Flats Rat Rants

Super

2012-01-08T12:16:00.007-09:00

That is the word I usually quietly exhale after reading about yet another congressional stalemate that results in another extension of something we really need to make a decision on.
I see a group of democrats who want their ideology to move us forward with experimental social engineering and economic naivete'. This is countered by republicans desire to move in the exact opposite direction. Not the status quo, but a return to simpler times and less government costs, not realizing that you can never go back.
Put simpler, it is a living demonstration of the immovable object and the irresistable force.
Truth is both groups are partially correct and equally wrong. Add a commander in chief who cannot sway either group into compromise on any issue of significance. This results in us becoming stuck in the quagmire of rhetoric, finger pointing, and the eternal fillibustering we now suffer with.
Remember the super committee? Why did anyone expect a group of politicians made up from a cross section of the extreme views from both parties to produce anything of value? Am I the only one who viewed these compromise incapable party loyalists as a readers digest version of the group causing the problem?
Then when they show up at the table with heads hanging, mumbling, "sorry boss but we just couldn't get 'er done", we act shocked? Why not fire them then? Oh yeah that's right , they are elected officials and not subject to the same consequences for lack of production as the rest of us.
So now we are shopping for the next superman, cause it turns out the current one is far to prone to stumbling into kryptonite laden bombs.
That leads to my next question. If we can be so willing to fire the president, why can't we fire these life long politicians in the houses?
Folks, we do not need superman. No super hero superpowers are going to save us.
We need Batman.
In fact, we need millions of Batmen & women
Here is the rub. We already have a legion of them waiting in the wings. It is made up of folks like you and I. We all have a tool kit laden with the freedom to choose, armored with a free press, the right to assemble, and the freedom of speech. All that and more, buckled together with a ballot.
How often have you heard someone express their frustration with a statement like, " if they worked for me I'd fire the lot of 'em!" News flash folks, they do work for you. You can fire them. Your voice can be heard and your will be done. You just gotta tighten up that tool belt and use it!
So from that perspective I can say this.
I'm Batman
Are you?
Peace y'all.
Ask hard questions & demand real answers.

My Favorite Day

2011-11-24T08:41:00.006-09:00

Happy Thanksgiving y'all.
Yes this is my favorite holiday; for many reasons.
It is a day to be grateful and realize how lucky we are.
It the first American holiday, it is ours no one elses.
It marks the beginning of the holiday season, a time when most folks act their best.
The food is awesome.
So today my lovely bride and I are doing something different. We are spending our afternoon with the neighborhood. Yup a large part of our Flats Rats are gathering at the local pub for dinner. This is not some buffet or thanksgiving special. The pub is actually closed to the public. The pool table will be coverd with plywood and that will be covered with dishes from all of us. We will gather,bringing a cornucopia of dishes and sit down together for a feast like no other. Most of us are empty nesters now and our children have moved off this emerald isle, so we will sit together and tell stories, watch football, laugh, maybe cry, and eat.
What children are left with us will run about and be spoiled by the entire neighborhood. Often you hear the saying about a village raising a child. In this neighborhood, we actually do that. We cherish, teach, and watch over the children here and when they grow up and move on we stay in touch. When they return, we rejoice and celebrate. Life is good and I am thankful.
So please, enjoy today for what it is meant to be. A day of grateful celebration. Beat whatever swords you may have into serving platters and feast! Feast on the atmosphere of love and comfort with whatever group you are with. Call and touch base with that old friend, tell your parents, children, and friends that you love them.
Rejoice and celebrate all that is good in your life. Time enough tomorrow to deal with the things that are not.
Peace my friends.
Griff

Veterans Day

2011-11-11T23:18:00.003-09:00

When the War is Over

by W.S. Merwin

When the war is over
We will be proud of course the air will be
Good for breathing at last
The water will have been improved the salmon
And the silence of heaven will migrate more perfectly
The dead will think the living are worth it we will know
Who we are
And we will all enlist again

Thank you to all who have served and all those who still do. Many thanks to their families who endure so much so that we remain free.
God Bless you all.
Griff

LOST ?

2011-10-08T18:28:00.009-08:00

I am now anyways. Yes I have been lost from the world. Life has a way of getting in the way doesn't it? I have been having some fun. I have also been balancing school and work while trying to maintain a househlod, and be a good parent, husband, and son.
I did get to travel a bit with my son. We went back east to visit family and friends. We experienced triple digit heat, thunderstorms, and something the lower
48'ers call a hurricane.
First stop was Atlanta to visit with family I had not seen in over a year. Got to get reaquainted with some of my grandchildren and daughters.
On a side trip I travelled to Virginia and I would love to thank them for trying to make me feel at home. I woke up every morning to the smell of a campfire as the smoke from the Great Dismal Swamp fire filled the city of Norfolk with a woody haze. Then to top that they even had a genuine earthquake just to make me miss my great state. Now that truly is southern hospitality.
The off to Beantown for some more R&R. I reestablished a relationship with some very dear friends. They were actually my surrogate parents for many years. I apologized to them be being so out of touch for so long. They did not even blink, shoot they just laughed and reminded me that I always had a knack for getting sidetracked. Then they offered up their home to me and my son, whom they had never met.
We had coffe in the morning and dinner at night. Later my son would say, "they act like you never left dad". I reminded him that it was probably beacause in their hearts, I never did.
Then came the "hurricane". By the time it arrived in New England it was just a tropical storm. We battened down hatches and chained things down, then sat back and watched. To me it looked like any day in Kodiak. Rain and blowin' 40-70. We helped clean up and then hit the golf course.
Finally back to good old Kodiak. My son, after meeting so many of the folks I grew up around, now seems to have a better understanding of why I see things as I do. Nothing like a dose of old fashioned yankee thrift and comments to open up a young man's eyes.
One theme popped up every where I stopped.
Atlanta - "Dad you should go back to writing in your blog."
"Daddy are you going to start writing again?"
Virginia - "I heard you had a blog, so I checked it out. Why did you stop?"
Boston - "of course you should start writing again, it's how we know you!"
On the long ride home I realized that I was truly lost in several ways. I had let life steer me down a path to a point that I lost touch with several people who loved me. I had let sorrow take me down a hall to a self induced isolation chamber. I let carreer lead me away from one of the things I truly enjoy.
So yes I was lost, but now I am found.
Thanks to all who searched and waited; and finally brought me home.
I am back. I hope y'all don't mind.
Peace folks, and ask hard questions even if its only to yourself.

REMEMBER

2011-09-11T07:07:00.004-08:00

Yes, I have been gone. Perhaps even lost. More on that later.
"We will never forget", has become the rally cry for this day.
I am choosing to say " I will remember".
To me that phrase carries more love and less anger.
So I will remember:
The way the we were before 09/11/2001.
The children that day and how they have grown.
That now they fight in the two wars started that day.
The thousands lost.
The hundreds of heroes lost and the thousands of heroes who responded.
The tears dripping into my coffee as I sat watching the United States be changed
forever that morning.
Lastly I will always remember what this country stands for, was built on, and will
remain.
As long as we all remember.
Peace y'all.

Thankyou All.

2010-11-11T13:31:00.004-09:00

No long rants today folks.
For me this is always a day of reflection and celebration.
My thanks to all have ever served our great nation, my gratitude for all who are still serving and protecting us all, and a heartfelt godspeed and bless to all of you about to enter into a life like no other.
So get out there folks, find a veteran and thank them, shake their hand and salute them, for it was their sacrifices that made everything you take for granted today; possible.
Beatus Nostrum Patronus.

The more things change.......

2010-10-11T16:40:00.006-08:00

Ain't politics grand? Maybe I should say Ain't politicians amazing?
When are we gonna learn for crying out loud? We wanted change right? We got it crammed down our throats and now we want more! Maybe we have become spoiled by the instant responses in our everyday life. I mean you can push a button and receive near instant results for most things. From instant messaging to ordering pizza, it works every time; all time.
Case in point; I am not home, rather I am sitting at the Upper One bar in A-town right now. My fellow prop-hoppers know exactly where this, only airport bar outside of security, is.
I have checked all my email, talked my my bro in Colorado, and sent numerous texts, all while swilling some tall glasses of Alaskan White. All that; yet I am way behind the electronic power curve when I sit around the millennials, or even my peers that live in the outside world.
It is no wonder that America is dissatisfied. I mean we gave them two whole years to turn the largest economy in the world around and solve global warming!
Enough! Oust 'em and bring in some new hopefuls.
Really?
Come on folks,the new darlings of the new third party are wackier than Jessie Ventura and Sara Palin duct taped into the same straight jacket. There is a retired witch in Delaware, and an Alaskan candidate who is getting most of his funding from the lower 48. Add a whole bunch of other assorted wannabe's and you get the whole Planters Party Mix sans the can.
Meanwhile behind the curtain lurks the woman who went from Governor to Vogue,(thanks to ISH), to rogue, and now is in vogue with a group of change mongers from the east coast. BTW folks it is not change if you are going back, that's called retro and is usually considered faddish.
Meanwhile the GOP has switched dance partners faster than a jilted prom queen and Lisa Murkowski is now Ronin!
Man if this was any more Disney, I'd be pukin' from the dizziness of it all.
My point? Patience folks, that's what.
This nations problems will not be solved like that empty freezer gets filled during the Coho run on the Kenai. Rather it will be the hard work and patient strategy of the trout fisher on a mountain stream that brings long lasting results.
American economics will not be solved with draconian, binge diets. The problems will be solved with innovation, time, and an understanding of the process. Yes there will also be some sacrifice involved too.
Good luck Alaska, I only see two viable and honest,(mostly), candidates out there.
Good luck America, cause if y'all don't start reading and voting, than all you will see is a never ending cycle of change and no results.
Just thinking folks.
Odd that it was an English band that came up with this one.
Meet the new boss, same as the old boss.
We won't get fooled again.
Or will we?
Ask hard questions folks.
Peace

WOOHOO! It's PARTY TIME!

