Ann Coulter � Redux.

Ann Coulter, in her latest rant, has not only established herself as anti-Jewish, but also ignorant of the teachings of the Catholic Church.

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Advance death plans

This isn't a very pleasant subject but Joan and I took a step this week to save the survivor, or more important, our children the emotional burden of arranging our funerals, etc, a long (I hope) time from now. We purchased pre-need contracts to arrange for our cremation and the placing of the remains in a biodegradable container which can be buried or dropped into the ocean. I am convinced that this is the least traumatic way to handle a difficult time. We are both pleased with the decision.

I am also preparing a memorandum that will list those people and agencies to be called to, for example, stop pension payments from the state of Florida, stop deducting life insurance premiums. I will also list bank accounts, credit cards, etc, that can be accessed on-line, with the necessary user ID and password.

It's not fun to plan for dying -- but it's a sign of being a grown-up. It's also time to review our wills and such. If we do this correctly, our kids will be spared some anguish and isn't that what we are supposed to do?

Common Ground: Book Explores the Future of American Politics

Cal Thomas, from the Right, and Bob Beckel, from the Left, present an insightful and entertaining plea for an end to the politics of destruction of the other side, a rebuke to the extremists, and a resumption of the politics of years ago when compromise and civility accomplished political results.

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Lord Timothy Dexter, a Genius, an Eccentric of just simply Nutty as a Fruit

Growing up near Newburyport, Massachusetts, I learned about this "lord" who, scorned by his neighbors, amassed great wealth and notoriety. /

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Passive Smoking and the Efforts to Protect our Children.

Environmental smoke is a danger to children, in particular, and should be restricted. The far right's efforts to make this another excuse to bash Al Gore, Hillary Clinton and the other "tree huggers" is simply irrational.

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Cremation - A New Beginning

Presents a new product concept where cremated ashes are placed in a sealed hourglass and used to help time family functions.

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Carrabba's Italian Grill: Not the Usual Chain restaurant

Several visits to two Carrabba's restaurants in the Tampa area resulted in fantastic and varied Italian food, friendly and attentive service and delightful ambiance. A totally exceptional experience.

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Rossi�s in Elfers, Florida, is a fine Italian restaurant

Rossi's Italian Restaurant, just north of Tarpon Springs, Florida, serves up extraordinary Italian food, offering unique tastes and combinations of ingredients, Whether it's veal, chicken or just pasta, the patron receives a treat.

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Cremation is the Beginning!

Placing your ashes in an hourglass will ensure a continuing participation in family events and activities for generations. You will be able to encourage generations of children to brush teeth, practice piano and monitor bedtimes!

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Michael Vick � the Other Shoe Drops

While awaiting Federal sentencing, Vick now faces state prosecution. This a result of the US federal judicial system; in some cases (but not here) dual sovereigns are unfair..

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The Potty Police and Other Excesses

Local governments should devote resources to repairing roads and bridges and stop trying to regulate private conduct between adults.

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The Senator and the Men�s Room

Senator Larry Craig's arrest and subsequent guilty plea raises issues of too-speedy justice and resulting unfairness. He should be permitted to withdraw the guilty plea since the rationale for the plea no longer exists. The police seem to have acted too precipitously.

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The next Inauguration Address.

A suggestion for the next Inauguration Address for whoever he or she might be.

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Petitioning the Government. Anyone listening?

The Bush administration isolating the president from any protesters or contrary views does him no favor. We have a right to petition the government; they have an obligation to at least listen.

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Abortion quandaries abound.

A request to engage in discussions about logical inconsistencies in some pro-life anti-abortion advocates. If a fetus is the legal equivalent of a living child, logic and reason would lead us to results that may not be wanted by anyone!

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Victims and Heroes; Confusing them Devaluates the Greatness of the Latter.

Confusing the terms "hero" and "victim" leads to unfairness and arbitrary results.

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Doggie Bliss or the Helmsley Attorney Financial Relief Act of 2007

Leona Helmsley's estate will provide employment for attorneys and their staffs for years. They will probably make out almost as well as her dog.

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New novel by Daniel Silva: Survival of Jews not assured by others.

The latest in a series of novels about Gideon Allon, Israeli spy and sometimes assassin, contains a basic message; if Israel and Jews are to survive, it will because of their own efforts.

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Baggy pants � Teen Rebellion or Indication of a Lost Generation.

The newest teen fad, baggy pants, crotch grabbing antics, are copied from prison culture. Many observers see this as symptomatic of a Black surrender and not just as a transient teen way to annoy parents.

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The Ten Commandments, school prayer and the end of civilization. Part II

My previous article related to the issues of compulsory prayer in schools. I suggested one difficulty was whose prayer would we use and who would choose. Related issues are involved in the government's display of the Ten Commandments. Do we want these religious directions to control? Have the supporters read the Commandments?

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The Ten Commandments, school prayer and the end of civilization. Part I

The issue of organized school prayer is clouded by the refusal to face the initial issue. Whose prayer, who will choose.

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Letter to Governor Charlie Crist

Florida's new Governor has broadened his agenda beyond the GOP core's. He now is welcomed by moderates, including Democrats, for his willingness to embrace stem cell research, environmental concerns. He has brought at least this long-time liberal to his tent.

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Moxie: �You�ve Got Spunk . . . I Hate Spunk�

The story of a vil-tasting, but popular, soft drink. It is said to be the first carbonated soft drink in America and has a strong and loyal following in New England and scattered other places. It still tastes terrible.

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How to Win the War against Terrorists Without Losing Everything � Part III

Last of a series. Do we deserve to win a war against Terrorists? Why? If we forfeit the qualities and beliefs that make us better, than do we deserve victory?

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Terror, Iraq and the Future; How Do We Fight and Win? � Part II

Second of 3 articles on solving the terrorist threats. We need to have leaders lead, prepare the people for an all-out struggle and be honest. Everyone has to be involved, not just the men and women fighting and dying in Iraq and their families.

