The Doctor is In

 There is little more than a month before Joe Biden takes the oath of office as the 46th President of the United States and the Biden Administration already seems to have it's first issue of controversy. As the White House moves through the day-to-day issues around the nation and the world, some people appear stuck on how to address Dr. Jill Biden, future First Lady of the United States.

An editorial in the Wall Street Journal is questioning not the validity of the doctorate Dr. Biden has earned, but the legitimacy of said doctorate. The editorial states, "No one should call himself 'Doctor' unless he has delivered a child." There it is, scientists, surgeons, physicists, and economists. No baby? No doctorate! And while we're on the subject, congratulations to all the police officers, EMT's, first responders, and dads-to-be who didn't make it to the hospital in time. According to the "experts" at the Wall Street Journal, you have earned the right to call yourself "Doctor".

Dr. Biden earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Delaware. From there, she earned two Masters Degrees (Villanova and West Chester Universities). After that, she went back to the University of Delaware where she earned her Doctorate in Education. The University of Delaware is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), and its Chemical Engineering Program and Physical Therapy Graduate Program are ranked in the Top 10.

Close but no cigar for Jill Biden. Undergraduate degree, two masters, and a dissertation on how to help students at the community college level. Admirable but it won't meet the rigorous standards at WSJ. On top of that, "No one should call himself 'Doctor' unless he has delivered a baby." "He". Jill Biden is a "she". Yet another qualification missed out on. And yet, despite all this, Jill Biden is to be addressed as Dr. Biden?

Yes. And she should be.

Dr. Biden went through the proper educational channels to earn her Doctorate. She met the standards put forth by the colleges and universities and the institutions that accredited them. The idea that she should remove the title of "Doctor" from her name because she never delivered a baby can only be described by adjectives and superlatives that I will not write out of proper decorum. If however, the Wall Street Journal wishes to stand by its opinion, can we continue to call those who write for it "Journalists"? If not, do we refer to the Wall Street Journal as a "Newspaper"? Maybe WSJ should stick to finance and economics and stay away from conferring Doctorates and titles.

Who Wants to Come Together?

 Votes are still being counted but the results appear to favor former Vice President Joe Biden, who stands to be the 46th President of the United States. Less than a week after Election Day, Biden, along with his supporters, are calling on the country to come together as one nation, to work together and put the animosity behind us and recognize that we are all Americans.

Social media has been filled with posts and pictures of Biden supporters hugging and congratulating each other. Signs on front lawns are saying we are all Americans and the time has come to put our differences aside and to work and live together again.

People voted for change again and they got it. The past two elections will have resulted in a transfer of power. Granted, the last came because President Barack Obama had served two terms. The most allowed under the Constitution. Those who were ready to welcome a new leader took to the streets with fists raised when they saw the results were not what they had expected or hoped.

Donald Trump's presidency was met with angry cries, destruction of private property, chants of, "Not My President!" These people who shouted down political opponents, who trespassed on private property and stole or vandalized signs supporting President Trump, now want these people who suffered loss of property to come together and stand with them in unity; To show the world we truly are a united nation.

It's one thing to be upset when you lose something. Everyone has lost and everyone gets upset. But to stand in the middle of the street and prevent people from getting to work, to school, to prevent people from taking their children to a doctor's appointment because you don't like how an election turned out, and then expect the other side to show class and grace now that you finally get a result you like; That is the apex of hypocrisy.

But Trump was never president to begin with. He LOST. Hillary Clinton got more votes than Donald Trump.

Hillary Clinton got more of the popular vote. Donald Trump received more electoral votes. The electoral votes decide the White House, and people knew that all along. It's been the same way for every Presidential Election. Now that the system didn't favor your candidate, you want to change the rules?

Of course you do. And while people waited for the rules to change, they protested. Not in the sense of assembling peacefully, making speeches and listening to what was said. No. Instead, people burned things down, looted stores, shouted profanities at Trump and his "racist" supporters. People sought to post disparaging pictures, memes, and other derogatory messages about trump on every social media platform so much, so often, I wonder what these people were accomplishing at work and at home.

But now we need to come together. Like a little child who finally got the toy or gift they wanted and is loving and tenderhearted toward their parents after throwing a fit in the middle of the store, the same people who shouted and spit at people who supported their candidate's opponent want everyone to come together. Those who ripped hats of individual's heads, those who stood in the middle of the street and smashed windows of oncoming cars who refused to stop while you tried to block them because you didn't get your way now want their opponents to meet them in the middle and join arm in arm to celebrate the one thing we have in common: Being Americans.

Before all of this happens, maybe you should check the mirror.

Or, even better, your cell phones and Internet History.

Changing the Rules Will Not Bring "Change"

 The 2020 Election is finally here. Liberals and Conservatives alike have spent the last four years telling everyone who their voting for. Who said both sides can't work together?

In Massachusetts, there are two questions on the ballot. One of them refers to "Ranked-Choice Voting". According to the ballot, voters can vote for more than one candidate in an election. The candidate with the least amount of votes is dropped from the contest and votes are counted until a winner in the contest is determined. The idea is to bring more people (Parties) into the election and give third-party candidates a better chance in the election.

In other words, there are still people who treat the elections like popularity contests and are afraid of "throwing their vote away" if they vote for who they really want to win. Ranked-Choice voting will allow people to vote for their candidate and hedge their bets in case people feel like they are wasting their vote.

Changing the election laws is not the way to enact change. The most effective way to enact change is to vote for who you want to win. If you are truly upset with the two largest political parties in the United States, don't vote for  those parties. Vote for a party that hasn't held an office. Vote for a party that truly has grass-roots organizers. Electing a third party candidate will wake up the elected officials in state and federal offices and make them truly work together. The third parties will also be working for the people who sent them to office to get work done and improve life for all.

Or you could just vote for a larger party and then wonder why nothing gets done.

Masks Everywhere

 Autumn is well underway and the precautions that come with Corona are mixing up plans for hayrides and haunted houses and anything else that comes with celebrating the changing of the seasons.

There are already some cities and towns in Massachusetts that are cancelling or modifying Halloween celebrations and activities. These announcements have undoubtedly disappointed the little ghouls and goblins who look forward to dressing up and getting candy. It's hard for the parents who have to explain this wo the youngsters.

Hopefully, you are in a town that is allowing trick-or-treating. If you are still looking for a costume that will protect you from COVID-19 and let you trick-or-treat, I want to offer some suggestions.

Astronaut - Find a helmet and put it on before you ring the doorbell.

