North Carolina's HB 2 is More Than Just Restrooms

North Carolina's anti-discrimination law was written in a particular way; it specifically excludes the LGBT community from any sort of protection. The law was willfully designed to "legally" marginalize certain citizens of the United States. Thus, these people (and they are people) have no recourse at law where discrimination is concerned. And that is a violation of the 14th amendment which states, "...nor shall any State...deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws." It's a violation of federal standards to deny anyone their day in court.

Whether you agree with someone's sexual orientation and lifestyle choices is immaterial. Many people do not agree with the LGBT way of life (I don't). Neither do they accept the choices cold-blooded killers have made. However, despite the atrocities and heinous crimes inflicted upon the citizens of the world by the likes of Adolf Eichmann, Charles Manson, Jeffrey Dahmer and Saddam Hussein, these barbaric examples of the human race got their day in court because a civilized society demands due process. Does the LGBT community deserve less than these four monstrous killers?

To deny men and women their right to due process, their day in court...a right guaranteed by the 14th amendment of our Constitution...because of their sexual orientation, is immoral and illegal. In essence, it's a sin.

North Carolina has set itself up as a self-appointed judge and jury where human lives and lifestyles are the battleground. Thus, if someone dies for any reason because of governmental arrogance, hypocritical self-righteousness and state-sanctioned discrimination concerning sexual orientation, it will have become a self-appointed executioner,too.

So, while at the moment the LGBT cannot file any discrimination law suits at the state level, I'm sure the US Department of Justice will be more than willing to handle the cases that are bound to land in its offices. And with that very real possibility looming on the horizon, the great and proud state of North Carolina might just have bitten off more than it can chew.

Show more rea2Bill Hughes and Jeanne Nelson

Comments

Write a comment...

Reflections Through a Glass of Beer

As I write this, I'm enjoying the first of two homemade tuna fish sandwiches (lots of onions!) with a cold bottle of Coors beer. The second sandwich will be accompanied by a second Coors. (one sandwich, one beer; two sandwiches, two beers). Laura Scudder's Potato Chips round out the simple but highly satisfying menu.

I'm sure there are readers out there who remember Hopalong Cassidy, at least from seeing him on TV. However, the character, developed by writer Clarence E. Mulford in 1912, and as portrayed by William Boyd, took root in 1935. "Hop-Along Cassidy" was the first of a long running movie series. Six films were initially planned but the series was so popular that by the end of its run in 1948, 66 episodes had been produced, all with Boyd as Hoppy. That is still the record for one actor playing the same role in a film series.

The 1960's didn't witness only the invasion of the Beatles along with other British groups. Americans are notorious for their love of fads. So, with the arrival of British rock 'n' roll, food seemed to be the logical next arrival from England. And it was. Fish and chips. Names like Carnaby Street (near us in La Puente; it's still there!) started popping up and became popular. The food was good, the menu simple (then); white fish, battered and  deep-fried, French fries, tartar sauce and malt vinegar. Good eats at a fair price.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame was established in 1958. As of Jan. 1, 2016, there are 2,570 stars in place. Each star is made of pink coral terrazzo and brass, inlaid in black terrazzo. The Walk is so popular that an estimated 10 millions visitors view it yearly. Names like Joanne Woodward, Bob Hope, Mickey Rooney, Dinah Shore, Gale Storm, John Wayne, will forever be immortalized along the Walk of Fame. However, one will stand out. Clayton Moore's name is the only one to have a film character along side it: The Lone Ranger.

School bullying is a national concern. In my day, we had our own way of dealing with it. In grade school, up into junior high, we occasionally had slower students who were sometimes picked on or teased by students from other classrooms. But not for long; a few of the boys in my class (including yours truly) took care of the issue before the teachers got involved. Some choice words (and a threatened knuckle-sandwich) worked wonders. In fact, a knuckle-sandwich actually worked on one occasion..We took care of our own.

After WWII, the need for new homes was critical. Levittown, New York became the prototype for the familiar tract home. With great prices, a family,with one paycheck, could afford a new home.The one we bought in 1955, was $9250. With $395 down, $66/mo was a cinch. It had 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, a double car garage on a spacious lot. A big reason for low prices...1200 homes were in the development, including new schools and a new shopping center, ALL within walking distance. America could use this idea today.

Black Lives Matter...And Here's Why

Many believe that Black Lives Matter is too narrow a concept; that being White, Latino, young ,old, LGBT, disabled, etc., is just as deserving of recognition as Black lives. While that's true without question, Black Lives Matter is about equality, not only in the eyes of society but in the eyes of the law. Black Lives Matter is what gives impetus to All Lives Matter. Black Lives Matter is the hub of the wheel; the individual groups its spokes. If Black lives don't matter, then millions of other American lives don't matter either.

It's not just about life and death. It's about equality where you live, where you work, where you eat, where you shop, where you attend school. And when that equality is challenged on a daily basis by a society that treats its member citizens at levels far from equal, it's inevitable that it will be challenged by a minority of men and women wearing a uniform, a badge...and carrying a gun.

Minority communities in general experience discrimination but members of the Black neighborhoods and "integrated" communities have an additional burden, one that has never really gone away...not since the days of the Civil Rights movement. Black citizens of this country see themselves leaving their homes each and every day wearing a target...a bull's eye, not always sure they will get through each day without being harassed, searched, manhandled, insulted.  Returning home is not seen as a guarantee.