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Iraq: Same old, Same old

First of a series of 3 articles on the middle-east and Iraq. Policies are developed and implemented by Chaney, Rove and Bush. Of these, Chaney is acting on principle, Rove has no principles whatsoever and the president is validating Einstein’s famous definition of insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.

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Democrats Must Appeal to Emotions, not Issues

Democrats have appealed to facts and issues where Republicans have aimed at emotion. Professor Drew Westen of Emory has written a major book on how Democrats can win elections by adopting some of the Republican tactics. Attacks must be countered with aggression and vigor.

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The states are making progress in allowing medical marijuana.

This is the 4th, and final, article on the legality of using marijuana by ill people. More and more states are enacting laws to allow such use. There is even hope that the Federal laws will become more responsive to the needs of the gravely ill. As of now, the Federal law finding marijuana to be of no benefit is controlling.

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Presidential obstruction of justice!

Last night, on the eve of the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the celebration of the rule of law, Keith Olbermann spoke of how the present administration has made a joke of our beliefs. I have sent copies of the Special Comment broadcast on MSNBC to our two US Senators and our Congressman asking whether the same standards used against President Clinton will be applied to President Bush. Everyone should hear of Mr. Olberfmann's comments.

“I didn’t vote for him,” an American once said, “But he’s my president, and I hope he does a good job.”
That—on this eve of the 4th of July—is the essence of this democracy, in 17 words. And that is what President Bush threw away yesterday in commuting the sentence of Lewis “Scooter” Libby.
The man who said those 17 words—improbably enough—was the actor John Wayne. And Wayne, an ultra-conservative, said them, when he learned of the hair’s-breadth election of John F. Kennedy instead of his personal favorite, Richard Nixon in 1960.
“I didn’t vote for him but he’s my president, and I hope he does a good job.”
The sentiment was doubtlessly expressed earlier, but there is something especially appropriate about hearing it, now, in Wayne’s voice: The crisp matter-of-fact acknowledgement that we have survived, even though for nearly two centuries now, our Commander-in-Chief has also served, simultaneously, as the head of one political party and often the scourge of all others.
We as citizens must, at some point, ignore a president’s partisanship. Not that we may prosper as a nation, not that we may achieve, not that we may lead the world—but merely that we may function.
But just as essential to the seventeen words of John Wayne, is an implicit trust—a sacred trust: That the president for whom so many did not vote, can in turn suspend his political self long enough, and for matters imperative enough, to conduct himself solely for the benefit of the entire Republic.
Our generation’s willingness to state “we didn’t vote for him, but he’s our president, and we hope he does a good job,” was tested in the crucible of history, and earlier than most.
And in circumstances more tragic and threatening. And we did that with which history tasked us.
We enveloped our President in 2001.And those who did not believe he should have been elected—indeed those who did not believe he had been elected—willingly lowered their voices and assented to the sacred oath of non-partisanship.
And George W. Bush took our assent, and re-configured it, and honed it, and shaped it to a razor-sharp point and stabbed this nation in the back with it.
Were there any remaining lingering doubt otherwise, or any remaining lingering hope, it ended yesterday when Mr. Bush commuted the prison sentence of one of his own staffers.
Did so even before the appeals process was complete; did so without as much as a courtesy consultation with the Department of Justice; did so despite what James Madison—at the Constitutional Convention—said about impeaching any president who pardoned or sheltered those who had committed crimes “advised by” that president; did so without the slightest concern that even the most detached of citizens must look at the chain of events and wonder: To what degree was Mr. Libby told: break the law however you wish—the President will keep you out of prison?
In that moment, Mr. Bush, you broke that fundamental com-pact between yourself and the majority of this nation’s citizens—the ones who did not cast votes for you. In that moment, Mr. Bush, you ceased to be the President of the United States. In that moment, Mr. Bush, you became merely the President of a rabid and irresponsible corner of the Republican Party. And this is too important a time, Sir, to have a commander-in-chief who puts party over nation.
This has been, of course, the gathering legacy of this Administration. Few of its decisions have escaped the stain of politics. The extraordinary Karl Rove has spoken of “a permanent Republican majority,” as if such a thing—or a permanent Democratic majority—is not antithetical to that upon which rests: our country, our history, our revolution, our freedoms.
Yet our Democracy has survived shrewder men than Karl Rove. And it has survived the frequent stain of politics upon the fabric of government. But this administration, with ever-increasing insistence and almost theocratic zealotry, has turned that stain into a massive oil spill.
The protection of the environment is turned over to those of one political party, who will financially benefit from the rape of the environment. The protections of the Constitution are turned over to those of one political party, who believe those protections unnecessary and extravagant and quaint.
The enforcement of the laws is turned over to those of one political party, who will swear beforehand that they will not enforce those laws. The choice between war and peace is turned over to those of one political party, who stand to gain vast wealth by ensuring that there is never peace, but only war.
And now, when just one cooked book gets corrected by an honest auditor, when just one trampling of the inherent and inviolable fairness of government is rejected by an impartial judge, when just one wild-eyed partisan is stopped by the figure of blind justice, this President decides that he, and not the law, must prevail.
I accuse you, Mr. Bush, of lying this country into war.
I accuse you of fabricating in the minds of your own people, a false implied link between Saddam Hussein and 9/11.
I accuse you of firing the generals who told you that the plans for Iraq were disastrously insufficient.
I accuse you of causing in Iraq the needless deaths of 3,586 of our brothers and sons, and sisters and daughters, and friends and neighbors.
I accuse you of subverting the Constitution, not in some misguided but sincerely-motivated struggle to combat terrorists, but to stifle dissent.
I accuse you of fomenting fear among your own people, of creating the very terror you claim to have fought.
I accuse you of exploiting that unreasoning fear, the natural fear of your own people who just want to live their lives in peace, as a political tool to slander your critics and libel your opponents.
I accuse you of handing part of this Republic over to a Vice President who is without conscience, and letting him run roughshod over it.
And I accuse you now, Mr. Bush, of giving, through that Vice President, carte blanche to Mr. Libby, to help defame Ambassador Joseph Wilson by any means necessary, to lie to Grand Juries and Special Counsel and before a court, in order to protect the mechanisms and particulars of that defamation, with your guarantee that Libby would never see prison, and, in so doing, as Ambassador Wilson himself phrased it here last night, of becoming an accessory to the obstruction of justice.
When President Nixon ordered the firing of the Watergate special prosecutor Archibald Cox during the infamous “Saturday Night Massacre” on October 20th, 1973, Cox initially responded tersely, and ominously.
“Whether ours shall be a government of laws and not of men, is now for Congress, and ultimately, the American people.”
President Nixon did not understand how he had crystallized the issue of Watergate for the American people.
It had been about the obscure meaning behind an attempt to break in to a rival party’s headquarters; and the labyrinthine effort to cover-up that break-in and the related crimes.
And in one night, Nixon transformed it.
Watergate—instantaneously—became a simpler issue: a President overruling the inexorable march of the law of insisting—in a way that resonated viscerally with millions who had not previously understood - that he was the law.
Not the Constitution. Not the Congress. Not the Courts. Just him.
Just - Mr. Bush - as you did, yesterday.
The twists and turns of Plame-Gate, of your precise and intricate lies that sent us into this bottomless pit of Iraq; your lies upon the lies to discredit Joe Wilson; your lies upon the lies upon the lies to throw the sand at the “referee” of Prosecutor Fitzgerald’s analogy. These are complex and often painful to follow, and too much, perhaps, for the average citizen.
But when other citizens render a verdict against your man, Mr. Bush—and then you spit in the faces of those jurors and that judge and the judges who were yet to hear the appeal—the average citizen understands that, Sir.
It’s the fixed ballgame and the rigged casino and the pre-arranged lottery all rolled into one—and it stinks. And they know it.
Nixon’s mistake, the last and most fatal of them, the firing of Archibald Cox, was enough to cost him the presidency. And in the end, even Richard Nixon could say he could not put this nation through an impeachment.
It was far too late for it to matter then, but as the decades unfold, that single final gesture of non-partisanship, of acknowledged responsibility not to self, not to party, not to “base,” but to country, echoes loudly into history. Even Richard Nixon knew it was time to resign
Would that you could say that, Mr. Bush. And that you could say it for Mr. Cheney. You both crossed the Rubicon yesterday. Which one of you chose the route, no longer matters. Which is the ventriloquist, and which the dummy, is irrelevant.
But that you have twisted the machinery of government into nothing more than a tawdry machine of politics, is the only fact that remains relevant.
It is nearly July 4th, Mr. Bush, the commemoration of the moment we Americans decided that rather than live under a King who made up the laws, or erased them, or ignored them—or commuted the sentences of those rightly convicted under them—we would force our independence, and regain our sacred freedoms.
We of this time—and our leaders in Congress, of both parties—must now live up to those standards which echo through our history: Pressure, negotiate, impeach—get you, Mr. Bush, and Mr. Cheney, two men who are now perilous to our Democracy, away from its helm.
For you, Mr. Bush, and for Mr. Cheney, there is a lesser task. You need merely achieve a very low threshold indeed. Display just that iota of patriotism which Richard Nixon showed, on August 9th, 1974.
Resign.
And give us someone—anyone—about whom all of us might yet be able to quote John Wayne, and say, “I didn’t vote for him, but he’s my president, and I hope he does a good job.”

