye, placed his hand beneath the ribbon and asked, quizzically: "This?" With that the men all began to laugh out loud.
The man he addressed said, as he fought back laughter, "Hey sorry man, but we were just commenting how pretty your pink ribbon looks against your blue jacket!"
The middle-aged man calmly motioned for the joker to come over to his table, and invited him to sit down. As uncomfortable as he was, the guy obliged, not really sure why. In a soft voice the older man said, "I wear this ribbon to bring awareness about breast cancer. I wear it in my mother's honor."
"Oh sorry dude. She died of breast cancer?"
"No she didn't. She's alive and well. But her breasts nourished me as an infant, and were a soft resting place for my head when I was scared or lonely as a little boy. I'm very grateful for my mother's breasts and her health." "Ummm," the stranger replied, "yeah."
"And I wear this ribbon to honor my wife," the man went on.
"And she's okay too?" The other guy asked.
"Oh yes, she's fine. Her breasts have been a great source of loving pleasure for both of us, and with them she nurtured and nourished our beautiful daughter 23 years ago. I am grateful for her breasts and for her health."
"Uh huh.And I guess you wear it to honor your daughter also?"
"No. It's to late to honor my daughter by wearing it now. My daughter died of breast cancer one month ago. She thought she was too young to have breast cancer, so when she accidentally noticed a small lump, she ignored it. She thought that since it wasn't painful, it must not be anything to worry about."
Shaken and ashamed, the now sober stranger said: "Oh man, I'm so sorry mister."
"So, in my daughter's memory too, I proudly wear this little ribbon, which allows me the opportunity to enlighten others. Now, go home and talk to your wife and your daughters, your mother and your friends. And here," the man reached in his pocket and handed the other man a little pink ribbon.
The guy looked at it, slowly raised his head and asked: "Can ya help me put it on?"
It is most probable that each of us knows someone who has battled this dreaded disease called cancer. Like the victims it strikes, there are many types of cancer. Its victims fit no demographic, they are of all colors, both genders and it crosses economic and social lines with impunity.
This year alone it is estimated more than 1,500 people a day will die from some form of this disease, according to the American Cancer Society. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the United States, exceeded only by heart disease.
Most cancers are treatable and the number of cancer survivors increases every year. The key to effective treatment is early detection. Talk with your health care provider if you have any concerns. Don't wait until its too late. It's your life and what you do with it affects those you love and those who care about you.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Truisms
It's Monday and time to reflect on a few thoughts that might make your week just a little more bearable. Or, you could choose to pass them on and drive other people to question either your intelligence or sanity. I like to label them as truisms.
Sex is a three-letter word which needs some four-letter words to convey its full meaning.
When life seems like an uphill climb, take comfort in the fact that you're mooning everyone behind you.
Some people drink from the fountain of knowledge, while others only gargle.
There are those whose brains are like some prison systems ... not enough cells per person.
If a thing is worth doing, it would have been done already.
Some folks bring happiness where ever they go; others bring it when they leave.
To be successful at fishing, you should get there yesterday, when the fish were biting.
Everyone has the right to be stupid, but so many are abusing the privilege.
In a relationship with a woman, a man can either be right or get laid, but never both.
Don't criticize your wife ... if she were perfect, she would have married someone else.
Inside every older person is a younger person wondering what the hell happened.
Its been said a true friend thinks you're a good egg even though you're slightly cracked. But I have a better definition. A friend is someone who will come bail you out of jail, but a true friend is someone who will be sitting next you in the jail cell saying: "Damn! That was fun!"
Have a great week.
Sex is a three-letter word which needs some four-letter words to convey its full meaning.
When life seems like an uphill climb, take comfort in the fact that you're mooning everyone behind you.
Some people drink from the fountain of knowledge, while others only gargle.
There are those whose brains are like some prison systems ... not enough cells per person.
If a thing is worth doing, it would have been done already.
Some folks bring happiness where ever they go; others bring it when they leave.
To be successful at fishing, you should get there yesterday, when the fish were biting.
Everyone has the right to be stupid, but so many are abusing the privilege.
In a relationship with a woman, a man can either be right or get laid, but never both.
Don't criticize your wife ... if she were perfect, she would have married someone else.
Inside every older person is a younger person wondering what the hell happened.