I can't imagine living that kind of life. I can't imagine raising children in such a way that involves teaching them self-preservation...life or death...where law enforcement in concerned; where survival techniques are crucial when there's a confrontation with a person wearing a badge and carrying a lethal weapon.

And I use the term "confrontation" because if paths are crossed, it's almost certain the situation will be a confrontation; where one party will most assuredly be at a disadvantage...because of skin color.

Black citizens, and other minorities, are still living in a nation where they must continually prove they have a right to be here; to prove beyond any doubt that they are entitled to all the rights, privileges, dignity and respect in their efforts for "...life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.", concepts guaranteed to every member of American society. But in that God-given pursuit, these citizens often run risks to life and limb.

Therefore, the Black community, along with Latinos, Asians, Native Americans and other non-Whites, must no longer be viewed as alien life forms; not when their ancestors helped develop this great nation. Contrary to what many would like to believe, the White man didn't do it alone.

Miami Gardens, Cleveland, North Charleston, Ferguson, Baton Rouge and Falcon Heights, are sadly, helping to create future battlefields in American streets. Daily headlines are showing where more and more Black and White citizens and certain members of law enforcement (and by extension the justice system) are increasingly estranged and mistrustful of one another. There's ample proof that both sides live in mortal fear of one another...and that fear isn't lessening. A Long Hot Summer is but a very short fuse away. Growing tension is being fueled by hatred, bitterness, fear...and bigotry. At this very moment, countless communities in America have the potential of going off like a cluster bomb...with equally disastrous results.

America can heal itself...it can bring itself together through all of the pain and suffering that engulfs it today. But in this writer's humble opinion, the bulk, if not all of the effort, must be made by law enforcement.

And I don't say this lightly. Over the years, I've had friends and acquaintances in law enforcement. Nonetheless, all agencies of law enforcement must accept the fact that Black citizens of this nation are not the enemy; they are not to be scrutinized in the hopes of catching them breaking the law or proving that they can't be trusted, thus unworthy of the respect and dignity due everybody regardless of skin color. They are not to be maligned or marginalized because of a stereotypical perspective that has persisted far too long in this nation. Once these things and many others are addressed by ALL law enforcement agencies, then and only then can progress be made in winning back the trust and respect of the Black community.

But here's the kicker. The White public cannot remain blase' or indifferent. Whites must play a significant role in this; they must take an active part. As long as law enforcement feels it has the blessing of White America in its often capricious, unprofessional and heavy-handed methods regarding minorities: as long as White America continues to believe the fairy tale that all citizens are actually "equal under the law;" that all citizens are equally protected by the banner, "To Serve and To Protect," nothing will change.

Black Lives Matter is important simply because it establishes All Lives Matter; it represents respect, dignity, growth, maturity, prosperity, caring for the other guy...regardless of who he is...or the color of of his skin.

Reflections Through a Glass of Beer

It's been a while but here I am. I just stopped at In 'N' Out Burger for two healthy cheeseburgers (with the works, including grilled onions) and a mouthwatering order of fries. However, I first detoured to the Cap and Cork Liquor store for a quart of really cold Coors beer! I'm feasting here in the park as I write this. The beer's still in the brown paper bag for security reasons. A plastic cup isn't a frosted beer glass, but...

Growing up in the LA television viewing area was special, especially in the 1960's. With seven stations, three network affiliates and four independents, there was a fantastic assortment of local programs. This was notably true for the indies, KHJ (Ch.9), KTTV (Ch.11), KCOP (Ch.13) and KTLA (Ch.5).

Each of the indies had their own local, well-known personalities. The network affiliates (KNXT 2, KNBC 4 and KABC 7),too, had show hosts that the LA people were quite familiar with.

The affiliates had a mix of network and local programming that lasted until prime time took over in the evening when it switched to network shows. The indies, though, were local programming throughout the day.

Out of this abundance of quality, locally produced viewing, Ben Hunter's Matinee Movie stands out for me. It aired on KTTV.

Monday through Friday, 12:30-3:30, Ben, with his big, ingratiating smile, easy going style and cup of coffee, hosted movies and a vast assortment of guests. The set was far from elegant or fancy but it was comfortable in its simplicity.And his show, like others in the area, also had live commercials. Those for Pfaff sewing machines, with demonstrations of what they could do, stand out in particular.

The show was unpretentious. It was simple for simpler times. The easy-going banter between Ben and his guests made life seem even more at ease, especially with the Civil Rights movement gaining traction.

 Guests discussed a myriad of topics, from upcoming local events, places of interest and the various activities of local and civic organizations. I remember one guest in particular, a young female soldier, who modeled a proposed dress uniform for the US Army in the mid 1960's. She said it was patterned after the cavalry dress uniforms worn by US soldiers during middle part of the 19th century...a close-fitting jacket in dark blue for men and women; sky blue pants for both men and women. A skirt, in the same dark blue of the jacket, was optional. As far as I know, this uniform combination wasn't accepted by the Army.

 At some point during the first movie, Ben would make himself comfortable and have his lunch, right there on the set! It originated fresh from Norm's Restaurant on La Cienega. With the camera up close, Ben would describe what he was having that day; a toasted Reuben sandwich with potato salad; or a cheese burger and fries; or a hot roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes and gravy. A small steak with a baked potato and a salad was not uncommon. And I assume his guest enjoyed the same excellent lunch. Once Ben started to enjoy his meal, the movie resumed.

It was the lunch from Norm's, fresh and tantalizing, that really set Ben's show apart from other local programs. By sharing with viewers what he was having that day, it almost seemed like Ben was family. Teamed with the live ads, it added immensely to a small town-like ambiance even though the whole affair was  encircled by metropolitan Los Angeles.