2010-09-19T11:35:00.004-08:00

Yeah baby, let's start this thing up! Six shiny new hopefuls & six new chances for change Or is it?
Sure the Tea Party has broken new ground, and both republicans and democrats are scratching their heads, and possibly other body parts.
Who woulda thunk? I mean these upstart wannabe politicos came out of no where. They had no backing from the GOP or the majority right? Well I guess they showed us huh? Is it gonna be Ross Perot all over again?
Nope, this political drive may succeed. Ole Ross did not have Sarah pitching for him. Ross did not have a nation full of folks who felt shortchanged when the change was handed out.
Change folks, remember that? The current administration sold their entire campaign on it. They promised a break from the status quo, they promised more services for less taxes, they promised a lot things and we bought into it. We lapped it up like a starving kitty on a broken milk bottle.
Well we got change alright. The deficit is swelling, the experimental financial theories of the administration are failing, republican and democrats have resorted to name calling and finger pointing. Nothing can pass the house or senate without pain-pain-painful rhetoric and slandering. The media is making billions on the show, hell, they are creating half of the show themselves. Spin doctors are trying to deflect our gaze from the people behind the curtain............
WAIT A MINUTE!
I thought we were going to break away from the status quo? Mr. Obama was going to save the day while he changed the world. America was going to shine, our children would prosper, all under the bright warm light of bipartisan politics.
Ah, the more thing change aye?
So what next? Looks like tripartisan politics to me folks.
The GOP is already pandering to the new tea party runners, rubbing their hands and shuffling their feet. It would appear that they can accept change only when it is forced down their throats.
The Dem's are circling their wagons. They are also looking over their shoulders. They too have jackals at the back door. They have a group that thinks they are not far enough left of center.
So whats left for the majority of us? Do we vote for the new status quo in hopes this wake-up call will bring us back to the American ideal of nation before self?
Maybe we should throw the dice. Maybe we should vote in all the new faces regardless of which side of extreme they are ranting from. We did it two years ago didn't we?
Face it folks, the entire world is in financial trouble and global warming affects the planet, not just America. Millions are out of work, billions are below the poverty level, and superpower nations are approaching mediocrity.
Lets put the experiment back in the "grand experiment". What qualifications did our founding fathers have? Maybe we need a fresh perspective. If it doesn't work, we can always undo it later. Yup the beauty of democracy is the eternal mulligan. With the power of the election process we change anything.
It's could be a hell of party folks. What is the cost of admission?
A conscience and a ballot.
I don't know 'bout you, but count me in.
YEEHAA!

Remembering to be grateful.

2010-09-11T08:00:00.005-08:00

It can be hard to be grateful at times.
I am sitting here listening to replays of the news broadcasts from that day nine years ago. The day that changed our country as much as Pearl Harbor changed this nation for our ancestors.
In honor of the thousands that died, the hundreds of rescuers lost, and the families left behind; I will not pontificate on the politics of this tragedy. Instead I will remember and I will be grateful.
I will be remember that even though America was attacked, more than Americans died that day.
I will remember that it was not just Christians that died that day.
I will remember what our founding fathers sought when they bled and sacrificed to build this great nation.
I will be grateful for all the heroes who have sacrificed so much for so many, far to often.
I will be grateful for living in a nation where all opinions are respected, all faiths given the opportunity to be practiced, all people given the chance to achieve their dreams.
I will remember that the great freedoms I have, that my family has died and sacrificed for; carry a terrible price sometimes.
I will remember that God loves me, in fact God loves us all.
Today I will ponder all of this and then some. I will go fishing with friends and grill later.
Every once in a while today, I will be quiet, my eyes will blur, and I will remember.
I will pray for those lost and their families.
Lastly, I will reflect on the principals this nation was built upon.
I will thank God for all that I have.
Peace ya'll

Back in the saddle....

2010-09-01T10:57:00.003-08:00

Wow has it really been two months already?
Hmm, been on the road a bunch. (In fact I'm sitting in Logan International right now.) In between hopping from one plane to another, the sun came out on our little island and I just sorta got lost.
I had to jump back in folks, before I lost my way altogether. Nothing big to say, but I did observe/experience a rather odd thing back here in Bean town.
Apparently the former governor of our great state is the talk of the town.
Imagine my surprise at that. I was questioned more often about the Palinator than I was about our great brown bruins.
Fortunately I had several great pics of the famous brownies rather than the quitter.
Yup, that's what I told my former neighbors back east, I told them about the quitter and opportunist known as Sarah Palin. I told them a short descriptive tale of media pandering and a unique talent for not quite finishing anything she started.
Imagine their surprise. This a place in our great nation where folks still work simply because "you gotta work". Every task started must be finished, every child must share the load in the house until they too can work. Most New Englanders cannot sit idle for long. Sleeping means six in the morning seven days a week. I know this, I was raised there.
So there I was sitting and listening to some of our elders chat about how truthful she is, how maybe she oughtta run for the big office after all.and that she comes from a state that still holds to the old values, etc, etc.
So I told them the truth; at least my perspective. That raised some eyebrows. I told them of a two time quitter, I reminded them of what the ORIGINAL tea party set out to do, I reminded them about the second tea party of the seventies. I explained that to me she was the "Jesse Ventura" of Alaska. In closing my soliloquy I taught them a new phrase; Sarah Barracuda.
That brought a chuckle.
Normally I avoid all things Palin. She has embarrassed me as an Alaskan and she ticked me off me personally. I simply could not listen to my elders and friends back east tout this media personality as the next possible coming.
So I finally spoke me piece, I finally broke my silence; and I did it where this great nation began. How could I not?
Ask hard questions folks, demand real answers.
Peace Ya'll

Ladies & Gentlemen!

2010-06-20T15:05:00.005-08:00

Actually, thanks to a whole lot of good folks who sacrificed a whole bunch I CAN!
That said; I give you my choice for the next President of the United States.
This man and his sidekick (let's just call him Joe), may be the only human beings with greater oratory skills than our current; albeit well intentioned, but mostly ineffective leadership.

Rumor is the original was total improv, yup no speech writers.
He and the VP candidate got my vote for sure!
Even if he accomplishes nothing he's bound to be fun.
Ask hard questions folks.
Peace ya'll

Time for a Tune-Up?

2010-06-13T12:49:00.005-08:00

So there I was 19 and staring at my VW bug and scratching my head. "I don't get it", I said to my friends dad. "It was running pretty darn good until last week, then it began to start harder, ya know crank & crank but not fire". I continued, "now it just spins all day and never starts at all".
My friends dad was a simple old New England hobby farmer, but in true New England tradition he had learned to fix almost anything. Wise beyond reason, Earl, had learned that self sufficiency relied on knowledge and the willingness to get dirty.
He looked under the hood, fiddled with a few things, made a couple of small "thought so" comments the straightened up and smiled at me.
"It ain't so bad", he explained. "Just need to change a few things is all". He then went on to explain the basics of car maintenance. "Change the plugs and wires, and not just the ones you think are bad, but all of 'em. Then change the oil and filter, not one or the other neither. Ya gotta change 'em both or it won't help the motor one damn bit. Next you need change that cap and rotor. After all that, it should run just fine".
I stood there, head down, thinking how expensive it was going to be. That and
I was feeling a little dumb for not taking care of my car.
Sensing my despondency, he added "don't sweat it kiddo, I'll help ya and after we change all that stuff she'll run like a top"
True enough, we did the work and my little bug was back on the road.
"Now don't forget" Earl reminded me as we washed up," you have to do this on a regular basis or she'll quit on ya again. That or eventually she'll stop altogether. Just change the fluids and tune 'er up on schedule and she'll run forever".
Wise man.
Twenty years later I had a similar conversation with one of my daughters while she stared down at a now dead truck. "Baby", I said, " you gotta change the oil once in a while. It's not the end of the world, the trucks in good shape, so we'll change the engine and she'll be good as new".
Yup, once again change fixed the problem.
So now I'm looking back east, scratching my head, wondering if a tune-up isn't over due for the capitol hill crowd. Change the oil so to speak. Then again, why not look down the street at our own local politico wannabe's, even across the water at the folks in Juneau? I mean really if you're gonna change the oil you gotta change the filter too. Otherwise the oil just gets dirty and the problem comes right back; friction versus lubrication.
Soon I will have a chance to help change the political oil with the stroke of a pen. I can participate in a government wide tune-up & I'm going to take advantage of that. I'm going to check the block next to the new person on the ballot. Some will call that a "protest vote", so be it. However; if enough voters turn out and check that block, then "protest" will turn into "upset". So long as the candidate believes in Democracy and loves our country, I'm willing to give them a shot. Really folks, if they don't work out, then in a few years I'll just change the oil again and again and again.
I apologize in advance to my friends that hold office. Please do not take my decision personally. Even if I think you are doing a good job, I'm not going to vote for you. Changing one bad spark plug will only lead to another failing later, so ya'll gotta go. Don't sweat it if you don't make to another term this time. Shoot, take a break, enjoy some time with your family. Re-connect with the folks you used to represent, then run a gain next time.
The USA was once called "The Grand Experiment", so let's do it folks. Let us be bold, let use be daring, let us shed the security blanket that we knitted and is now strangling us. Let us be Americans.
Do right thing folks no matter how scary it may be.
Peace

Do you feel lucky?

