In the century's second decade, here are some contemporary definitions of obscenity (in no particular order).
Paying someone $330 million to play baseball.
Driver with five DUI convictions kills someone.
Teacher convicted of molesting disabled student.
Retired U. S. Navy admiral only censured for his role in the "Fat Leonard" scandal.
Boys claiming to be girls winning female athletic events.
Horrible military family housing.
Vietnam claiming they treated POWs humanely.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi's net worth.
Continued employment in a public university by an instructor calling for the killing of police officers.
No prison for Bowe Bergdahl.
Taxes on gasoline in California.
"Sanctuary" states.
The national debt.
Individuals serving in Congress for five or more decades.
California's rules for voting in primary elections.
Investor owned utilities.
No jail time for rapist.
Fiddling with school ASB funds.
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Thursday, February 21, 2019
Take your choice
Take your choice. Is it rank hypocrisy? Blind political avarice? Lack of intellectual capability? Uncontrolled emotion? Absence of integrity? Greed? Hysteria? Rabid partisanship? Ethical void? Amorality? Simple ignorance? Rampant initiative unfettered by a scintilla of judgment?
On all sides of the political, media, social, educational, labor, cultural, ethnic, and paradigms the loudest members appear predisposed to offer immediate judgment, criticism, commentary about anything, anywhere, by anybody on the "other" side.
In doing so, what was acceptable a day, week, month, year, or decade ago for "their" side must now be condemned. Likewise, what was deplorable a day, week, month, year, or decade ago for the "other" side can now be fully embraced by their side.
If so-and-so's grandfather uttered something decades ago, so he/she from the "other" side must be tarred by that sentiment. Yet, if so-and-so from "their" side has a relative who expressed the wrong view, no responsibility should be visited upon the current day individual. Can't be both ways folks. One standard that cuts both ways is needed.
Particularly troublesome is when an individual clearly and unequivocally states one view or position, then changes to the exact opposite with the flowing winds of perceived public views. "I've evolved," the miscreant exclaims when called out. Yet if an individual from the "other" side acts identically, out come the brash, intense, no holds barred criticism. Can't be both ways folks. One standard that cuts both ways is needed.
Amazingly, as the political, media, social, educational, labor, cultural, and ethnic personalities act rashly, they simultaneously demand to be accepted as genuine in the moment. Heaven forbid, however, if someone from the "other" side exhort the same from the public.
Is it rank hypocrisy? Blind political avarice? Lack of intellectual capability? Uncontrolled emotion? Absence of integrity? Greed? Hysteria? Rabid partisanship? Ethical void? Amorality? Simple ignorance? Rampant initiative unfettered by a scintilla of judgment?
Take your choice.
On all sides of the political, media, social, educational, labor, cultural, ethnic, and paradigms the loudest members appear predisposed to offer immediate judgment, criticism, commentary about anything, anywhere, by anybody on the "other" side.
In doing so, what was acceptable a day, week, month, year, or decade ago for "their" side must now be condemned. Likewise, what was deplorable a day, week, month, year, or decade ago for the "other" side can now be fully embraced by their side.
If so-and-so's grandfather uttered something decades ago, so he/she from the "other" side must be tarred by that sentiment. Yet, if so-and-so from "their" side has a relative who expressed the wrong view, no responsibility should be visited upon the current day individual. Can't be both ways folks. One standard that cuts both ways is needed.
Particularly troublesome is when an individual clearly and unequivocally states one view or position, then changes to the exact opposite with the flowing winds of perceived public views. "I've evolved," the miscreant exclaims when called out. Yet if an individual from the "other" side acts identically, out come the brash, intense, no holds barred criticism. Can't be both ways folks. One standard that cuts both ways is needed.
Amazingly, as the political, media, social, educational, labor, cultural, and ethnic personalities act rashly, they simultaneously demand to be accepted as genuine in the moment. Heaven forbid, however, if someone from the "other" side exhort the same from the public.
Is it rank hypocrisy? Blind political avarice? Lack of intellectual capability? Uncontrolled emotion? Absence of integrity? Greed? Hysteria? Rabid partisanship? Ethical void? Amorality? Simple ignorance? Rampant initiative unfettered by a scintilla of judgment?
Take your choice.