Its been said a true friend thinks you're a good egg even though you're slightly cracked. But I have a better definition. A friend is someone who will come bail you out of jail, but a true friend is someone who will be sitting next you in the jail cell saying: "Damn! That was fun!"
Have a great week.
Friday, June 18, 2010
The Absolute Moralist
In 1978 Robert J. Ringer's book Looking Out For #1 was one of the best selling books of the year. His premise that we must first look out for ourselves before we can do anything for anyone else was somewhat controversial in its approach.
One of the imaginary characters he uses for various examples is "The Absolute Moralist." He describes this entity as one who "will kill you to save you from yourself."
That was 32 years ago and looking at some of today's headlines I can't help but think the "absolute moralist" is alive and well today.
One example that leaps into my thoughts is the adoption of new school textbooks by my home state of Texas. The "absolute moralist" residing there isn't going to kill us to save us from ourselves, its just going to rewrite history and incorporate religious tenants into our public school textbooks. And it's not just Texas school children who will be misdirected but many other states as well that purchase their textbooks from the same publisher cannot afford to print their own version.
Texas' "absolute moralists" have managed to cut Thomas Jefferson from a list of figures whose writings inspired revolutions in the late 18th and 19th century, replacing him with St. Thomas Aquinas, John Calvin and William Blackstone (Jefferson is not well liked among conservatives on the Texas Board of Education because he coined the term "separation between church and state").
Admittedly, I am not a fan of organized religion but I do support one's right to choose, to believe in the way that is most comfortable for them. What I do take issue with is forcing me to adhere to their beliefs. Perhaps, in a future blog I'll tackle the myth of such things.
Another arena where the "absolute moralist" seems to rear its ugly head is regarding the rights of individuals. Whether you agree or not the gay community is a part of America. They work, pay taxes and contribute to our way of life. Like it or not, they should not be treated as second or third class citizens. Studies done by reputable and objective organizations, universities and foundations show they are not a threat to the way of life we all enjoy or, to our children. In fact, many studies indicate children of same sex parents are well-adjusted and have fewer problems than their peers.
Chris Matthews recently aired a piece on MSNBC entitled: "The Rise of the New Right." Now, the ultra-right conservatives of the Tea Party are calling for a boycott of the sponsors of his show. Once again, the "absolute moralist" starts screaming because those who disagree are on the road to hell and dragging the country with them.
Our founding fathers agonized over the separation of church and state. They were all too familiar with the power churches can accrue and the establishment of a secular state.
Perhaps, the "absolute moralists" of today should take some time to read the diaries and writings of those who patched together our nation, including Thomas Jefferson. Or, review history and see what happened as religion took over various civilizations. Granted many of the world's great civilizations were founded on religious beliefs and not necessarily Christian based. But in each case, when those beliefs became the rule so too did the downfall of that civilization.
I have said many times before our greatest strength is in our diversity. If we all learned to respect this diversity and those who contribute to it we will be a better nation where all men are truly created equal.
One of the imaginary characters he uses for various examples is "The Absolute Moralist." He describes this entity as one who "will kill you to save you from yourself."
That was 32 years ago and looking at some of today's headlines I can't help but think the "absolute moralist" is alive and well today.
One example that leaps into my thoughts is the adoption of new school textbooks by my home state of Texas. The "absolute moralist" residing there isn't going to kill us to save us from ourselves, its just going to rewrite history and incorporate religious tenants into our public school textbooks. And it's not just Texas school children who will be misdirected but many other states as well that purchase their textbooks from the same publisher cannot afford to print their own version.
Texas' "absolute moralists" have managed to cut Thomas Jefferson from a list of figures whose writings inspired revolutions in the late 18th and 19th century, replacing him with St. Thomas Aquinas, John Calvin and William Blackstone (Jefferson is not well liked among conservatives on the Texas Board of Education because he coined the term "separation between church and state").
Admittedly, I am not a fan of organized religion but I do support one's right to choose, to believe in the way that is most comfortable for them. What I do take issue with is forcing me to adhere to their beliefs. Perhaps, in a future blog I'll tackle the myth of such things.
Another arena where the "absolute moralist" seems to rear its ugly head is regarding the rights of individuals. Whether you agree or not the gay community is a part of America. They work, pay taxes and contribute to our way of life. Like it or not, they should not be treated as second or third class citizens. Studies done by reputable and objective organizations, universities and foundations show they are not a threat to the way of life we all enjoy or, to our children. In fact, many studies indicate children of same sex parents are well-adjusted and have fewer problems than their peers.