Cowboy - The bank robbers in the old Westerns wore a mask covering their nose and mouth.

Doctor/Surgeon - Dress up in scrubs and a mask.

Hazmat Unit

Ninja

Racecar Driver

Maybe you have come up with these ideas already. Maybe it would be tough to find something (Astronaut) that could properly protect you or find a costume like that, anyway. I just wanted to offer some suggestions that would protect you and still allow you to go trick-or-treating.

Trump's Coronavirus Diagnosis Sparks Healthcare Debate

President Donald Trump has returned to the White House after being treated for Coronavirus. The issue has sparked another debate about the polarizing executive. This time it surrounds his handling of the pandemic and his attitude towards having it.

Another debate has come up regarding the President and the illness: the care he has received. President Trump received top-notch care while he was being treated for COVID-19 and Americans have used this as an example of the disparity in the United States regarding healthcare.

Donald Trump is the President of the United States. As president, he is afforded priveleges and perks the rest of the Americans don't get: The White House, Camp David, a liomousine, an airplane, a helicopter just to name a few. He also has access to healthcare Americans don't have. This may seem like a disparity but most Americans don't have a job that requires 14-hour work days, being on call 24-7, frequent international travel, or high levels of stress that come with dealing with international relations or potential threats to the country.

He is also not the only person with this access. Senate Majority Mitch McConnell, another Conservative also has access to healthcare most Americans do not have. The same can be said for Speaker of the house Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Liberals in Congress. These people, who work on both sides of the aisle, have healthcare most Americans can only dream of. Members of Congress are already covered by the "Federal Employee Health Benefits" (FEHB). This exempts members of Congress, Liberals and Conservatives from the American Care Act (ACA) and leaves them with little to worry about when it comes to their healthcare. Donald Trump is not the only one in Washington receiving top-notch care while the rest of us aren't able to afford it.

Why Jo Jorgensen Should be at the Debate

Photo: Wikipedia

 The first Presidential Debate is tonight at 9:00. President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden will answer questions and try to convince voters why each is a better choice than his opponent.

As usual, tonight's debate will feature the nominees from the Democratic and Republican Parties even though there are more than those two parties running for office. There has been a call on social media to allow other parties in the debate, especially from supporters for Jo Jorgensen, the Libertarian nominee for President.

Debates and politics overall have been dominated by the Democrats and Republicans for far too long. People who are actively looking for change continue to go to the polls thinking they only have two choices. This is not true. Voters will always have additional choices but feel Democrats or Republicans are the only ones who can win an election.

Jorgensen should have a chance to speak at tonight's debate and tell the voters what she would plan to do if elected President. She could also be the one to "make history" as so many supporters of Hilary Clinton claimed to want in the 2016 election. Blocking someone who has the nomination of her party from participating in the debate is wrong. It goes against what this country stands for and desires.

There are a lot of people who think the United States is going in the wrong direction. People feel there needs to be a change in the country. A lot of people have been clamoring for democracy and wanting all voices to be heard. Why not start with Jo Jorgensen?

Why Another Trump Impeachment Could Hurt Liberals

 The vacant seat on the Supreme Court has led to another battle between President Donald Trump and Liberals in Congress. Trump wants to move quickly to fill the empty seat after Ruth Bader Ginsburg's death. The Liberals are against this and want to vote after, "we have a new president," according to Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY). Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) says he will go forward with a vote on whoever the nominee is.

Liberals in Congress are not ruling out the idea of a second impeachment attempt. While she didn't specifically mention impeachment, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi said, "We have our options," and went on to mention using every arrow to "protect democracy."

This is far from a convenient time to have a vacant seat on the Supreme Court. The election is weeks away and the race for the White House will no doubt be close and interesting to watch. Conservative President Trump is facing a challenge from the Liberal Biden. The House of Representatives is controlled by the Liberals. The Senate is controlled by the Conservatives. Both sides are gearing up for a fierce fight not only for the Supreme Court but also for the White House and seats in Congress. If the House were to use impeachment to stall Trump's nomination, whatever charge they were to come up with, Pelosi has essentially said everything is on the table. Whatever charge they come up with for impeachment, the public will be aware of the underlying reason: to prevent Trump from appointing a justice to the Supreme Court.

Assuming this is tried and fails (67 senators need to vote for Impeachment), what then? How would Congress explain to the American People their reason for a third Impeachment? This is a move that could backfire on the Liberals. Would a second failed-attempt at Impeachment make Trump stronger?

It's no secret Liberals will try to block this nomination. Impeachment, however, seems like a drastic move and one that could blow up in the faces of Pelosi and those of her party. She has said all of the arrows are in the quiver. Look to those other arrows.

Trump Supporters (and others) Should QUIETLY Assemble

 A story in the New York Times and Yahoo.com reports supporters for President Donald Trump organized outside a polling station in Fairfax, Virginia and chanted, "Four more years". Officials say the supporters were 100 feet away from the station but they had formed a line, forcing voters to take a longer route to the poll.

Some voters saw the people as protestors and said they, "felt intimidated."

The Coronavirus has upheaved every facet of life, including voting. Some people have chosen to vote by mail rather than risk catching the disease at a polling station. The events of 2020 have even caused some states to have early voting to lessen the lines for the 2020 Election.

There are constantly supporters of candidates meeting outside a polling station. there are laws that say how close they can be. According to reports, these people seemed to be far enough away from where the voting was taking place. Holding a sign, waving to cars, and politely asking someone to vote for a candidate is one thing. Chanting and making something appear to be a demonstration is something else. The people who were chanting and forming lines making someone take a longer route to the poll should have stood silently and held their signs. No one does their candidate any service by shouting or chanting. It would only lead to another confrontation. If someone supporting an opposing candidate see this, what is to stop them from starting a chanting of their own. This will escalate into a shouting match or even a physical confrontation.

There has been too much commotion when it comes to politics. The democratic process practiced in every state, county, city, and town is the envy of every other country on Earth. Keep it civil. Don't turn it into a melee. Quietly support your candidate. Respect the people supporting the other candidate. Do your civic duty and peacefully return to your everyday life.

RBG Replacement Can't Wait

 

Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away yesterday and the Liberals and Conservatives have wasted no time in fighting over when or how to replace her.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has said President Donald Trump's nominee will have a vote before the next election. Liberals, including Joe Biden, have said the selection should wait until the next president is elected. The next president could be elected in six weeks or four years, depending on the results of the 2020 Election. Waiting four years to nominate and confirm a new Supreme Court justice is irresponsible and absurd.