Thursday, February 14, 2019
Something must change
Arguably, our law makers and the courts have not found the right combination of approaches to tackle driving while intoxicated, driving under the influence, and just plain drunk driving.
For example, in San Diego a 19 year faces trial for an accident in which multiple innocent people were killed. He was reportedly involved in three previous accidents in a short period and was driving on a revoked license. The revocation was totally ineffective, as witnessed by the deaths in this accident. Why did he have access to an automobile? Where is the hue and cry to confiscate his car, similar to hue and cry to confiscate firearms?
In another mind boggling example, "Democrats on the Charlotte, North Carolina City Council have asked the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) to 'cut back' on enforcement of drunk-driving laws in neighborhoods with large illegal immigrant populations, because illegal immigrants apparently are 'nervous to see the cops.'” Are these local officials not aware of the very real and present danger drunk drivers pose in the community?
And here is a report from Idaho of a drunk driving man convicted of killing a young mother, but receiving no prison time. Is not the judge aware of the propensity for recidivism by drunk drivers, like told in this story of a woman causing the death of three, including herself, while driving drunk...after four previous DUI convictions? (Of course, no one will know how many times she drove drunk and did not get apprehended or hit someone.)
From inadequate laws; to complacent, inept judges; to utterly stupid local officials, the entire system is not aggressively attacking this wholly preventable loss of life.
Something must change.
For example, in San Diego a 19 year faces trial for an accident in which multiple innocent people were killed. He was reportedly involved in three previous accidents in a short period and was driving on a revoked license. The revocation was totally ineffective, as witnessed by the deaths in this accident. Why did he have access to an automobile? Where is the hue and cry to confiscate his car, similar to hue and cry to confiscate firearms?
In another mind boggling example, "Democrats on the Charlotte, North Carolina City Council have asked the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) to 'cut back' on enforcement of drunk-driving laws in neighborhoods with large illegal immigrant populations, because illegal immigrants apparently are 'nervous to see the cops.'” Are these local officials not aware of the very real and present danger drunk drivers pose in the community?
And here is a report from Idaho of a drunk driving man convicted of killing a young mother, but receiving no prison time. Is not the judge aware of the propensity for recidivism by drunk drivers, like told in this story of a woman causing the death of three, including herself, while driving drunk...after four previous DUI convictions? (Of course, no one will know how many times she drove drunk and did not get apprehended or hit someone.)
From inadequate laws; to complacent, inept judges; to utterly stupid local officials, the entire system is not aggressively attacking this wholly preventable loss of life.
Something must change.
Monday, February 4, 2019
Non Football Lecturing (NFL) (UPDATED)
Sunday morning, a neighbor and I stood on the sidewalk, chatting about this and that, smiling at and acknowledging those walking by. It is a good neighborhood for these polite exchanges.
He asked if we were going to watch the "big game," referencing the Super Bowl. In response, I explained we would not.
Left unsaid was the primary reason: the National Football League and this particularly game are no longer solely about athletic competition. A mix mash of political and "social justice" commentary overshadow the game.
A review of the print and on-line pieces leading up to the game and the Monday morning headlines on a variety of so-called news sites reveals the overwhelming number of articles were about either political or "social justice" issues, rather than the game itself. Politically inspired commercials, the performer boycott of the half-time show, Kaepernick, the National Anthem, male cheerleaders, and even POTUS comments about the game received more print and on-line presence than the competition itself. It was totally predictable.
And that is why I chose not to watch the game. Setting aside the obscene amounts paid to the uniformed entertainers referred to as players, athletic competition should be about the sport, not everything or anything else.
Certainly folks can use any platform they choose to peacefully protest or advocate. Just as I can choose not to be subjected to their protests or commentary. Unfortunately for the NFL, it has been captured as the primary sports based platform for such protests and commentary. And the players, teams, and NFL management have done a very poor job controlling it. So it was an easy decision not to watch either the NFL or the Super Bowl.
One might even quip that NFL now stands for Non Football Lecturing.
Thank you, no! I watch sports to be entertained by the athletic competition, not be lectured to.
Update: Looks like I wasn't the only one. Check this report.
He asked if we were going to watch the "big game," referencing the Super Bowl. In response, I explained we would not.
Left unsaid was the primary reason: the National Football League and this particularly game are no longer solely about athletic competition. A mix mash of political and "social justice" commentary overshadow the game.