Chris Matthews recently aired a piece on MSNBC entitled: "The Rise of the New Right." Now, the ultra-right conservatives of the Tea Party are calling for a boycott of the sponsors of his show. Once again, the "absolute moralist" starts screaming because those who disagree are on the road to hell and dragging the country with them.
Our founding fathers agonized over the separation of church and state. They were all too familiar with the power churches can accrue and the establishment of a secular state.
Perhaps, the "absolute moralists" of today should take some time to read the diaries and writings of those who patched together our nation, including Thomas Jefferson. Or, review history and see what happened as religion took over various civilizations. Granted many of the world's great civilizations were founded on religious beliefs and not necessarily Christian based. But in each case, when those beliefs became the rule so too did the downfall of that civilization.
I have said many times before our greatest strength is in our diversity. If we all learned to respect this diversity and those who contribute to it we will be a better nation where all men are truly created equal.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
What Would You Do?
What would you do? That is the title of a ABC television show, it is a candid camera social experiment. Recently the show's creative people used a real diner and actors, in appropriate make up, to see what the general public's reaction would be to a woman being abused by her boyfriend.
In almost every scenario patrons of the diner intervened coming to the woman's defense either asking her to leave the restaurant with them or confronting the 'boyfriend.' And, those coming to her aid were of both sexes. It did not matter when the ABC changed the race of the actors from white to black the result was still the same.
In those variables the actresses were dressed in jeans and a T-shirt. But, when a third variable was introduced with the actresses wearing provocative clothing no one intervened. It seems some of the patrons of the diner were speculating as to whether or not the woman (the actress) was a prostitute.
Should that have made her any less deserving of someone coming to her aid? One in every four women will be the victim of domestic violence in her lifetime according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. That's 1.3 million women a year. But this crime is not limited to women, an Oregon study reported in every 100 cases of domestic violence 40 percent involved violence by women against men.
Last month was Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I never heard about that until researching information for this blog piece. Domestic violence should not happen to anybody. Ever. Period. And, it is everybody's business.
Most all of us carry a cell phone in today's world and it's use can be great weapon. Intervening in a public situation that leaves no doubt it is an abusive one, either threatening to call law enforcement or actually dialing 911 can put a stop to that particular incident and may even save a life.
Don't be an ostrich and stick your head in the sand, be proactive and offer assistance. But don't put yourself at risk. There is no risk in calling 911.
Do you have an old cell phone stuck in a drawer somewhere at home that has been deactivated? Dig it out and take it to an abused women's shelter or call them to make arrangements to pick it up. Even a cell phone that has been replaced and can no longer make regular calls can still call 911. Your local shelter and those they serve will appreciate having a lifeline.
In almost every scenario patrons of the diner intervened coming to the woman's defense either asking her to leave the restaurant with them or confronting the 'boyfriend.' And, those coming to her aid were of both sexes. It did not matter when the ABC changed the race of the actors from white to black the result was still the same.
In those variables the actresses were dressed in jeans and a T-shirt. But, when a third variable was introduced with the actresses wearing provocative clothing no one intervened. It seems some of the patrons of the diner were speculating as to whether or not the woman (the actress) was a prostitute.
Should that have made her any less deserving of someone coming to her aid? One in every four women will be the victim of domestic violence in her lifetime according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. That's 1.3 million women a year. But this crime is not limited to women, an Oregon study reported in every 100 cases of domestic violence 40 percent involved violence by women against men.
Last month was Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I never heard about that until researching information for this blog piece. Domestic violence should not happen to anybody. Ever. Period. And, it is everybody's business.
Most all of us carry a cell phone in today's world and it's use can be great weapon. Intervening in a public situation that leaves no doubt it is an abusive one, either threatening to call law enforcement or actually dialing 911 can put a stop to that particular incident and may even save a life.
Don't be an ostrich and stick your head in the sand, be proactive and offer assistance. But don't put yourself at risk. There is no risk in calling 911.