This, of course, stems from a statement made by McConnell back in 2016. Justice Antonin Scalia passed away while Barack Obama was in office. McConnell said the vacancy, "should not be filled until we have a new president." Again, this could have taken four years. You can not wait for years for a new justice. McConnell's statement was pure politics, just as the Liberals' and Senator Chuck Schumer's posturing is now.

Massachusetts has seen something like this before. In 2004, Massachusetts State Legislature passed a law that took away the governor's power to appoint an interim senator if the office was vacated. This move by the Liberal-controlled legislative branch stripped Republican Governor Mitt Romney of a chance to appoint someone to the temporary position. Months before the death of Senator Ted Kennedy, the legislature passed a law restoring the governor's power. This gave Liberal Governor Deval Patrick the power to appoint a senator. The same thing is happening now in Washington D.C. where Liberals and Conservatives are fighting to gain and hold power and influence in the highest court of the land.

Donald Trump is the President of the United States, like it or not. As President, he has the duty to nominate judges to the Supreme Court. The Senate must act on those nominations. Stalling this process in hopes of the Liberals winning the White House will not help the country at all.

Ohio Student-Athletes Still Standing

 Two football players were originally suspended after they carried "thin blue line" and "thin red line" flags onto the field last week. The game was part of the school's "Patriot Night" according to a story on Cincinnati.com. The suspensions have since been lifted.

According to school officials, the American flag is the first to go through the tunnel every game. The players, Brady Williams and Jarad Bentley, were suspended for carrying the flags after being denied permission.

Photo: WLWT

A spokesperson for Little Miami said the school was, "saddened to see this story take such a negative turn," and that the school, "enjoys an outstanding relationship with... police and fire agencies... Little Miami always has - and always will - support our first responders... and all who sacrifice to maintain our freedoms."

This suspension should never have happened in the first place. These are teenagers, sons of a policeman (Williams) and a fireman (Bentley). They wanted to show support for their fathers and other first responders. The school suspended the players for the old "violating school policy". The school punished the students and administrators couldn't even speak for themselves on the matter. They needed a spokesperson. Did these administrators, those responsible for teaching students of Morrow, Ohio, speak to a consultant before handing down the original punishment? I doubt it, but when the residents wanted to know why their act was so egregious that these students deserved to be punished, the administrators backed off and reversed their original decision.

Good for these students. They did nothing wrong. The school, through their spokesperson boasts about their "outstanding relationship". The school, "always has - and always will - support (their) first responders." And yet, when two boys decide they will openly support their fathers - fathers who work a job so dangerous that it makes their families wonder if they will see them the next day - the "leaders" punish them and then hire someone to explain why they punished the students for violating rules put in place by the aforementioned leaders. I would love to see these leaders tell the first responders how much they "support" them. I would love to hear these explanations and examples after attempting to punish students for carrying these flags onto the playing field.

I would also like to have been in the room when permission was asked and then denied. What were the reasons for not giving permission? Because the American flag goes first. Okay. I can understand that, but aren't there exceptions to the rule. How many firefighters and police officers died on September 11, 2001? (380) What is the problem with carrying banners that represent the police and firefighters, the ones that ran to the danger of the collapsing buildings while others were running in the opposite direction?

Some have cited race as the reason for the trouble with the flag and the suspension. One black parent said the "Thin Blue Line" flag "represents a rebuttal to the 'Black Lives Matter' movement and alienates black students." The support for the students is coming from "almost all white folks" according the  parent. Eighty nine percent of the students at the school are white. Of course most of the support is going to be white. They make up a majority of the school's demographics. The school's county is also accusing the superintendent, Greg Power of a "double standard" because Power wrote an open letter citing the need to address racial injustice. Fine. Discuss it. Bring the police into a meeting with the community and bring your issues and concerns out to the open. Have a dialogue, but speak for yourself and don't hire someone to do it for you. And try to punish someone again when they want to support their family.

Andover School Committee Causing More Harm Than Good

 The school year is picking up where it left off: with students and teachers working from home because of the Coronavirus. While schools were remote-teaching and learning during the second half of the year, this year will look to be a mix of remote learning and in-person learning.

Teachers, parents, and students alike are worried about the chances of catching the virus. Cities and towns will be doing everything they can to make sure those chances are minimal.

Despite that, teachers in towns like Andover, Massachusetts are not prepared to walk into enclosed atmospheres just yet and have stated plans to work outside buildings and use laptops at a professional development day scheduled for today, according to a story. The teachers union is concerned for the safety of the teachers, going so far as to oppose the towns decision to incorporate hybrid-learning at the present time.

The school committee expects the teachers to work in-person and hopes the union will not engage in an, "illegal work stoppage." The expectations of the school committee are unreasonable. The teachers will be in an enclosed space with the students. All it will take is just one student carrying the virus into a classroom and infecting the class. These students will take the virus home, to their neighborhoods.

Massachusetts as a whole has been doing what needs to be done to stem COVID-19. The school committee forcing the teachers to work in the schools and the classrooms is not the way to move forward. Shannon Scully, the chairperson of the school committee, should work with the teachers union and show that the school committee truly cares about the safety of the teachers and students instead of speaking from a bully pulpit and threatening to make a bad public health scenario worse.

New Indictments won't Affect Trump

 Former Trump advisor Stephen Bannon and two others have been indicted by a grand jury for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Money Laundering. The indictment was handed down by a federal court in New York City and names Brian Kolfage, an air force veteran and coffee entrepreneur, and Andrew Badolato, a venture capitalist. According the the indictment, Kolfage knowingly received money for his part in raising money for a border wall after multiple assurances he would not get anything.

This indictment is the latest "death knell" for President Trump, who as publicly voiced his opposition for private funding for the Mexican border wall, a key point in his 2016 campaign. The website gofundme.com has multiple efforts for this exact project and the subject of a border wall between the United States and Mexico has been a source of contention for many political debates. The sticking point with this particular effort involves a promise made multiple times by Kolfage that he would not accept any money from this endeavor. In fact, Kolfage asked people to buy his coffee so he could support his family since we was not taking anything from the wall efforts. That statement turned out to be false.