2010-05-29T17:16:00.006-08:00

I do.
23 years, 4 months, and 22 days of service and I made it home.
A lot of good people didn't.
A lot more good people won't.
So please remember what this holiday is all about.
Sure have fun this weekend folks.
Grill, chill, and wave the flag; but remember how lucky we are.
Lucky to have so many give so much so that we may enjoy the freedom and security far to many of us take for granted.
Enjoy the video. and have a great Memorial Day Weekend.

This is for Dwayne, for Dave, and for John.
Although their luck ran out before mine, I was lucky to have known and flown with them all.
This is for the Uncle I never met: I hope I have brought honor to your name sir.
Peace and thank a veteran this weekend.

I Did Not Know.......

2010-04-25T10:56:00.007-08:00

Some have noticed that my rants are leaning toward the reflective side. I am grateful for those still reading even though this is true. I also thank the small but growing group, that after exploring my outpourings, are discovering that not all bloggers are politico bashing wannabe's or religious zealots. Some of us actually have something to say that is not at the expense of those easy targets the mainstream media and so many blogs seem to feed on.
There are many, so many, that really put it out there. Who share so much, without tearing down others. The Saltonstall's enrich my day often, PJ makes me think, Womom does all that and she makes me laugh. There are many more, so please check out the links on the side over there.
So back to being reflective.

This for a friend who has beaten me to heaven.
I did not know.
When I listened to you playing your guitar at church,
It was the last time the missed chord, the little smirk,
would grace us with presence.
I did not know.
When I talked to you Friday at the store,
it was last time I would hear that laugh,
feel your energy.
I hope there was no harsh word said,
your last day among us.
That too, I do not know.
Yet I do know
I hope to be loved as you.
When I go.
Live every day as your last folks. Treat every person as if every word you speak to them is the last. Every action the one you will remember most.
My definition of ultimate hope:
My mother never says goodbye. Never. She always says "so long" or see you later".
That's optimism folks, it truly is.
Treat every day as your last chance to do the right thing and every conversation as your last one. Take nothing for granted, especially those you love most.
Maybe, just maybe, if we all do that, the world would be that much better when we walk into our last sunset.
Good night Steve Kreber. I am better for having known you.
Peace ya'll
you know the rest................

THANK YOU

2010-04-04T13:30:00.008-08:00

Happy Easter everyone. It is a time for people all over the world to rejoice. It is the time when spring births add to many a shepherds flocks and family. It is also a time of spiritual rebirth for many.
For me it is all that and more. It is a time for gratitude. I try very hard to be grateful every day, but today is a day I try to remember all I have to be grateful for.
That is a long list, so this post I will keep it simple.
Millennium ago one men gave his life to save us all. His resurrection started a movement that changed the world and continues to do so even today. Jesus died so that we may live, he has risen so that we may live forever. This I truly believe, it guides me when I am troubled, it strengthens me when I am weak. It gives me purpose.
It keeps me humble, for no matter what sacrifice I feel I have made, none can top the one made that day in Jerusalem.
Thank you Jesus.
I am grateful for my family, they also give me purpose. They also teach me much.
I thank them for that.
Thank you to the mentors I have been blessed with knowing. There were many, but I would name a few here.
Thank you Sister Patricia, my first grade teacher, showed me love and that learning was an adventure.
Thank you Earl Jones, you taught me responsibility, wood craft, patience, and how to have fun.
Thank you Sister Dianne, for even though I had strayed for so long, you welcomed me back. You nurtured me and my family and never judged.
Thank you Sister Angela Goedkin.
I met you at a time in my life when I needed you most. I was transitioning from a life of service and purpose to a life unknown. When I started coaching your boys I had no idea the education I was about to receive. Your gentle guidance helped me out time after time. When my relationship with my son was strained and challenging, you showed me that love and patience would prevail. You guided me through my "rebirth" and I am better for it.
Sister Angela rests with the Lord she loves now, and I know that I will see her again. Perhaps she will come across the son I have in heaven. Perhaps she will tell him about me. Perhaps she will do the same for my fathers. I can only hope.
That's what it's all about folks. Hope and faith are what keep us going. By having hope we demonstrate our faith. Saints, sinners, believers or not, hope is the product of faith. It proves we believe in something. So many will argue that faith is not necessary for life. However; few will argue that a life without hope is worth living.
So admit it, hope and faith go hand in hand. Then be grateful. Be grateful for every good thing that happens today and every day after this one. Recognize the gifts you have been given. Use them to help all those around you. what better way to demonstrate your gratitude than to share your gifts?
On Grateful Living: Reflections by Catholic Sisters
“Gratitude is my constant consciousness of God's presence
in persons, nature, and circumstances,” says Sr. Angela
Goedken, OSF, a teacher in Kodiak, Alaska. “Sometimes
gratitude comes easily, and, often, in more challenging or negative times, it is hard. I am
growing in giving thanks in difficult circumstances. When my mother died so
unexpectedly, it took me years to be able to thank God for her gift of life to the family.”

This post is dedicated to Sister Angela Goedken. God keep you and hold you.
Peace and thanks ya'll.

Rumors and Reflections.

2010-03-14T13:25:00.005-08:00

Yup it's me again.......
To quote one of my favorite writers Mr. Mark Twain,"The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated".
Has it been 2 months already? Oh well, I guess I got sidetracked. My beautiful bride has tolerated my innate ability to disappear for decades now. After many years of a simple trip to the store turning into an all day adventure, she has learned to be patient.
Actually, now that I think about it the cell phone may have saved my marriage. It allows me to meander about from one thing to the next while giving my lovely the security of finding me when she needs to. Epiphany! What I once considered to be a leash turns out to be a life ring. Like the whistle that brings in my Lab when she swims out to far, that phone steers me toward home time and time again.
So what I have been up to? Not much really, started school back up, traveled a little, and enjoyed some really great fund raising events in Kodiak. The folks over here really know how to rally around a cause and throw a party at the same time. The best cure for winter doldrums? Live music, good food, and throwing money into the pot to help out a neighbor, the school band, local kids football, or local recycling. You name it this island raises money for it and they do it party style. Man I love this place.
I have also been catching up with many old friends, and I have noticed some trends forming amongst many of them. Disillusionment.
They are tired of the government over governing, they are tired of the rich corporations getting the mulligan and a cash band-aid to help them over the hump. They are tired of political players worried more about an esoteric party game than the good of a country their families have sacrificed to defend and support. Worse yet they are getting tired of each other.
Several of my friends are choosing to end decade long commitments to their spouse.
Some have completed that painful journey, some are in in the midst of the quagmire, and others are on the edge staring into the abyss.
It saddens me to bear witness to their pain. There is no joy in divorce folks, no matter why it is happening. Divorce is filled with remorse, loss of self, and fear. Later things may be much better, but the process is painful; period.
What troubles me, is all the folks who have been together for decades and are calling it quits, without giving it one last try. Once the children are grown, and the day to day challenges of raising a family are over, they end up staring at each other saying, "NOW WHAT?".
Good question really. You have outgrown the passions of youth. The hot, steaming, I gotta have you feeling has mellowed a bit. The joys of raising the little ones, the war rallies that united you over the teen-aged ones, and the fight to keep it all together are over. SO NOW WHAT?
Hold hands, that's what.
Go to movies. Hang out with your friends (together). Go to events, volunteer together. Read to each otherand doing it holding hands.
Sure you want to develop personal time and activities, but stay together. Now there is time for both. Relish it folks, you earned it. The transition from children to empty-nesters is twice a difficult as the transition was to parenthood; believe me. Once you cross that bridge, overcome the barriers modern society places before us all, and ignore the "grass is greener" mentality that has brought our nation to the edge of morale and financial disaster. Your reward will be joy of sharing your new adventures with a person you understands you, accepts you, and loves you.
Why are so many couples willing to spend hours in therapy to stay together for the "good of the kids", but unable to try it again later? I mean really, we should be older and wiser right? Isn't 20+ years of struggle and triumph worth a few more hours trying to learn how to adjust to the new life you have earned?
It may be hard, it may be painful at times, it may be worth it too. So take baby steps.
Start by holding hands.
I must depart after this rather long rant from my heart.
Peace Ya'll & do the right thing. Even if it's difficult.

ARE YOU FULL OF IT?

