CHRISTMAS STORIES

 I found two older essays I wrote that I will reproduce here relating to Christmas. As we grow older it is the memories that spark the candle around the holidays. The presence (not presents) or lack thereof that bring sadness and joy. Those who are with us, those who are gone. The empty chair and the new high chair. Life goes on....

Mother and Christmas --She died on September 30 and we buried her on October 4. The heart of our family was gone. We went on, lived our lives, worked our jobs, took care of our families. So we thought.That call that I used to enjoy in November on the anniversary of my birth was missing (note: my daughter did pick up the slack). I'm okay. We gathered that Christmas Eve laughing and feasting as we always did. Then the four sisters drew together compelled by some force that we could not explain. We talked, we laughed and then we cried. Cried for the one who was missing, cried when we realized that it was up to us to carry on the traditions, to bring the joy that she used to bring. She was weaker in the last few years, but the festivities still revolved around her wheelchair; her laughter, her strong opinions and her love for her family ringing out over the noise of the children. Our children grew close, worried and disturbed by our universal grief.  We knew she would not have wanted this. The eldest sister now became the heart and she suffered so much. So our children went out and adorned her car with the silliness of a Rudolph nose and antlers. We brought her out to see the Christmas lights and the spectacle of her car which now featured a face and a mood. The laughter rang out, the joy returned, and we all knew she was there orchestrating the celebration as she always did.

December Story -- as empty nesters after our daughter left for college and subsequently married, Christmas has settled into a warm, loving but toyless event with no Santa-infused surprises. With the birth of our first grandchild however, things changed. We now had permission to overindulge and the moon and stars were not out of the realm of possibility. Our 2 1/2 year old grandson Joseph had already discovered that Nana/Grandpa's house provided many happy surprises. Christmas 2014 was no exception as we watched his tentative explorations of wrapped packages. He remained unimpressed until we brought out the rocking horse. Now this was no ordinary horse. It was pint-sized so the fit was perfect. Joe quickly discovered the horse snorted, neighed and its tail flew out the harder you galloped so top speed became his only giggling mode threatening life and furniture. Afterwards the adults debated where the new horse would reside; Joe's house or Nana/Grandpa's. Eventually looking around we realized boy and horse were missing. Then we heard a noise in the kitchen. While we were otherwise engaged Joe had dragged that horse across the living room, through the kitchen and right up to the back door and was struggling to get the door open. In Joe's mind there was no debate; that horse was going home with him!

Those two would have thoroughly enjoyed each other....

          

          

 

DOING THE RIGHT THING

 

Considering my congressional representative's (I never voted for him) eagerness to sign on to the Texas lawsuit against our own State, at first I thought well he's been a do-nothing drone for his party for years. Nothing new here. But then again maybe just once he could have considered doing the right thing rather than following along in his beloved "cool kids" path. I would have even accepted "no comment"; not admitting his hero lost but not adding to the fantasy. Cowardly but understandable. No. He had to sign on to what he had to know was a totally bogus and dare I say, seditious action against his own State! This election re-elected himself. Maybe the genius did not realize that by disenfranchising millions of Michigan voters he made his own win a fraud as well. Laughable if not so dangerous. But that would have taken courage which is sorely lacking in many.

Though I have had an interesting career I have often been challenged to do the "easy" thing rather than the "right" one. (Why is the right road always harder?) Perhaps that is the bane of following a career in safety and health. Though we work on the side of angels, much of what we advocate for is unpopular, hard to sell and even harder to implement. We have to stay committed to what is right or we all lose has been my mindset as I tilted at my personal windmills (credit to Senor Cervantes). It always seemed so obvious to me, not so much to those in charge or even the employees I was trying to protect. 

Explains why I often was called on the carpet for decisions made, prohibitions inflicted and budget increases:

-- "One does not question an influential supporter's company on work practices;" just hire a top overseer to monitor the work.

-- "One does not tell another department how to perform their oversight work;" just line up the company attorney to sell your case.

-- "One does not withhold an award from a major corporation;" just stretch out the timeframe and perform multiple inspections. 

-- "One does not shut down an operation;" well actually that particular trump card is held as a final solution when there is no other way.

Of course being popular or admired for holding the line is definitely not in the cards. Also I will not be so arrogant as to say I always won or did not have to fold my tent in defeat more than once. For example in one position my direct supervisor was older with health issues. I took on more and more of the work, apparently unbeknownst to management. After a major inspection with a couple hundred citations to be addressed, I literally took all the paperwork, solutions, actions, responses to my supervisor in the hospital to review and sign. This strategy successfully brought the project in on time and avoided further sanctions. Not to mention the inspector was a total nightmare who found explanation and cooperation to be four-letter words.

When my supervisor was disabled for a long period of time, I took over the entire Safety and Health activity. A lot of meetings, a lot training and willingness to make decisions got me through. Then when the position was officially posted I of course was rewarded by receiving the promotion. Nope! Instead it went to the union counterpart with whom I worked and explained standards to on a regular basis. The reason? I was too "passionate" about everything. Read: you don't "go along and hey you're a woman". 

However none of my duties changed. With no change in pay or status a few extras were added such as coordinating the company suggestion program, organizing the first employee recognition event, conducting labor relations research and supervising another employee. After that wonderful vote of confidence I believed I was free to pursue other interests. It led directly to my being named a Safety Director at another entity. Upon informing management I was leaving I was labeled "disloyal". Perhaps they thought I would be shamed into staying. Ummm no.

Note:  Have to admit however, that all the new duties made me a great candidate for the Deputy Personnel Director position to which I was promoted from Safety Director at the next company. Everything happens for a reason and extra education is usually a good thing.

The Union held a heck of a party for me when I left and some of the top management sneaked over to say goodby so I was glad to know that I made some difference anyway. To be fair many of the issues I highlighted were put into practice by managment with minimal yet expected pushback. I remained on their "Do Call" list for issues which proved beneficial for both sides.

Digress: As a firm believer that things occur as they are supposed to, after I lost out on the promotion I ended up becaming pregnant with my wonderful daughter a few months later. Funny story. Well they all are. I was about 8 months pregnant and forgot a notebook a couple of floors up in the plant that I really needed. I, of course, ran up the several flights of metal stairs and arrived gasping for air and bent over. When I explained this scary episode to my doctor he wryly noted "most 8 months'pregnant women aren't racing up and down stairs". Oh. 

Revenge is sweet. Though I wished no ill will on those who did not realize my contributions it was rather humorous to hear from my replacement after I left.  She told me she quit after three months because of all they expected her to do. She said  I really spoiled them. They now have an entire department. But to be truthful it was necessary even in my day. One or two people could not handle all the health, safety and environmental issues for a multi-department, 1,000 employee entity. The more I learned, the more I realized how much was required; not only to maintain compliance but also safely perform tasks unique to our workplace. I was doomed to fail to be honest.  

In case anyone asks, I tend to choose the harder road-go figure....

STORIES FROM THE FRONT: CHAPTER 3

 Another local store had to close down for two weeks due to a covid outbreak. At the height of the Christmas rush. I was quick to blame the maskless wanderers who persist in their quest to infect the world, but to be fair I have never seen any protection on the clerk besides a pexiglass window that she reaches around to hand the customer the checkout pad. So six of one, half a dozen of another. The point is, risk can be mitigated. 

So another couple of entries for the grandson of Nana's adventures in trying to understand and mitigate risk.

As stated before I believe it only fair to "experience" the job task before I presume to pass judgement on safety and health mandates. Besides it's often fun, especially if one does not have to perform the task every day. Which meant I rode in ambulances and on fire trucks observing injury pick-ups and fire scenes. 

Ambulance runs in a City are often in less privileged areas, so a lookout is essential. I believe I mentioned before the fire personnel asking me to intervene on uniform colors that were too close to the police hue. In a dark alley, they look pretty much the same. I remember one run on the second floor (always when you have to transport) of a little girl who had fallen and hurt her neck. We gathered around the patient to lift her onto the stretcher but were hampered by this dude WORKING ON HIS MOTORCYCLE in the room. I still do not know how he got it up there. I was the only one bold enough to say "jeez man could you move over so we can lift the kid onto the stretcher?" He was kind of tough looking but sometimes the female voice soothes the savage beast so to speak. 

I was able to advocate for equipment but sometimes you had to say no. Like when they wanted this cool filtration system installed on the top of their new ambulance. Oh the days when we only worried about TB infections and good old HIV and Hep C. I gently pointed out all the local hospitals emergency areas had these tight entryways and immovable overhead signs that would snap the filter off on the first run. Mask up folks and mask the patient too for good measure. Now it is the norm. These were the same people who didn't want to wear gloves when handling patients afraid it would be misinterpreted that someone's Mother was "unclean". Blame me but we all got over it. 