Trump's history with Bannon is well-documented and it is safe to say that everybody knows the two know each other. If the charges are true, and according to the grand jury indictment they appear to be, then Bannon and the other guilty parties should be subject to the appropriate punishments as provided by the law. Some are saying this presents another problem for the White House. This is not true. The White House has already distanced itself from this effort long before it was known that Kolfage, Bannon, and Badolato were skimming funds. Donald Trump has wanted a border wall between the U.S. and Mexico for a long time. He never wanted Badolato, Bannon, Kolfage, or anybody to go out on their own and raise money privately for this endeavor. Anyone who wants or thinks that the President is responsible for any of this is simply holding on to their hopes of Impeachment. 

Would People be Willing to Tune in?

I listened to the radio a lot when I was younger but I didn't listen to music. I listened to AM talk radio. I don't remember all of the names of the people I listened to but I do remember some of the shows. There would be some new sprinkled in during the shows but a lot of the material came from people calling in with their own stories or concerns.

Shows back then weren't heavy on political material and if they were, they were people calling in with their opinions on matters. Shows today like Howie Carr have an obvious slant and there is no attempt to hide it.

That's fine. There is an audience and a market for that. I'm wondering if there is a market for shows where people just call in to talk about life and issues that aren't politically slanted. Just talk about local, state, or national politics without bashing liberals or conservatives.

In Boston, there is Dan Rea's NightSide, a nightly program on WBZ-AM. Rea's program allows people to call in and discuss issues and topics introduced at the start of the program. There are plenty of people with opinions to share and the opinions are rarely on the same side but it does allow for people to explain why they feel a certain way about an issue.

There are many podcasts now with people conducting interviews. It's disappointing to turn on the radio and find nationally syndicated programs. If stations looked a little closer at the communities they "serve", I think they would notice something missing. Local voices. People wanting their thoughts heard and a forum to make that happen.

Trader Joe's didn't, and shouldn't, change

A petition was launched earlier this month calling on Trader Joe's to change the names of certain products. According to the petition, products being sold by the California-based grocery chain were "racist" and signers of the petition were calling on Trader Joe's to remove or rename the products.

Early reports said Trader Joe's had responded to the calls and agreed to remove such products as "Arabian Joe's" Coffee and "Trader José's Premium" Mexican Beer. According to the petition signers, the products perpetuated "harmful stereotypes".

Trader Joe's released a statement on its website regarding the matter. In it, the company addressed the petition and said it was not changing any names that some people may find to be offensive. Rather, changing the names of products is a decision based on marketing and sales. In other words, Trader Joe's, like other companies will continue with products that sell and tweak products that don't.

I'm glad Trader Joe's chose to keep the names of these products. These are not racist or demeaning names. They are names that go with the products and their origins: Arabian coffee, Mexican products, Asian food. They are creative marketing plays meant to play on the company name.

The product's names created by Trader Joe's are meant to be tongue-in-cheek. They are meant to lend "authenticity" to the products they sell. There is no intent to offend anyone or any group any more than "Newman's Own" means to offend ethnic groups when the likeness of Paul Newman is seen dressed in a sombrero on a jar of salsa or like a gondolier on a bottle of salad dressing. I'm not sure what the petitioners are seeing in these labels or names, but I am certainly not seeing it. What is next from these people demanding "change"? Taco Bell? Is Sbarro poking fun at Italians? Those who are calling for the change are completely missing the point. I wonder how many of them have purchased these products in the past before becoming "woke".

Cam Newton's Classy Call

Cam Newton has made headlines throughout New England since he decided to join the Patriots. There was a smaller story about the team's new quarterback recently when he was spotted flying a commercial airline recently. The 6'5" Newton wanted a first-class seat but there were none available. He had to settle for a seat in coach.

Newton reportedly offered someone flying first-class $1200 for the seat. The person refused Newton's offer. Newton continued on to his seat. He didn't force the passenger out. He didn't make a commotion to the flight attendants. He didn't make a scene. Cam Newton, starting NFL quarterback, went to his seat in coach and flew to his destination.

Some may say, "Well. he's a member of the Patriots and Bill Belichick spoke to him about what was expected." That may be so, but Newton made the conscious choice to fly coach in the first place. He decided he wanted a first-class seat. He is a professional athlete who is accustomed to a certain level of comfort when he travels. He thought he could get himself a first-class seat and he did what anyone else would do: He made an offer to someone for what they had and he wanted. The person said no. Newton went on his way.

You read stories about star-athletes causing a scene when they don't get what they want. There have been stories of politicians getting people kicked off flights so they can have the plebeian's seat. Maybe Newton realized he was in a public setting. Maybe he was spoken to about the "Patriot Way." Maybe he's just a decent human being who tried and accepted, "No." There are a lot of celebrities who wouldn't show class when they didn't get what they wanted no matter how many people were around with cameras rolling. Cam Newton decided to go on with his life and job.

A New Flag for Massachusetts

Native Americans in Massachusetts have assembled outside the State House on Beacon Hill calling for a change to the official flag of the commonwealth: A Native American in the middle of a blue shield. The shield is in front of a white background. The Native American is holding a bow and arrow. The arrow is pointed down to signify peace. Under the shield is the motto of the commonwealth: "Ense peiti placidum, sub libertate quietum". The phrase is Latin for "By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty."

The sticking point about the flag is a hand holding a sword over the native's head. This is interpreted as the White Man exercising his strength and power over the Native American and his people. Some of the people assembled have called Massachusetts the, "last U.S. state, whose flag includes representations of white supremacy."

Slow down.

The flag depicts an Algonquian man standing there with two of his daily tools: a bow and arrow. Other than than, the man is just standing there. The flag does not insinuate that the man is threat to anyone or anything. He is standing there. If this a threat to anybody, there is a new level of "triggered" I am not aware of. The sword? Is it threatening the man or is it there above him ready to defend him against anyone who may try to attack him? This, of course, could be open to interpretation.

The "Heritage Bill", as it is being called, goes on to require schools and sports teams in the commonwealth that use a Native American as a mascot to replace said mascot. Proponents of this measure say there is a "stereotype" that "relates to civil rights".

Earlier this week, the Washington Redskins gave in to protestors and agreed to get rid of the name and logo, a profile of a Native American's face.

I am trying to figure out how a man standing tall and holding his tools of daily living can offend someone of this heritage. Native Americans used bows and arrows to hunt and defend themselves, not only against white people but also against rival tribes. The man on the seal is not depicted as an idiot. He is not shown as someone inferior to another tribe or even to another race. He is simply shown as a man.

Protestors want this symbol removed. What's next? The name "Massachusetts" comes from one of the tribes that once inhabited a part of the commonwealth, the Massachusett. Does that exploit Native Americans? No, you say? Just wait.