Ben Hunter's Matinee Movie is long gone but the fond memories will always survive.

   

Politicians Unequaled at Wasting $$$$$

     The House Select Committee on Benghazi recently released its findings surrounding the Benghazi disaster. While the 800 page document shed no new light on what happened or who was responsible for the deaths of four Americans that tragic day, it does shed a critical light on an increasingly pathetic portrayal of the nation's Congressional membership...a portrayal of unchecked stupidity on a daily basis. And since this "report" was a bipartisan, twelve member effort, that stupidity is to be shared by Pachyderms and Jackasses alike.

     It took two years for the Republican-controlled House to amass more than one and a half reams of paper. However, it's the price tag for that heap of tree pulp that really begs for the term STUPIDITY. For you see, a mere $7 million was expended to tell the American public virtually nothing more than it already knew...two years ago.

     Admittedly, $7 million is but a pittance, a lowly drop in the bucket, when it comes to a federal budget in the neighborhood of $4 trillion dollars. But when broken down, the price comes to an embarrassing $8,750 per page...$8,750 hard-earned taxpayer dollars. And let it be noted, using basic arithmetic, that price works out to be $52,500 per ounce of paper. That's about 40 times the going rate for a bright, shiny one ounce gold coin like a Krugerrand. Honestly, to protect our "investment," Congress should have engaged, at the very least, an armed guard of U.S. Marshals when it came time to distribute that "golden" report. Hey, nothing's too good for the American public, right?

     Now, you're probably wondering who got the $7 million? Those astute among you guessed it right off; high-priced mouthpieces, not unlike those employed by racketeers and global corporations.That's what makes the price tag even more ludicrous. In essence, what are we paying members of a Congressional committee to do? Well, in this case, it would appear just to read a worthless report commissioned by them...at our expense...as always.

     This monetary absurdity must fall within the realm (fantasy land?!) of what Congress obviously considers getting the biggest bang for the buck; spending tons of money on a project but getting no results. There's apparently no money back guarantee either. Makes you feel proud that Congress shops bargain basement for us, now doesn't it?

     But make no mistake; if the shoe was on the other foot, if the Democrats were in control of such a committee, they would have done nothing different. To politicians, $7 million is only money...our money. That's pocket change, walking around money for the federal government. But, just the same, isn't it nice to see your tax dollars hard at work?

     So, for those who have children or grandchildren who are wondering what line of work to choose, have them pick law. Afterwards, they should seek out employment with a prestigious Washington, D.C., law firm. Being associated with the Beltway's "upper crust" would be ideal in advancing one's career in jurisprudence. Then, once established, they could could work on another "important" Congressional project or report at taxpayers' expense. Wouldn't you feel so proud? Wouldn't that just make your day?

An Absence of Justice...Will It Ever End?

     America has always taken pride in the slogan "justice is blind" regarding its legal system but with that belief, philosophy...ideal, much injustice not only exits in the "land of the free" but it is all-too-prevalent in a land where all men are to be treated "equal under the law". Such an injustice was inflicted on 24 year-old Jamar Clark. On the night of November 15, 2015, justice turned a blind eye on the Life and, quite possibly, the Civil Rights, of this young man. In 61 seconds, many lives changed forever...and not for the better. And that injustice has been compounded by the Hennepin County attorney's office.
     One particular finding of that office I find glaringly off-base and I take exception with it...and quite strongly.
     After the shooting, Officer Mark Ringgenberg stated to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) that once he and Mr. Clark fell to the ground, with Mr. Clark pinned beneath him (Ringgenberg's back against Clark's stomach), he felt his gun shift from his hip to the small of his back. Ringgenberg also claimed he felt Clark's hand on his gun and he said to his partner Officer Dustin Schwarze, "He's got my gun." Based on my experience with police duty rigs, this scenario is impossible.
     Many years ago I participated in police combat matches in Tucson, Arizona. Competing against various law enforcement officers, including city, county, state, and federal, as well as civilians, I can attest to the fact that duty rigs DO NOT shift as Ringgenberg claimed. For his claim to be valid, his duty belt, with holstered weapon, cuff case, clip pouch and assorted other equipment and keepers, would have had to move 90 degrees; about 8-9 inches. And all within perhaps 45-50 seconds.
     My duty rig, which I still have, is virtually identical to those worn by the above mentioned officers (and many civilians). The outfit includes a standard duty belt, holster (rigidly fitted on the belt and immovable) for a Colt .45 semi-automatic pistol, dual clip pouch and the customary four keepers. Not once, in all of the combat matches I participated in (and countless hours of practice), did my duty belt come loose from its moorings. Not once did I see any other rigs come loose.The friction from the belt itself, along with that produced from the clip pouch, were factors in stability. But it was the four keepers I wore (two in the front and two in the back) that were far more instrumental in having the weapon stay where it was supposed to. And that's what they're supposed to do. They keep the whole unit in one place, preventing it from riding up when sitting, bending, stooping or getting in and out of a patrol car. You don't want to have to continually adjust the rig and you don't want to have go "searching" for your weapon when you need it most nor have someone come up behind you and quickly turn it around!
     As to the mechanics of "keepers," mine are double snap-button in nature. Made of narrow pieces of  heavy leather 3/4 inch wide, they wrap quite snugly around the trouser belt and duty belt; once fastened in place, they hold the two belts securely together. With a duty belt correctly and comfortably fitted around the waist and the keepers properly placed near a trouser loop, the duty belt/trouser belt combination cannot move but maybe an inch in either direction and that's only because of a slight give in the unit. But 90 degrees and eight or nine inches? No.
     It's also been established during the inquiry that Ringgenberg had ten such keepers securing his duty belt. The BCA investigator was apparently surprised at this but did not pursue the subject. So, given how keepers are supposed to work and the presence of other equipment attached to a duty belt, that poses a problem. Also, my understanding of the inquiry indicates there was no reenactment of the events to verify Ringgenberg's claim. That in itself muddies the waters regarding Ringgenberg's recollection of the events.
     But how did Clark end up behind Ringgenberg in the first place? Why didn't Ringgenberg quickly get to his feet rather lying on Clark for those crucial seconds?  And even IF Clark had been able to shift the gun a few inches, how could he have managed to squeeze the holstered weapon and his hand between his body and that of the officer lying on top of him? Logically, Clark would have had better luck trying to seize Ringgenberg's weapon while it was still his hip.
     It is self-evident that in just over a minute, two trained police officers lost control of the situation involving Jamar Clark. These officers were unable to subdue an intoxicated man (0.09 Blood Alcohol Concentration) who also had THC (the active compound of marijuana) in his blood stream. Justice failed...again.
     Shakespeare wrote, "Something is rotten in the state of Denmark." Well, something certainly is rotten in the Minneapolis-area "legal system" and somebody better put an end to that stench...and soon.