Do you have an old cell phone stuck in a drawer somewhere at home that has been deactivated? Dig it out and take it to an abused women's shelter or call them to make arrangements to pick it up. Even a cell phone that has been replaced and can no longer make regular calls can still call 911. Your local shelter and those they serve will appreciate having a lifeline.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Ron White is Right
A native Texan known for his stand-up comedy, Ron White uses the phrase "You can't fix stupid" to epitomize the incredible absurdity of people. Since it's Monday and I generally try to start the week off on a somewhat humorous note, what follows seems to just add validity to his phrase.
Recently, at a fast food restaurant, the menu offered a choice of 6, 9 or 12 chicken pieces. However, when a customer asked for a half dozen the employee informed him: "We don't have a half dozen pieces. We only have six, nine or twelve."
When checking out of a local big box discount store I had just a few items and the lady behind me put her things on the belt close to mine. To keep her from reaching, I put one of the dividers they keep near the cash register between our merchandise. After the cashier had scanned all my items, she picked up the divider and looked at it all over for the bar code. Not finding a scannable bar code she asked: "Do you know how much this is?" I told her, "I've changed my mind, I don't think I'll buy that today." She said "okay" and I just paid for my items and left. She had no clue what happened.
A lady at work was seen putting a credit card into the floppy drive of her computer and pulling it out very quickly. A co-worked inquired as to what she was doing, she said she was shopping on the Internet and they kept asking for a credit card number, so she was using the ATM 'thingy.'
An individual who works in the operations department at the central office of a large bank is responsible for assisting employees in the field and at other branches with their computers. One evening he received a call from a worker in one of the branch banks who asked: "I've got smoke coming from the back of my terminal. Did you guys have a fire downtown?"
A mother calls 911 very worried asking the dispatcher if she needs to take her kid to the emergency room, the child was eating ants. The dispatcher tells her to give the child Benadryl and it should be fine. The mother then replied: "Okay, but I just gave him some ant killer ... The dispatcher interrupter her with the command: "Rush him to the emergency room!"
Life is tough. It's tougher if you're stupid. Remember, you don't stop laughing because you grow old ... you grow old because you stop laughing.
Recently, at a fast food restaurant, the menu offered a choice of 6, 9 or 12 chicken pieces. However, when a customer asked for a half dozen the employee informed him: "We don't have a half dozen pieces. We only have six, nine or twelve."
When checking out of a local big box discount store I had just a few items and the lady behind me put her things on the belt close to mine. To keep her from reaching, I put one of the dividers they keep near the cash register between our merchandise. After the cashier had scanned all my items, she picked up the divider and looked at it all over for the bar code. Not finding a scannable bar code she asked: "Do you know how much this is?" I told her, "I've changed my mind, I don't think I'll buy that today." She said "okay" and I just paid for my items and left. She had no clue what happened.
A lady at work was seen putting a credit card into the floppy drive of her computer and pulling it out very quickly. A co-worked inquired as to what she was doing, she said she was shopping on the Internet and they kept asking for a credit card number, so she was using the ATM 'thingy.'
An individual who works in the operations department at the central office of a large bank is responsible for assisting employees in the field and at other branches with their computers. One evening he received a call from a worker in one of the branch banks who asked: "I've got smoke coming from the back of my terminal. Did you guys have a fire downtown?"
A mother calls 911 very worried asking the dispatcher if she needs to take her kid to the emergency room, the child was eating ants. The dispatcher tells her to give the child Benadryl and it should be fine. The mother then replied: "Okay, but I just gave him some ant killer ... The dispatcher interrupter her with the command: "Rush him to the emergency room!"
Life is tough. It's tougher if you're stupid. Remember, you don't stop laughing because you grow old ... you grow old because you stop laughing.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Today's Headlines
Striving to be informative, timely and, at times, humorous can sometimes be more demanding than one might realize. Perhaps, even more so when its attempted on a regular basis such as Monday, Wednesday and Friday as I strive to publish my blog. Today's is simply a random thought generated by today's headlines.
Around the world everyone is watching the disaster of our coast in the Gulf of Mexico. A little research revealed some interesting facts about a single barrel of crude oil.
A barrel of crude oil is 42 U.S. gallons and provides slightly more than 44 gallons of petroleum products. This gain from processing the crude oil is similar to what happens to popcorn which gets bigger after it is popped. The gain from processing is more than five percent.