Civility During This Independence Day

The United States will celebrate the 244th anniversary of its independence this week. The celebration will fall in the midst of protests and debates surrounding the roles played by merchandising icons and statues, just to name a few of the things that have triggered opinions and demonstrations across the country.

As we watch these demonstrations, we are still dealing with the fallout from Coronavirus. Many people are deciding it is safe to congregate in large groups again. Numbers are going back up and reminding us all it is still better to be socially distant.

Some are coming together at beaches and want to have some fun after being shut in for months. Others are coming together to protest and demonstrate. We are still dealing with this threat to our public health. It is wise to wear a mask.

For those who will assemble and protest, it is your right to do so. It is protected by the First Amendment. Damaging property and looting is not. It is fine to publicly display and announce your opinion. I do hope that if you see someone looting, you will try to stop them or call the police. Destroying and stealing property does not further a cause. It hurts someone who is trying to work and provide for their family. You are doing nobody a favor by looting.

To those who want to see monuments and statues removed, there is a process in place for that. Petition your leaders. State your reasons why. Climbing and attempting to destroy an object fixed into the ground risks injury or even death to yourself or someone else. Acting like a hooligan does not help a cause. It risks injury.

I also hope those who watch the protests go on will allow those people to march and make their opinions known. This is their right. Protestors, please keep it peaceful and orderly. You do not help yourselves by destroying property or threatening to harm people. Let both sides have their say. Let everyone be heard. Happy Independence Day.

Minneapolis Union Fighting to Reinstate Accused Cops

The four police officers charged in the death of George Floyd have been stripped of their jobs and are in prison awaiting trial but a story on nbcnews.com details the attempts of the local union to help the four win their jobs back.

According to Bob Kroll, the President of the Minneapolis Police Officers Union, The officers arrested and charged in Floyd's death, Derek Chauvin, J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao were fired, "without due process". Kroll went on to say in a letter to the union that efforts were underway to get their jobs back.

If this is true, than the process used to remove the four officers from their jobs should be reviewed. Those who are accused of breaking the law should have their day to defend themselves and their jobs. George Floyd did not get this. That is true. However, this is why the four were removed from duty and that case is still pending. At the same time, Chauvin, Kueng, Lane and Thao were arrested and charged with multiple crimes including third-degree murder, manslaughter and aiding and abetting. They are being held at a correctional facility in Minnesota. If they were to get their jobs back, it would be hard to report for duty from there.


photo: cnn.com

Struggles with the North End's Re-opening

There will be a meeting today for  North End restauranteurs regarding a number of concerns residents are dealing with as Massachusetts allows restaurants to open for business with outdoor-dining as Corona (Covid-19) continues its presence. Among the concerns are loud music blaring on the street, patrons smoking, and tables being set up beyond the allowed layout.

Anyone who does not attend the meeting will not be able to serve customers. In the story linked, some owners report hearing so many things and they are hoping the meeting can provide some clarification.

Some of this may indeed be a matter of misunderstanding. Restaurants thought the tables could extend to a certain point when in fact, that is not the case. The music? Possibly just restaurants trying to provide some ambiance. "Loud" is a relative term.

Smoking? Not allowed inside a restaurant. Could customers be trying to get around that by saying they are outside? Maybe, but the restaurants must work to explain to their customers what is acceptable and what is not. Restaurants, especially the independently-owned ones, desperately need this phase of re-opening to remain in business. The employees are depending on this as well.

Customers who are rude and unruly are not helping the matter at all and restaurants would be well within their rights to remove those customers and refuse service. State and municipal leaders are working together with businesses to make sure people can return to work. Would police officers walking around the area help if there is a disturbance or confusion as to the rules?

If a patron enters the restaurant and does not follow the rules, it is the restaurants that will suffer the consequences. The restaurants can remind those who are not following the rules what the regulations and acceptable behaviors are. Customers who follow the rules can help by reminding a nearby party. If not, the restaurant should remove the disrespectful people from their respective establishment. The business won't be missed. A lot of people are anxious to get back out.

A Movie About Race Relations to Bring the People Together

Since the death of George Floyd and the subsequent arrests of the police officers involved, there has been a national dialogue on race relations and what can be done to improve them; Especially when it comes to law enforcement. People across the country have marched in the streets, mostly in a peaceful manner, calling for reforms to how police react to alleged crimes being committed.

I saw a movie a long time ago called "Undercover Brother". The movie is about a black man who is recruited by a black organization (The Brotherhood) to infiltrate white culture and prevent "The Man" from holding down the black people. The movie is a comedy and it is great on so many levels. It is funny but, more important, it contains every assumption white people have of black people and vice versa.

There is talk of drive-in movie theatres making a comeback. People are wanting to go to the movies and still "socially distance". Towns and schools sponsor "Movie Nights". This should be in the upcoming schedule. Let both races come together and laugh. Let them sit together and enjoy a movie. It will help to alleviate the tensions that have risen.

White and black people say they want the races to come together. Do just that. Eat some popcorn have a drink. Learn how a white man gets to intern for The Brotherhood. Learn what happens to black people when they eat mayonnaise. Sit down and laugh without worrying about someone potentially being offended. It's a movie. It's meant to entertain and amuse people, black people, white people. People. It will make you laugh. It won't bring George Floyd back. It won't change the past. Nothing will. It might bring some people together, even after the movie ends.

photo: aftercredits.com

Looting Does not Honor George Floyd's Memory

The death of George Floyd is, to say the least, senseless. Whatever Floyd did, it did not call for him to spend his last moments on Earth in agony trying to breathe.

Derek Chauvin, who is allegedly responsible for Floyd's death, is facing charges for the incident. Reports say this is not the first time Chauvin has had to answer for his actions. the scene in Minneapolis has been intense as protestors have called for justice after Floyd's death. Similar protests have occurred throughout the country, including protests that have damaged CNN bureaus.

I will reiterate what I have already said. Floyd's death is senseless. All parties responsible and liable should be stripped of their badges. Those who have sworn to uphold the law should be held accountable to that same law. They should also be tried according to that law. They should have a lawyer and a trial by jury. Witnesses should be called to testify for the prosecution and the defense.

What should not happen is the looting and destruction that has occurred in cities throughout the nation as people continue to call for Officer Chauvin's conviction. Officer Chauvin will have his day in court and he will answer for whatever charges may have been committed.