A review of the print and on-line pieces leading up to the game and the Monday morning headlines on a variety of so-called news sites reveals the overwhelming number of articles were about either political or "social justice" issues, rather than the game itself. Politically inspired commercials, the performer boycott of the half-time show, Kaepernick, the National Anthem, male cheerleaders, and even POTUS comments about the game received more print and on-line presence than the competition itself. It was totally predictable.
And that is why I chose not to watch the game. Setting aside the obscene amounts paid to the uniformed entertainers referred to as players, athletic competition should be about the sport, not everything or anything else.
Certainly folks can use any platform they choose to peacefully protest or advocate. Just as I can choose not to be subjected to their protests or commentary. Unfortunately for the NFL, it has been captured as the primary sports based platform for such protests and commentary. And the players, teams, and NFL management have done a very poor job controlling it. So it was an easy decision not to watch either the NFL or the Super Bowl.
One might even quip that NFL now stands for Non Football Lecturing.
Thank you, no! I watch sports to be entertained by the athletic competition, not be lectured to.
Update: Looks like I wasn't the only one. Check this report.
Sunday, January 27, 2019
2019
Based on today's prevailing and profound negativity, guess one is supposed to see nothing good, either in daily life or on the horizon. Most certainly all forms of mainstream media relish in "reporting" the negative, particularly since journalism has yielded to blatant opinion mongering. It has reached a point that many a friend, from both sides of the political spectrum, report no longer reading newspapers and online "news" or watching the broadcast news. Who in their right mind wants to be inundated with the negative?
Pundits, commentators, opinion mongers, and politicians spent the end of the year bemoaning 2018 and predicting nothing but horrible for all of 2019. OK. If desiring to wallow in the negative, 2018 can provide plenty of ingredients for a pity party stew. Choose your poison: politics, economics, social, legal, national, international, and on and on. Wallow if you want, but doing so misses the uplifting. The positive.
In my life, strong faith and family love begin every single day on a positive note. Contact with friends, near and far, is reinforcing. Blessed with great health and fitness, the energy derived from a rigorous physical morning workout is uplifting. As a military veteran, having served our nation is a constant source of pride. And giving back to the community is so very, very satisfying.
The most enjoyable times are those spent with family. From the very simple act of sharing coffee with my bride in the morning, to a full on family get together, and everything in between, these times produce that unique form of happiness that fills and warms the heart.
Close to the joy of family time is that spent with close friends. At an age now that includes individuals with decades of friendship, it really is wonderful to share times, simple laughs, and memories.
In the broader community, I deliberately chose to participate with the Patriot Guard Riders. The missions provide three crucial functions: supporting the family of a fellow veteran or active duty service member who is being laid to rest; standing with the like minded to honor someone's military service; and reinforcing the brotherhood and camaraderie that were so important during those days in uniform. And we do it all under flag of our great nation. (That I get to ride the Harley-Davidson motorcycle at the missions is a side benefit.)
If you want to wallow in negativity, go for it. More's the pity, however.
Choose instead to enjoy the positives in 2019.
Pundits, commentators, opinion mongers, and politicians spent the end of the year bemoaning 2018 and predicting nothing but horrible for all of 2019. OK. If desiring to wallow in the negative, 2018 can provide plenty of ingredients for a pity party stew. Choose your poison: politics, economics, social, legal, national, international, and on and on. Wallow if you want, but doing so misses the uplifting. The positive.
In my life, strong faith and family love begin every single day on a positive note. Contact with friends, near and far, is reinforcing. Blessed with great health and fitness, the energy derived from a rigorous physical morning workout is uplifting. As a military veteran, having served our nation is a constant source of pride. And giving back to the community is so very, very satisfying.
The most enjoyable times are those spent with family. From the very simple act of sharing coffee with my bride in the morning, to a full on family get together, and everything in between, these times produce that unique form of happiness that fills and warms the heart.
Close to the joy of family time is that spent with close friends. At an age now that includes individuals with decades of friendship, it really is wonderful to share times, simple laughs, and memories.
In the broader community, I deliberately chose to participate with the Patriot Guard Riders. The missions provide three crucial functions: supporting the family of a fellow veteran or active duty service member who is being laid to rest; standing with the like minded to honor someone's military service; and reinforcing the brotherhood and camaraderie that were so important during those days in uniform. And we do it all under flag of our great nation. (That I get to ride the Harley-Davidson motorcycle at the missions is a side benefit.)