"Attending" a fire situation was interesting. I actually garbed up in turnout gear and helmet to review the scene AFTER the fire was out. Two things-cardboard backing will protect the wall behind it; and second, leaving your toaster plugged in all the time may be problematic. I remarked about how hot it was, and this was after the fire was out. They laughed and laughed. I also rode in the back of the fire apparatus where the rule was helmets on when riding the rig. Of course it did not fit and one is not terribly secure in the open part of the truck. Again they laughed and laughed. 

One other interesting anecdote. There was a worker comp case where the "victim" claimed multiple chemical sensitivity sydrome after the fire station's regular treatment for ants. Now these folks are subject to a lot of nasty chemicals that are consumed in a fire. Turnout gear is not impermeable. They had mentioned to me the "cooked ham" smell that arises upon taking a shower after a fire. I understood after my own sojourn into the smoky aftermath of a house fire and found that they were exactly correct. Eerie. Normally one does not question a fire-related cancer or respiratory illness for worker comp.

However this victim claimed he could not go anywhere that had odors or fragrances after the episode with the ant juice. Such as Hudson's perfume counter (that was the example). Ok. In discussing the issue with his doctor I was informed that only the patient knows to what he/she is sensitive and to what extent. Remember when I said Industrial Hygiene is the science of assuming everyone is sensitive to something in unknown quantities. After reviewing the safety data sheets and in an effort to stave off further issues with the rest of the group, the Fire Chief and I sat in the Station the next time they sprayed and had lunch to prove the substances used were harmless. Like the Princess and the pea, managment would succomb sooner to bad air was the thinking; flawed but effective. Things straightened out though when the employee in question was seen drinking in a smoky bar with friends. As he put it, well it's not all the time.... 

On a ride-along with the police I followed the officer as she decided to confront a known drug dealer who had recently been "cut loose" just to let him know, we knew, he was back out there. It was while I was drifting in and out of shadows following the officer (I was dressed in all black) that it dawned on me that "oh this could be dangerous and here I am drifting along invisible in the line of fire so to speak." Unlike the Rambo movies I decided the two officers could handle things and I retreated to a safe distance. Like I said Fun! I guess I shouldn't have been surprised that the OH said he never could get back to sleep when I got one of my middle of the night emergency calls or scheduled job observations. So I learned not to be too specific on my adventures. 

Happy Wednesday...

THIS AND THAT

 Well we  have finally come to the most blatant and transparent epitome of power grabs. An entire politcal party believes it has the right to go to Court if they don't like the outcome of an election. Whooee wowee. Not to mention intimidation, threats and actual violence they are urging on their supporters. Banana Republic we have arrived. Or would have if this latest lawsuit wasn't so blatently ridiculous. 

One State challenging another State on its own rules and laws? I believe we fought a war on that issue many years ago when the southern States insisted on their right to enslave people to maintain their lifestyle. According to history there were actual fisticuffs and duels occurring in the hallowed halls of Congress before things broke down entirely. Now they do it by proxy. Well the South is going "down" again.  I also love that it is Texas, the poster child of individualism and forging their own path, that is now challenging another State's rights. Ironic. 

UPDATE: Paxton the Texas AG who brought the lawsuit against the States is currently under investigation by the FBI due to whistle blower complaints from his own staff citing his increasingly erratic and illogical behavior and actions, and some funny money issues.... Just saying be careful who you go to bed with....

I say we sue Texas over the monopoly of their cattle industry. I just know they are not treating "them cows" humanely.  I am sure others can raise beef cattle lovingly and organically. Also wine tasting rooms in Texas? Really--they have to import the grapes. So we need another lawsuit of impersonating Napa Valley. And of course they never got over losing their status as the largest State when we admitted Alaska to the Union (probably sued over that too). Alaska just laughed and said "Careful cowboy, we can split in half and still be bigger than you!" And oh yeah, who is going to tell the "big hat, no cattle" folk that negating the election also destroys any other hapless republicans elected in the same big fraud.  

Yep (texas style) when the nation's attorney general, the head of cyber security, dozens of conservative judges and 1000's of election workers of both parties call no fraud it really does bring paranoia to a whole new level. Perpetrated by one "proven" liar who told us he would win at all costs. Cheating and lying are just a means to an end. That base of supporters may be big, but is it worth your gonads, conscience and very soul?  (Psst  the orange one has collected over 200 million in funds for a defense fund of which he has only spent 8 million; leaving the rest to use however he wants) Do I detect a whiff of a con here? Who wants to bet Giuliani doesn't get paid?

On a happier note. If anyone has ventured out and "shopped local" the gratitude of the employees is overwhelming. Smiles (you can tell with the mask), happy voices, offers to bag, transport and wrap any gifts you want. One even volunteered to ride in the trunk and carry packages to a safe place to "air out" before we had to soil our hands. (just  kidding). No one playing with their phones, hair, or other emps while you are in need of assistance and have your happy credit card hanging out. 

On a flower order I literally engaged the designer for fifteen minutes accepting and rejecting different flowers and arrangements until it was just right. I cheerfully exposed my lack of knowledge when she offered that  "comboodie flowers surrounded by orky dorkys would look great together". Huh? So she trotted out different fleurs and put fake bouquets together until I was happy. Never a sigh or complaint, though the place was buzzing like the proverbial beehive of floral extravaganzas. I hate ordering off an FTD website as they send the order to local florists who, nine out of ten times, do not have the flowers shown. Plus I thought it was cheaper to go right to the source.  Apparently I was wrong on that last point but as I was designing it, I can't really complain.

Just finished washing sheets. Has anyone actually figured out how to fold fitted sheets??? After wrapping myself up and cussing at the inanimate offending material I tend to put them away in a jumbled mess in the linen closet. I used to hear sly chuckling as I closed the door on the devil sheets. However, as one gets older, and wiser, I have decided to avoid the middleman so to speak, and return the same sheets to the bed after washing. No folding required. Some might say, but they'll wear out quicker. Who cares? I am willing to bet we all have more sheet sets than we can ever use so to the rag bag they go....And they know it.

Happy Thursday...

STORIES FROM THE FRONT: CHAPTER 2

 

On a recent trip to the local grocery store I was literally accosted by a little old lady trying to take "cuts". Now that I am a litte old lady it is embarrassing when one of my own thinks they are invisible, entitled or charmingly precocious. Not a good look if one is older than 3 or 4. It was extremely busy with check-out lines extending back  into the miscellaneous clothing, hardware, shoe and jewelry counters. Actually if you are looking for said products, you have plenty of time to peruse the merchandise while cobwebs grow between customer and cart.

At any rate ignoring the looming conga line behind me she slyly sidled into the side of my cart and started chatting about how busy the store was, bla bla bla.  She was "booming" this observation practically into my carefully masked face. I had to physically move backward while my pushing my cart into a defensive position. Meanwhile I could feel the animosity vapors rising from other customers. She pleasantly told the group right behind me "you go ahead and I'll just pop in after you", blithely ignoring the entire entourage who were starting to make growling noises. The way forward opened up and I bogeyed. I dared not look back, but at some point noticed she was no where to be found. I did overhear her tell someone she had been waiting quite awhile. Fake news.  At any rate I am not sure if the mob terminated her or she just wandered off to test her "I'm just a poor little old lady" bit on some other unsuspecting body.

Rather a long intro to another one of my industrial hygiene challenges. Perhaps my point is that people are careful or safe when it suits them, but rather selfish when inconvenienced citing "fake news", "faulty science", "never happened before" mentalities. Or maybe there is no relationship at all. 

Reality vs. perception creates many misunderstandings as we all have witnessed recently. One episode I experienced was when there a was rennovation occurring in the lobby of the building where many customer service reps were stationed. Normally a wide-open area; pleasant and interesting, it was also open to the public. Always something to see or some drama unfolding to get one through the workday. Medical emergencies and children unleashed were common as well as minor altercations over bills or utility shut-offs. 

One fine winter day paint and/or varnish was being applied to walls on the other side of an enclosure near the lobby. One lady with health issues smelled the offending aroma and immediately went down sick. This was quickly followed, in a perfect domino effect, several other female employees going down. They were all sent home for the day and I had to figure out what happens next, "by tommorow morning please" Okayyy

Although this is the unscientific opinion part of the story, I suspect a general hysteria ensued when the first lady with a sensitivity to strong odors reacted. Not to point fingers, but not one gentleman complained. In our defense women do seem to have a heightened sensitivity to odor. No doubt that is why we know the baby filled the diaper way before the guys do. Which may be a defense mechanism for them actually honed over centuries of "who changes the baby".