People of Minneapolis and other cities encaging in sympathy protests are not doing anything to help their cause or demands by destroying public and private property. It is one thing to publicly call for people to be help accountable for their actions. It is another thing to smash windows and set cars and buildings on fire. CNN headquarters in Atlanta was set on fire as a result of the protests.

People are angry. People want answers. People want justice. You won't get any of that if you are destroying property and setting things on fire. The way to get justice is to supervise the police department, the courts, the system. Destroying property and risking injury to others and yourself is not the way. It only risks arrest and injury. That is not what George Floyd or his family would want.

What is really behind the push to re-open Businesses During COVID?

There is a push from protestors across the country to re-open businesses and allow people to return to work. Businesses everywhere, especially small businesses are calling on the federal and individual state governments to allow businesses to re-open and let people go back to work, get off unemployment, and get the economy back on track.

Golf courses in Massachusetts have been allowed to re-open. Hair salons are pushing to go back in operation. I wonder how many of these decisions are politically motivated. After all, this is an election year and there are plenty of incumbent officeholders who are looking to keep their jobs. The last thing an elected official wants to do is upset their electorate.

Countless numbers of people are marching, organizing, and protesting for the government to allow businesses to re-open. I understand the clamor and the frustration, but the truth is, businesses closing and people staying at home are what has contributed to stemming the tide of the Corona Virus. There are people and businesses hurting, but what good is businesses opening if it contributes to spreading the virus. Can you put a monetary value on people falling ill or dying as a result of re-opening the economy? And what of the people who will be going to work? What about the people who will be forced to go back to work because the Government deemed it "safe"? These people will have no choice but to go back to work or face termination. Good luck trying to find a job nowadays. If you're an elected official, good luck facing an angry mob of people who have lost their jobs as a result of the Corona Pandemic.

The best thing to do is to keep things as they are for a longer period of time. No one likes seeing someone lose their job or a local business closing for good, but it is a better alternative to a spike in cases of a disease for which there is no cure.

Greater Good Outweighs Individual Rights With COVID

I think we are two months into Coronapalooza. I've grown accustomed to waiting in line outside a grocery store until waved in by someone, usually a police officer. Instead of walking up to neighbors, I'm talking to them from across the street.

I'm paying some attention to the news. I see the numbers going up and down. New cases. Deaths. I'm social-distancing and doing what I can to help flatten the curve. It's rough for you and for me. It's rougher, I'm sure, for some than it is for others. Everyone is dealing in the best way they can. I'm still waiting for my child's baseball season (I was supposed to coach) to start.

There are a lot of people in the news who are pushing for businesses to reopen, especially golf courses and hair salons. I understand their need and frustration. This is their business. Their livelihood. There are people who are marching and protesting. They want to return to their normal lives. We all do.

Governor Charlie Baker has allowed golf courses to reopen with certain conditions and restrictions. Proponents of hair salons reopening are seeing this as a reason their hope should be fulfilled. My opinion is that both should remain closed. Golf courses are large and it is easy to social distance outside but what about inside the pro shop? What about the chance you are taking in the off chance you come into contact with someone. You take the same chance when you are at the grocery store, I know, but you need to go to the grocery store. That is a chance you actually have to take.

There have been protests throughout the country. People want to go back to their daily lives. We all do. Unfortunately, Covid-19 and how it can be passed does not allow that. People who attend the protest and do so without a mask are exercising their right to assemble. They are also risking exposure to a potentially deadly illness and also putting their families at risk. This is not the right thing to do as we try to let Covid-19 run its course. It only prolongs the situation we are in and pushes an unknown end further back.

Helping Everyone Survive During Covid-19

My family and I are dealing with the "Social Distancing" in the best way we can, much like everyone else in our neighborhood. My wife works from home as a result of having a cold as Coronapalooza was reaching its height (I'm not sure we're at the top yet). My kids don't have school. They love it except for the part where we make them read or do some work they got from school. I have help with dishes and laundry. That gives me more time for things like waiting for this whole staying-indoors and avoiding people thing to subside.

We order take-out at my house from time to time. We are doing what we can to support the local businesses and hope they can make it and still be there when everyone can return to their everyday lives. We've recently made it a point to buy milk and other staples from the local corner store so they can also remain in business. I'm hoping you and your neighbors will think of doing the same thing. The person running the local business is someone who lives in your town. He or she may employ someone who lives in your town, maybe even on your street. It would mean a lot to them if you did a little shopping in their store every once in a while. They may not have everything you need, but I'm sure they could help you out. We can help them out.

The economy and the effect the Corona Virus could have is still in the news. No doubt, there is and will be a fallout from so many people having to stay home. People still have bills to pay and they need to buy food. That's why I am reminding people of their local corner store and local restaurant and sandwich shop. These places are members our community. They also have families that need to be supported. They employ people with families.

I wonder what positives will spring from this pandemic. Will people "keeping it local" be able to help the small business, not only survive, but also thrive? Sometimes, the corner store is closer than the grocery store. Nowadays, it is important that people are not outside or interacting as much with other people. The local store could help make that possible. It will help keep people in work and they won't have to get laid off. Local restaurants are offering takeout. Take advantage of this. Help your neighbors. Help your community.

The Coronavirus is Bad but Not That Bad

The Corona Virus has gripped the world and dominated the news for weeks. Some people have died from it and the fear of the virus is such that the NBA has suspended the rest of the season.

I am not dismissing the severity of the Coronavirus and this blog post is not meant to minimize what is happening to those who are falling victim. Instead, I want to remind you there are ways to protect yourself and stop spreading it.

• Stay clean. Wash your hands. Bathe. Wear clean clothes. The most effective way to kill germs is with soap and water. They taught that in kindergarten.
• Cover your mouth when you cough and sneeze.
• Change your clothes, especially your underwear. (Yes. Some people need to be reminded of this.)

There is a lot of talk about this. A lot of this is coming from the media. Any media: Conservative, Liberal, Alternative. It is their job to inform the public and it is my opinion the media is feeding the mania everyone is experiencing. When you keep reporting on something over and over again, it appears to be bigger than it is. When celebrities are affected, it seems to be more prevalent because it has penetrated that "bubble".

We can get through this. Take care of yourself. Do what you were taught to do when you were a kid. Do what you're supposed to do anyway. This will stop the spread of this and the world will be better.

And, for the love of God, lay off the toilet paper.