One barrel of crude oil, when refined, produces about approximately 19 gallons of finished motor gasoline and 10 gallons of diesel fuel, as well as other petroleum products. The other products include: still gas, petroleum coke, liquefied refinery gas, asphalt and road oil, various oils for foodstocks, lubricants, special napthas, kerosene, waxes and an assortment of other miscellaneous products.
Yesterday the spot price for a gallon of crude was about $75. Figuring the price of gasoline and diesel at $3 a gallon, that adds up to $87. A guess, on my part, of some $50 to $75 for the remainder of its distillation products I come up with somewhere in the neighborhood of $135 to $160 per barrel retail sales prices. Unless my math is off, that is more than 100 percent of the selling price for crude. Granted there is the overhead to be figured but I doubt it comes close to 100 percent.
Just looking at the numbers and having a little knowledge of what a barrel of crude actually produces monetarily, I can see how the oil companies can post such huge profits. There is some speculation the current crisis with BP may force them out of business. As a thinking individual, it may put a small dent on their pocketbook but I don't believe it will force them into bankruptcy as may be the case with so many whose lives this disaster has shaken.
Around the world everyone is watching the disaster of our coast in the Gulf of Mexico. A little research revealed some interesting facts about a single barrel of crude oil.
A barrel of crude oil is 42 U.S. gallons and provides slightly more than 44 gallons of petroleum products. This gain from processing the crude oil is similar to what happens to popcorn which gets bigger after it is popped. The gain from processing is more than five percent.
One barrel of crude oil, when refined, produces about approximately 19 gallons of finished motor gasoline and 10 gallons of diesel fuel, as well as other petroleum products. The other products include: still gas, petroleum coke, liquefied refinery gas, asphalt and road oil, various oils for foodstocks, lubricants, special napthas, kerosene, waxes and an assortment of other miscellaneous products.
Yesterday the spot price for a gallon of crude was about $75. Figuring the price of gasoline and diesel at $3 a gallon, that adds up to $87. A guess, on my part, of some $50 to $75 for the remainder of its distillation products I come up with somewhere in the neighborhood of $135 to $160 per barrel retail sales prices. Unless my math is off, that is more than 100 percent of the selling price for crude. Granted there is the overhead to be figured but I doubt it comes close to 100 percent.
Just looking at the numbers and having a little knowledge of what a barrel of crude actually produces monetarily, I can see how the oil companies can post such huge profits. There is some speculation the current crisis with BP may force them out of business. As a thinking individual, it may put a small dent on their pocketbook but I don't believe it will force them into bankruptcy as may be the case with so many whose lives this disaster has shaken.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
An Anniversary Tribute
It was 20 years ago on this date I stood in the middle of a covered bridge, traffic blocked on either side, with my dad at my side and the woman who changed my life standing next to me. In front of us was a minister performing the ceremony that would bind us together as husband and wife. A unique beginning for very extraordinary life.
My bride to be had been vetted by the government and warned by her future father-in-law that I was somewhat unorthodox and did things that flew in the face of convention. In spite of "full disclosure" she chose to marry me anyway.
I know it hasn't been an easy life for her. Being married to doc who's ideas are somewhat idealistic and whose patriotism has been, at times, a demanding mistress. So many times she has had to face unusual challenges and each time did it without complaint and with the grace of royalty.
In a thousand lifetimes I could never give her all she deserves. A few years ago I wanted to give her something that says I love you and I presented her with the following one Christmas. It is my privilege to share it with you all now.
My bride to be had been vetted by the government and warned by her future father-in-law that I was somewhat unorthodox and did things that flew in the face of convention. In spite of "full disclosure" she chose to marry me anyway.
I know it hasn't been an easy life for her. Being married to doc who's ideas are somewhat idealistic and whose patriotism has been, at times, a demanding mistress. So many times she has had to face unusual challenges and each time did it without complaint and with the grace of royalty.
In a thousand lifetimes I could never give her all she deserves. A few years ago I wanted to give her something that says I love you and I presented her with the following one Christmas. It is my privilege to share it with you all now.
To My Wife - You Make a Difference
I have watched and listened to you at times when you said felt like you haven't accomplished anything. You look around and see the walls filled with your artwork and wonder if you will ever be recognized for what you do. Let me share some things that you do and have done that have made a difference.