Though not to leave the gents out, I once had a distress call from men working in a park putting in a new play area complete with sandbox. Upon arrival they pointed out the bag, which merrily followed the "Right to Know" laws by listing its ingredients - Silica (a known carcinogen). Sigh. Since beaches are pretty much full of it I said don't snort it ok? Using sarcasm does bite back at times. I was performing hazard training on chemicals used for swimming pool sanitation. I explained the product they were using was no more dangerous than bleach. Use the gloves and face mask provided and soak your whites in it for a cleaner wash. They gleefully pointed out where I had spilled some of the product on my jeans which now sported some interesting greenish/white spots where the "bleach" had landed. Nothing like an unplanned accident to get the point across.  

Back to the odor problem. After a scramble to obtain air monitoring equipment, as of course we did not own any, because what do we need that stuff for? One should remember I came into the employee safety world during the Stone Age obviously. Oddly enough I received all the training I could eat but never the instrumentation to actually "apply" what I learned.

 As I suspected, the tests were negative for dangerous levels of pretty much anything. It was just, to use the technical term, "a stinky smell". I was not believed. One lady had gone to the doctor and refused to return until she knew it was safe (in her mind), my results not withstanding. My solution was to visqueen (plastic) the offending walls and place giant fans into the suspect area to blew all the nasty smell out into the alley. Problem solved and we finished the reno over the weekend. 

As I said perception is everything...More tales from the crypt to follow.

JUST FOR FUN: OFFICE IN A CAN

 As I sit at my home desk darkly ruminating over and methodically deleting the myriad of useless emails I receive in a day, I got to thinking about all the folks who cannot get up and walk-away from their 7th online meeting of the day whenever they get bored. Although even I know the trick of covering my camera and doing a few quick stretches or making a necessary "john" run from the several Zoomies in which I have been involved. I think the other attendees know however, but as long as one doesn't "flush" too loudly no one says anything. 

In my first couple of Zoom-by-yas, I forgot the Grandfather clock sings out every 15 minutes and bongs out the time on the hour. I curse that clock, that often runs a minute or two slow, as it sounds at the very crux of a show I am watching. I stupidly yell at the clock as if it's going to stop half-way through nine bongs to accomodate my ire. I always, illogically turn up the volume as the clock is sounding but still have to go back (thank goodness for DVR) to replay the part I missed. Then I realize the volume is too high and have to turn it down. The whole scenerio of course plays out an hour later.

Anyway I was thinking about all those empty offices and what may or may not be happening to those items we left behind in the mad rush to evacuate. Office plants lying in brown smoking piles from lack of water; coffee machines growing cobwebs or possibly gossamer pools of penicillin happily glowing in the depths of forgotten left-over liquid (or is that only possible in bread); copier machines jamming helpessly on their own as the ink slowly dehydrates to the point of death; staplers and scissors, once vibrant contributors, now in despair over lack of human contact. 

On the flip side quite possibly the mice have finally taken the opportunity to set up cheese Import/Export businesses they've been wanting undisturbed by squeamish people. Though I suppose the auditors would notice the phone activity. No doubt any left-over food (candy, crackers, pot) has most certainly been demolished by the afore-mentioned rodents. I also would not want to be the first one to open the refrigerator in the break room, if and when, these offices are ever occupied again. In truth any office area occupied by more than one person results in a lottery of who can hold out the longest in cleaning up the "shared" spaces. I can't imagine cleaning was high on the list of "must dos" when the mass exodus occurred. 

Life is and will continue to be different. Wearing "real clothes" to the office will be a shock to the system and within days workers will be longing for the freedom of working from home....right, well some will. As usual we will forget the unpleasantness and awkwardness as we fire up the economic machine. Or perhaps employers will get a clue about traditional work spaces and realize a blend of work environments may be exactly the tonic to preserve efficiency, productivity and surprisingly, morale. Nine+ months at home should have taught us something.

THANKSGIVING FOR THE MEMORIES

 Apropos of nothing..."What do ya' need? A gilded invitation from a sparkly unicorn?" Idle thought as I was waiting for someone to realize the light was green at what has to be shortest traffic light in the kingdom.  Anyway....

Holidays have a way of crystallizing moments. Time flies or creeps slowly depending on your point of view (old vs young). Each day is slow, but the years go by in a flash. Things I never thought I would forget pass silently into one of those little folds in the brain to come up at inopportune moments but they never stay in the forefront for long. Too much gets piled on top.  However holidays seem to punctuate the years like slivers of light creeping under a closed door in a darkened hallway.

Thanksgiving when we were children reminds me of my Father's Mother, Grandma Hackley. Never a great cook but there was variety. She was known for her paper thin pie crusts as she reasoned no one wants to eat the crust anyway. Might as well have fruit in a bowl. She had a lot of ideas that my Mom really didn't agree with but so be it. 

As young marrieds, we alternated between families but usually at my Mother's house. My older sister would usually do the cooking so Mom could be free to visit or, more likely, engage in the cutthroat eucre games we would get into. I loved it when Mom was on my team playing games. She was smart, funny and absolutely ruthless. We had a marathon session once playing Monopoly. Between Mother and myself we had cornered the rich side of the Board and destroyed all the other players except one. My brother had barely skated through the pricey rental district when he got a card that sent him back 3 spaces. Drop the Mic and put a fork in it! No mercy.

After my daughter entered the picture, we tended to travel North to the other side of the family. They started making the Florida sojourn earlier and earlier so it just became easier to hold Christmas at Thanksgiving. For awhile as the only local grandchild, she basically cleaned up as both the center of attention and gifting.

 I used to pray for good weather on Thanksgiving week as 250 miles north creates a whole new weather pattern to anticipate. The OH never had any qualms about the drive though I was quietly white-knuckling it in the passenger seat. One Christmas we decided to go at 2 in the morning in a blinding snowstorm. To assure you were on the road one looked for the little reflective lights that mark each mile. Considering all the driving I did for work around the State (even did a February trip to Marquette in the UP) I never did get over the apprehension that total mayhem was nastily lurking just over the next hill. 

Things changed again when Kristen started dating her "now" husband. She of course wanted to introduce him to the family dynamic (get it over all at once I say). As Burt (Other Half) always wanted us to dress nicely (you can never be overdressed), Matt purchased a sport coat for the dinner. At that point restaurants were the cook of choice. Although Grandpa and Grandma always dressed in Sunday best we clashed or contrasted nicely with the sweat shirt motif preferred by some of the younger set. Matt charmed all with his bon vivant attitude and upbeat personality.

Things changed again with the birth of my grandson and at six months he charmed the multitudes, as a pint-sized version of his Father, at the restaurant and later at his Great-Aunt's house in his snappy plaid shirt as long as Dad and Mom are right there. As the first great-grandchild he of course commandeered massive attention and gifting. As he is charming and unselfish he is more inclined to share his good fortune with others.

Now in the Age of Pandemic, the scene shifts again. Our Moms and Dads are long gone and Burt has  taken over the role of Chief Cook (I am the chief bottle washer as I hate to cook). But this year due to circumstances beyond our control it is just the two of us. Though the messaging that is going back and forth with the locked up family members makes it feel like we're all together anyway, but much quieter  

Thankful for what we have and hoping for better times ahead.  BTW We're having ham and wine and saving the massive turkey for Christmas, fingers crossed. 

                                             

WHAT ME WORRY? (YES!)

 A nod to my youthful obsession with MAD Magazine in the title. Warning in advance for the vehemence displayed in the following which is strictly the opinion of yours truly. Just realized it's November 22; fifty seven years since John Kennedy's assassination...

I hesitate to address the mayhem, chaos and lunacy being perpetrated by the "soon to be" ex-President as we are all just so tired of the constant negativity. But his obscene behavior is having and will continue to have a detrimental effect on our country, our security, our belief in free elections and democracy itself. Our founding fathers never envisioned such an egotistical monster (yes, there were other egoists in the White House) who had absolutely no regard for the country, other people or frankly, reality.

As he contemplates starting a nuclear war with Iran and fires any knowledgeable and competent member of  National Security or DOD, the threat of burning the place down as a bonfire to his ego makes life tense to say the least. One saving grace is his lack of intelligence, absolute inability to be subtle and lacking the patience to play the "long game". "Slash and Burn". He has surrounded himself with equally clueless sycophants who, though just as evil and cunning, cannot control his more infantile impulses. He publicly advertises his military strategies and acts surprised and angry when our enemies treat it as a victory of forcing us out. 