2009-12-29T10:47:00.006-09:00

I know I am; yup I am filled with it. Christmas spirit that is.
Filled with the love I have for God, family, and country. I am not ashamed to admit it is in that order also.
So what about you? Are you full of it?
Are you filled with the desire to do the right thing? Did you let the other folks have that parking spot at Wally world just in case they needed it more than you? Did you reach over and hand that stranger in line a coin or two to help make up the difference? Did you smile and thank that cashier for working so late, just in case someone needed a last minute something? Did you call that old buddy and check in?
Maybe you did something far more selfless, maybe even approaching sainthood. I don't know, but I'll bet you did something. Now the next question.
If you are full of it, what are you going to do with it tomorrow? Discard it once you've used it up? Put it away carefully for use next Christmas season?
Not me.
I'm gonna carry it around like the carefully guarded smoldering coal that traveled with my ancestors from camp to camp. Ready to bring it out and start a blaze of warmth and comfort, whenever it is needed just like they did. Now, sure they carried that smoldering jewel around to survive, but shouldn't we do the same? The Comfort and joy of Christmas spreads across all nations, governments,and languages. Why not carry it about all year long! We could propagate a world wide love of mankind. Is that not also key to our survival?
The birthday we celebrate on Christmas was not a single event, but the beginning of a journey that changed the world.
In other words, Christmas is 365 days a year!
This one is for you Mom, my thanks for teaching me all that you did.
You may never read this, but hopefully someone will.
Peace to you all, please remember who we are and why there are so many willing to give their lives to preserve it. I pray that every one of you is home next Christmas.
Do the right thing tomorrow folks, just do it for someone else.

JUST DON'T DO IT !

2009-11-26T22:12:00.004-09:00

Another Thanksgiving is pretty much done. I hope ya'll had a heart warming day, I hope ya'll took a moment to be grateful.
Me; I am grateful everyday, and every night I take a moment to remember why. Sometimes it's cause I got home safe, sometimes it's cause one of my family did. Sometimes it's because I had a good day. Regardless of what happens I take a moment and thank God for the good that happened that day.
Now I sit here, happy for the time I got to spend at the table with friends and family. Yet, as I watch my wife, who worked so hard to make this day memorable, stumble off to bed I am reminded of my loathing for tomorrow.
Yup, it'd Black Friday folks and I have commented on this twisted international event since I started my little blog.
It rankles me. One year after my first comment, tragedy befell a retail worker in Long Island. There was an outcry, people were amazed, yet nothing changed.
Thanks to ISH I discovered that I was not alone. Ther are thousands of people who share my sentiment.
Buy Nothing Day is an international movement bent on taking back what is ours.
So what is ours? How about the right to relax? How about the right to be deprogrammed from the corporate wish that drives so many, to such extremes, in the hope of savings?
Send a message folks! Unemployment is up, personal debt is rising, yet the corporations that are being bailed out have increased their profits.
Stay home tomorrow, spend your much deserved time off with family and friends. Does that not seem more appealing than standing in line for some "today only" sales specials?
Don't worry, if the sales are down, there will be more. Capitalism will move on.
Oh sure, the economists will fret and worry. Dire market trends and doomsday predictions will prevail.
Maybe, just maybe, the government will get the message. The same government that talked so many into buying a new car, under the guise of economic recovery, will listen.
Yuh, the new car. Dealers sold the vehicles at maximum price and you got a rebate. What else did you get? Another day older and deeper in debt, that's what. You also get to pay tax on that rebate later on.
The big three posted record sales & profit, China got millions of pounds in recyclable steel at bargain prices, and our carbon footprint did not shrink one bit.
So please, stay home tomorrow, go for a walk, read a book, or a blog. Just don't do it! Don't buy anythimg.
It is time to make the government and corporate America know we are no longer duped by their hype.
It is time we started to drive this economy, instead of the other way around.
That's my spin.
I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving, thanks for tuning in.
Do the right thing tomorrow folks, just do it for someone else.
Peace

No Title

2009-11-15T11:20:00.007-09:00

Yuh, I've been off the blogosphere for a bit.
Not totally, I have been reading my faves and thank you, to you all for keeping my spirits up.
I took a little break to focus on B-ball and my family. The family has been going through some trying times and support was needed. What are Dad's, husbands, and sons for if not support to those who count on them?
Then the CG1705 was lost and on it a very dear friend. Another guy who grew up in the guard alongside me, a brother rider,a and great human being. No more of his crazy giggle, no more of his honest "suck it up", no more of my friend Eaglet. One of the last of our circle still flying is now lost at sea. My heart and prayers to all the ones left behind by the crew of the 1705 and the two marines lost. My heart and prayers to the family of the missing mariner never found. I believe that they are all together now. I believe that I will see John again. I must believe this, I must cling to this. Otherwise I fear that I would lose all purpose.
Purpose folks. it is what we all must have. That coupled with faith will help us all bear many burdens and many challenges. God gives us all talents, he gives us all challenges suited to these talents. It is our responsibility, nay, our duty, to apply these gifts to all that we do.
I am melancholy today, I have been for many days.
Basketball with the kids has kept me hopeful and given me strength. Coaching along side my son has put joy in my heart.
I do not know why I have jumped back into the blog, I have wrestled with this for weeks. Maybe is was the call-out first thing this morning. Maybe it was standing next to a neighbor as he looked down at his father. Maybe it was listening to the call saying the ambulance would not be needed any more. I don't know.
Soon my son will be of to boot camp and a life of adventure. Soon he will place himself in harms way for the good of us all. I pray I will not add him to my good night list, I pray the lord will not bring him home to heaven to soon. I am so proud, yet so fearful. He is the only son I have left, perhaps that is selfish of me, but it is honest.
Please watch this video it does nine heroes honor.
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BTW Mr. President; your lack of comment at the memorial did not go unnoticed.I am not happy with you, but I will write on that later. As for the Media, shame on you for letting this tragedy be 3rd page news. More on that later also.
Good night Eaglet, you died as you lived. Tell the gang I will see them again.
Peace to you all.

WE DON'T NEED NO EDUKATION

2009-10-18T08:21:00.003-08:00

Then again....
Across from the city pier Oct. 10th.
Otherwise the state crew did a great job cleaning up the mess.

JUST DO IT!

2009-10-06T06:03:00.003-08:00

For us locals, today is a day full of opportunity.
So get out there folks!
Quit your bitchin' and exercise the right and responsibility we Americans all have.
Oh yeah, if you got some kids. take them along! Show them how important it all is.
Peace

A STATE OF CONTRADICTION

2009-09-13T09:19:00.005-08:00

I love this state, and in case you haven't noticed I love this country. Alaska is a state full of contradictions. The climate is more varied than any other state. In one day we can see snow and freezing temps, rain and hurricane force wind, or even warm gentle sunshine.
We are a state that passionately defends our rights for subsistence hunting & fishing, yet we allow parts of the government to exploit our resources in areas where it might negatively impact the future of our fisheries. We will drill for oil, but not scrape for copper. We are a mostly republican state, yet we have a democrat in the house, any many more in the state and local seats. We bitch about the government, yet we have the highest percentage of government employees in the nation. I did the math, it may be off a tad, but my ciphering comes up with approx 23%!
Yet another contradiction, as one of the coldest states we eat more ice cream per capita than any other state in the union.
Ok so many of these things most of you folks probably already knew.
So how about this one? We have a democratic senator who is a blue ribbon member of the NRA. He has sponsored bills that protect our rights and fought against legislation that would take them away. Senator Mark Begich used to be a member of a little group called M.A.I.G.. That stands for Mayors Against Illegal Guns. Mr. Begich quit that group, in fact he was the fourth member to so. Apparently MAIG is not what it seems. When I heard about them my initial reaction was positive. Then I dug a little deeper. These folks have some deep financial pockets, AKA New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, supposedly he has poured over 3 million dollars of his own money into this little group. Illegal guns? LETS GET RID OF 'EM; YOU BETCHA!. Unfortunately that is not what this lobby group is all about. Their agenda steps far beyond illegal guns. They would do away with all private gun transactions. That's right folks, no more gun shows, no more great deals from your buddy, and worst yet; no more leaving your guns to your kids.
So here is the real irony folks. The mayor of the city of Kodiak is a member of this little group. Our own Carolyn Floyd is a member.
Not only that, she is the only member from our great state. I mean come on, even our democratic senator realized that these folks offer nothing our community needs or desires.
I must ask you madam mayor, is this not the biggest contradiction in our state?
How can you be the political leader of a community that generates so much revenue from gun related activities? Come on! We are one of the premier hunting and adventure destinations in the world. Yet you belong to an organization that lobbies to make gun ownership a thing of the past.
I urge Ms. Floyd; research this group you signed on with. I would hope that once you realize what their real agenda is, you too will leave them. Follow our senators lead. We named a library after you for cryin' out loud. It is a place for study and research, something you should have done before you joined these folks in trying to lobby away our right to keep and bear.
Think about this one folks. Question the mayor. I am not an advocate of illegal anything, but M.A.I.G. is a misleading moniker for a group of anti-gun zealots. It does not seem appropriate that the Kodiak City Mayor be a member.
So please madam mayor review your membership in MAIG. I would think you would resign after that, but if you're not going to then I think you owe Kodiak an explanation.
Ms. Floyd you have done many great things in this community, but this is not one of them.
Ask hard questions folks and demand real answers.
peace ya'll

WE MUST NEVER FORGET

2009-09-11T06:12:00.004-08:00

I pulled this vid off the net. After searching for any new tributes I realized that they are few and far between. So I figured that maybe, just maybe, we are beginning to forget what events led to this day of remembrance and service.
It is not a happy video folks. There are no words to the music. That seemed fitting, as no words can describe the emotions I felt that day. Maybe that is why, all the while later, this one made me cry in my coffee.
Please watch this. Hopefully you can sit with some one you love while you do so.