Elizabeth Warren cost Elizabeth Warren the Nomination

Rejection can be a tough thing to take. Sometimes you will tell yourself something to soften the blow. Sometimes you can do some soul-searching and figure out what happened. What went wrong?
There are times when some people can't do that. Some people have such grand plans for themselves they feel as if it is their destiny or even their birthright. If it doesn't unfold the way they thought or wanted, something went wrong. In fact, some people will cry "foul" because it was theirs but, in the end, it wasn't.

There are plenty of people crying "foul" this week after Senator Elizabeth Warren suspended her campaign for President this week. Warren did not get the momentum she and her supporters were hoping for on Super Tuesday. She has since decided to end her own bid and return to Senate.

Warren's announcement has brought on cries of sexism among her supporters and the media. People are intimidated by a woman running for President. They don't know what to make of her. An article in the Atlantic cites Warren not being white or male being issues that contributed to her message not resonating with voters.

Or maybe, it was just the message. I know it's hard for Warren supporters to embrace, but maybe it was her stance on issues. Instead of gender, maybe it was her trying to hide behind her staff when she was spotted leaving a private jet.

Kamala Harris, a woman, ran for president. She dropped out. Where was the rancor? Tulsi Gabbrd, a woman, continues to seek the nomination. Where was the outrage when she placed lower than Warren in the primaries? Warren placed third in the states she represents in Senate: Massachusetts. Was the state, which sent her to Senate suddenly cognizant of the fact that they had sent a woman? Did they finally realize they had elected and re-elected a woman?

What happened to Elizabeth Warren happened to someone's child when they don't make a sports team or get the lead role in the play. Supporters are so blinded by the fact that Warren's message (not her gender) doesn't appeal to people. They can't see that, however, and instead of stepping back and taking stock, it's easier to blame the coach, the teacher, or the electorate.

Bernie Sanders: Independent Until There's an Election

A lawsuit was filed in Leon County, Florida to prevent Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) from seeking the Democratic nomination for President. The lawsuit contends that Sanders is not officially a Democrat and therefore cannot run as one.

Sanders is registered as a Democrat with the Federal Election Commission. His page on senate.gov identifies him as an Independent.

Sanders' campaign has called the allegations "spurious" and says Sanders will be on the ballot in Florida. Florida's primary is scheduled for March 17.

I have been curious to know how someone can be one party (or none) while serving in office and another while running for office. Joe Lieberman lost a re-election bid in 2006 as a Democrat and ran in the General Election as a third-party candidate. President Donald Trump threatened to run as a third-party candidate in 2016 if he did not secure the Republican Party nomination.

There have been a growing number of unenrolled voters in the United States. Many (myself included) do not belong to a political party. I wonder why Sanders feels he needs the backing of the Democratic Party if he message is resonating with so many people.

As always, it is the electorate and only the electorate who can decide the election. All good people can come to the aid of their party and vote for people who actually belong to the Democratic party instead of those who want to join on an election year. If Democrats decide to support a true Democrat, then Sanders still has the option to run as he truly is: an Independent.

Limbaugh's merits come into question

Conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh received the Presidential Medal of Freedom last night at the State of the Union Address. "It is awarded by the President... to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the security of national interests of America, to world peace. or... other significant... endeavors," according to whitehouse.gov.

Who is deserving of the medal is entirely up to the President of the United States. Recipients of the medal will, in most cases, be debated by people for as long as the medal is awarded. In the case of someone as polarizing as Rush Limbaugh, more people will debate it and the debate will be longer.

Did Limbaugh deserve this honor? No. He has not contributed to the interests of America; Only Conservatism. He has not promoted world peace. He has spent his time extolling the greatness of the Political Right and poling fun at the Left. His gimmicks include giving nicknames to liberal politicians (Shifty Schiff) and TV networks (PMSNBC) and labelling the liberal media as "The Drive-by Media".

Under the medal's description, Limbaugh would fall under the "other significant endeavors" portion. The man has been successful and has been able to capitalize on the feelings and passions of a political base. But to award someone who has made a living by mocking another base and trumpeting his own virtues and "wisdom" leaves a lot of questions. At the same time, it leaves little wonder why we as a nation are so divided and polarized.

A Pleasant Dining Out Experience

The minimum wage in Massachusetts for tipped employees is $3.75 per hour. The last time I waited tables (Bill Clinton was President) it was almost one dollar less than that. That's a lot of running around for that type of money. People who go out to eat don't tip well anyway. Don't tell me it's because the service isn't good. I've seen a lot of people bust it from table to table and they don't get a good tip to show for it.

I was talking to a friend of mine who got back from a trip to Europe. He was telling me about the dining experience there. The waitstaff in Europe give you their undivided attention and the best part about dining out is that there is no tip so you don't feel rushed to leave when you get your check. There's no one walking back and forth by your table to see if you have paid so they can clear and set their table and get ready for the next party to be seated at your table.

The waitstaff takes care of you and you don't feel like you're being rushed in Europe. You can take your time with the meal and since the waiter or waitress is already getting paid for their shift, there's no pressure to upsell or add on items when you are ordering your meal.

I know the argument to this: "This will cause the price of everything to go up." Why would that matter? You're not stiffing the service (tipped) employees to start with. Right? Putting the servers on payroll means there is no pressure on them or on you. You've already been paying the money. Now you're just seeing that amount on the check. In addition, you're not waiting around for your change. You can just pay your bill and be on your way to enjoy the rest of your night.

Curt Schilling Belongs in the Hall of Fame

The BBWAA will announce the Hall of Fame Class of 2020 tonight. Curt Schilling is one of the players on the ballot and there has been a lot of talk as to whether he belongs in the Hall. Over his 20-year career, Schilling won 216 games and three World Series. In the first World Series, Schilling was an integral part of winning after undergoing an experimental surgery that allowed him to play, even though he was bleeding through his uniform as a result of the surgery.

Schilling's naysayers point to his off the field actions as to why he should be kept out of the Hall. This is wrong. Players are not elected for what they say and do when they aren't playing. In my opinion: Yes, he has done and said foolish things. Everyone has. If you're going to keep people out of the Hall of Fame for what they have done or said than half of the people elected in MLB, the NFL, NHL, and NBA would be removed and you would have a lot of empty space in Canton, Cooperstown, Springfield, and Toronto.

Curt Schilling averaged 15 wins and 211 strikeouts over 20 seasons. He had a career ERA of 3.46 in a career that was right in the middle of the "Juiced Ball Era". He helped one franchise to it's first ever World Series title and another to its first in over three generations. He was the proverbial workhorse pitcher and "Stopper". He deserves to be in the Hall of Fame and anyone who says he doesn't because of his views and opinions is wrong.