There is no excuse for those in power (through elections, oddly enough) to fail to tell the emperor he's risking a nasty sunburn with his birthday suit behavior. We knew he was a snake and they did too. Trying to keep faith with his faithless base is their excuse. However there are 80,000,000 of us who fail to see this as anything less than a personal attack on our country and the machinations of a madman.

This is typical behavior from the baby-in-chief. He wins by manipulating the system, hiring scores of lawyers to do his dirty work (obviously they were paid in advance) and leveraging one deal to pay for the next (pyramid tactics). Then when confronted he cries foul and sues.  Sleazy though apparently acceptable in business, the fact that he is inflicting this behavior on the United States of America, while his allies say nothing, is criminal. There are so many examples -- his charity charged with fraud and ordered to cease and desist (ripping off kids); his apparently bogus business school; allegedly paying family members working for the company "consulting" fees diminishing taxable profits and possibly manipulation of the tax system (2 sets of books?) to name a few. 

 One example of his tactics as a businessman is the story (allegedly) of a small piano manufacturer who provided the pianos for T's  failed casinos in Atlantic City. Upon presenting the bill, the vendor was told he could take half or go to court. On a larger scale, another widely reported story indicates that after American banks grew leery of lending he was granted a multi-million dollar loan through Deutsche Bank. When payments became due, he charged the bank with predatory lending practices. Wonder who he owes 400 million to?  Everybody.

We need to take the gloves off and hold this whole crooked Administration and its enablers accountable for their absolute dereliction of duty, honor and patriotism.  Fortunately this "would-be" dictator does not actually have the military in his pocket like all good little despots. He may have his gun-toting far right agitators but a few trained and truly patriotic troops can take care of that. "Watch 'em run".      

  I don't have enough "saliva" in my mouth to fully register my disgust for this ongoing farce.

UPDATE: Since this was published some good news. Michigan certified its elections giving its 16 electoral votes to Biden and the GSA Director granted the Biden transition team office space and funding.

STORIES FROM THE FRONT: CHAPTER 1

 

With so much emphasis on an invisible microscopic virus wrecking havoc it reminded me of instances when I had to deal with both the fear of, and disdain for, health hazards in my years as a Safety and Health professional.  In my world hazards were usually identified by my expanding education and  constant perusal of applicable safety standards. Other issues were "thrust upon me" so to speak. 

The Industrial Hygiene credo as I understood it was "everyone has a sensitivity to everything, it's just a matter of exposure and dose. As we do not know each person's level of sensitivity we strive to protect employees from ANY exposure." Tall objective I know but it does offer incentive for proper mitigation; unless you are dealing with crazy situations and perceptions. Believing "folk lore" has always been more comfortable than actually listening to science. Of course, when one operates as the employer we have the ability to levy and enforce the rules.  A little different scenerio with the general public. But I believe it is still more important to educate and convince rather than forcing compliance.

One major introduction to a health hazard came about when I had a visit from MIOSHA based on an employee complaining their work area was too dirty to enjoy their lunch (eaten outside the break room). Aahh they worked in a coal-fired power plant so obviously the magical puffy flyash landed on everything and everyone in the form of a fine black dust. Blowing one's nose after a long shift was startling and gross if one is the type to examine their  hankie after utilization. I only made that mistake once. 

DIGRESS: That's what OSHA/MIOSHA did when they had a formal complaint - they visited and investigated. However in Trump world a different dynamic became the norm with the appointment of  Eugene Scalia, son of Supreme Court Justice Scalia, as head of OSHA.When complaints came from employees that there were eight deaths from Covid in a meat packing plant, OSHA's and the President's response was to make them "essential workers". Keep the meat coming regardless of the human cost.

Although we came through our clean visit fine, the inspector noticed just before leaving some white stuff around a container. He asked what it was of course and my maintenance supervisor quickly claimed it was innocent old insulation.  Big boilers, lots of fireproofing and insulation.

 "Is it asbestos?" he asked which my supervisor vigorously denied. "How do you know" he persisted. "Oh I can tell just by looking!" my person proudly proclaimed.  RUH RO as Scoobie Doo would say. I knew that was not a great answer...Six months later we all knew where each piece of asbestos insulation was located, sported a whole bunch of spiffy tyvek suits for maintenance work and some of us (me) went to school to learn everything you wanted to know about asbestos monitoring but definitely sorry that we never asked. 

As there were three power plants under my responsibility I got to see a lot of guys in their underwear as I had to affix monitoring devices to them and check results as they stripped down for their breaks. Just one of the guys. Of course the first thing they would do was "light up" on break so whatever measures I was attempting to keep their lungs safe from asbestos was probably a wash after they smoked a few. 

A few employees and supervision of course thought it was overkill, but someone has to halt the madness. I stopped short of showing them diseased lungs in safety training. One can only take so much fainting from the students. Not to get too technical but basically asbestosis slowly or quickly depending on one's sensitivity, causes scarring to the alevoli or air sacs. Get enough blocked air sacs and breathing becomes a function you used to do.  Mesothelioma is another wonderful by-product of asbestos exposure which causes cancer in the linings of vital organs causing an incurable situation. So get those lawsuits going early.

Asbestos is everywhere and has been since Roman times as it's a great insulator and fireproofing substance. The fact that it is also unhealthy even lethal has also been known since forever, hence the massive payouts from Johns-Manville and others. For us older students, remember those old school gymnasiums wth the fluffy ceilings? Used to be a contest to determine who could hit the ceiling with the ball? Yep the floaters were tiny little cancer makers. The darn stuff is also happily present in asphalt tile and roof shingles. Isn't science wonderful? Though air monitoring a roofing job presented some logistical problems for yours truly. Fortunately I am not particularly thrown by heights. (ok I admit bad pun)

I lived and breathed asbestos (well maybe not breathed) forever more and carried my hard-earned knowledge to my next employer which promptly set off a firestorm with my insistence on following the law. Attorneys were involved and panic ensued. I know where the bodies are buried so we will leave it at that. Though there was a memorable night when I got a 2:30 am call as maintenenace punctured a wall in City Hall and exposed "that darn white stuff". Fortunately I knew who to call at 3:00 am for mitigation. Helps to leave a former employer on good terms.

This is running long so I am calling it Chapter 1 with more stories to follow.

 I will relate one more story that reminds me of the intransigence of folks. When working for the power company a transformer blowup caused a deluge of oil to be dumped over a few private properties. Now there are little manmade substances called PCBs added to transformer oil that are resistant to heat and pressure. Not a lot in comparison to the oil, but it led to a major PR headache and replacements of siding, driveways and dirt. Though it is true PCBs can cause harm to humans that would require massive amounts of prolonged and repeated exposure. As I tried to explain this to my office mates I literally was told "we know you and would like to believe you, but we are just very worried". Like I said what "we perceive as the truth" is much harder to overcome.  

Frustrating but not surprising that people are believing "their own truth" when it comes to coronvirus regardless of the evidence all around them....

TRUTH IS NOT TRUTH

 

In perusing an article on the ongoing lawsuits being filed in defense of the prez citing voter fraud (their words not mine) it rather facetiously, I thought, suggested that lawyers are realizing they may only want to go so far in pursuing these claims. Possibly they are realizing the consequences of actually lying or providing false information before a judge could have an impact on their licenses. It is my understanding that attorneys as "officers of the court", although having a duty to represent their client, can also be charged with commiting a fraud upon the court if they knowingly present false information. Hmm so they will go so far but not further perhaps.

Reading some of the affadavits filed by poll watchers included compaints such as "they were wearing BLM shirts"; "they looked at or talked mean to me"; "I saw a bunch of military ballots marked for Biden and I thought they were supposed to be conservative";"they wouldn't let me look over their shoulder and breathe on them"; "they were huddled plotting mayhem", etc.  I, perhaps, embellished the last two, but in the age of pandemic the six foot rule had to be enforced. In other words no one saw people changing ballots, counting illegal ballots or creating ghost ballots. but they could have, they cried in their statements. Unwritten but clear they would rather say and "they were black". Oddly enough the President fared better in inner cities than in 2016. It was the suburbs that sunk him as they loathe him.

Meanwhile, back at the farm (Wash. D.C.) the cyber unit of Homeland Security announced in a Senate hearing that they have no evidence that votes were compromised or altered in last week's presidential election. Further, they stated that it was the most secure election in American history. Oh darn.  

The whole situation reminded me of an episode of my own in court representing my employer. Many employee safety officers are also responsible for workers' compensation administration. I had the pleasure at one employer of covering both disciplines, which literally meant I had no time for preventative safety as WC takes up 90% of the time. As a Personnel Director for another company I had both safety and workers comp employees so at least I could direct the activities rather than be a daily active participant. However at a certain point I had to be involved, such as negotiating contracts or working with the attorneys for court appearances. 