If you want to wallow in negativity, go for it. More's the pity, however.
Choose instead to enjoy the positives in 2019.
Monday, January 21, 2019
Not everything is negative
Not everything is negative, although perusing (supposed) news Internet sites would have you conclude otherwise.
Apart from punditry replacing journalism, one should not let the so-called news set the tone for the day, because there really is a lot of good happening each and every day all across our fantastic nation.
An example of the good are the missions conducted by the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR). Known primarily for supporting the funerals of active duty military members or veterans, these missions exemplify good.
Take this morning for example. Eight folks, seven on motorcycles (including one married couple) came out to honor the passing of a veteran. His military resume was unique, by any standard. He'd served in the U. S. Navy in WWII and the U. S. Army in Korea. On this breezy, chilly (by San Diego standards) Monday morning, the PGR gathered to honor this veteran. In the group of eight members of the all volunteer PGR were a retired Marine, Marine Corps veteran, Army veteran, three Navy veterans, the wife of a Navy veteran, and one gent who never served in the military.
Each gave of their time this morning to stand for one who stood for us. No public recognition would be forthcoming. None of the PGR knew the veteran they were honoring, nor did any of them know any members of the veteran's family. Yet they gave of their time to ensure he was honored.
At the cemetery, they stood a flag line as his coffin was moved from the hearse to the grave site. They extended the flag line, standing behind the grave site, with flags flying as the final farewell was offered by a family member. It was telling, as the two soldier Army Honor Guard presented the folder American Flag to the son of the deceased veteran, that the PGR presented arms, holding aloft the American flags.
This is an example of the good that happens all across our nation each and every day. But you'd never know it, because the erstwhile media don't care.
That's OK, because the PGR doesn't support these missions several times per week in SoCal for media attention. We do it because it is the right thing to do.
Not everything is negative.
Sunday, January 20, 2019
It's official
If a UCLA scientific study says it's so, then it must be.
Coming as no surprise to us bikers, a UCLA study declares riding a motorcycle is actually good for us.
Say what you may about motorcycling, and it's not for everyone, it is absolutely liberating. With the good fortune of living in Southern California (it costs a good fortune to live here), we enjoy nearly year around weather conducive to riding. Consequently, I get many miles in most weeks and can attest to the benefits of riding.
Yesterday, for example, a few hours on a mixture of side roads and freeways helped to create a positive mood and feeling. It is as if the speed of the wind washing across my body cleans the spirit of all the negativity that surround us. I swear drivers, mostly but not exclusively male, look longingly at me as we travel down the road.
Of course, riding a Harley-Davidson also provides no small amount of cache. The iconic look, including my leathers, and distinctive sound are universally recognized, even if not universally admired. The running of the big V-twin motor can actually be felt, adding tremendously to the experience.
Maybe that look from the gent in the cage (biker-speak for a car or truck) adds to the therapeutic value.
Whatever, as UCLA now declares, riding a motorcycle is good for you.
Coming as no surprise to us bikers, a UCLA study declares riding a motorcycle is actually good for us.
Say what you may about motorcycling, and it's not for everyone, it is absolutely liberating. With the good fortune of living in Southern California (it costs a good fortune to live here), we enjoy nearly year around weather conducive to riding. Consequently, I get many miles in most weeks and can attest to the benefits of riding.
Yesterday, for example, a few hours on a mixture of side roads and freeways helped to create a positive mood and feeling. It is as if the speed of the wind washing across my body cleans the spirit of all the negativity that surround us. I swear drivers, mostly but not exclusively male, look longingly at me as we travel down the road.
Of course, riding a Harley-Davidson also provides no small amount of cache. The iconic look, including my leathers, and distinctive sound are universally recognized, even if not universally admired. The running of the big V-twin motor can actually be felt, adding tremendously to the experience.
Maybe that look from the gent in the cage (biker-speak for a car or truck) adds to the therapeutic value.
Whatever, as UCLA now declares, riding a motorcycle is good for you.
Monday, January 14, 2019
Here we go
Here we go, with 2019 two weeks old. It will be a terrific and rewarding year.