To begin, you raised two daughters both of whom are a source of pride. Not just for you but for the many people they have met over the years. Each in her own way has influenced others to make their lives better. You have a grandson who looks at his grandmother with admiration and love.
For nearly two decades you have been a force that has given me the freedom and the integrity to do things most would have backed away from.
You worked tirelessly to help change lives. To help found and run a clinic for the homeless that has grown into many and touched and changed unknown numbers of lives. You have sat with national leaders who attentively listened to your ideas for immunizing children across the United States.
Behind the scenes you focused your energies to do something few have ever done. Unknown and outside established circles you helped to write a Bill that became a Law and affected thousands.
In a foreign country, unfamiliar with the language and customs, you helped to change a nation. To teach hundreds of people a language, to improve living conditions and help eliminate a deadly disease.to insure others, with less, were able to live just a little better. You did not hesitate to spend what money we had
You have enriched the lives of countless people sitting under the stars, not far from the Grand Canyon, listening to you teach them about nature and history.
Over the past years you have touched the lives of so many with your contributions in art, friendship and caring. You have and continue to brighten the days with things you never realize like your decorations or just a smile and your uncanny ability to just listen and hear what is being said.
And above all the other things you have done and still do, you have made a difference in my life. To inspire me to be the best I can be which I know, at times, takes its toll on you.
My Christmas gift to to you darling is to simply let you know how much you have accomplished and to tell you that you do make a difference.
And, that I Love You.
To My Wife and My Best Friend ..... Happy Anniversary
Monday, June 7, 2010
Advertising in America
Did you ever wonder how long an hour television program really is? During 60 minutes the actual programming rarely runs more than 40 - 42 minutes. The other 20 or so minutes are ... you guessed it ... commercials. Advertisements that can cost well over a quarter of a million dollars each to air one time.
Since I've been accused on more than one occasion of having a warped mind, I've often thought how much fun it would be to add to the copy for a more informative sales presentation.
One example might be for a popular prescription medication that treats what is euphemistically referred to as "erectile dysfunction." When one drug was being touted on TV a disclaimer was added it may cause urges such as gambling. What a boon that would be for a Las Vegas tourist ad. Today, in the disclaimer it warns "do not drink alcohol in excess." How about adding the tag line: "Do not drink alcohol in excess .... you might regret who you wake up with."
I've never counted the number of ads being aimed at the American public for various ailments but it seems we must suffer from every know malady known to man. Assuming 20 minutes of every hour are devoted to commercials then it feels like 17 minutes are aimed at our health concerns. And, listening to the disclaimers, one would almost debate if the side effects aren't worse than the cure.
Insurance companies are another huge source of television revenue. Insurance for cars, health and life. The insurance company I'm searching for is the one that when you take out a life insurance policy for a half-million dollars they give you the money right then. After all, I can't spend it I'm dead ... and whoever I name as beneficiary has to pay it back.
Perhaps we should take a lesson from our allies across the Atlantic. European Union legislation limits the time taken by commercial breaks to 12 minutes per hour (20%) with a minimum segment length of 20 or 30 minutes depending on the program content.
The one thought that calls to mind is: Is a 30 minute infomercial required to set aside 6 minutes for advertising?
Have a great week.
Since I've been accused on more than one occasion of having a warped mind, I've often thought how much fun it would be to add to the copy for a more informative sales presentation.
One example might be for a popular prescription medication that treats what is euphemistically referred to as "erectile dysfunction." When one drug was being touted on TV a disclaimer was added it may cause urges such as gambling. What a boon that would be for a Las Vegas tourist ad. Today, in the disclaimer it warns "do not drink alcohol in excess." How about adding the tag line: "Do not drink alcohol in excess .... you might regret who you wake up with."
I've never counted the number of ads being aimed at the American public for various ailments but it seems we must suffer from every know malady known to man. Assuming 20 minutes of every hour are devoted to commercials then it feels like 17 minutes are aimed at our health concerns. And, listening to the disclaimers, one would almost debate if the side effects aren't worse than the cure.
Insurance companies are another huge source of television revenue. Insurance for cars, health and life. The insurance company I'm searching for is the one that when you take out a life insurance policy for a half-million dollars they give you the money right then. After all, I can't spend it I'm dead ... and whoever I name as beneficiary has to pay it back.