DIGRESS:  In my experience only, let me be clear, the attorneys told me they could handle any legal issue thrown at them - any speciality. Wrong. Consequently every time I was assigned a new attorney I had the distinct honor of training them in the nuances of Work Comp court. Not overtly mind you, the "I can do anything syndrome". Things like how they set all the hearings at 9 am so you can sit in little rooms and negotiate settlements or how the AJ (Judge) acts as the employee advocate and how if you would get off your high horse and play golf with other attorneys negotiations would go much better.  The first attorney I worked with basically opened a checkbook and asked how much. That kind of "behind the eight balled" us right away. I had the same attitude about unemployment scams. To be honest I did not dispute 95% of the claims for either one. But when it was wrong I went to the wall!

Anyway one of the "scam" workers' comp claims finally had a shot at being resolved in our favor. However we had to appear in Circuit Court in Kalamazoo before the Judge. We prepped all the way over so I was ready as the "Star" witness negotiating for the employer.  At one point the Judge called me up to his desk and said point blank "Do you have the authority to accept this settlement?" Now I knew I could make this all go away with the right answer.  So without hesitation I proudly said "Hell no!"  Well I actually said "no, our Honor". So we were dismissed. Then it got humorous.

On the way back the attorney was saying. Thank goodness. I was behind you freaking out and thinking "Please Don't Lie, Please Don't Lie, Please Don't Lie". Like I was going to do that and we had a good laugh. Makes you wonder what world these people live in.....

                                                          

A BRAND NEW DAY?

 

The best representation for me of the announcement Saturday, November 7, 2020, was a meme that depicted three African American females. The caption reads "Rosa sat so Ruby could walk and Kamala could run".

 It of course, references the courage of Rosa Parks who in 1955, after a long day refused to give up her seat to a white man in the "Colored section" of the bus as the white section was full. She is called the Mother of the Civil Rights Movement. Ruby Bridges was that little girl, escorted by federal marshalls, who become the first African American child to desegretate a Louisville school in 1960 and remains an activist for civil rights.  230 years after becoming a country, and 100 years after granting the vote to African American men and women, in 2020 Kamala Harris was named Vice-President elect of the United States. 

It should be commonplace and routine by now that any gender or color can ascend to the highest offices in the nation on an equal playing field and yet it took until 2020. Well this is not Horatio Alger world and the racism and sexism that has prevailed for so long has been answered with a resounding click of Kamala's 3-inch heels. Of course it's only a start and I am the first to say one has to perform and deliver. This is not a "token" assignment. This was hard-fought, hard won and we expect results, as this is only a beginning, I hope, of equal rights for all.

However the reverberations of the disappointed losers are continuing to resonate. The cries of "cheating and fraud" are disingenuous to say the least. In their fear that Freedom might actually ring after all, the Repubs hi-jacked the Post Office to slow delivery (that may end up in jail time for the Trump appointee); only allowed one ballot box per county in Texas; disenfranchised folks in Florida who had paid their debt to society; brought multiple lawsuits to stop absentee ballots; threatened both voters and poll workers; and closed so many polling places throughout the South (since the Supremes struck down the Fair Voting Act) it forced folks to wait in line for hours to vote. But they were committed to having their voices heard. Finally for this massive scheme to work the 100's and 1000's of Secretarys of State, poll workers, vote counters, observers (of both parties) would all have to "be in on the scam". Amazing logistics to pull that one off.  

2020 has not been particularly genteel and there have been a lot of issues to protest. But at least when it comes to protesting the results of an election, in 2016 protesters sported pink pussy hats not pistols and long guns while whining "it's not fair boo hoo" in a cowardly attempt to intimidate. Don't tread on me indeed.

VOTE FOR THE FUTURE

Nov 3, 2020 - a day that will live in  infamy. (sorry FDR, seemed appropriate).  Many of us have been waiting for this day for, I'm guessing, four long years. A chance to remove this monstrosity, this blight on our hearts and souls. He is not the entire reason for the country losing its collective mind four years ago; he is merely the result of the continuing upsurge and panic of white conservatism that feared it had lost its grip on the thoat of this country. To pretend that some Americans are not racist or sexist or hate-filled of anything or anyone different is living in "Din-ney Land". 

The Repubs have been working on this premise for a long time. One can say it goes back to Newt Gingrich's insistence of party over country and never cooperating or compromising with the other side. But it goes back further. When a terrorist shot Abraham Lincoln the rebellious southern states were welcomed back, but were never held accountable or required to deal with the slavery issue. Or further when the constitution only considered a person of color 3/5s of a man and women were not even mentioned. The founding fathers who believed only those with property and standing should be able to vote and that education was a privilege of the well-connected and powerful.  When police forces were created from the ever-popular "slave catcher" forces that existed before the war resulting in a mentality that exists even unto today. If it's not white, it's not human.

The good-meaning people of the country, the majority, have systematically had their voice, their opinions stripped away under the guise of nationalism, law and order, abortion rights, socialism, etc. Programs like the Affordable Health Act, Social Security, Medicare, Consumer Protection Agency, EPA, Wage and Hour and OSHA are condemned as liberal (read socialist) acts that, by golly, benefit the majority of Americans and are supported by our taxes (beneficial return on our money). However many either believe the lies or they are powerless to protect these beneficial programs due to the control exerted by those in control. Government is not created to make a profit (why do we think businessmen make a good politician). They exist to take care of the many in ways an individual cannot.

 The Repubs have successfully managed a long-term game of securing strategic legislative seats to control gerrymandering which allows them an electoral victory against the popular will and vote of the people. (Repubs have not won the popular vote since 1988) Stacking and influencing the Supreme Court destroyed and eliminated the Voting Rights Act leading immediately and directly to no federal oversight of the process. This in turn assured the minority right to vote was destroyed in the South. Ever wonder why poorer (read black) districts have to wait hours or travel miles to vote? Because the Repubs shut down the polling stations in their districts regardless of the number of eligible voters preserving what? Again that insane fear of people of color and any educated, well-traveled or sophisticated person having an influence.

 What is especially diabolical is the use of "religion" to keep the masses down. That old chestnut has proven successful throughout the ages by the ancient civilizations and their "gods", by the Crusades, the Inquisition, the Reformation and war after war. Meanwhile those in power were and are merrily commiting every sin of which they accuse others. Suppressing education and allowing literacy to a chosen few kept their "truth" protected. (Truth is not truth) A tactic successfully deployed during the slave times as well. Of course I will admit the Internet is rather dumbing down the masses as we become a bit lazy in tracking down the truth.

I have faith that the majority of us do "love our neighbor" and perhaps we will prove it this week. Do I think the Democrats have all the answers or can achieve long-term positive change with one election. Of course not. But we have to start somewhere to create decency and cooperation where someone can state an opposing viewpoint without holding a gun in their hand and enduring the mindless vitriol  of grammar school attacks. I was disappointed on my 65th birthday when I cast my vote for the first woman seeking the office of President. Hopefully "We the People" can start taking back our power and it can start today. I pray that it will. 

Blue and pearls for RBG!

                                            

SEASONAL FLOW

 

First task upon entering the Lake House (well 2nd as I always have to adjust the house temp) is to stroll out to the dock and take stock of the water.  Well that is the point and attraction of a lake house of course. Late Spring, Summer and early Fall the water is turbid or roiling and the murky bottom is difficult to perceive (actually that is the definition of turbid and roil-no one uses bigly words anymore).  But in the Fall the magic occurs. Left to its own devices and undisturbed by those pesky boats, paddle boards and kayaks the water becomes completely clear. 

We can now clearly see what new rocks have been desposited. How did they get there? I've seen some big fish but come on. Also brightly colored and slowly deteriorating plastic toys casually lost in the previous summer start to appear. You can see the old clear spots where Lady Fish dug out their nesting beds and bred the next generation of baby fry (yes baby fish are called fry which give a whole new meaning to Fridays at the church). Of course there is the usual muck and leaf residue that creates that wonderful squishy bottom necessitating the need to wear swim shoes in our lake. Sandy bottom is not prevalent except at the State Park. Then the duck flotillas take over the water with their adult sized teenagers joining the parade and sometimes roosting right on the docks until they are shooed away. Cleverly disguised (to the ducks) duck blinds appear as the new "watercraft" on the water. Shots ring out on a clear, cool morning; though as two of the "dummies trying the kidnap the Govenor" live in the area, perhaps they are practicing to protect our vote.