Reflections Through a Glass of Beer

Today I'm at Norm's Restaurant with a breakfast wonderfully tailored with a juicy grilled steak, smothered in onions, 2 eggs over easy, hash browns, rye toast and excellent coffee (no beer). Now, let's see what's up.

I'm sure you've seen those ads and various TV shows that promote clothing lines with the names of celebrities stitched on. They're nothing new. I remember long ago pro golfers and late-night talk show hosts hawking their "exclusive" duds. But aside from the name that increases the price outlandishly, isn't a pair of pants or a blouse or shoes or a blazer just that? Even underwear gets pitched! You wear them like any other clothing item. Who cares what name's on it (or in it)? Besides, that famous person didn't sit down and design the item, nor sew it together. They just gave the okay to use their name. And THAT is what makes the line famous and best-selling. And, oh, many clothes like that are made in low-paying sweatshops! Big name, high price but hardly high-end quality. Whoopee! If you have more $$$$ than brains, be my guest. The rich get richer and the dopes of the world get dumber...everyday.

Back in the old days, there was the DWI (driving while intoxicated)...period. Then some states came up with the new and improved DUI (driving under the influence) label. Now, I've seen the OWI (operating while intoxicated). For crying out loud states, settle on a term all ready! You don't need a fancy (or fancier or more politically correct) term for it. Drunk driving is drunk driving, whether you're intoxicated or under the influence! Drunk is drunk! There's no need to embroider it. How about DWB: driving while bombed?!

Years ago, various liquids for supplements were created specifically for the elderly or those who were terribly ill, like with cancer. These individuals weren't getting the nutrition they required because they often lacked any real appetite. Hence, high caloric, vitamin/mineral and protein drinks. Now, they are being hawked for those who haven't the time to wolf down even a tuna fish sandwich, potato chips and a container of milk! Gimme a break! Nobody should be in that big a hurry! Take your time! Have a meal (relaxing or not) but have some sort of a meal. Liquid nutrition...if you're healthy?! No way. One of our dogs years back was terribly sick and we tried one of those liquid supplements that humans always seem to enjoy. Our dog turned her nose up at it! Tell you something?

This is a true story. Some years ago I was working in an Army hospital. Patients were added to computer systems using the sponsor's (active duty or retired) Social Security Number and a family code. One day, a wife came to the window, giving us all of the correct info. HOWEVER, the system indicated there was a wife already using that SSN and spousal code. A check with Records indicated that there was, indeed, a previous wife (divorced). The soldier had to leave work to explain everything! The second wife knew nothing about the first one until that day! You could cut the anger/embarrassment (her) and embarrassment ( him) with a knife.We all tried to imagine what the night had to offer that poor, lowly soldier!

Well, that's all for now ladies and gentlemen. My friend Jim Gillis, retired Cunningham Aircraft employee, just arrived. He's in town for a few days, so we thought we'd catch up on family news and such. So, 'til next time, vaya con Dios.

Washington Needs a Lesson In Civics...Now!