Grandchildren as friends!

My wife and I had two grandsons stay with us over the past several days while their parents went on a cruise for their anniversary. The grandkids brought their WII game and Joan and I became addicted to the bowling game. Even now, several days later, my arm and shoulder still ache! But the big thing was getting close to the kids. Adam and I went out driving, practice for him really. We went on several major highways and he was fine, albeit insecure.

Adam is nearly 16 and still has a habit of tormenting his younger brother, Aaron, but my wife assures me that this will pass! I certainly hope so!

Later we picked up the other grandkids at the airport and had dinner with them. They all said that they wanted to visit us during the next few weeks. Joshua is one of the most intelligent person I know, his sister Stephanie is smart,beautiful and charming and a delight. Jake,the third of the crew, is smart as a whip, funny and totally super.

I am so flattered that they want to visit us; I cannot wait.

Next year, if all goes well,we will all go on a cruise together. I am SO into this trip, I can hardly wait.

Grandparents' rights to visit and spoil the granschildren

Gone are the days when multi-generations lived in the same neighborhood. Sometimes grandparents have to appeal to a Court to allow visitation. While an intact mother and father home may forbid such visitations, the grandparents have some rights.

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Living Wills and other discussions of end-of-life decisions

Even young people have strokes that totally incapacitate them, resulting in a permanent vegetative state. The elderly, especially, have concerns of they will face death with dignity intact. At least some of these concerns can be met with a Living Will and Durable Power of Attorney. But issues remain that are discussed here.



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A Solution to Dependence on Oil: Extract Ethanol from a Weed Everyone Hates

A weed that grows rapidly throughout the southern United States could go far in eliminating or at least reducing dependence on oil. Kudzu is the perfect source for ethanol: cheap, quickly renewable, not used as a food source for people or animals. In short a worthless plant that would be perfect!



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Adventures in Time Share Land - How Two Old Folks Survived the Sales Pitch.

Survival (and enjoyment) of a time-share presentation and pitch in Florida.



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Carrabba's Italian Grill: Not the Usual Chain

Carrabba's restaurants in the Tampa Bay area are an exception to the rule that chain restaurants are usually not exciting or fresh. Exceptional Italian dishes combined with a friendly and well trained wait staff make dining a pleasant experience.