It's a Game (Red Sox and Astros)

As much as the Houston Astros and Boston Red Sox would like it to happen, the cheating scandal is not going away. People have been fired, mutually agreed to leave, even one manager who had been signed to manage another team walked away because of heat resulting from this issue.

It's gotten so bad, Congress, or the House of Representatives more specifically, is looking to get involved. Bobby Rush (D-IL) sent a letter to the chairs of the Energy and Commerce Committee asking for a hearing on the matter. The Energy and Commerce Committee has oversight when it comes to professional sports.

Stop.

Once again, there is a problem in professional sports and Congress feels it needs to get involved. I guess the House of Representatives has too much time on its hands now that the impeachment trial has moved on to the Senate. There has been plenty of talk about what to do with the parties but does Congress need to be involved? Of course not. This is a bunch of millionaire athletes and managers that are being held accountable to billionaire owners and an Executive Council. Fans across Major League Baseball's domain are already upset just as they were with the steroid scandal 15 years ago. Just like the Juiced-Ball Era, no body needs Congress' help as much as they would like to be involved and get another minute or two in the limelight.

This is an internal matter for Major League Baseball. There are people who cheated. There are people who made mistakes. There are people who did things that damage the spirit of competition and caused people to question the World Series and if those who won it truly did so without question. If there are questions, nobody needs the guidance of Congress. Major League Baseball is an organization that can handle it's own affairs and hand down punishments harsh enough to make the collaborators (et al) realize what's been done and what needs to be done. If there are franchises that don't get it, that's certainly not Congress' problem.

How the Red Sox Move On

The Boston Red Sox parted ways with Alex Cora today in the midst of fallout from the Houston Astros stealing signals from other teams in the middle of games. The process was devised by Cora and practiced by Astros on the bench when the team was at bat.

Astros manager A.J. Hinch was initially suspended for one year by Major League Baseball. The Astros proceeded to fire Hinch as a result of an investigation by MLB that not only mentioned Hinch but also Cora several times in the final report.

The Red Sox didn't know what was going on when they interviewed and ultimately fired Cora but were faced with a difficult prospect when Cora's name was attached to the investigation. This was a team that won the World Series in Cora's first year running the Red Sox then dropped to third place and missed the playoffs. No problem. A team like the Red Sox rarely needs more than one offseason to regroup and contend for the playoffs. Cora is a good baseball guy who could see the team through that regrouping.

Now it's different. Spring Training (I hate "Truck Day") is less than a month away and the Red Sox are without the guy who writes out the daily lineup card and decides the starting rotation. He's the guy who oversees everything and has the final say in what happens on the field. What are the red Sox to do?

Own the problem. The franchise has taken a step in the right direction. Cora walked away. He parted ways with the Red Sox. This allows Cora to say, "I screwed up and I own up to what I did." This will help him down the road when he looks for another job in the Major Leagues. This also allows the Red Sox to say they don't tolerate cheating. They found out someone in the organization was cheating and they handled it in a way that was above-board. The team also had little chance to do anything else since they have already been disciplined by MLB for using cameras to steal signs in the 2017 season. Officials already had their eyes on the team.

Step two: Promote Bench Coach Ron Roenicke to Manager. Don't make it an interim hire. Make him your guy so there is no question in the clubhouse who's in charge. Give him a two year contract with an automatic one-year extension if they make it to the ALCS. If Roenicke doesn't work out, you are back to square one and will be in the same position as everyone else when it comes to looking for a manager and a coaching staff. The Red Sox have the talent and the means to field a contending team. Roenicke has familiarity with the players and can be a sign of consistency for the players in a day and age of "Clubhouse Guys" being important. That is a title usually reserved for players but a coach can be just as good of a Clubhouse Guy. Players need something to make the Post-Cora Era smooth. Roenicke can be that guy. The team can start to put this behind them and the P.R. Department can start with one of the biggest rebuilding projects in franchise history.

Let Zarif address the U.N.

As the world waits for the next step in the battle between Iran and America (I'm calling it a battle now), and the United States waits for President Donald Trump to address the nation after Iran attacked military sites in Iraq, foreignpolicy.com has reported Mohammed Javad Zarif, Iran's Foreign Minister was to address the United Nations tomorrow about, "the importance of upholding the U.N. Charter."

The United States blocked Zarif from entering the United States and, in the process, prevented him from visiting the United Nations. Zarif's request was made on December 20th, one day after the meeting was announced. Federal Law states that visa fees are waived if a foreign minister wishes to enter the country in order to conduct business at the United Nations.

Zarif should be allowed to address the United Nations. I would hope if President Donald Trump is not there to hear him speak, then Vice President Mike Pence or Secretary of State Mike Pompeo or another high-ranking American official would be there. I would also hope there would be some dialogue between the countries after the world hears what Zarif has to say.

Now is the most opportune time for Zarif to speak and be heard. President Donald Trump has met with Kim Jong-Un of North Korea about relations between the countries. He has met with Xi Jinping of China about trade. It would make perfect sense to meet with the representative of a country that has traded military blows.

President Trump should personally restate this invitation for Zarif to visit the United States to speak. He should then work to prevent the battle for getting worse. Trump has said he doesn't want war. No one does, of course. Allowing Zarif to address the United Nations would show how much he doesn't want it.

'Tis Always the Season for Kindness

Another Holiday Season has passed us by. I have finally started to take everything down and, at the rate I am going, I may have a beautiful Valentine's tree in my house.

I am always curious to see the generosity being amped up around Christmas. The Salvation Army has its drums and bells out for all to see and here. Local organizations hold drives to collect gifts for those who can't afford them. More donations for pantries so all can enjoy something. In Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol", one of the solicitors at Scrooge's office explained that Christmas is a time when, "want is more keenly felt."

The page has turned to a new year and now people are just waiting for the clock to run down on winter and turn to spring unless you happen to be a skier or snowboarder. Everything is returning back to their respective normal.

I hope this year, people will continue their generosity towards those who could use it. It's always nice to see people give a little more during the Holidays but just because Christmas is over doesn't mean everyone's situation has improved. There is always a need for people and the organizations that help them. Grocery stores have bins by the exits for people to leave something. Buy a box of something and leave it in the bin on your way out. Put an extra dollar in the plate or basket at church. Drop some change in someone's cup as you pass them on the street.

Don't stop with the needy. Help someone loading something in the car. Put a carriage back. Let someone make that left turn. Help someone out. Let someone help you.

Happy New Year. I'm going to work on my tree.