Perhaps we should take a lesson from our allies across the Atlantic. European Union legislation limits the time taken by commercial breaks to 12 minutes per hour (20%) with a minimum segment length of 20 or 30 minutes depending on the program content.
The one thought that calls to mind is: Is a 30 minute infomercial required to set aside 6 minutes for advertising?
Have a great week.
Friday, June 4, 2010
A Dying Art
The other day I was grocery shopping and noticed one doesn't need to have any knowledge of cooking to prepare a meal, any meal. Look in the freezer section or the meat department, even up and down the aisle fully prepared meals are available in just about any type of food you desire. All one needs to do is read the instructions to put a meal on the table.
While there are chefs employed by the makers of these items and we can still go to a restaurant where a chef oversees and prepares "real" food from fresh ingredients the art of "home" cooking seems to be falling by the wayside.
It seems the healthy eating advocates have invaded our way of life. So many people are reading the nutrition information on the labels and planning their meals around living longer. While this may not be a bad thing it certainly takes the fun out of eating ... at least for me.
No matter what studies may reveal and guidelines offered by so many health-conscious organizations, there is nothing that tastes as good as fried chicken and greens from the kitchen of an old black lady in the south, or spaghetti and meat balls from an old Italian lady, or tortillas hot from the iron pan lovingly done by a Mexican lady. True, I may be accused of stereotyping but I grew up in the south and also lived in places like New York City and Philadelphia. Ethnic cooking has always been a pleasure to eat. And, it was done from scratch with all fresh ingredients and it took all day to cook.
Notice I used the adjective "old" before the gender noun "lady." That is simply because the art of cooking is done best by those who have been doing it all their lives. Granted, there are still women who follow in their mother's and grandmother's footsteps but it seems they are becoming a minority.
I am forced to admit, in all fairness, today's women face a more demanding lifestyle. Most are working full time time and juggling work, children, domestic chores and many are doing it as single moms. A feat few men could handle well.
Maybe, just maybe, its time we went back to the basics. Cooking real food from fresh things. Recently, I heard a story of someone who needed to lose nearly 100 pounds and they accomplished this goal. It wasn't done by following a prescribed or popular diet but by simple common sense. They called it the 100 year diet. That is to say if the food they ate wasn't around 100 years ago they didn't eat it. Coupled with modest portions and exercise they met their goal. The idea of the 100 year diet makes sense. One hundred years ago our food wasn't loaded with all the things it contains today. If you can't pronounce it should you really be eating it?
We've all seen the signs on restaurants across the country that claim "Home Cooking." I wonder, if in 50 years that will mean something pre-packaged and zapped in a microwave
While there are chefs employed by the makers of these items and we can still go to a restaurant where a chef oversees and prepares "real" food from fresh ingredients the art of "home" cooking seems to be falling by the wayside.
It seems the healthy eating advocates have invaded our way of life. So many people are reading the nutrition information on the labels and planning their meals around living longer. While this may not be a bad thing it certainly takes the fun out of eating ... at least for me.
No matter what studies may reveal and guidelines offered by so many health-conscious organizations, there is nothing that tastes as good as fried chicken and greens from the kitchen of an old black lady in the south, or spaghetti and meat balls from an old Italian lady, or tortillas hot from the iron pan lovingly done by a Mexican lady. True, I may be accused of stereotyping but I grew up in the south and also lived in places like New York City and Philadelphia. Ethnic cooking has always been a pleasure to eat. And, it was done from scratch with all fresh ingredients and it took all day to cook.
Notice I used the adjective "old" before the gender noun "lady." That is simply because the art of cooking is done best by those who have been doing it all their lives. Granted, there are still women who follow in their mother's and grandmother's footsteps but it seems they are becoming a minority.
I am forced to admit, in all fairness, today's women face a more demanding lifestyle. Most are working full time time and juggling work, children, domestic chores and many are doing it as single moms. A feat few men could handle well.
Maybe, just maybe, its time we went back to the basics. Cooking real food from fresh things. Recently, I heard a story of someone who needed to lose nearly 100 pounds and they accomplished this goal. It wasn't done by following a prescribed or popular diet but by simple common sense. They called it the 100 year diet. That is to say if the food they ate wasn't around 100 years ago they didn't eat it. Coupled with modest portions and exercise they met their goal. The idea of the 100 year diet makes sense. One hundred years ago our food wasn't loaded with all the things it contains today. If you can't pronounce it should you really be eating it?