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Barack Obama - Where Did He Come From? What Does He Believe?

A brief, but comprehensive, study of the man and his education, background and policies that just might qualify him to be President. There is a goodly amount of substance behind the sound-bites.



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Lenny's Restaurant in Clearwater, Florida: Best Breakfast in Town

There is a super restaurant in Clearwater, Florida, open for breatfast and lunch, which remids one of the best of New York City deli's and Miami Beach's offerings. Breakfast is the king.



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We've Come a Long Way? New and Nicer Ways to Kill the Bad Guys

Most civilized countries have abolished the death penalty, either directly or through non-use. The debate is being clouded by the introduction of more "humane" and "painless" ways to kill someone. These ways have not proven to be either painless or humane and often obscure the essential nature of the debate.



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Giles Corey, Victim of the Salem Witch Hunt, Had a Unique Death

In 1692, Giles Corey choose to die in a manner that avoided forfeiture of his property. After nearly over 200 years of non-use, the United States has resurrected forfeiture in its war against drugs. It's a bad idea. This is the third article related to the troubles suffered by Bernie Ellis and his advocacy of medical marijuana.



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Update: Bernie Ellis and the "Save Bernie's Farm" Effort

More updates from the saga of Bernie Ellis and his treatment by the Federal government in distributing, free, marijuana to a few ill persons. It ties in with articles in Associated Content on the same subject.



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Does Correcting Gender Dysphoria Make One a Different

The City of Largo fired its City Manager, Steve Stanton, in disregard of its own regulations because of transgender issues. The issue should be whether a sex change also changes an individual's ability to do his or her job.



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Medical Marijuana II - Doctors' at Risk?

Doctors are at risk of losing their license or imprisonment for prescribing medical marijuana in accordance with state law. The Federal government wants to expand these restrictions in its war against pot -- even for medical reasons.



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A Primer: Tenants' Rights in Florida (and Responsibilities, Too)

Tenants rights and responsibilities in Florida -- the basics



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A Warning to Alimony Recipients in Florida

Florida law now allows reduction or termination of permanent alimony if the recipient enters into a "supportive relationship" with another. as when an older woman, anxious to keep her alimony, chooses to live with or otherwise enjoy a relationship with another man without marriage. Details of the new law are discussed.



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How to Dress a Dog - Regional Preferences in Toppings for Your Hot Dog

The Great American Hot Dog,: the snack upon which to munch on the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, at the baseball park and whenever a sausage-like mixture of beef, pork and nitrates are just the thing! But what goes on top?



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Living Together Before or Instead of Marriage is Probably a Bad Idea

Couples who live together prior to or instead of marriage have, statistically, less of a chance for an eventual committed relationship. There are few, if any, advantages to a transient cohabitation and, certainly, none for the woman.



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Marijuana for Medical Use - a Federal Crime

Barnie Ellis, a Tennessee activist in support of the use of marijuana, cannabis, for medical purposes, is the latest instance of the Federal government's "war on drugs" and is being made a martyr.



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Part I: Wars Are Neither Efficient nor Effective in Fighting Ideas

We mis-use the term "war". We have had a War on Poverty, a War against Drugs, a War against Inflation" and now a War against Terrorists. A war necessitates an army, military force and a beginning and an end. One cannot combat ideas with military or other force. In another article, the way to combat terrorists is discussed.



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Free Gifts to Doctors May Be Bad for Your Health

More and more physicians and medical ethicists acknowledge gifts from pharmaceutical companies create a climate of potential abuse and improper influence. The issue that remains open is whether these gifts influence the prescriptions that are written and whether the best medicine is being prescribed.



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The History and Mystery of Toilet Paper

A somewhat lighthearted history of toilet paper, from the ancient Chinese to the modern day. The Pentagon uses 666 rolls every day -- the Mark of the Beast?



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My In-box Runneth Over with False Threats and Warnings

Efforts should be undertaken to not repeat and pass on false Urban Legends, threats of viruses, unwarranted warnings of dire events and consequences.



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Comparative Religion Should Be Taught in Schools? Because of Our Enemies

Islamic terrorists act upon their beliefs, based upon their faith. To challenge terrorists, one must understand the bases of their beliefs. It is a civic responsibility to comprehend the values and beliefs of non-Western and non-Judeo-Christian people.



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Doctors and Lawyers Duke it Out

Doctors and lawyers continue to fight over malpractice cases and insurance, all while the insurance industry manipulates both professions for its own ends.



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Daniel Silva's Newest Book is a Winner

This is the latest of thriller novels by Daniel Silver involving a world famous art restorer, Israeli spy and, sometimes, assassin, friend and protector of Tye Pope. The stories are fast-paced and thoroughly enjoyable. A treat!



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Homeowners Have a Responsibility for the Safety of Visitors

Visitors to your premises are owed different standards of care and protection against hazards, depending on whether they are there on business, as social guests, children or even trespassers and thieves. This is a survey of those responsibilities.



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Tattoos, Body Art and Too-Casual Outfits in the Corporate World

General rules concerning enforceability of corporate Dress Codes. Essentially, they cannot be discriminatory but can insist on standards of clothing. Tattoos and piercing may be permitted in some jobs, but to advance, take your artwork somewhere else!



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Success at Associated Content? Probably Not for Me!

Personal gratification and a love of writing keep me submitting articles to Associated Content. It cetainly isn't the money/ It is the sheer joy of expression.



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Being King of the World Can Be a Burden

A review of pet peeves that annoy and bother. Also, a list of people who might, in the words of the Lord High Executioner in the Mikado, might never be missed. Finally, a request for additional nominations from the public!



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Newly Discovered Lobe in Women's Brains Determines Fashion Taste

Ever wonder how women always know what's in style and what is not? And why have men no clue whatsoever. The answer in physiological and presented here -- for the first time!