The patio furniture is stored; the boats are in storage; the last fires have been lit and the hi-tech heating system gets installed in the crawl space to keep the pipes from freezing (light bulb). All the tasks that herald the coming of winter 2020. Gosh will we all be happy to see this one go into the books. They say only winners write history but I have a feeling that all who have lived through this year will have a piece of history engraved on their hearts. 

Halloween is especially poignant this year with remote candy offerings from a socially distanced provider. Of course there is no costume half as scary as the news. How fitting this holiday falls just before a hotly contested election for the future of our souls. Doesn't get much scarier than that! Hopefully we will take a hint from the calming of the waters and behold a equitable and peaceful election, though so far it has been anything but...

                                                   

RELEASE THE SEED

 

After finally admitting the resident hummingbird (Hummer) was gone for the season I reluctantly took down my feeder. I never time it correctly and have to dump a jar of delicious humming bird sweet red liquid every Fall. Which is also the signal to start purchasing "Bird Food" at our local garden center to sustain the hardy Winter flock. We are philosophically opposed to feeding in the summer as there is plenty of juicy forageable floral available throughout the garden areas. The deer of course feed all year and make no disctinction between flowers, weeds and cultivated items. The battle of the cages allows some of the tomatoes to survive to maturity. 

As with all groceries, seed has gone up $5, so no fancy peanuts in the bag this year boys and girls. Some birds, who shall not be named (bluejays) will dig furiously through what they consider the more inferior components to tease out the peanuts. This is much to the delight of the squirrels and chipmunks as the ground scattering provides them a meal as well. The brilliant metal plate system on the feeder pole has thus far stymied their efforts to attack the feeder directly.

First visitor to discover "Dinner has been Served" was the lovely brown sparrow. Quietly, stealthily it happily enjoys the feeder solo. Being a lowly sparrow he does not feel a need to draw attention by bragging about his discovery. The next visitors are chickadees who are there morning, noon and night. Again not a whole lot of chippy or chirpy advertising going on. Next Madame Cardinal makes an appearance in her drab grayish-brown coat  to nuzzle some ground seed. Finally that big buffoon Bluejay swoops in, tossing everyone off-perch so to speak and running his mouth.  Drat the word is out and the dove flock makes a beeline for a free meal. Their huge bodies intimidate other diners much like a motorcycle gang clears out a bar.

Woodpeckers soon discover suet has been added to the menu and hang precariously upside down to peck out their share. We have actually seen giant (Woody Woodpecker-type) pileated woodpeckers peruse the feeder but their huge bodies make that an impossibility. They actually prefer pecking the 30 foot pine trees for grubs instead but curiosity you know. On one occassion I actually saw a hawk pluck a smaller, unsuspecting diner off the feeder. One has to admire the skill while temporarily mourning the loss of a small guest, but when the feeder opens, it is every creature for him or her self. 

What is the deal with all the robins hanging about? The lawn is covered with them but I assume they will be plying the airways south before too long. Although they turn up their noses at common bird food, they do strip the chokecherries off the trees by the garage, that strangely enough, only come out in the Fall. Almost like there was a plan in place....

Although I don't mind offering some sustenance to the winter population I do think it's tacky that the male cardinal tends to run off the female when he is ready for dinner. Can't we all just get along?

                                                     

PERSON/MAN/WOMAN/CAMERA/TV OVERBOARD

 Another ritual of Fall is the winterizing, shrink-wrapping and storage of Lady Pontoon. She's female because that is the nautical way and she has rather wide hips. She carries no name as that is another  tradition of not naming smaller vessels. However our other same length, yet slimmer, fishing boat is named the SheilaBeast despite the prohibition and actually not being aware that the no-no existed. 

With such a fickle weather pattern, it was not a priority to take the boat out of the water. Finally a stretch of good weather in middle October prompted my call to the Marina. Nope-everyone had the same idea. Had to postpone a week and of course the weather cooperated with blue skies and balmy temps- Not. Tuesday at least it wasn't raining, however temps were chilly and wind was "a'blowing'. Waiting until 1:00 pm for the warmest part of the day (45) we could not wait any longer as clouds were starting to move in. Triple layers and gloves. The OH just went the whole route and wore foul weather gear. 

All the bouys are removed by this date so knowledge of the lake is the only way to keep from a shallow water disaster. Couldn't open up that 90 horse for quite a ways and upon doing so instantly regretted it as it just accelerated the cooling effect. Oddly enough we were the only boat on the lake, though a duck blind built on a scaffold covered with branches was quite an intriguing sight. 

DIGRESS: I have never claimed to be much of a deckhand. In fact for our first cruiser type boat I had shirts made. One was Captain of course, one for the daughter was deckhand and mine simply claimed "Deck Fluff". I wore it proudly being chauffered while basking in the sun.

Since I was not the one driving and parking at the marina dock with a brisk eastward wind pushing, my role was whipping the rope over the deck posts or, after missing that, trying to nab a deck post to bring her around...Massive fail of course. Being an ill-prepared deckhand, I managed to assist in hitting the dock first time around. Back up and try again, this time with the gate open (which would have helped the captain see the dock). Another grab and a miss but close enough for another run and leap to the dock rope in hand. But by only snaring the bow rope and stupidly pulling on it, the pesky wind pushed the boat all the way around sideways. Another method is desperately needed. Fortunately I did not note anyone around to watch this docking debacle. 

Deserting me on the dock (I would have too) the Captain took her out and turned around. Then he scrambled around the outside deck and fastened the ropes together so it could be swung over the deck posts properly (Oh) . I idly watched thinking wouldn't it be funny if he fell overboard and had to swim to shore. Later this idle thought was horribly echoed when the OH said he only realized afterward that he left the boat in gear rather than neutral and if he'd made the plunge it would have been by-by boat. Funny after owning boats for 30+ years one still makes mistakes. As I said before, a competent deckhand would have avoided the drama. How boring.

NO WHINING PLEASE, DARN IT

Usually this time of year there is a strong hypnotic pull to the North to enjoy the crisp Fall air, blue skies, apples and cider stands by the side of the road and WINE!  Lots and lots of wine. 

Not sure how many the Traverse City area now supports but I'm guessing 30 million individual wineries. (Apparently the area is ideal as it is the same latitude as France's wine region and surrounded by Lake Michigan.) Alas my constitution only allows about nine stops before I fall in or out of the car. 

DIGRESS: With my fondness for wine tastings I thought I would try a beer followed by a vodka tasting in a different region. New record of almost falling in the parking lot before 11 am.  Lunch was definitely recommended. I have learned to carry much water and greasy potato chips with which to soak up the excess alcohol.

However this year is different as only 2020 can surprise and delight us. The idea of several stops, in masks, following other people to sip wine in a questionably clean inside venue did not have quite the same appeal this year. Not to mention hotel and restaurant exposures. Also since our annual home wine tasting party has been put on hold, there was no reason to "seek out new wines and explore new civilizations". But I needed a tree color infusion. So we planned a trip to Manistee to visit my sister and imbibe in relative safety. As there was a unique wood furniture store enroute, we planned a stop at a lakeside hotel the night before (loading up with sanitizer and wipes of course). 

I made the unfortunate mistake of reading the reviews after the "imossible to cancel" reservation was made. Loaded up on more sanitizer and wipes. Turned out to be ok, just old and definitely on the lake. We were awakened with 20 mile an hour howling winds and waves crashing over the breakwall. Definitely Fall in Michigan. On the way up we got word that my sister was under the weather (not the dreaded C-19) and we could come basically at our own risk. Well one thing the pandemic has taught me is I have not had a cold or been ill since I started all this social distancing and hand washing. So it was a hard no.

As we were booked into the "impossible to cancel" reservation we forged ahead. The furniture shop definitely lived up to billing with some extradorinarily carved pieces and astonishingly high prices. The artists seemed to have a penchant for moose, bear and Native Americans with one full-size carved young lady sporting nothing but a smile.  Not even an intricate necklace to hide her charms. Chose a more expensive restaurant on the water for dinner, assuming they may have the cleaning thing under control. Did not disappoint with the subtle lighting glinting off the plastic and pexiglass enclosing each properly distanced table. The view of marina docks was less than exhilirating with only one yacht in residence however. The rubber dessert tray is always a hoot, and I had a mad desire to to push on the tray to see if they wiggle like jello.

With 20 mile an hour winds and some rain climbing down the outside steps of the hotel with bags was an adventure but we emerged unscathed and hit the back roads. Interesting note. Upon leaving about 9 a.m. there was no one "personing" the front desk so you were invited to toss your keys into the mail slot. They really don't try that hard off-season.  