We've all seen the signs on restaurants across the country that claim "Home Cooking." I wonder, if in 50 years that will mean something pre-packaged and zapped in a microwave
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Reflections
For the past several weeks the History Channel, a cable presentation, has been airing "America - The History of Us." It is documentary look at the history of our great nation from its beginnings.
As I have watched the segments unfold, I can't help but reflect how I have witnessed so much history first hand. And, at times have actually been a part of it. A child of the 1940s I have watched the transition from everyone gathering around the radio to sitting in front of the television; instant communication. From picking up a telephone and asking the operator to connect with a certain number to the mobility of cell phones and satellite communication.
I can recall gas wars when gas stations would vie for customers with gifts and prices as low as 15 cents per gallon. When a Coke was five cents and there were two water fountains each had a sign designating their usage; one said "White Only", the other labeled "Colored."
In school there were routine air raid drills instructing us to crawl under the desk and put our heads between our legs in the event an atomic bomb was dropped. I guess they failed to inform our teachers to also add: "and kiss your ass goodbye."
The world watched with amazement as Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier and became the first man to fly faster than the speed of sound in the X-1 on October 14, 1947. Twenty two years later, on July 20th, the men of Apollo 11 were the first to set foot on the moon and most of the world sat transfixed in front of the live broadcast from earth's satellite.
As Neil Armstrong and "Buzz" Aldrin planted the American flag on the lunar surface other men were slogging through the jungles and highlands in Vietnam trying to bring freedom to another part of the world. In America, its citizens were availing themselves of our freedoms and demanding equality for all. In 1968 movements were evident from San Francisco to Atlanta demonstrating and supporting the right to free speech and ending the Vietnam war to Civil Rights.
I've witnessed the advent of Jonas Salk's polio vaccine to the first open heart surgery. So many medical advances.
I look with great pride at the feats we've accomplished over the past half a century. But I also temper it with hope. Hope that in the years to come advances will find cures and treatments for cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and so many others. Hope that literacy will be achieved by all. Hope that one day people will realize no matter the color of their skin all of them bled red blood. We are like it or not brothers and sisters in humanity.
Perhaps, the greatest hope is for peace. That one day we will all smile and accept one another and learn from our differences making them a strength and not a reason for divisiveness.
As I have watched the segments unfold, I can't help but reflect how I have witnessed so much history first hand. And, at times have actually been a part of it. A child of the 1940s I have watched the transition from everyone gathering around the radio to sitting in front of the television; instant communication. From picking up a telephone and asking the operator to connect with a certain number to the mobility of cell phones and satellite communication.
I can recall gas wars when gas stations would vie for customers with gifts and prices as low as 15 cents per gallon. When a Coke was five cents and there were two water fountains each had a sign designating their usage; one said "White Only", the other labeled "Colored."
In school there were routine air raid drills instructing us to crawl under the desk and put our heads between our legs in the event an atomic bomb was dropped. I guess they failed to inform our teachers to also add: "and kiss your ass goodbye."
The world watched with amazement as Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier and became the first man to fly faster than the speed of sound in the X-1 on October 14, 1947. Twenty two years later, on July 20th, the men of Apollo 11 were the first to set foot on the moon and most of the world sat transfixed in front of the live broadcast from earth's satellite.
As Neil Armstrong and "Buzz" Aldrin planted the American flag on the lunar surface other men were slogging through the jungles and highlands in Vietnam trying to bring freedom to another part of the world. In America, its citizens were availing themselves of our freedoms and demanding equality for all. In 1968 movements were evident from San Francisco to Atlanta demonstrating and supporting the right to free speech and ending the Vietnam war to Civil Rights.
I've witnessed the advent of Jonas Salk's polio vaccine to the first open heart surgery. So many medical advances.
I look with great pride at the feats we've accomplished over the past half a century. But I also temper it with hope. Hope that in the years to come advances will find cures and treatments for cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and so many others. Hope that literacy will be achieved by all. Hope that one day people will realize no matter the color of their skin all of them bled red blood. We are like it or not brothers and sisters in humanity.
Perhaps, the greatest hope is for peace. That one day we will all smile and accept one another and learn from our differences making them a strength and not a reason for divisiveness.
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