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My writing at Associated Content not very successful

First of all, I have said that I write for AC to avoid boredom and to exercise whatever writing ability I might have. I am hardly as prol;ific as others and, as a result, do not have the "page views" or earnings as others. On the other hand, I do not go out of my way to promote myself.

In any event, as of this morning, my statistics show that I have written a total of 80 articles, have an aggregate of 18,900 page views, or an average of 233 per article. Two of the articles have in excess of 1000 "views" and I guess that's OK since 9/24/06 when I started. I still send missives to the local papers, the Tampa Tribune, a not-too-good paper, poorly written and devoid of news, and the St. Petersburg Times, which is far better. I submit periodic writings to the latter's opinion/blog site.

I envy those people who can make a living out of this craft. I wish I had started writing many, many years ago.

I'm keeping busy and meeting, through AC and this Blog, all sorts of nice people.

A Letter to My Employer, Jackson Hewitt Tax Services, or to Yours

Suggestions on where to focus recruiting efforts for a service industry and how, with inexpensive motivation gifts and trinkets, a company can give employees a sense of company-identity, loyalty and a rationale for staying. Less turnover means greater profits. Everyone will win!



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Everyone Who Could Vote, Does and Will!

We all vote. If we, individually fail to cast a ballot, we are giving a proxy to special interest groups and fanatics who Will vote in our place. The core of supporters, far right and far left, may not represent our views, but they will vote and make choices for the rest of us.



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Killing for Pleasure?

I am a confirmed carnivore and, therefore, not opposed to the killing of animals for food. I do worry about individuals who get arousal and thrills out of the act of killing, itself. This is sickness. People rationalize this joy of the kill by calling it a sport; until deer have guns, it's no sport.



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Florida Ban on Homosexual Adoption Born of Bias and Ignorance

Florida is the only state that forbids, absolutely, adoption by homosexuals. The result of this prejudice is thousands of children deprived of a loving home.



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Florida's State Song Needs Replacement. . . Now

Florida's official state song, written by Stephen Foster who had never been to the state, is offensive, raciest and should be replaced.



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Quotas on admission to universities can be exclusionary or beneficial

At one time, quotas were used by educational institutions to exclude applicants who were well-qualified. Affirmative Action is designed to benefit less-qualified individuals, those who would not be admitted on a merit basis alone. Neither system in in the best interests of the individual or society.



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You're Fired! Pitfalls in the Firing of an Employee

The firing of an employee may restricted by contract, statute or company policy. If an employee must go, there are procedures and practices that an employer must consider.



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The Bush Administration's Disdain for Governance Leads to Folly

If you hate government, believe it's the source of problems, you cannot be expected to govern well. The Bush's desire to bypass government and privatize governmental functions removes citizen oversight and leads to unwelcome results.



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Discussions with Vigor but Not Rancor!

The inability to discuss issues without personal attacks is a great loss in political and ordinary debate. It's time we stopped this rancor and learned to address real issues.



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Charlie Kaiser, You are (or were) evil

It may be the tragic events at Virginia Tech or the remembering the Columbine incident, but for whatever reason, my mind went back to a summer I spent at Camp Koda near Naples, Maine, when I was a kid. It was the worst period of my childhood. All because of a bully and SOB named Charlie Kaiser.

I remember very little of my childhood, most memories having been lost or blocked or whatever. The few fragments of memory that remain are, for the most part, unhappy ones. In any event, Charlie was in my cabin at Camp and every night and afternoon, whenever the idea occurred to him, he would torment me, hitting, name calling and totally abusive; he would rip the comic books my parents had sent in a package, he would incite others to join in. The worst thing was that others did participate until I was lefty crying and humiliated.

Other boys from my home town lived in nearby cabins and they did nothing to support me. I hated each and every one and had fantasies about hurting or scaring them all. Of course. I did nothing and just felt the pain.

I know that the counselors and camp owners were aware of my torment but no one came to my aid, no one told the world that Charlie was an total worthless bastard.

So I'm going to say it and admit that I hope Charlie roasts in Hell.

Trip to Connecticut

This past weekend, Joan and I went to our friends' granddaughter's Bat Mitzvah in Trumbull, Connecticut, a community near Bridgeport and between Hartford and New York.I understand that the affair was originally going to be in February but that the family wad concerned about poor weather so it was set for the first weekend in April.

So much for trying to do good; we froze.

We flew into Hartford early Friday afternoon and picked up our rental car. It was equipped with one of the fancy navigational systems. It is a good thing I depended on good old fashioned maps and not the gizmo because I couldn't get the darn thing to work. It was surely smarter than I.

We arrived in Trumbull and the hotel was fantastic. One thing though. On Saturday morning we went to the motel's dining room for breakfast. There was a buffet in operation and, from my experience down south and a lot of places, the buffet was (I thought) complementary. It turns out that the charge was nearly $15/person. I guess that I am a hick in the big city. Good eggs, though!

The host and hostess were wonderful, treating us as old members of the family. The service was great; the young lady who was the subject to all of this, was poised, articulate and a delight. Rebecca is a person with strong ethical and philosophical beliefs (she will not eat and food from an animal that must be slaughtered; she is a sincere Vegan). What was remarkable and much appreciated and admired by me is that she was able to articulate her beliefs beautifully. I do not go along with her (I love steak and hamburgers) but totally respect her sincerity and honesty. The kid is remarkable. I already said that, but she's worth the duplication!

Saturday night, we sat by the fire in the lobby of the Marriott, Joan sipping a Kahlua and I an Irish whiskey. I really could get used to this.

Sunday morning, we awoke to the sight of snow. It was falling at quite a rate, even if it didn't stick. And it was cold. Very cold. After a brunch at their home, we started to return to the Hartford airport. The airport was only an hour or so away and our plane didn't leave for nearly 7 hours. It was too windy and cold to sight see and, being Easter Sunday, there wasn't too much that was open anyway. So we sat at Bradley airport in Hartford from 1 PM to take off. By the time we got back to Tampa, it was 10:30 and exhaustion overtook us.