Washington Needs a Lesson In Civics...Now! I just finished watching "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" and I've come to the stark realization that every member of the US Congress needs to watch this excellent film, not once or twice, but several times to take hold and reaffirm what their oaths of office really mean and stand for. Paying close attention to the scene where Jefferson Smith takes his oath as the new senator from his state should jar a lot of consciences on Capitol Hill...and elsewhere in Washington DC, the seat of the most powerful nation on earth. And it probably wouldn't hurt anyone occupying the White House and manning the bench of the US Supreme Court to watch the film a few times either. A civics class refresher course never hurt anyone. While the film might seem fanciful and wonderfully nostalgic, with a superb script and story, James Stewart in the title role of Jefferson Smith and Frank Capra at the helm wielding a deft hand at direction, the core, the simple imagery of what our government is SUPPOSED to accomplish, what it is SUPPOSED to represent, for every man, woman and child in this country, is inescapable. In the now-famous filibuster scene, Jeff Smith lashes out, passionately condemning political and ethical corruption, along with greedy political machines, making his denunciation so profound for today's America. He vehemently condemns the corruption that comes at the expense of democracy. Jefferson Smith exhibits the idealism that every young member of Congress should be filled with, that idealism that all-to-often disappears when the power and influence and Beltway stardom all sink their long, bloody claws into mortal flesh, turning those commissioned to do their best for us, the citizens who elected them, into mere hand puppets and marionettes, living zombies, waiting for orders and directions, not from the people but from the political machines that really control the seats on Capitol Hill and the White House. Our elected "leaders" pay homage, not to the electorate, but to those who have the most money to throw around; to those hoping to get the biggest bang for each political buck spent. Colossal campaign donations with the expectancy of getting something in return, in conjunction with influence peddling lobbyists and their greedy clients, involve money in such quantities you'd think they printed it themselves. The "I'll scratch your back if you scratch mine" disease has becomes a terrible reality, the cure...elusive.The money isn't spent for the good of the people but for the benefit of special interests who fund our "leaders" with bankrolls that never dry up. Politicians and Corporate America end up being the big winners, while the men, women and children of this nation end up being yanked to the ground and pulled along by the chain of corporate power and money...and corrupted politics. Mr. Lincoln's "...of the people, by the people and for the people..." has disintegrated into Big Money's "...of the elite, by the elite and for the elite..." Capitol Hill and its environs can change all that by simply reflecting on the oaths taken, carefully noting the words and what they mean; on what America has stood for since 1776. Jefferson Smith laid it out plain and simple...in a 1939 movie. So, if they have the guts, the moxie, the gumption, each and every member of Congress, each Supreme Court Justice and every President, current and future, needs to reread their oaths of office. Those oaths are a sacred vow, a sworn promise to the Constitution and the people it protects. And with the exception of the president, that vow is made to God. It's time our "leaders" left the money-lined pockets of political machines and jumped into the empty pockets of the people who really matter...the people of the United States of America. The bottom line is our elected "leaders" need to get in step with this nation and her people; to pay heed to a young fictional senator's idealism and belief in a system meant to benefit everybody...not just a privileged few.

Listen Up America...There Is a Better Way!

Every member of upper and middle level management in the corporate world needs to read this book, perhaps several times, and let the powerful message sink in. Placing it in a personal library will keep it handy for future reference and as a constant reminder of what it contains.
    The true fact of the matter is, anybody who oversees the activities of employees, including those within municipalities, hospitals, school districts, colleges and universities, would benefit immensely from "Stronger Than Steel." This would include CEO's, presidents, various vice-presidents and even those who chair the board of directors. "Stronger Than Steel" is a tool that never stops giving, never stops performing.
     While out of print, it would be well-worth the effort and nominal expense to obtain a copy...or two. And no, I'm not going to tell you what this excellent book is about. But I will say it should be considered management's Bible if it wants long-lasting success in the everyday workplace.
     On a final note, perhaps those working within state and federal government should grab hold of a copy. Heaven knows, it's not like anybody in the hallowed halls of bureaucratic turmoil couldn't learn a thing or two about how to deal deal fairly and honorably with fellow citizens. The formula that Dr. R.C. Sproul lays out, a formula worked by the tireless efforts of Wayne Alderson regarding corporate management, is timeless and invaluable beyond description. Dr. Sproul captures the heart, the very soul of Mr. Alderson's belief that there's definitely a better way for people to live and work together. Read "Stronger Than Steel" and see if you don't heartily agree.

Since the Civil Rights Movement, Have We Really Come Very Far?

The state of Kentucky, along with the United States, has lost one of  the foremost activists regarding human equality and dignity. The passing of Georgia Davis Powers will be felt by a great many people. She was 92.

Powers was Kentucky's first black woman to serve in the state Senate, a world ruled by white men in 1967. And she stayed there for 21 years. In those years, Powers became close to Dr. Martin Luther King.
But before she hit the floor of the Kentucky legislature, she pushed for and got a civil rights law passed in 1966, the first southern state to do so.

"She was a powerful voice for those she served:..," wrote Kentucky House Speaker Greg Stumbo. And by the looks of it today, this nation needs more voices just like that of Georgia Davis Powers, whether on a state's legislative floor or in Washington DC.

An aspect of  Powers' life that I found especially profound was when she, as a teenager, worked in a 5 and 10 cent store. As an employee of the store, the young Georgia was required to tell black customers they weren't permitted to eat at the counter. Black folk were good enough to buy thread, gifts, knickknacks, magazines, toiletries and countless other articles available in the store...but not eat a meal at the counter...with white folk.

The hateful and destructive political rhetoric that flies today unchecked and is accepted as "truth" regarding minorities and those of the Muslim faith in particular undermines what Powers and others like her struggled to achieve for so many years. We're retracing our steps, conceding victories and battles won, at the expense of others. We are regressing, not progressing, because this nation is still made up of millions of small minds and hardened hearts. Bigotry, in all of its shapes and sizes and manifestations, is alive and well in the United States of America.

When listening to politicians and political candidates (I really try not to) and reading about them, the 1960's and what was accomplished...the Civil Rights Act (1965) and the Voting Rights Act (1966) and much more...seem so far away. That time period seems but a distant dream...a distant memory.

And I feel we are rapidly approaching once again that mindset where "others" different from "us" will once again be seen and judged as inferior....or worse. It hasn't been perfect since the 1960's but I sense a strong movement in that unsavory direction, to reestablish a beachhead for intolerance, despite various state and federal laws. And there are telltale signs of that attitude expanding. Oh yes, we shrewd Americans have developed ways around laws and Constitutional amendments; think voter ID requirements (33 states have one form or another); continued Congressional district gerrymandering; profiling specific people in the name of national security.