Already in the planning stages for multiple vacations, with my bride, family, and friends. Excitement and purpose for each are invigorating. A baseball watching trip, road trip on the new Harley-Davidson, family get together for a grand daughter's birthday, and other adventures await. Even considering Death Valley (during the cool months).
Keeping the spirits up is well aided by deciding not to watch the news. I'd rather spend time listening to country music with my bride than watch supposed journalists simply offer their opinions. Leaves one in a much better frame of mind too.
Joining with fellow veterans supporting Patriot Guard Rider missions continues the valued camaraderie from the years on active duty. Also maintains the essence of patriotism.
More time cycling and hitting the weights in order to continue a healthy life style are favored portions of the daily routine, as is eating a more balanced and nutritious diet.
Saluting our American flag and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance each morning reinforces my citizenship.
Regular video chats with my brother are uplifting.
Employing old school letter writing to maintain contract with the grand kids helps fulfill the joy of grand parenting.
Yeah, 2019 is starting out very positively.
I am determined that it will be a grand year, with new adventures creating enduring memories, along with reinforcing core values and beliefs.
Already in the planning stages for multiple vacations, with my bride, family, and friends. Excitement and purpose for each are invigorating. A baseball watching trip, road trip on the new Harley-Davidson, family get together for a grand daughter's birthday, and other adventures await. Even considering Death Valley (during the cool months).
Keeping the spirits up is well aided by deciding not to watch the news. I'd rather spend time listening to country music with my bride than watch supposed journalists simply offer their opinions. Leaves one in a much better frame of mind too.
Joining with fellow veterans supporting Patriot Guard Rider missions continues the valued camaraderie from the years on active duty. Also maintains the essence of patriotism.
More time cycling and hitting the weights in order to continue a healthy life style are favored portions of the daily routine, as is eating a more balanced and nutritious diet.
Saluting our American flag and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance each morning reinforces my citizenship.
Regular video chats with my brother are uplifting.
Employing old school letter writing to maintain contract with the grand kids helps fulfill the joy of grand parenting.
Yeah, 2019 is starting out very positively.
I am determined that it will be a grand year, with new adventures creating enduring memories, along with reinforcing core values and beliefs.
Sunday, January 6, 2019
The next two years
After the 2016 election, the GOP controlled both chambers of Congress and the White House. Expectation was high on the right. After two years and the disastrous midterm, what can be pointed to as major accomplishments?
Not much.
And now the Dems have the lower chamber, with media expectations running high for the left. Sad to say, apart from all the ballyhoo, in two years' time the nation will most likely be no better off.
Politicians on both side make wide sweeping promises, then regularly fail to fulfill them. All the claptrap uttered during campaigns plays to the party bases, drumming up excitement and expectations. But no single member of the House or senator can wave a magic wand and make the campaign promises reality. And collectively the members of Congress have but one common goal: reelection.
As long as reelection is the primary goal of members of Congress, the country will suffer.
The elected use public monies as a slush fund, handing out benefits in order to buy votes. So increases the unimaginable national debt.
State and local officials rig districts and voting to benefit the reelection frenzy. So increases the division within the country.
Political party entities manipulate social media to skew self-serving messages and narratives for the perpetual election cycles. So increases segments of our population that are inflamed by false stories.
The politically aligned media aid and abet the perpetual election cycles, pumping out opinion masquerading as journalism. So increases the misinformation and disinformation bombarding the electorate.
Colleges and universities, pursuing naked political reelection objectives, indoctrinate young, new voters, camouflaging it as higher education. So increases ignorance within the electorate.
Ignorant social activists, fueled by false stories, indoctrination, misinformation, disinformation, and inflamed and divided by manipulated social media and the general media, ardently push to reelect candidates, based solely on physical characteristics, ethnicity, or heritage. So increases the number of wholly unqualified elected officials.
So increases, to levels of near certainty, that the next two years will be no more productive than the previous two.
An approach: change the Constitution so that every single member of Congress terms out at the end of his/her current term of office. Include in the change foolproof, unassailable term limits for all future member of Congress.
It will be a start.
Maybe then the following two year will see major problems in our country attacked and resolved for the good of ALL of the people.
Not much.
And now the Dems have the lower chamber, with media expectations running high for the left. Sad to say, apart from all the ballyhoo, in two years' time the nation will most likely be no better off.