My job at Jackson-Hewitt is winding down, tax season ends next week. If I am not chosen to work part-time over the summer, I'll be devoting more time to Associated Content.

I sort of enjoy this blog stuff -- even if it's like the sound of a falling tree when no one is there to hear the crash!

I have written an article for Associated Content that seems to have created some interest. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/191915/when_the_heat_of_engagement_cools_who.html

This is about who gets to keep an engagement ring if the marriage is called off.

Joan and I have just returned from Connecticut -- where I froze -- to attend the Bat Mitzvah of our friends' granddaughter, Rebecca. The young lady was poised, lively and very, very talented. More about this later on.

Changing types of articles on Associated Content

I intend to keep writing for Associated Content but I think I am going to lighten up a bit. I had pontificated on weighty political topics but my wife suggests that I write on less serious subjects. So, I'm going to try. I'm working on an article on the days of the week and why there are 7 of them Turns out that some cultures have from 3 to 10 days and I'm going to enjoy doing the research.

We are going to daughter Wendy's home this evening to enjoy/celebrate the Seder. But when tomorrow comes, I'll start!

The end of March

We are at the end of March, 2007; the weather here in Tampa is in the 80's, I inside working on the computer trying to dream up interesting article topics for my account at Associated Content. I have just received a really fine offer for an article on women's fashion and how ladies always seem to know what the permissible colors and styles are in effect. My wife is not too happy about my spending so much time at the computer but I really love the thrill of seeing my efforts in print!

This week I also participated in a market research study relating to health insurance and was paid $75 for this two-hour study. Wow.

My work at Jackson-Hewitt Tax Services is winding down as we come to the end of the tax season. The people with whom I have worked are all top-notch and it's been great fun. Next week, I am to have a telephone interview for a future position in Management and am looking forward to this. Meanwhile, the working with and for a diverse group of people, workers and customers, has done much to keep me busy and (may I say it?) young.

Next Monday, Joan and I will be traveling to Sarasota for a family Seder with kids and grandkids. I truly look forward to this.

I'll be back after the Seder and interview to add to this diary.

So proud of my grandchildren

I am going to start a series of blogs in this space, telling the world about some fantastic people -- who incidentally happen to be grandchildren. I would be proud to have any of them as a friend.

For example, Joshua who is one of the most intelligent people I know; Stephanie, who is, I am told, smarter; Jake who astounds me with his wit, brains and probably is the brightest kid in his family (except for the baby who may outshine them all). Then there's Adam, an accomplished musician at 15, playing in adult orchestras and bands. His one flaw, as I see it, is that he enjoys his clarinet playing classical music and does not yet appreciate Artie Shaw. Brother Aaron is learning his way. He is the athletic one of the family and plays soccer like a pro. Then there's Zack and Morgan who, being in Texas far away, we don't know as well. Bur I do know that Zachary is a delight and Morgan, my e-mail correspondent, can charm her way anywhere.

I don't tell them enough how special each and every one is. That will have to end here.

Want to join Associated Content?

Start here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/join.html?refer=20932

Disappointed and hurt

Since no one reads this stuff, I am able to unburden myself and fight off depression by expressing my views and feelings. Again, since n one is listening, I do not have to worry about my hurting any feelings!

As I have said, I do some writing for Associated Content. Thus far, since last September, I have had 74 articles published, dealing with politics, restaurant and book reviews, history and, occasionally, attempts at humor. I do this to fight lethargy and old age, but also for the ego gratification. And I get paid.

Payment is determined in large measure by the number of "page views" each article receives or is likely to receive. The formula are complex, but essentially, the more people who "click" on the article, the more I get paid.

Thus far I have had over 14000 "page views", which isn't bad. Except that practically none of these views are by my children or grandchildren or relatives.

When our children have wanted or needed something in the past, whether it was money or babysitting services or whatever, we never hesitated, never put off the response because we were too busy to bother. Yet when I ask our children to please look at my writings, they all say that their lives are just too busy. One daughter and her husband have refused several requests to allow their 15 year old access to my articles, but they will not remove the block! This is notwithstanding the fact that neither I nor Associated Content would publish porn or anything else that would be inappropriate for a 15 year old.

At the top of each article is a rating grid whereby a reader can give the piece 1 to 5 stars. If the aggregate rating is high, then the piece may be highlighted in the home page, thus gathering more potential readers and "page views".

At the very least, one would hope that the children would tell me that they have read the articles. Nope. They won't even show that courtesy. I would settle got a "white lie" and a comment that the "old man" is prolific -- if not intelligent!

And that hurts me, greatly.

Search for the 3 carrot ring!

My search MAY be over. Received a telephone call from a man in Pennsylvania who had read of my search. He is sending me a picture of what sounds like the real thing. Oh, I hope so!

Check out my other writings.

Well, I survived my 72nd birthday and remain in great health and spirits. My part-time job at Jackson-Hewitt Tax Services is winding down and I am back to writing for Associated Content more regularly.

I ask that any readers of these musings take at look at

http://www.associatedcontent.com/user/20932/jim_stillman.html

and put any comments there or on this blog. Meanwhile, I will try and have the Jackson-Hewitt folks consider me for full-time work, maybe teaching over the summer. I know that I would hire me!

Meanwhile, all remains quiet in Lutz, florida.

72 and counting

Today is my birthday! It is common, I assume, to give some thoughts on such occasions to one's mortality. I understand that the mortality rate for all of us is 100% and that is, therefore, unlikely I will escape that fate.

I look back on my life and wish I could do things over. I really screwed up a lot of things and missed a bunch of stuff, too. I have really no memorizes of growing up; except for a few episodes, all is a blank. It wasn't until I was in my 50's that I went through some therapy and became straitened out.

If I could do it over, I would have spent a lot more time with my fantastic children. I would have enjoyed fatherhood in all its aspects. I would have gotten to know my sister much better; we were not together when I was growing up but there were opportunities that were, I'm sure, missed.