This morning at 0755 I will be attending the memorial service at the USCG base flag. I have not heard of any other memorials on the island. If you cannot attend, please take that moment and bow your head, Remember the 2976 reasons why this day must never, ever be forgotten.
Peace to all. Thank you to all who serve, and love to the families who make it possible for them to do do.

Better than drugs.

2009-09-07T08:46:00.003-08:00

My buddy, Daytona Karl, sent me this video.
In my past life I have raced dirt track, motocross, and off-road. I have jumped motorcycles and the occasional 4X4 over and across many things, (not always successfully).
This video blew me away.
Enjoy

Summers over ?

2009-09-05T07:59:00.006-08:00

Happy Labor Day folks. It looks like the Big Guy is granting us one beautiful weekend to get out and enjoy the Fair & Rodeo. The silvers run is pickin' up, and the Dolly Varden are fatter than the wallet of a career politician. The big bucks are still sitting up high on the hill, but if you're willing to bust your butt and beat your way through some some seriously thick alders you might just find one. Granted the big ones are scarcer than an honest congressman, but they are out there. So good hunting,(for either), if you choose.
For many this weekend means that summer is over. Pick up the croquet sets, put away the badminton gear, and hang up the summer whites. One last barbecue, one last weekend at the beach, and for some that one last long drive out to the country.
Now a lot of this doesn't really apply to those of us in the great State of Alaska, especially here at the homestead. I mean come on! This is my favorite time of year. Goat, deer, and moose season has started, not to mention Ptarmigan. The silvers are fast and furious, Dollies are fat and sassy, late season halibut is kickin' in, and oh yeah duck season is right around the corner. The added bonus is that most of the touristas have migrated back to the lesser 48. YEEEHAAA!!
However; tonight as I sit by the bonfire with a glass of Ben's finest brew, I will remember how we got here and the sacrifices that were made for so many. Many of us forget that a whole lot of Americans were injured, jailed, and even killed in the quest for laborers rights. This holiday does not just recognize the American laborer, it also honors those whose sacrifice made it all possible.
Check this out:

The irony here folks is this.
Today the government is taking over large pieces of business. The American wage is at the lowest percentage of the GOP since the forties, while American corporate profit is booming. Jobs are being out sourced and mechanized to the point where working is fast becoming a privilege rather than a right. Now, the current administrations answer is more government jobs! Is our future to be a population that works for the government, pays their taxes, only to fuel the perpetuation of a service based society? A society of cared for, content, and dependent citizens? Gosh I hope not.
More irony.
What did the Kodiak City Council do just this week? They voted to hire an outside firm to explain to the residents the pros & cons of collective bargaining. That means Union folks and the government are fixing to roll up their sleeves and start the propaganda battle. Granted, they are promising it will be an unbiased campaign. GIMME A FREAKIN' BREAK ALREADY! The city is not in favor of unionization, do they think we are so naive that we would believe that? I am fairly confident the pro-union propaganda will be biased towards their desires, so why not the city's? The honesty issues aside, why are we paying for it? 40K of our tax money is going to help the city explain why unions are bad. Now granted I am not a city resident, but I do contribute to the city's coffers on a regular basis. Shoot my contributions at the local brewery probably filled in at least a couple of potholes last year. To throw salt in the wound for us dwelling outside the city, when the mud has settled we won't even get to vote on it! That's right; an issue that will impact every resident of this island will only be voted on by a portion of the citizens. That smacks of taxation without representation doesn't it? I seem to recall night the City Mayor said ( about the Near Island Police Station), to just build the thing, because the residents don't know what they want. How did that work out madam mayor?
Lastly, the Borough Assembly decided to place a State project at the top of the capitol projects list! More jobs, good faith and a lot of horse pucky came out to justify that one folks. Never mind the schools, never mind the shelters, nope let's suck up to a state that won't even fund their own jail. Why? In the hope that a couple of new jobs will be produced? News flash folks, the construction will most likely be contracted to an off-island crew. The state will probably hire no more than a handful of new folks, or they will transfer in some off-islanders. Either way I do not foresee to many Kodiakians getting permanent employment out of this one.
Think about it.
I want to thank every single person who fought and/or died in the effort to protect the American Laborer. Have a great weekend folks, but when it's over; ask hard questions and demand real answers.
One last question.
My two typing fingers hurt like the dickens.
Yet I must ask
How long does the fox guard the hen house,
before we ask,
where the heck are the chickens?
Peace ya'll

Dear Mr. President

2009-08-04T19:21:00.007-08:00

After a great day of chasing salmon, I went to the Hot August Nights celebration the other night and what a blast! There were five cars, three motorcycles, and a handful of pretty good bands. If you didn't go, your loss. If you left that hot rod sitting in the garage, again, your loss.
So any ways it was after the show that a series of events led me to write this letter.
Dear President Obama,
I was arrested last night while on the way home from a car show. I assure you that I really did nothing wrong, in fact my initial actions were induced by my attempt to save the life of a harmless creature from our wonderful island.
I was leaving the bonfire at the show when a medium size Kodiak Brown Bear crossed the road in front of my hot rod. While swerving to avoid it, I might have crossed the double yellow line because the night air was split by the careening siren of a police car. The darkness was intermittently illuminated in red's and blues as the car's strobes flashed to life.
Assuming that the officer had somewhere important to be, I pulled off to the side immediately. Imagine my surprise when so did the police car!
I got out of my rig to see what was wrong, only to be told, via loudspeaker, to get back in the vehicle and place my hands on the steering wheel. Being a law abiding citizen, I promptly turned about and headed back. Unfortunately I tripped on a rock,( our island is full of them), and slammed into the side of my car.
I got back in the car and waited as instructed.
When the officer walked up I could not help notice that she was kinda pretty for a gal wearing a gun, but I tried to focus on the problem at hand.
She asked where I was coming from and going to. I told her about the cool cars and that I was Flats bound.
Looking at my license,, she finally asked the inevitable question. " Are you Irish then Griff?". I politely asked why that mattered. The question that followed, summed it all up, and I realized how much trouble I was in. "You been drinking tonight have you?", she queried. I admitted to a glass of wine at dinner, and added that I felt like I was being profiled due to my ethnic background.
She whipped open my door and asked me to get out of the car. My waders (I was still wearing them from earlier, I mean you know how comfy they get once they're broke in), caught on the edge and I stumbled out of my rig.
Fortunately the officer broke my fall, I don't know if she meant to, but she did. Unfortunately in an effort to stabilize my gravitational decline, I reached out in reflex and grabbed the closest thing to hand. Yup, I grabbed the officer, somewhere in the vicinity of her badge and name tag.
Oddly, rather than helping me stabilize myself. she accelerated my descent to the gravel and followed it up with a healthy dose of bear spray.
As she put the cuffs on me. I swear, Mr. President, I heard her say " another drunken Irishman".
So that's the story,and it's true. I mean you couldn't make this stuff up right?
Later I explained this to the Judge, and through the tears in his eyes,( I really appreciate his empathy BTW), he dismissed all charges. Thank goodness.
So that said, here's the problem.
I feel that after being profiled, harassed, and yet exonerated for simply trying to get home, a bridge has been burned that only you can rebuild. After hearing what you did for that poor Harvard professor, I believe only your intervention will help mend the rift this has created on our island and in turn save our community from the evils of ethnic profiling.
So how about it then? You, me, and the arresting officer have lunch at the White House,at the taxpayers expense , unless of course, you want to pay for the airfare.
Save the Bud Light though. I'll bring some Palin Pale that you're gonna love.
You Betcha!
Peace Ya'll

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2009-08-04T12:46:00.011-08:00

Today is Coast Guard Day folks. So happy birthday to all the Coasties, past and present, active and retired. Thank you for all you do, have done, and will do.
As for me; well I have never worked with a finer bunch of hooligans in my life.
So check out this link, and this one, and even this one! Then lastly there is my favorite.

GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

I get it!!

2009-07-15T11:14:00.005-08:00

Yup,
I think I figured it out. I have been reading volumes of blogs, and commentaries that condemn, ridicule, and some just plain mean, about our soon to be departed governor.
Why are there folks beating this lame duck to death?
What's the darn point? Call it what you want, political suicide, opportunism, quirkiness, or just plain crazy, but the Palinator is no more.
What amazes me is how many non-Alaskans are spewing this anti-Palinistic rhetoric. Why do they care?
The Girl in Homer has become famous. Mainly due to her relentless crusade against Palin. However; she is an Alaskan and has been avid non-fan of Sarah from the beginning. In all fairness to Shannyn I will admit I enjoy the blog. She writes well and is well informed. However; the comments she gets are usually self righteous, party touting blanderings. They are also from mostly lesser 48 residents. Other blogs and commentaries share the same supporters.
Again, why??
Here's the rub.
They fear her. They fear the very idea of her. Like it or not the Palinator has garnered a lot of fans and support down south. Whether she tosses her name back in the Republican ring, or lands on one of the networks, her impact on American politics could be significant.
But it won't be, as a two time quitter she has sealed her fate.
Then why is there more Sarah in the news than Arnold? Californians are in a severe crisis situation, yet not many are raking him over the coals. Probably because he is not a natural born citizen; therefore not a political threat on a national level.
So this group of Democrazies has formed a political bucket brigade and they continue to dump more water on a fire already gone out. Flooding the ashes of Sarah's political career in fear of a Phoenix arising from the ruins.
Relax folks, it ain't gonna happen. Let it go and move on. Like the dog from Aesop, she dropped her bone in hopes of a better one and got neither.
She's done, gone, kaput.
Just a thought.
Peace ya'll

No parties here...............