Politicians on both side make wide sweeping promises, then regularly fail to fulfill them. All the claptrap uttered during campaigns plays to the party bases, drumming up excitement and expectations. But no single member of the House or senator can wave a magic wand and make the campaign promises reality. And collectively the members of Congress have but one common goal: reelection.
As long as reelection is the primary goal of members of Congress, the country will suffer.
The elected use public monies as a slush fund, handing out benefits in order to buy votes. So increases the unimaginable national debt.
State and local officials rig districts and voting to benefit the reelection frenzy. So increases the division within the country.
Political party entities manipulate social media to skew self-serving messages and narratives for the perpetual election cycles. So increases segments of our population that are inflamed by false stories.
The politically aligned media aid and abet the perpetual election cycles, pumping out opinion masquerading as journalism. So increases the misinformation and disinformation bombarding the electorate.
Colleges and universities, pursuing naked political reelection objectives, indoctrinate young, new voters, camouflaging it as higher education. So increases ignorance within the electorate.
Ignorant social activists, fueled by false stories, indoctrination, misinformation, disinformation, and inflamed and divided by manipulated social media and the general media, ardently push to reelect candidates, based solely on physical characteristics, ethnicity, or heritage. So increases the number of wholly unqualified elected officials.
So increases, to levels of near certainty, that the next two years will be no more productive than the previous two.
An approach: change the Constitution so that every single member of Congress terms out at the end of his/her current term of office. Include in the change foolproof, unassailable term limits for all future member of Congress.
It will be a start.
Maybe then the following two year will see major problems in our country attacked and resolved for the good of ALL of the people.
Sunday, December 23, 2018
As the year ends
Spent Christmas with our daughter and the grand children, and not long before the end of the year. In the little down time, between all activities and seemingly endless meals, I've been thinking about the greats and the grossly abysmal from 2018.
Greats
Greats
- Faith
- Wife, son, daughter, grand children
- Extended family
- Friends
- Health and fitness
- Our great nation
- American freedom
- Strong, unshakable values
- Patriotism
- Marine veteran status
- 2017 Toys for Tots event success
- Patriot Guard Rider missions
- Middle America
- Giving voice to veterans' stories
- Motorcycling
- Freedom of the open road
- Baseball
- Cycling
- Rule of law
- Superb writing
- Biker lifestyle
- American military
- Service and sacrifice
- Police, fire/rescue, EMTs
- Traditional country music
- Pick up trucks
- Beer
- Neighbors
- Our nation's natural beauty
- Watching sunsets with my bride
- Profound belief that 2019 will be better
- Continuing attacks on my values
- Attacks on Christianity
- Politicians
- Elected officials
- Government dictates constraining freedoms
- Lack of ethics and integrity
- POTUS
- Financial markets
- Mainstream media
- Ignorance
- Demise of principled journalism
- Scurrilous social media
- Democrat/progressive hypocrisy
- Public education
- Higher education
- Unions
- Activist judiciary
- Obscene pay for professional athletes
- Obscene pay for "entertainers"
- Professional athlete perpetual whining
- California
- Taxation and fees
- Congress
- National debt
- So called social justice warriors
- Identity politics
- Greed
- Narcissism
- Divided nation
Friday, December 7, 2018
When others slack off or moan and groan
When others slack off or moan and groan, three phenomenal Americans tirelessly worked in supporting the Marine Corps Reserves Program in San Diego. From left to right, retired Marine Mike Harris, Sheryl Kerstiens of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, and Staff Sergeant (now Gunnery Sergeant) Jeff Cantu of the USMCR 4th Medical Battalion.
Countless hours expended in absolute dedication from these three folks produced the largest Toys for Tots event in the San Diego region. More than 1,000 toys and $17,500 were donated because of their superior efforts.
Wednesday, November 21, 2018
Military funeral
On 20 November 2018, Sergeant Millard Odom, United States Marine Corps was laid to rest in Miramar National Cemetery.
Part of what made this mission extraordinary is that it was exactly 75 years ago to the day that he was killed in action during World War II in the battle for Tarawa.
Supporting the funeral were members of the Patriot Guard Riders.
I had the distinct and solemn honor of presenting mementos to Sergeant Odom's surviving sister.
Also extraordinary was that Medal of Honor recipient John Baca presented the folded flag. Here is the citation accompanying the presentation of the Medal.