I would have much more fun in high school and college, not be so afraid of girls as strange creatures.

I cannot relive the past, so what to do?

I resolve to spend the next years of my life being with and getting to know children and grandchildren and, indeed, wife. I will tell them all how much they are loved. I will tell them that they are the reason for living and I can't wait to see how it all comes out.

Discussions with vigor but not rancor!

Is it possible to disagree with another’s opinion or viewpoint without personal ad hominem attacks?


I have been submitting material to Associated Content over the past five or six months. I have written on a number of topics that caught my interest. Some of these were on people and folklore about whom I was introduced many years ago, Hannah Dustin, a lady who, in 1697, was kidnapped by Indians from her home in Haverhill, Massachusetts, escaped and scalped a number of the persons holding her, and Lord Timothy Dexter, a gentleman from Revolutionary days who was certainly eccentric, possibly a genius and possibly just nuts.

Some of my scribbles have been on restaurants I frequent and enjoy, a VW Beetle that I think is cool, life in a Geodesic Dome and such. I am pleased to note that the vast majority of comments were complimentary and supportive.

Then I wrote a number of articles that, admittedly, were controversial, topics about which I felt strongly while acknowledging that others held contrary views. The whole point of Associated Content, I believed was to provide a forum for opposing viewpoints where intelligent and articulate people could challenge each other’s ideas in a responsible manner.

Instead, I have been bombarded with vitriolic and ad hominem attacks that seem totally out of place in a forum for rational discourse. For example, I had written an article suggesting that those who were energized and aroused by the act of killing had a value system with which I disagreed. My article was not anti-hunting; it did object to the idea of getting enjoyment from the act of killing. Comments to this article included terms such as “retarded”, Completely ignorant”, “liar”, condescending wimp” and “idiot”. One writer challenged my masculinity and called me a “quiche eater”. (Actually, my wife’s quiche is quite tasty, but that’s another story.) Only a handful of commentators challenged my opinions directly. Most just ignored my main thesis: if a person is hunting for the “sport” and not to primarily put food on the family’s table, hunting with a camera would be just as rewarding.

Then, I became bothered by the state of Florida’s considering the issuance of a license plate bearing the Confederate flag. My article generated twenty-one comments, thus far, including those that called be “absolutely ignorant”, “trash” and accused me of “making up quotes”. As to the latter charge, my article quoted the Vice President of the Confederate States and cited where his speech could be found.
But all of this doesn’t matter. What does matter is that many of us seem to be able to discuss, even argue, points of view without name calling.

What ever happened to, “I disagree with your opinion, but we can still respect each other”? Voltaire is supposed to have said ,"I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it."

A plea: could we please return a note of civility to our discourse, both on this site and in our everyday lives.

I am not certain if anyone reads these thoughts in this space. Maybe it's like the proverbial tree in the proverbial forest making the proverbial noise. I'd really appreciate comments added here or on my page at Assocuated Content. Otherwise I'll just keep talking in the forest!

My wife has her eyes on a new car.

The Purchase of a New Car is a Humbling Experience. I’d rather have periodontal surgery than buy a new car! Well,maybe not that.

There are a few things that I really hate. Generally, I am sort of willing to do what folks expect of me. I usually leave disposal of really ugly bugs to my lovely wife, Joan, but that is often caused by my not seeing them. That may be Freudian, but I won’t go into that.

Buying a car is the ultimate horror.

Sooner or later in life, one must purchase a new car. I arm myself with the newest issue of Consumer Reports, the purchased report that gives the “true” cost of the vehicle to the dealer, after allowances, hold backs, bonuses, and other payments, have an appraisal of the probable worth of the car that will be traded, and walk semi-confidentially to the showroom door.

I am then accosted, no, pounced on, by salespeople who see in me a wimp, a person who will put food on the salesperson’s tables for months! In other word, a person to be fleeced.

Why can’t a dealer offer an automobile at a set price, without forcing me to enter into negotiations which, by their very nature I will complete knowing that the next person will obtain the identical vehicle for less money?

First, there is the Manufacturer’s Suggested List Price (MSLP), which I understand was actually paid by a customer in Arizona in 1932. This “price” has no connection with reality and serves only to give the unsophisticated buyer the feeling that he or she may have received a “bargain”.

Then there is the “invoice” price. The salesperson will display an alleged invoice that is designed to show the “actual” price the dealer paid for the car. The salesperson will explain the savings over the MSLP and, dramatically tell you that, wink-wink, you can have the vehicle at this “invoice” price. The impression is that the dealer will make no profit but the salesman really likes you and that, in any event, while the dealer loses money on each sale, it is made up in the volume.

The fact is that neither the MSLP nor the “invoice” price represents the true cost to the dealer, due to hold-backs and allowances and incentives. Moreover, the dealer is entitled to make a profit on a sale. The dealer works on the assumption that it needs an “average” per car sold; some sales will be made at considerably above the average, others will be made considerably less than the average. It will all balance out.

There is an advertisement on local television running now for a dealer in the area. The ad states that the “final” prices are on the windshield, no bargaining, a set take-it-or-leave-it price. Then the ad continues, “Come on in and we can talk it over and make a deal that you can easily afford -- just for you.” Sounds like the “final” price on the windshield is subject to modification.

So, the program is to negotiate. A true “negotiation” and the establishment of fair value is defined as being between two parties, each have full knowledge of the facts, the buyer wishing but not desperate to buy and the seller willing but not desperate to sell. Now let’s see, who is likely to “win” that negotiation: the salesperson who does this several times a day, every day, or me, a guy who ventures into the dealership every three to five years?