There is some debate as to whether the colors are more vivid on a cloudy/rainy day but techinically we had no choice. Another interesting observation was made about the northern and middle interior of Michigan.  The Biden and Trump signs were rather equally distributed.  This is big as I do not remember that many Clinton or, God forbid, Obama signs the last couple times around. Democrats "be scarce" in the more rural areas.

Though as I have stated in an earlier blog, Biden supporters usually sport one sign while Trumpies bellow out their allegience in an entire chorus of lawn artwork.  What is especially humorous is one never really sees that many Trump signs with Pence's name on them. Apparently he cannot even allow his political signs to show anything but his name LOL.  Another interesting note, mask wearing was a  little scarce in the middle of Michigan, even in the college town of Big Rapids. Is it a coincidence that some of the home grown terrorists after the Governor were from the area? Although one was from a town near us and a few near Grand Rapids.

Another small disappointment was not too many roadside stands though if there was one, they usually advertised their appearance after you zoomed by at 60 miles an hour. Finally stopped at a large one near Lansing that apparently everyone, and their kids, decided to patronize at 2:00 pm on a Thursday afternoon.  I assumed they were all on a "home-school" field trip. As a major hater of standing in line, we went up the street to another smaller attraction to get apples and stale cider donuts.  (note:did not know fresh, moist cider donuts could be that hard).

 But I did get to see some gorgeous color so overall I give the trip a solid B.

MASK ENVY

 

 "Pure Michigan" and "Virginia is for Lovers" were considered by a small (considering the population) loosely organized hate group as "enemies of the people". The benign slogans were covering up the evil despots whose only intent was to render their citizens slaves and, basically, not dead.  Rather than go off and live in caves or a deserted island with no internet they tried to impose their distorted view of      free-dumb on the rest of us. They don't call them fringe groups for nothing. However they take up way too much of our lives and attention.

 I have to wonder what would be gained if they had succeeded. As most of us are somewhat more intelligent, we would not have rushed out to restaurants, gyms (which seemed to be the biggie) and the workplace unless we were assured they were safe. Also if they succeeded in disrupting society who would be producing their food, keeping the lights on and whipping up their caramel macchiato? An intelligent being also understands that without cooperation and rules one group will enslave another through violence--creating an endless cycle. Trust me, not being totally naive, I realize we are just half a step in civilization above that reality.

 Most of us are "middle of the roaders" who want to live and let live and if that means wearing a dorky mask to protect our neighbors or practicing "social distancing" for awhile to "slow the spread" so be it. However, kidnapping and overthrow of the government aside, 75% of folks wear masks when they go out in Public. I am somewhat awed by the variety and style of the masks being sported by all the "pretty people" and trendsetters. Though I do see future consternation in the chicken coops when one realizes how much was spent for politically inspired facewear that will fall out of favor November 4.

Some masks feature businesses and bars (freebies); some their ride (Chevy, Ferrari, Harley); unicorns and rainbows; spongebob and sharks, and some the plain old white or blue medical masks praising Blue Cross/Blue Care or Home Depot. Some color coordinate their scarves/gaiters with their outfits 'tres chic'! Some match to their artillery-camo - or their country-flag. Though why wearing clothing and mouth covers depicting the American flag is not considered as disrespectful as kneeling I am not sure. But...live and let live. Reminds me of a certain Senior who demonstrated his love of the flag by wrapping one around his body when it was actually hanging off a flagpole. But as it was the Pres that does not count apparently.

I myself prefer the cheetah look and have a couple in my chosen vernacular. However what I cannot fathom is why my mask covers such a wide area. As I peruse other wearers, their masking technique renders a wide expanse of cheek showing all the way to the ear. My fit, however, rather than being a "face bra" so to speak, is more of a granny pantie in size covering the entire lower face ear to ear. Curses. I am most likely destined to be a different and possible leader in facewear styling.  As with most things just pretend that was the intent all along....

!

FLAG ENVY

 

Interesting time, Fall, my favorite season. Driving along and enjoying the slowly increasing colorful signs heralding the beginning of a vibrant season popping up along the side of the road. Each week, then each day the display becoming more insistent as it overwhelms the senses insisting we pay attention to the changes to come. 

Of course, I'm talking about election signs which almost drown out the natural show performed by Mother Nature. Predominately red and blue - when did that become a thing? I know of no red or blue donkeys and elephants. Now flamingos in petulant pink or Madagascar Red Owls in shimmering scarlet or even blue-nosed baboons would be more fitting symbols for many of the candidates running for office. Surely a movement to get behind.

And what is it with size? The biggest one I have seen lately clamors for the re-election of the Drain Commissioner whose particular duties I am not totally familiar with. Toilets or drainage ditches, or something like that I am assuming.  What is especially telling, if one subscribes to the belief of "inflation" to cover lacks in physique, stature, mental capacity or losing, is Trump-a-ly supporters and their giant in-your-face banners and flags covering up the natural glory of Autumn. 

The T flags are predictably overdone though actually mirroring the grotesque actions of the one for whom they grovel. I liken them to the impossibly large codpieces men wore in the middle ages to advertise their manhood or lack thereof.  In these modern times I believe they are wrapping themselves in the ridiculously large "codpiece flags" of pseudo-patriotism.  These fervid announcements of support have nothing to do with love of country which is patriotism; but rather support of one totaltarian wanna-be who soothes their feelings of inferiority with calls for nationalistic hatred of any they deem decent, honorable or compassionate.

The boat and golf cart parades are new this season with some naval disasters occurring due to over-flagging and general ineptness. Senior citizens snarling at opposing forces from slow-moving open-air carts wielding canes may not be the best idea but  it does present some pretty sweet emojis for the rest of us to enjoy. Until the attack on social security and medicare occurred so now the other side is mounting golf cart demonstrations. Note: previous warning on slow, open and feeble weaponry. 

This too shall pass and hey, the trees look real nice right now too.

AGE OF PANDEMIC: CHAPTER 25 "I Don't Care Do You"

 

"That was the week that was. It's over let it go. Oh what a week it was." 

I only wish we could. That was part of the theme song of a program that reiterated the top stories of the week when I was in Junior High (middle school). When times were simpler, major stories did not occur on a daily or even hourly basis that proved to be of such overwhelming interest to all and sundry. Actually in the stepped up 24/7 world of broadcasting the digging for kernals of possibly newsworthy events runs scarce at times. Thus one will be regaled with stories about Mrs. Anderson's cat playing soccer; Mr. Humphrey's potato that looks like Dolly Parton or little Jimmy's urine stream spelling out his name on the playground serving as fodder for the palpating gristmill of those who cannot sleep.

Beginning with the highlight of last weekend, a super fun super spreader event was held with Republican heirarchy paying homage to Trump's latest acquistion. Another conservative (read stick up their arse) candidate for the Court ala Suprema. No hidden agenda the orange one boldly stated his purpose of "loading the court" with conservatives in the eventuality that America decides they have had enough of clown town as a way of running our country and vote him out. After declaring he will not go quietly, the next step was obvious.

 I am sure, if confirmed, the candidate will rule as a strict constitutionalist. Unfortunately it is the constitution of the 1700s that the lady apparently espouses declaring that a woman should always have a man approve any major decisions or purchases. One wonders if she even appreciates how the women who have gone before sacrificed everything to give her the chance to become a lawyer, professor, judge and possible supreme court justice. Also as Mother of seven children (to her credit, two are adopted and one has special needs) we know she practices what she intends to "preach".

Next the debacle that masqueraded as a debate presented viewers with the same horror/eye covering disgust that we reserve for the worst of "B" movies. To say that Biden scored points by not knocking the President on his keister is small comfort. At least we know sputtering tyrants will not faze Joe and incoherence can be addressed with sanity. Speaking of sputtering, a new weapon was deployed by the Pres, who shortly thereafter tested positive for Covid-19, as apparently his arsenal for addressing the Nation's crisis' contained nothing of note. Hence he attempted to "solidify" his performance by trying to infect the opponent. A tactic copied by his entire entourage and family attending the "sh---show" who disdained the wearing of masks or testing before the event.

As usual the ploy backfired as the President, First Lady and various members of their entourage, staff and high-ranking lap dogs/Senators have since tested positive. After being admitted to Walter Reed with possibly serious symptoms, and lying about it, the Pres was bombarded with every medical therapy both accepted and experimental for Covid. But he's feeling fine and working away (though signing a blank piece of paper with a Sharpie is not terribly onerous...). Despite leaving infected people reeling like bowling pins in his wake he had the brilliant idea of leaving isolation and cruising through downtown in a hermetically sealed limo filled with captive secret service personnel (excuse me volunteers) wearing a little fabric mask.