2009-07-12T09:18:00.007-08:00

A good friend down south sent me this video. Not too long after he retired from military service he joined an outfit known as the Patriot Guard. These folks have a great hobby. Whenever there is a military funeral in the local chapters area, they suit up, hop on their bikes, and escort the fallen soldiers procession. Then they form a silent, human wall around the ceremony. All this is in an attempt to peacefully prevent protesters from interrupting the service or harassing the participants. It seems hard to believe, to me anyways, that these services would ever be needed, but they are.
Crazy world huh?
So anyways, he sent me this video and I want to share to with my small group of followers. When your done, wipe your eyes, then try to remember how many liberals, conservatives, democrats, republicans you saw. The if you have a number, please send it on down. As for me, no parties there at all just Americans. I might poke a little fun at our countrymen down south sometimes, but Georgia, ya'll got it right this time.

Thank you Ray-Ray, we will ride together again some time. Miss you Bro.
Do the right thing tomorrow folks, and do it for somebody else.
Peace

WE THE PEOPLE

2009-07-04T09:38:00.007-08:00

Happy birthday folks!
That's right it's a holiday every American shares, and we share it with no other nation in the world. It does not matter what your color, creed, ethnic background, or political belief is. Shoot you don't even have to be born here to celebrate. You just gotta be a citizen.
Enjoy it folks, revel in it, take pride in a country that set the precedence for freedom world wide.
Today let's all step off our collective soapboxes, let's get off our apathetic behinds, wipe the blue or red paint off our faces and collectively thumb our noses at the rest of the planet.
That's right; screw them if they want to criticize! We live in in the greatest country there is. Millions have died and suffered to maintain and protect the truths we hold self evident! Nations world over have struggled and striven to emulate what our founding fathers accomplished.
So today; put aside the petty politics, the personal agendas, and just be an American.
Be proud, give honor to the generations who built this great nation.
Follow the title link and learn more.
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!
Peace, life, liberty, and pursue freedom ya'll.

Nobody did it better.........

EARLY FIREWORKS

2009-07-03T14:46:00.004-08:00

Only a politician could upstage Independence Day.
Click on the title for the speech.
So now everyone knows the Palinator is stepping down.
What we don't know is the reason behind the decision.
This is not the first time Sarah has resigned a position for the "good of Alaska".
Check out the similarities from January 2004. The Juneau Empire has two good articles on the resignation also.
So while all the, left of center, do gooders are doing the happy dance and patting each other on their self righteous backs, and the right handed side of the road is weeping and pulling their hair, the rest of us should step back and think.
What's next? What will Sean Parnell do as our new governor? Will Alaska woo Sarah back? After all it's not an official resignation yet and she could change her mind.
Where will she resurface? When will Alaskans stand together for Alaska and quit the petty party politics?
Just some stuff to chew on folks. Have a great Independence Day, and please don't set anything on fire.
Peace

Something to think about...............

2009-06-23T06:23:00.006-08:00

Yes I believe in equal rights, and yes I believe in the right to bear arms.
I just think it is ironic and somewhat hypocritical that the majority of the same group that wants to give choice and acceptance to so many, wants to restrict the rights of so many others.
That said............

Lastly;

SI VIS PACEM , PARA BELLUM

THIS JUST IN !!

2009-06-14T20:23:00.004-08:00

Breaking news folks!
Looks like the world -wide recession has hit a new low.
TORONTO - Beer maker Molson is turning off the tap and cutting off the supply of free suds to its retirees, the Toronto Star reported on Tuesday.

Molson, a division of Molson Coors, said it was looking to "standardize" its complimentary beer policy.

There are 2,400 Molson retirees in Canada and their free beer costs the company about C$1 million ($900,000) a year, the Star said.

Molson retirees in the province of Newfoundland will see their monthly allotment of beer fall from six dozen a month to zero over the next five years.

Current workers will see their allotment drop from 72 dozen bottles a year to 52 dozen.

"There was no consultation, we just received a letter that this is a done deal, which is totally unfair," Bill Bavis, who retired six years ago after 32 years at Molson's in St. John's, Newfoundland, told the Star. "I think with the economic downturn they're trying to take advantage of us, as a way to cut retirees' benefits and justify it."

Unions have launched grievances in Montreal and Vancouver, where the allotment is less.

A spokesman for Molson said the company feels it still has a very generous benefits package

I mean, really, what else has to be suffered before the world leaders turn this train around?
My sympathies to those affected.
Peace

I remember those daze,(vaguely).

2009-06-14T12:39:00.004-08:00

Need a laugh?
I know I do. So check this out. It might be the best Joe Cocker video ever.
Enjoy the rest of the weekend folks!
Peace

GET OVER IT ALREADY!

2009-06-13T10:10:00.006-08:00

OK folks, enough is enough and I've had me fill.
I took a nice little break (again) from the blogoshpere due to travel, golf, great weather, and a son returned home.
However; this new media frenzy has drug me back into the arena. That and a few cups of java on a slow morning. I will try to be brief, but this one is tough.
On my recent journeys I was able to indulge in a habit I have mostly foregone. Watching network/cable television is something our household gave up on several years ago, but while I am on the road, it is an indulgence that kills time.
This trip I focused on news media; both sides. I say both sides, because there is no middle ground with these folks. Probably because the middle does not sell ad space, and please never forget that this is really what it is all about.
I love to listen to the "experts" on either side of any issue the media spins. Lately, global warming has become the catch phrase for a new generation of environmental doomsayers. While there is actually a growing group in scientific circles that think we may be at he beginning of a cooling stage, that gets little media attention.
So what else was on the plate? Pick a subject, from Christian fundamentalist terrorism to the latest celebrity tragedy, and every commentator was able to spin these things, trivial or not, into high impact, thought provoking , investigative journalism. One thing I did notice though; the rules have changed. Apparently it is Ok for the more liberal side to name-call, stereotype, and profile folks they do not agree with. In other words the left hand side of the media has taken the low road.
I will use the latest media/blogosphere whirlwind to illuminate my point.
Shannyn Moore, Gryphen, and even Wolfe Tone, have jumped into the arena with Letterman and Palin. Of the three; I agree with Wolfe the most. Our Governor needs to think before she speaks, especially when sitting in an arena filled with professional speakers.
Many months back, just after the V.P. debacle, I pleaded with the Palinator to either learn those very words, listen to her handlers, or hire better writing staffers. She is a passionate person, on that I think we can all agree. So we must be careful of what we ask for. Think about this. What if the Guv did become a more methodical and thoughtful speaker? What if this taught her that passion, countered with patience and planning are truly formidable?
You might end up with a small force of nature and a political power that would be hard to reckon with. So; again, be careful what you wish for.
Back to the late show / Palinator battle.
Dave Letterman is a professional television personality with a staff of highly successful writers and researchers.
Sarah Palin is not.
Mr. Letterman makes his living of off humor and sarcasm, politicians and political commentary are his bread and butter.
Governor Palin is a fledgling professional politician, the perfect fodder for the likes of Letterman, and other media professionals. Not good for her and not good for our state.
Mr. Letterman's comments about Willow were in poor taste and should outrage every Alaskan. Not because she is Sarah's daughter,but because she is an Alaskan. Even if his apology states that he was referring to a slightly older Bristol, it is still wrong! These kids are not celebrities or politicians to be picked on, they are children and residents of our great state and we, as Alaskans should take affront; period. They are not part of the show in the coliseum, they were dragged into the arena by a media we give far to much forgiveness to.
Mr. Letterman's apology was well put. It was also probably written by other professional writers with a slew of lawyers sweating over their shoulders and wringing their hands. Our Governors response should not be looked at as a gubernatorial reply. It should be seen as it is. A mothers reply countered with the burden of being the administrative leader of the greatest and most misunderstood state in the union.
So as a parent, (something a lot of these commentators are not),what would you do? Palin's comment about Mr. Letterman did not make me think she called him a pedophile. In fact it was the interviewer who jumped on that wagon. Her next reply is what it was, a person who is angry and smart enough to try and end a conversation that is going down the wrong road. However; like the predators they can be, this interviewer kept tugging at her Achilles heel, until like that winter caribou, Palin fell to the pack.
I would never expose any 14 year old to a professional media entertainer, on national television in such a potentially damaging situation. Really, folks, what if Letterman used this opportunity to sky rocket his ratings in attempt to offset the new Late Show king? Why not? No matter what he said the world will forgive him if he just apologizes right? What potential, and permanent damage could be afflicted upon this child after such a humiliating event? What if that 14 year old took affront and said something that could potentially damage her family, her mothers career, or even the skewed perception the lower 48 has of our state and our people. Duh folks, it's lose - lose. Would any of you parents out there, willingly drag your child (of any age) into an arena filled with professional gladiators? Would you throw a baby seal into a pod of Orcas just to watch the show? Get over it then!
Sarah Palin made the right choice as a parent. Sure, as a public figure she needs to polish her skills, but it was still the responsible choice.
For once folks, don't be a democrat,republican, independent, or any other political affiliate. Be an Alaskan and take pride in that. See this for what it was, not what they want you to see.
This rant may not win many fans, but it needed to be said. Only Ish has remained quiet on this one, and perhaps that is why he is king.
My rant is run and I am spent. This took far to long to vent.
Love and prayers to the Pickett family, your loss is a loss for the entire neighborhood.
Ask hard questions, folks, and demand real answers.
Peace

One last thing..........