The current political dogma, practically a mandate if you're a "true" American, requires we see all Mexicans as killers or rapists; for those who are more "broad-minded," that can be extended to those from Central and South America. "Coloreds" in general are still regarded as shiftless, crack-head troublemakers.We're to fear all Muslims and that fear dictates what we, as a nation, must do something about them. That is tantamount to "Round up the usual suspects." But, alas, Manzanar and other internment (concentration!) camps are an even more distant memory....a mere historical footnote.

So, have we come very far since the days of the civil rights movement? Chronologically, yes. But in our nation's heart and soul? Not so much. Just look around you; listen to what's said about your co-workers or neighbors; notice how different ethnic peoples, those who differ from the "norm," are treated, categorized and pigeon-holed. Listen to "popular" talk shows; watch or listen to the news; read editorials. Virtually anybody in this nation who is "different" is dissected, criticized, chastised, scrutinized...and suspected...to the ultimate detriment of this entire nation. Even our current president has been called "boy," "uppity," and "ape" by a supposedly educated, erudite and "enlightened" GOP. I guess those terms need to be redefined.

The political arena stirs up...foments...distrust and stimulates the anxiety and dread within this nation. It has become "Them versus us." And it couldn't happen if this nation, down deep, didn't really feel that way about all those "foreigners" or "undesirables" and how they threaten our way of life...the "American" way of life. Going even further, several high profile individuals have stated "eloquently" and passionately, while others have hinted at...America is for Americans. Those words have a terribly familiar ring to them.

Only the people of a nation, any nation, can turn the tide of prejudice and bigotry. And it looks like it's high time the citizens of this nation once again took the bull by the horns as they did in years gone by and showed the world once again who we really are. If we don't, if we let political candidates and political parties define us, define who we really are, we might as well turn in our membership to the human race because in the end, the United States of America will no longer qualify for membership; she will have relinquished her role as leader of the free world...forever.

The Making of a Food Conglomerate

I called earlier today to the Help Desk for Con Agra to make a quality control" inquiry. We recently had the Hungry Man Spicey Fried Chicken. Mine had THREE pieces of chicken and my wife's had TWO. I thought that had happened at least once before. I know it happened this time. The box says it contains dark portions of chicken but no quantity. The box illustration seems to indicate three pieces.

The pleasant woman took down the information and would forward everything to Quality Control. We would be receiving coupons too! You can't beat that with a stick.

Afterwards, looking into who owns Banquet (Hungry Man), I found almost three dozen brands that Con Agra has acquired over the years (I stopped counting at 27). Many, if not all, were at one time free-standing companies, putting out  a product, paying wages and paying taxes. Names like Swiss Miss, Wolf Brand Chili, Peter Pan, Va Camp's and Chef Boyardee were household brands, free of large corporate entanglements. Three margarine brands...Parkay, Fleischmann's and Blue Bonnet are now under one umbrella. Hunt and Wesson...you guessed it. Once they sat on shelves as independent firms. At one time these two were part of Beatrice Foods, Hunt-Wesson-Beatrice but Auntie Bea split them off later on. These are companies I "grew up" with. Libby's? Same thing.

While change and progress do have their positive side and various "ups" regarding sales, marketability, profit and taxes for mega businesses like Con Agra, it still seems sad that the old stand-bys are now just names on a corporate roster, still making what they do for American breakfasts, lunches and dinners but now without that sense of "intimacy" that goes with knowing that Libby's or Gulden's Mustard or Hebrew National were at one time independent and not merely cogs in a very large food producing machine.

I remember way back in the 1960's when we bought Marie Callender pies for the holidays at the local franchise in La Puente. And, I think, wistfully, that was a time when a company's individuality was still paramount in America.

NFL Teams Sure Have a Lot of Coaches

I read today that the National Football League (NFL) has acquired its first full-time female coach. Kathryn Smith will be the Buffalo Bills' special teams quality control coach. (As if they manufactured something!).
She will assist the special teams coordinator Danny Crossman and his assistant Eric Smith. That's THREE people to do just the special teams! With that many bosses, there shouldn't be any mistakes...ever!
Jen Welter served as an apprentice last summer (2015) for the Arizona Cardinals. She coached the inside linebackers for six weeks. I assume there's a coach for the other linebacker positions. I know there's one for the quarterbacks, etc.
My point is it sure takes a lot of coaches to oversee an NFL team! That takes a fair amount of money too (which the fans pay for). I mean, what's next, a coach for right (or left) handed quarterbacks? A coach for shorter (or taller) players? A coach for running backs who go left (or right) more than the other direction? The teams sure are top-heavy with field executives. It borders on micromanagement; the teams are taking no chances. Yet teams do turn in poor performances. How is beyond me...not with all that "coverage."

America's First Refugees

There's been a lot of talk and discussion (and believe me, there will be a lot more) concerning the acceptance of Syrian refugees into the US during the upcoming years. Other Middle Eastern peoples will also be lumped together with those fleeing Syria. And well the US should be a part of this relief system. It's something we've done for may years..it's part of who we are. And logically, a large amount of money will play no small part here. However, there is living in this great nation a people who are its first refugees. And they remain so.

A great many Native Americans in this country are living in conditions thought only possible in the blighted and decaying urban portions areas of our large cities. They are, indeed, our first refugees and they have been in that sorry state of affairs ever since the federal government sought to "help" them in the 19th century. That "help" was, in fact, only initiated to benefit the white man in his continued lust for land and wealth.