After months of down-playing the pandemic, mocking and ridiculing those who follow the very guidelines set by this Administration the arrogance is mind-boggling. Our reality is children and adults schooling and working from home; important, meaningful events postponed or cancelled; women in isolation giving birth; loved ones extremely ill and dying alone; over 200,000 Americans dead in seven months. The President addresses our ongoing agony by taking a victory lap to wave to the crowd who still grovel at his feet. If that is the ones he appeals to, then open the windows and toss them a germ.

FREEDOM OF CHOICE?

We all make choices every day. Some are under our control and some are thrust upon us so to speak. What am I going to wear today? What's for breakfast? Should I shower or just spot clean? Should I even get up today as it looks suspiciously like yesterday, and the day before and the day before....sorry quarantine thinking.

Berkley, California recently decreed no tempting, fattening, nutrient-deficient goodies in the checkout lane. Not sure it's needed as everyone is just fiddling with their phones whenever they have a 2-second pause in their lives, including traffic lights. Several years ago New York decreed a "fat" tax on folks purchasing the largest pail of soda they could manage to get their sausage fingers around. Of course, if we go back to "olden" days (my youth) portions were smaller, but then so were the prices. I swear one could order a nickel cherry coke at the local lunch counter. Great for me, as I despise soda and could actually sip a teeny tiny glass with the gang and not look like a total nerd. 

Oh the rationale is all above board. A minimum age for tobacco and alcohol makes some sense. Lowering the hunting age to seven not so much. However the prohibition against immoral, illegal and fattening food and drink smacks of the "Nanny State". Yes, larger people have more health issues of which society may bear the burden in some respects, but responsibility for our diet choices has to rest with the eater/eatee. No responsibility, no accountability. I personally know of folks who would rather rely on workers' compensation or disability insurance rather than actually commit to losing the  weight and going back to work or using the time and money for education and a better job. Usually these are the same people who complain that illegals or people on welfare are lazy and getting by "on my dime".  Look in the mirror.

However social (read individual) welfare pales when compared to major corporations that rely on government handouts as well through tax breaks, tax dodges, refunds and, lately, rescue funding. The same businesses who complain of too much regulation and social pressure to provide, you know, decent wages and health care, were fighting for their spot at the trough. They were the first in line to garner a share of the federal pot that was supposed to help small businesses whose one month loss of business spelled disaster. The crowding frenzy was overrated though as "friends of the administration" got theirs first. 

Wearing masks is another mandate that people rail against as government overreach. Closing schools and prohibiting sports so, I don't know, Mom and Grandpa won't die was way too much control. 

Digress:  why so much emphasis and sniveling about the 10% who actually participate in sports is puzzling until one realizes how much money it generates. 

"You can't tell me how to live or impact my freedom." "This is America."  So why in the name of all that is satanic and holy is it equitable for society/government to discriminate against one gender? Women and people of color have been denied choices for most of our country's history. Who said that only white men have the brain cells available to make all the decisions for others with no obvious understanding of what those decisions impact? Lip service period.

Amazingly, women and people of color only got the vote in the last century 150 years after the establishment of the country  and many were jailed and murdered (read protests) in their efforts for justice. Women were banned from holding property and making financial decisions, etc. well into the 1970's. People of color were sheparded into less desirable neighborhoods and denied loans that would have helped them become independent home owners, attend decent schools and build equity. Why?

Choices and privacy are the right of each individual unless they choose to involve others. Children are separated from their parents at the border, many are homeless, many do not have enough to eat, access to medical care or a stable and safe home, but the "pro-birthers" have no conscience or problem with all of that apparently. What is especially interesting is the same group is against sex education and dedicated to denying funding for contraception.  If sex is only for procreation there are a lot of catholics and rich people who are obviously not having sex. Plus there is quick condemnation for the young woman who becomes pregnant out of marriage or the "poor" having a flock of children. Not seeing our culpability in these inevitable results is myopic to unfathomable at best. In checking the facts, there are less abortions under a Democratic administration than a Republican one due to an emphasis on good education and access to birth control. The old Viagra and vasectomies are insured and birth control is not-Men vs. Women discrimination game.

 One, it is no one's business what goes on between a doctor and the patient. Two, though physiologically designed to carry a child, a woman risks her health with every pregnancy for a myriad of possible complications up to and including birth. For childless women and men to weigh in with their opinion seems obtrusive and disingenuous. And three, women have been discriminated against in both the military and business world when becoming pregnant thus negatively impacting their  military careers, promotions and often their employment. It is not unusual for a woman to be told she gets paid less, is not eligible for promotion or will lose her job permanently if she becomes pregnant. Men are celebrated for "causing" a pregnancy. Women are slut-shamed, discriminated against and judged for the same.

Ruth Bader Ginsberg took on the military when women were being forced to have an abortion or lose their military status. Yes, she fought and won the right of women to "choose" life. Her philosophy never changed. She always stood for the concept that ALL are equal under the law. For choice. 

The concept that pseudo christian white politicians have a right to interfere and breach someone's privacy is especially galling when one considers that most Americans do take a more liberal view on a person's right to choose their own destiny. Remember we balk at the "Nanny State" of forcing "so-called acceptable" behavior no matter what the reason.

 Digression: An original Star Trek episode explained it this way. An alien race needed humans to revive the agriculture on their planet. They had spent so much time expanding their mental capacities they were no longer physically able to perform the work needed to sustain their own lives. Their mental powers were strong enough to provide an imaginary and idyllic world for the humans who would work for them. However the humans fought back. They summed up their disbelief by saying something like "you humans find captivity, no matter how benevolent, as so abhorrent you would rather die". 

I find it interesting that the same group supporting the taking away of a woman's rights to her own destiny also rabidly support everyone having as many guns as they like. Perhaps they consider it an acceptable form of birth control.  Rather gives a whole new meaning to the "Don't Tread on Me" flags. 

EMPLOYEE ROULETTE

 

I don't know if it is pandemic related or not but have you ever noticed that folks servicing customers these days in various stores do not really know what the heck they're doing; don't understand the product line/s; how to use them; where items are located or if they are even in stock? Although it is the norm in the Walmarties of the world. 

QUICK DIGRESS: I do not darken the halls of Walmart due to cheap merchandise and abysmal treatment of their employees, many of whom have to rely on food stamps, etc. to survive while destroying the businesses of other long-standing stores in many small towns.

I confess I did make stop in a Wallymart once to look for an item I was looking for all over with no success. Not one person 1) knew what I was talking about and, 2) had no clue where to find or assist in finding said mystery item. Another unfortunate visit was related to an investigation of an ex-employee who apparently enjoyed committing 2nd degree larceny rather than conduct work duties.  Even got a "client" to lie for him when I called for verification of said employee's whereabouts.  Long story for another time, but suffice it to say police were involved and employee resigned rather go through a fun and interactive discharge process. Though I did look over my shoulder for months afterward.

Especially at hardware or building construction establishments the presence of a knowledgeable and trained employee would, on its surface, appear to be a strong requirement. Instead one gets Ethan or Amber who, busy with their phones, emanate hostile vibes upon being interrupted. Literally, you can see the little red thunderbolts circling their heads like a graphic novel's attempt to display the hero/anti hero's mood.

"Do you have a whatamacallit to filtrate the dobbly dodah in my toilet tank?" Wah? "Watamacallits are in plumbing, let me call someone.  Sure. Fool me once on you, fool me twice on me. There is no "someone" in plumbing is there? Not really.  Well sometimes there's a "George" or "Amanda" who have actually performed the task and are extremely knowledgeable not only of whatamacallits, but doohingies and howsthatagains. They can even walk you through install or gently direct you to "a professional" after they have ascertained your rehab abilities. They are uncanny that way. After a detailed description of multiple steps to accomplish the task followed by a "that's all there is to it" you usually get the point (I can't do that).

But my whole point in this prolonged and elaborate treatise is the dearth of Georges and Amandas out there providing expert assistance. We were lucky to find a fairly competent one today. I mean we all ended up reading the literature that came with the product but actual experience was in play enough to make an educated decision. If there is a knowledgeable employee, they are usually mobbed (surprise) by repair deficient customers or possibly they just do not exist anymore. 

Why is it management thinks the way to save money is to "retire" the older more knowledgeable employees in favor of the disinterested, inexperienced and unwilling to learn doofus. Because they are cheaper to employ obviously. Meanwhile this translates into customers and sales lost and these cheap employees usually leaving after a short period of time anyway. So back to hiring, training, etc., over and over and over. Get a clue hiring managers and learn to recognize value even in a more expensive package. Your customers will love you for it. That gold in the teeth, lead in the rear and silver in the hair turn into pure platinum on the sales floor.