Part of what made this mission extraordinary is that it was exactly 75 years ago to the day that he was killed in action during World War II in the battle for Tarawa.
Supporting the funeral were members of the Patriot Guard Riders.
I had the distinct and solemn honor of presenting mementos to Sergeant Odom's surviving sister.
Also extraordinary was that Medal of Honor recipient John Baca presented the folded flag. Here is the citation accompanying the presentation of the Medal.
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Free speech
When individuals are held accountable by private entities for their comments, on social media and elsewhere, they scream loud and long about their right to free speech. Assertions aplenty roil the landscape when words result in consequences. One of the most common is the perpetrator has an absolute First Amendment right to free speech and can therefore say anything with immunity.
Such folks might first want to educate themselves on the right they are claiming. There is no absolute immunity.
The First Amendment reads, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Key in the above and subsequent precedence setting court decisions is that government can not make any law abridging free speech. In other words, the government can not abridge the freedom of speech. Private entities are not so encumbered.
A private company, for example, can dismiss an employee for speech the government can not abridge. What, you ask? Can't I just say whatever the hell I want to say, post, Tweet, or otherwise communicate with absolute immunity? You are probably immune from arrest or other government consequence (libel and slander notwithstanding), but, yes, your boss can fire you for speech the business finds objectionable. And you may be liable for civil action.
In today's hypercharged environment of uncivil discourse and rampant use of social media platforms, folks might do well to keep this in mind.
Such folks might first want to educate themselves on the right they are claiming. There is no absolute immunity.
The First Amendment reads, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Key in the above and subsequent precedence setting court decisions is that government can not make any law abridging free speech. In other words, the government can not abridge the freedom of speech. Private entities are not so encumbered.
A private company, for example, can dismiss an employee for speech the government can not abridge. What, you ask? Can't I just say whatever the hell I want to say, post, Tweet, or otherwise communicate with absolute immunity? You are probably immune from arrest or other government consequence (libel and slander notwithstanding), but, yes, your boss can fire you for speech the business finds objectionable. And you may be liable for civil action.
In today's hypercharged environment of uncivil discourse and rampant use of social media platforms, folks might do well to keep this in mind.
Sunday, November 4, 2018
Wednesday morning
Come Wednesday morning, it's pretty damn certain the sun will rise. Nearly as certain is that one side or the other of the political spectrum will be apoplectic.
Yet the sun will still rise. No apocalypse occurred overnight in the wake of the election.
Life will go on.
But if listening or reading only in the echo chambers of the (inaptly named) major political parties, left or right, liberal or conservative, roughly half of the average american citizens will hear doom and gloom. It is also reasonable to predict an onslaught of associated claims and counterclaims about this or that injustice. Just as during the lead up to the election, exaggeration, embellishment, overstatement, and hyperbole will fill the day. Self-appointed pundits will flood (mainly in the aforementioned echo chambers) broadcasts, the airwaves, and Internet with their (anything but) sage views. Absolutism will dominate. Handwringing will be elevated to an art form. Invective will be shouted. Protests may be mounted.
Sheesh!
Yet the sun will come up and life will go on.
Those most impacted by the results, the average citizenry of the nation, will go about their daily lives, in spite of the election. Some will grouse, some will smile. But they will go about their lives, regardless of their views and feelings. Because that is just the way it will be.
The winners may celebrate and the losers may complain, but neither will simply lay down and do nothing. Momentary anger or joy will by necessity yield to the demands of the new day. Breakfast will be consumed and off to work they will go, happy or not. The activities of daily life will continue pretty much unabated.
Perhaps only in the woefully unrealistic and insular bubbles called college/university campuses will activity momentarily cease. Classes may be cancelled. Marches may be organized. Even as parents pay the bills, academia may raise its strident voice.
Everywhere else, life will go on.
That is an absolute certainty for Wednesday morning.
Yet the sun will still rise. No apocalypse occurred overnight in the wake of the election.
Life will go on.
But if listening or reading only in the echo chambers of the (inaptly named) major political parties, left or right, liberal or conservative, roughly half of the average american citizens will hear doom and gloom. It is also reasonable to predict an onslaught of associated claims and counterclaims about this or that injustice. Just as during the lead up to the election, exaggeration, embellishment, overstatement, and hyperbole will fill the day. Self-appointed pundits will flood (mainly in the aforementioned echo chambers) broadcasts, the airwaves, and Internet with their (anything but) sage views. Absolutism will dominate. Handwringing will be elevated to an art form. Invective will be shouted. Protests may be mounted.