The "help", in the form of the reservation system, a sort of "planned community" effort, has merely left the members of the nearly 600 recognized tribes to fend for themselves as best they can despite the oversight of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. As I see it, the BIA was established pretty much to act as a babysitter, property manager, watchman and jailer for America's initial settlers. Early on, armed troops backed up the jailer's sworn duties. That doesn't happen now because, generally, the people of the "rez" have nowhere else to go. The reservation is now home and has been for almost two hundred years. For the most part, reservation life is the only life they know.

The irony is that Native Americans are refugees in their own land! It belongs to them, regardless of what over 400 forced treaties state. In addition to that, historically, Native Americans have been on the short end of the stick ever since that stick was first lopped off the tree. The 14th Amendment gave freed slaves citizenship in 1868. America's first citizens didn't achieve that until 1924. The Civil Rights and Voting Acts, while clearly necessary, were never really intended to include Native Americans. And as to those treaties, equal treatment under the law has usually fallen short of reality.

Urban and suburban renewal programs have sought to improve the conditions of people living in and around populated areas. Thus, being black, Latino, Asian and any other social classification, has made it possible to at least be in a position to receive federal help of some kind. It's pretty hard to send the right kind or right amount of assistance needed to the far-flung, isolated reservations within the boundaries of the US. Window Rock, Fort Peck, Colville, Wind River or Monument Valley ain't downtown Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Houston, San Francisco or Winona, Minnesota. It boils down to being "out of sight, out of mind."

As a final thought, bear in mind that while countless urban areas within our cities are decaying and eroding by the second; that poverty and unemployment ascends new heights in Detroit, Michigan and elsewhere, the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota is poorest community in the United States, in this "land of milk and honey." For these people, it's more like bread and water. And as far as I know, it's always been that way.

While the residents of Pine Ridge do receive donations (domestic CARE packages!) from various relief programs, just under 29,000 hapless souls hope to get the crumbs left over from an overstuffed and complacent nation. This is how we Americans treat descendants of America's first settlers; descendants who are forever refugees...in their own land. Shame on us.

Reflections Through a Glass of Beer

Here we are live (not really) at Ford's Bar and Grill and my hot roast beef sandwich just arrived via cheerful waitress Katie. This entree, with mashed potatoes and gravy, a generous scoop of buttered corn and TWO rolls, is one of my favorite dishes. And it's especially good here at Ford's. Ah, here comes my beer...Pabst Blue Ribbon on draft...in a frosty glass! Now, what's in store for us with today's Reflections.



Have you heard this one? Not long ago, the man some have called "America's most hated man" because of his price-gouging with the drug Daraprim, has been arrested on federal charges stemming form his losing a lot of money for hedge fund investors. Martin Shkreli, 32, is charged with taking $11 million dollars from Retrophin, a pharma business he once CEO, to reimburse unhappy clients (some call that embezzlement).Maybe he was gonna pay it back.The feds are charging him with securities fraud and conspiracy. "Bio-tech's bad boy" could get 20 years. I doubt if they use expensive drugs in prison.

Under "dumb and dumber", the feds are cracking down on Allegiant Air for basic stupidity. The FAA is pushing for more pilot training so they don't run out of gas. An incident this summer found two pilots, who just happen to be execs with the firm, had to make an emergency landing at a closed airport because they didn't enough full fuel to reach their destination. Maybe these "pilots" need to watch old war movies like "Twelve O'Clock High," "Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo" or "Island in the Sky" to learn how to manage fuel use. Maybe even "The High and the Mighty." But then, planes are equipped with an old-fashioned gadget called... a FUEL GAUGE!

My friend Dan Mathews of the Highway Patrol just dropped by and I asked him, as I do all my friends and strangers alike, if he had a favorite quote or words of wisdom to share with my readers and Dan related this nice little tidbit.
It seems Jerry, a boy about 8 years of age, had saved a puppy from drowning in a flooded street. Jerry got an award and after the ceremony Jerry told Dan that he was scared while pulling the puppy to safety. After shaking the boy's hand, Dan imparted these words to the young hero. "Bravery is a man who's scared but still does what he has to do." I think we ALL can learn from that!

It's come to my attention that being honest and sharing your thoughts concerning religion could get you fired. Seems one Larycia Hawkins, a TENURED political science professor at Wheaton College, had the gall to state that Muslims and Christians worship the same God. The "school" (I use that term sarcastically) is filing papers to terminate Dr. Hawkins since she has refused to resign. While it's true that Christians worship Jesus as The Redeemer and Muslims look to Allah for their salvation, both Christians and Muslims (and Jews) recognize the same God as the creator of the universe. It is quite obvious those behind the drive to remove such a firebrand as Dr. Hawkins haven't read the Qur'an! And what happened to free expression? Looks like at Wheaton, a "center of higher learning" (again sarcasm), any verbal support of the religion followed by Muslims can get you in deep kimchi! Freedom of religion? Yes, as long as it's the RIGHT religion.