2009-05-25T17:30:00.005-08:00

It's been around a while, but it still gets me every time.
I hope you all had a great weekend, I hope you all paused at 300pm today.
As for me, well I'm off to A-town again.

Good night Dwayne, goodnight Tom, goodnight Dave, I miss you guys.
Peace

What are you doing this weekend?

2009-05-24T09:55:00.006-08:00

DEVOTION AND HONOR.
Amidst the parades and barbecues, speeches and commemorations these folks will continue on.
"The orders remain unchanged" are the only words they will speak.
Please checkout this video tribute.
The Sentry stands guard 356 days a year, 24 hours a day. There is no bad weather, no holidays, no excuse to leave the tombs vacant. There is only devotion and honor.
So tomorrow at 300pm, stop what you're doing, and honor the fallen. Pray for the ones they left behind, and be grateful for what their loss has provided us all.
Regardless of what the media,some oratorically challenged politicians, and wannabe celebrities say;be proud to be American, and if not, then at least be proud those who did not return were.
God bless them all, God bless you, and God Bless America.
Peace

DO NOT FORGET !

2009-05-23T12:28:00.004-08:00

Happy Memorial Day weekend folks. I gotta run, I'm off to the Crab/Gale Fest for some community service time at one of the booths. Should be fun.
I hope every one remembers,( and participates) for the National Moment of Remembrance. It's at 1500 (that's 300pm) this Monday. Please join in, let the neighborhood honor all those who made it possible to enjoy our freedoms.
I came across another Alaskan blogger worth checking out. Drop by Wolfe Tone. I am not sure if his moniker is about a great Irish band, or our states creature of controversy. Either way it is a good read.
Enjoy Crab Fest, and do something good for someone else today.
Peace

GRADUATION DAY !

2009-05-17T20:20:00.007-08:00

It's graduation day here on the rock. For so many students of KHS it is the end of years of struggling to achieve goals, and the beginning of a new life. My congratulations to all of you. My heart goes out especially to Chris T., Tim S., Jake K., & Robert L. I have watched you all grow and I hope you all achieve your goals.
I would ask all of the graduates to remember your community. This afternoon as you walked out of that auditorium with your fistful of diploma, scholarships, or maybe just that feeling of accomplishment you all have earned; remember this community.
Revel tonight, revel tomorrow, revel all the way through CrabFest, then prepare for the next step.
I have no idea where the roads ahead of you will lead you. I do know, if you hold in your heart, the spirit of this community, then you will be far ahead of the pack.
Never forget the island you grew up on. The potlatch fundraisers, the community cleanup every spring, and the seemingly endless other fund raising events you partook in. Never lose that desire to help your neighbor. It is what makes this island, your home, so magnificent.
No matter where you go, people will always be amazed when they find out where you are from. I ask you; do not regale them with tales of bears, and whales. Sure throw that in, if only to try and describe the beauty of this isle. Rather tell of the times your family and friends went out in the middle of the storm to help a neighbor, of the times the community rallied to help finance the costs of a neighbor in dire straits. Show them the beauty of a true neighborhood, where volunteers are the norm and not the exception.
In your travels, teach all those around you the beauty of Kodiak. The giving, the caring, and the partisanship that makes us what we are; Kodiakans.
Show the world that people can really make the difference.
Good luck to you all, God bless you all.
Prosecutus vires quod diligo
Do the right thing, and not just for yourself.
Peace ya'll

Take a Big Deep Breath

2009-04-21T06:56:00.004-08:00

Another way of saying WHOA!, pause and think on it some. It's also my favorite comment to any family member of friend who is either spooled up or about to make a big decision. It is also what I did after the last entry on this little blog. I vented, and ya'll read it, and I am done with it for now.
The duck tragedy pictured above is a case in point. maybe had momma duck taken that big deep breath she might have noticed that odd piece of pavement and gone around.
The hapless duck photo is not just another fowl tragedy. It is also a lesson on leading and being led. Our leaders must recognize that a percentage of Americans will follow, simply because they are programmed to. Just like those po' little ducklings. As American citizens we must also take that big deep breath, pause and look about, before we blindly head down the path and into disaster.
The momma duck can represent any one in your life, Obama, Palin, the assembly, your clergy, even your parents or friends. Whomever is leading the parade can be nearly irrelevant if the followers are paying attention.
Remember the marching band in the parade in that classic movie Animal House?
Don't be them folks.
Ask hard questions; expect and demand real answers.
Peace

Off the radar

2009-04-19T08:30:00.005-08:00

Yep, that's where I've been. During the Lenten season I decided to keep my head down and my opinions to myself. Not an easy task, but one worth doing. In my time of spiritual cleansing I also decided that I would not raise my voice except in cases of immediate danger. All went well, Easter has come and gone, winter is starting to let go it's icy grip, so I am back.
When I noticed that I had dropped off the sidebar at the mighty KoKon I realized it was now or never, but once you step off the radar it can be difficult to jump back on the screen. So much has happened, so many things to comment on. Where to start and where to end? Now that I have changed my oil, so to speak, what path will I take my readers on.
I still need to sort some of that out , but for now here's this.
To Mr. Obama:
I took offense at your words over seas. Telling a mostly Muslim nation that the U.S.A is not a Christian nation was nothing more than sucking up to a group of people that have little to no effect on the success of your regime. Denying our christian based heritage is no different than telling the world that we are not a democracy because we have socialists and communists as citizens. It is our christian basic belief in acceptance that lends to the diversity allowed in this great nation. Oh yeah, BTW, I didn't here you telling anyone over there you didn't consider them a Muslim nation. Perhaps you realized that there were not enough body guards in your 500 person rock star, wannabe entourage.
To Ms. Napolitano:
WTF? The CIA reports that there is a possible terrorist threat from veterans and you choose to publicly condone it? For cryin' out loud, have you looked around your new office lately/ Do you have any idea how many veterans are working in the DHS? I don't give a rats behind if you have some deep emotional scar from serving on the prosecution team of McVeigh or not. Why don't you tap on the shoulder of that limo driver we pay to cart your left-wing butt around and ask him who he thinks are the real threat. Better yet why don't you have him disarmed just in case?
It wasn't veterans who blew up abortion clinics several years ago, and it's usually not veterans spiking trees and blowing up animal research centers either. In case you haven't noticed a large percentage of DHS employees are veterans, so I have a good idea Ms. Napolitano, bite your lip and go stand in the corner and think about the results of your words. Better yet, why not starting writing on the board, " I will think before I speak", cause I bet your boss would love to see that.
Along the lines of extreme left ideas, check out the new bill coming up the pike. It's called the Blair Holt's Firearm Licensing and Record of Sale Act of 2009, and you can read it at open congress.org. Someones keeping this one real quiet and for good reason. I highly recommend you read it, and contact your elected officials immediately.
One more thing for our president:
I had high hopes for you sir, but the majority of your actions so far have been disappointing. The candidate who promised aisle crossing, bridge building political progress has surrounded himself with hardcore, left of the road, old school democrats who favor their agenda over the nations. You must realize that even though there are different parties and ideas in this great nation, most citizens are not left or right, but simply in the middle. Listen to them, take their counsel, and watch your cabinet closely. Good luck sir, you will need it.
In closing:
For the borough assembly:
Rural curbside pick-up is bad. I don't care about the RFP, I don't care about the cost. This rant has run to long, (I really need to eat before I slam a lot of java), so I will present my spin on the SWAB next time.
Until then; do the right thing folks, just do it for someone else.
Peace
Griff

Sometimes ya get it right

2009-02-22T08:42:00.006-09:00

Some times ya don't.
My apologies to the mighty Ishmael over at the KoKon. In hopes of shedding light and inspiring debate, I completely re-wrote history.
I thank Ish for his graciousness and the history lesson. I will admit that parts of my past are a little fuzzy. I blame that on many blows to head, followed with beer instead of aspirins. Back then I was chasing around the planet looking for bad guys and doing what the current president ordered. Things were busy and tend to get a little blurry at that pace.
President Clinton did in fact bomb parts of Iraq, but only after much consideration and patience. He did in fact investigate Iraq and terrorist ties, and did make the top ten list for presidents.
There I have eaten my well deserved slice and will move on.
Hat's off to Prez Obama for shutting down the Transportation Secretaries crazy and Orwellian tax plan. They really are looking into this "Big Brother" plan on state levels and most citizen's are in an uproar.
I am glad the prez stopped this one, but it proves that this administration bears watching. Well they all do, but when a group is this popular, then can get away with a lot before the nation wakes up. Doubt it? Think about some of the shenanigans from the past eight years.
My point is this. Do not get caught up in the wave of change. It will assume Tsunami like proportions and can destroy more than it created. Then in a typical two-party democratic attempt to fix things we will pull the handle and change the water. Thus we will create the new next wave of change, when in reality all we seem to accomplish is adding to the septic system.
That's all I got folks.
Do the right thing today, and do it for somebody else.
Peace
Griff