Sheesh!
Yet the sun will come up and life will go on.
Those most impacted by the results, the average citizenry of the nation, will go about their daily lives, in spite of the election. Some will grouse, some will smile. But they will go about their lives, regardless of their views and feelings. Because that is just the way it will be.
The winners may celebrate and the losers may complain, but neither will simply lay down and do nothing. Momentary anger or joy will by necessity yield to the demands of the new day. Breakfast will be consumed and off to work they will go, happy or not. The activities of daily life will continue pretty much unabated.
Perhaps only in the woefully unrealistic and insular bubbles called college/university campuses will activity momentarily cease. Classes may be cancelled. Marches may be organized. Even as parents pay the bills, academia may raise its strident voice.
Everywhere else, life will go on.
That is an absolute certainty for Wednesday morning.
Saturday, November 3, 2018
Saturday morning
A nearly ideal, weather wise, Saturday morning in the San Diego region saw 68 motorcyclists come together in the early morning hours. While most folks were probably sleeping in or enjoying a leisurely breakfast and second cup of coffee, these bikers gathered at a funeral home in the town of La Mesa, just east of San Diego.
Funeral home on a Saturday morning you ask? Some might assume, with disdain in mind, that it must be for the services for "one of those bikers." Couldn't be farther from the truth.
These bikers came to honor a fallen sailor, Petty Officer Curtis Adams, U. S. Navy, who had been shot down after stopping for who he thought was a stranded motorist.
To honor him, these bikers would escort him to the San Diego airport for the final flight home.
Arranged by the Patriot Guard Riders, this morning's mission included bikers representing several groups. The prevailing themes across the groups were patriotism, military service, and honoring for our men and women in uniform. In addition to the bikers, which included some younger active duty members of the military, there were roughly a dozen cars carrying Petty Officer Adams' fellow sailors, those who had served with him.
The package, as it is referred to, ultimately grew to 68 motorcycles, 14 cars, and the hearse. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, a prayer offered, and mission briefing provided.
At the appointed time, a flag line was set, honors were rendered, the pall bearers transferred the remains into the hearse, and the package departed and headed to the airport. Once there, they repeated the process, rendering honors as Petty Officer Adams was delivered to the airline cargo representatives.
A somber Saturday morning, with dozens of folks, the majority of whom had never met Petty Officer Adams, coming together as patriots.
In this hyper-intense period leading up to the mid-term elections, I noticed the absence of the media and elected officials. Damn! A young sailor dies, gunned down in the midst of trying to do the right thing, and not one member of the media or one elected official could spare even a few minutes out of their Saturday morning.
Funeral home on a Saturday morning you ask? Some might assume, with disdain in mind, that it must be for the services for "one of those bikers." Couldn't be farther from the truth.
These bikers came to honor a fallen sailor, Petty Officer Curtis Adams, U. S. Navy, who had been shot down after stopping for who he thought was a stranded motorist.
To honor him, these bikers would escort him to the San Diego airport for the final flight home.
Arranged by the Patriot Guard Riders, this morning's mission included bikers representing several groups. The prevailing themes across the groups were patriotism, military service, and honoring for our men and women in uniform. In addition to the bikers, which included some younger active duty members of the military, there were roughly a dozen cars carrying Petty Officer Adams' fellow sailors, those who had served with him.
The package, as it is referred to, ultimately grew to 68 motorcycles, 14 cars, and the hearse. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, a prayer offered, and mission briefing provided.
At the appointed time, a flag line was set, honors were rendered, the pall bearers transferred the remains into the hearse, and the package departed and headed to the airport. Once there, they repeated the process, rendering honors as Petty Officer Adams was delivered to the airline cargo representatives.
A somber Saturday morning, with dozens of folks, the majority of whom had never met Petty Officer Adams, coming together as patriots.
In this hyper-intense period leading up to the mid-term elections, I noticed the absence of the media and elected officials. Damn! A young sailor dies, gunned down in the midst of trying to do the right thing, and not one member of the media or one elected official could spare even a few minutes out of their Saturday morning.
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