I read the comics everyday in our local paper and I've read them for many years, as I'm sure many of my readers have.
Classic "Funnies" of old like Peanuts, Miss Peach, Pogo and one of my all-time favorites, Tumbleweeds, were staples in newspapers across this land. Calvin and Hobbs, Bloom County (then Outland) and Doonesbury came along, some to pass from the scene. Overboard, Pearls Before Swine and of course, Garfield, are real favorites for me.
But over the years, "comics" have, in my opinion, declined dramatically. More and more of them feature one (maybe two) lame characters in just-as-lame situations. This includes the single panel entries as well. I see these daily panels as cheap generics, probably much less costly for the papers. (In generics, you often get what you pay for, like paper towels). But alas, these "Funnies" ARE syndicated works!
I might be prejudiced (sour grapes?!) since I approached some of the same syndicators a few years ago to handle my writing. Since I'd been writing a community column for two local papers for awhile, I felt my chances were good. Wrong! I was fed the line that the work was good...BUT.
So, work that I felt was good (and told so by others in the newspaper business) was unacceptable but what I see every day with lame characters and situations gets high marks and syndication. Sigh.
What have I learned from this? If I should find myself seeking syndication again (yeah, sure!), I'll be sure to include one or two lame characters along with at least one lame situation. That combination will probably ruin a good column but it just might work!
Well, I've finished my meal and Katie's brought me another icy cold Pabst. Glenn Miller's "Little Brown Jug" is wafting from the Wurlitzer, so I think I'll just sit back, enjoy the music and watch the patrons come and go for awhile. Until next time, remember this Irish blessing (I'm an honorary Irishman):
May the road rise up to meet you,
May he wind always be at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rain fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Can An Executive Order Keep the Democrats in the White House and Help Them on the Hill?

It appears President Barack Obama has finally come to his wits end. He going to use Executive Order to implement further gun control or oversight, mainly in beefing up background checks and requirng more people to be licensed as gun dealers.

The president has been trying to get Congress to lead the way for such an increase since the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre in December of 2012 but GOP opposition, rational or not, has been a formidable adversary.

What makes the timing for such action interesting is that it's being pitched during a presidential election year, the final year of his presidency. Inasmuch as Mr. Obama was unable to rally any GOP support from the onset for his gun control campaign, it seems odd he didn't elect to use Executive Order from the beginning. Every effort over the last three years has been as successful, at best, as getting the KKK and the NAACP to agree on a common goal; and at worst, as getting the Earps and Clantons in Tombstone to agree to let bygones be bygones.Therefore, can Mr. Obama's decision to enact this particular Executive Order be viewed as a coincidence?

While the need for increased gun oversight has its merits and no real disadvantages are evident, there is a significant downside...implementation and enforcement. Therefore, I see the use of Executive Order more of a political tactic than a real chance of obtaining the desired results. Remember, an Executive Order is only valid under the president who ordered it. Thus, it must be hoped by Mr. Obama that a Democrat wins in November, thereby assuring the continuance of the E.O. if Congress doesn't act. And Mrs. Clinton, the Democratic front runner, shares Mr. Obama's views on the issue, as does Mr. Sanders.

Mr. Obama, therefore, is stumping for the Democratic Party as a whole with his desire to use Executive Order on such a controversial, divisive and highly personal issue for a growing number of people. It's an attempt to rally popular support; to show that Democrats are for increased safety and accountability where firearms sales and purchases are concerned while at the same time trying to paint the Republican Party as a soulless and callous "political" party that is willing to put "guns rights" ahead of safety...ahead of the deaths of one, two or three individuals or those slaughtered en masse, especially like those at Sandy Hook.

This tactic then can have an overlapping effect whereby Democratic Congressional seats can be gained by riding the coattails of a successful Democratic campaign for the presidency, allowing the Democrats to remain in the White House and build its presence in Congress, at least by retaking the Senate. And developing a strong Democratic presence in Congress is crucial to having Obamacare remain alive, if not well. Keep in mind that the Affordable Care Act was passed by Democrats; it was not a bipartisan effort. So, if the GOP maintains its hold on Capitol Hill, controlling both chambers, (and gains the White House), that contentious piece of legislation, Mr. Obama's "defining moment', will go down the drain at the hands of the GOP. They will have made good on their promise to destroy Obamacare.

So here's where the president's use of an Executive Order as a"stumping"tool becomes extremely significant. The Democratic Party has never won three consecutive presidential terms in recent history. Not since Franklin D. Roosevelt. The odds are against the Democrats. For the presidency and the Democratic Party as a whole, this is literally shaping up to be a "winner take all" election year.

Even a State Can Shoot Itself in the Foot

It looks like the state of Minnesota might have to do battle with the Department of Homeland Security. And that battle actually had its start in a 2005 law that was designed to improve airport security for commercial flights. When it fully takes effect, the federal government's Real ID requires an improved driver's license that will help stop identity fraud and enhance security.
However, Minnesota is not able to comply with Real ID because in 2009 the state passed a law that banned it from implementing or even preparing to comply with the new federal law! According to Minnesota, it would first have to repeal the 2009 law but even in doing that, necessary changes to come in line with Real ID wouldn't be ready until early 2018.
However, this is the trivia question of the day. Since when does "state law" supersede "federal law?" It's common knowledge that federal law trumps state law...always. States, however, can make laws tougher than federal ones but not weaken or block them. States that have legalized marijuana are still in conflict with federal law that prohibits the drug. If the feds get you, you're cooked!
So, Minnesota has dug its own grave, placed a beautiful headstone and is burying itself, for you see, if the state does not come around to Real ID requirements when there are needed (technically sometime in 2016!), TSA personnel will prevent passengers from boarding planes. However, a passport will be acceptable.
And oh. It's strange that DHS hasn't mentioned the invalid nature of the 2009 law, especially since Minnesota has asked for and been denied extensions. Simple: If you didn't have the law, there wouldn't be any problem.
But talk about shooting yourself in the foot. Minnesota could give lessons.