When I go into the local supermarket to purchase a quart of milk or a pound of coffee or, for goodness sake, a grape, I can’t bargain with the cashier. Nope, I am told that the price is $X and I pay it or leave it. Same thing if I go into buy anything, but a car. I am told that a few years ago, a number of dealers did offer cars at a no-bargain set price and, while customers liked it, the dealers almost always dropped the concept. (One exception, I understand, is a Saturn dealership; prices there are non-negotiable.)

I wonder why.

By the way, I also hate shopping for clothes or accompanying my wife to a shopping mall, but that will have to wait for the next couple of postings.

By the way, is there anyone out there who is reading this stuff?

About me.

I have mentioned that this blog business is a serious ego trip and that it seems presumptuous of me to think that my musings would be of any interest to anyone. . .except me. However, in the interests of clarity, if for no other reason, I want to explain who I am.

I am a 72 year old (in a couple of weeks) living with my wife in Lutz, just north of Tampa, Florida. We had lived in New York where I was -- and still am, albeit in "retired status" -- a member of the New York Bar. We became sick and tired of cold weather and snow and two-hour commutes and moved to Florida some 39 years ago, making us natives. I became an attorney for a land company which, through no acts of mine, decided to become bankrupt when people balked at buying suspect land.

I then went to work with the Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitatiove Services and, later, with the state Department of Revenue, where I stayed for just under 25 years before retirement.

I am spending that retirement writing occasional articles for Associate Content, doing a lot of reading, some travel and really enjoying 14 grandchildren.

During the past months, I have taken a job with Jackson Hewitt Tax Services and, for a part time job, it's pretty neat. Nice people, nice managers and a bit of extra money.

Next year, if all goes well, wife, Joan, and I will be taking 4 children, spouses and all 14 grandchildren on a cruise to celebrate our 50th anniversary. That should be fun and provoke a few blog entries.

Looking for a three-carrot ring

I am fascinated about the concept of a blog! What an ego trip to think someone would actually care ior be interested in what I write or think. If anyone does read this stuff, I'd really love to hear about it. Even if no one is reading it, is this like the proverbial tree falling in a forest? Do I make noise if no one hears?

OK, enough of the philosophy! If someone is out there, I need help.

I have been accused of many things, being an incurable romantic is not one of them! If one can discern an ulterior motive in my search, so be it.

Some 50 years ago I was in the Newark (NJ) airport, preparing for a flight to Florida to visit the person whom, I was determined, would eventually be my wife. I was still in law school at the time and we knew that the formal engagement would be delayed as she lived in Florida and I was a student in New York. There was no way that I could afford a ring at that moment, but I wanted to make an impression.

Somehow it didn’t seem enough to be fashionably attired in the manner of the day, tweed jacket, shirt and tie and Bermuda shorts with knee-length socks. (For a brief time in the 60’s, I had a Nehru-type jacket and, also, a turtle-neck shirt which I wore with a sport jacket and medallion! As long as I am baring my soul, there was, also, the period of the leisure suit.)

In any event, while killing time and strolling among the stores at the airport, I saw the answer to my prayers: funny, sentimental, inexpensive and guaranteed to impress my soon-to-be-fiancée. Did I say, inexpensive?

At the counter was a rack of toy rings, gold colored and adjustable, with three orange carrots on the top. The carrots were about 3/8 “ in length, orange with a green leafy top. They sat proudly on top of the band and had a degree of elegance. The cost was, as I recall, 59 ¢. There was another version, with four carrots, at a slightly added cost, but I felt that a three-carrot ring was just the perfect gift.

I purchased the ring, went to Florida, and was immediately given assurance that, in lieu of a three-karat ring, my gift was more than satisfactory.

(Lest anyone, females especially, be concerned, when we were finally formally engaged, the ring was full of karats.)

Sometime in the past half-century, the ring has been lost. I have, over the past several years searched E-Bay, Google and all of the major and minor search engines, obtained the names and addresses of toy and novelty importers, dealers, and wholesalers, in the United States, Great Britain, China and Australia. I have written organizers of fairs and trade shows and operators of flea markets throughout the country and in western Europe. All in all, I have sent 275 e-mails and letters, looking for this ring. I have found similar rings, with carrots 1 - ½ inch in length that are attached at one end to the ring and some that are more elaborate and are “embedded” in the top of the ring itself; but the ring I am seeking has three small plastic carrots affixed to the top of the ring.

(I have been added to the mailing lists of many unsavory groups, but that’s another story.)

I want, no, need, this ring. We will have been married 50 years in 2008 and, from my past experience, it is never too early to search for a suitable and sentimental gift!.

If anyone can direct me to any vendor or source for this item, I would greatly appreciate your kindness and gladly share a celebratory glass of champagne!

So how about it, possible readers. Can someone help?

More about the loss of a common core of knowledge

As I had indicated, I have been gathering information via a questionnaire on what ordinary people, mostly under 40, know about geography, history, folklore and such. Included in the groups surveyed were 20 Florida elementary school teachers who had gathered in a group.

The full results will be published on Associated Content when they are all compiled, but the preliminary results are scary. So far, none of the teachers and darn few others knew who were the combatants in the US War of 1812; most people said that the "face that launched a thousand ships" was that of the Mona Lisa; and a substantial number of young adults didn't know when World War II started, ended or who the allies were fighting.

I don't want to be the crotchety old man wailing about "kids today", but damn it, we have lost a generation and it's going to get worse.

Our children are deprived of a common general knowledge

Over the past years, I have thought of the days long ago when everyone has a common knowledge of all sorts of things, history, government, geography, literature, all of which facilitated discourse among our friends. For example, we could reference Romeo and Juliet or Rip Van Winkle and our contemporariness knew about which we were speaking.

Today, our educational system is test oriented, there is no independent reading and our children's knowledge of the "olden days" extends five or ten years at most.

I have a feeling that the problem is that teachers do not have the common societal knowledge thjat used to be pervasive. I am circulating a short questionnaire among people age 18 - 40 and will publish the results. I'm afraid that they will confirm my worst expectations.

I'll post more later.