VD

2009-02-14T08:32:00.004-09:00

Valentines Day that is, so have a happy one. I am hoping that maybe this, greeting card company generated, holiday will inspire our new national administration. Then they will "step out of the box" with new and exciting solutions to our nations financial dilemma.
Think about it folks. New holidays to help fix our problems.
Hmmm... maybe a national fix your own neighborhood's road day. Millions of people will storm the do-it-your self store, generating millions in sales, spawning massive retail rehires, and fixing the roads at the same time!
How about National write to your politician day? If everyone one of us wrote e letter to our congressmen and senators, and mailed them on the same day, stamp sales rise dramatically. This one action alone could save our postal system, thus ensuring employment for thousands of postal workers! Take it one more step and cut another executive order that forces our politicians to read each and every letter personally, and we might actually see some responsible choices made.
Seem a little crazy to expect one person to read all that mail. Might not when you consider that president Obama kinda expected the same thing when he dropped a third of the Amazon rain forest down on the congress and senate and then pushed for the vote in a week or two. Yup, the trimmed down stimulus package is 1070 pages long.
Reality is that most of the folks, if not all, voting on this package, will not have read it all. Obama seems kind of like that car salesman that wants you to commit to that used car before it warms up and reveals all the little problem it really has.
How about this solution? Lets make Valentines Day a national holiday! Then every one can go home, with government encouragement, get all romantic with your significant other and maybe start an annual baby boom. This will eventually swell the ranks of tax payers, so that they can help pay for this fantastical program. in other words our grandchildren can pay for our mistakes and apathy. Oops, they already will.
Maybe the President can follow Guv Ahhnold's lead and just send everyone home, without pay. Then take away our tax returns and let us contemplate how this must be our fault and seek ways to make fat cat politicians happier and more comfortable.
I would have a lot more sympathy for the new prez if he had not surrounded himself with people that were part of the problem to begin with. So what will he do? How do you cross party lines when all your backers and administrators are hard core party liners?
Will you become Peggy or Viola? Happy with one hard earned and deserved valentine gaining a reputation to be proud of? Or will you sell your ideals and scoop all the those pretty "we love you" cards, thus earning your place next to Peggy and the majority of most professional politicians.
Watching this would be more fun than going to Vegas, if the consequences weren't so harsh for Joe & Josephine citizen.
Ask hard questions folks and expect real answers.
Peace ya'll

Brass monkey weather ?

2009-02-01T09:46:00.003-09:00

Ok so maybe we don't get as cold as the mainlanders, but hell that's part of the reason I live here. When I step outside and I can feel every bone I ever broke, and every piece of metal installed in me; then it is freakin' cold!
Nuff' about me. Here's a little chunk of Nautical trivia to teach the kiddies.
From back when men were made of steel and ships were made of wood.
On the old warships it was necessary to keep a good supply of cannon balls near the cannon. How to prevent them from rolling about the deck
was the problem. The best storage method devised was to stack them as
a square based pyramid, with one ball on top, resting on four, resting
on nine, which rested on sixteen. Thus, a supply of 30 cannon balls
could be stacked in a small area right next to the cannon.
There was only one problem; how to prevent the bottom layer from
sliding/rolling from under the others.
The solution was a metal plate with 16 round indentations, called, for
reasons unknown, a Monkey. But if this plate were made of iron, the
iron balls would quickly rust to it. The solution to the rusting
problem was to make them of brass - hence, Brass Monkeys.
Now realize that brass contracts much more and much faster than iron when chilled.
Consequently, when the temperature dropped too far, the brass
indentations would shrink so much that the iron cannon balls would
come right off the monkey.
Thus, it was quite literally, cold enough to freeze the balls off a
brass monkey.
Have a great SuperBowl Sunday folks!
Peace

It's a brand new day.

2009-01-20T13:09:00.004-09:00

I watched the inaugural speech this morning and I must admit that President Obama is quite the orator. Rumor has it that he spent two days writing it, and I believe it. At least I believe someone spent two days writing it. It was a great speech. It promised something to everyone, without being specific. It paid homage to every ancestor and the founding fathers of this nation. It referenced Scripture once, God six times, and our founding fathers twice. Powerful stuff, but then again it was meant to be.
My favorite quote from the 44th president? This one, "This is the source of our confidence - the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny."
Wow, if one of his competitors for the crown had said this, during the run for the gold the media would have crucified them. Oh yeah; they did and they did.
Did you hear the occasional preacherisitic lilt in his delivery? Did you see him nodding with affirmation at the benediction? This new president will rally this nation with words, hopes, and promises of mending broken dreams.
Please do not misunderstand my intentions here folks. I think that this man is quite capable of changing our nation dramatically. Not with extraordinary political prowess, or amazing gifts for solution finding. It will be with his ability to rally the citizens of this nation like the old time tent covered revival meeting orators rallied their congregation.
I hope it works. I have longed believe that we must maintain our own neighborhoods, we must help each other., we must volunteer our time ,not just our money. We must do all these things if we want to prosper as a nation.
So before you join the church of Obama, think on this.
There is a lot of "we" in his speeches. No one person can solve our problems, it will take all of us, working hard and sacrificing.
So do we jump in and or work ? Or just jump on the hope bandwagon?
Do we honestly expect one person to solve all of our problems and then cry FOUL when they fail an impossible task?
Good luck Mr. President, your biggest challenge went unspoken. That is the challenge of overcoming a sense of entitlement that has fertilized the blossom of American apathy for far to long.
We got a lot of work to do.
Peace ya'll.

TRADITION

2009-01-04T13:12:00.003-09:00

Tradition says, if a log entry be the first
of the year, it must be in verse.
That said, I will proceed on.
For better or worse.

The assembly decided that tax relief
will be permitted,
but for six months here,
you must be committed.
The fish wrap from A-town,
will still compete with our local rag.
Yeah we got it back,
but with a higher price tag.
Ish is still ramblin'
and so is Paige, Elwood, and the DCA.
Just more good readin'
for which you do not pay.
Sure it's cold and blowin'
but it ain't 20 below,
and it ain't snowin'.
I've always known Kodiak weather
as fickle at best.
however the rest of the state,
will put your antifreeze to the test.
So get out there and have a ball!
Don't be a shut-in
enjoy life like a Saltonstall!
So now I must go,
this rant is run,
sure it was tough,
but man it was fun!
Peace.
G.

IT'S A WRAP.

2008-12-31T14:13:00.007-09:00

No I'm not quitting,(although there has been a trend for it this year.) Even though there are only a handful of fans out there, (and I think they are mostly relatives), I am going to keep slog/bogging for now. I mean it's a wrap for '08.
Yup 2008 is over folks, another year closer to the tricentennial, the International Stamp Show, the Ice Age, or Armageddon. You pick which one you are looking forward to the most.
SO HERE'S TO 2008
A year that started off with hopes of peace and success.
Came to an end in a bloody mess.
Tragedy, and scandals rammed down our throats,
until we lay gasping; bleeding like sacrificial goats.
As a country tired of war and worn down,
we rallied for two who sought the crown.
During the battle for our hearts and minds,
our economy slid into serious decline.
Both sides cried "It is not my fault!"
While corporate raiders emptied the vault.
Lustily gilding their silver linings,
ignoring us po' peasants whining.
They moved on, leaving in their wake,
company's seeking guv handouts to take.
Its all good, Obama gonna fix it all.
Like some Cinderella at the ball,
a wave of the wand and all will be better.
Never mind we are becoming the worlds largest debtor.
I'm tired of all the media crap, all hail '09!
Cause 08 is a wrap.
Peace ya'll
G.

The perfect cure.

2008-12-26T11:24:00.008-09:00

Being it is the holiday season, I have been coming across assorted remembrances of the famous furry trio known as The Chipmunks. In their day, they probably sold more albums than that other made-for TV band, The Monkees. Now they seem to pop up on numerous blogs. Shoot, even Gryphen wax's nostalgic over the annoying mini-mammals. Perhaps Elwood summed it up best, so check out his spin on the chalkboard scraping super group.
As for me? Well, many, many years ago in an effort to earn desperately needed cash I worked at a Santa's Village tourist trap back east.
For three years every Sat& Sun between Sept and Jan I worked for 9-10 hours a day.
The owner had only two Christmas albums in stock. A fifties rock collection and the Chipmunks. These were played in a continuous loop over the entire compound, imagine how challenging that was in the the days of vinyl.
It was not a bad gig, I met a lot of people, learned some skills, and got to play with many exotic animals. It was also where I got to meet my first Kodiak bear. His name was Billy and he was far from home.
The bad side is that 30 years later I would still flinch whenever I heard those warbling soprano's start up.
Now, what cured me of Eutamiasphobia?
I got to spend a large part of this summer with one of my granddaughters. When ever the Kodiak summer turned wet and wild we settled in with her small but well used favorite movie collection.
To my chagrin I discovered the chipmunk movie in the back of the pile.
It had been placed in the back by her mother, in hopes that it would not surface to often. Better to watch Monsters Inc. repetitively than one more run through those furry little sadistic singers.
Once Flower saw that DVD, the Chipmunk chant began. Gritting my teeth I placed it in the player. After all, how can you say no to a child as bright as any summer day? A child whose smile and scream of Pappy!, as I came through the door, would push all the dark and weary parts of my day away and replace them with light and joy.
Gritting my teeth, I placed the DVD in and sat back, secretly hoping that some defect would prevent it from playing. No such luck.
But luck has a funny way of turning out doesn't it?
Watching the movie was relatively painless. Watching Flower, watch the movie was priceless. Listening to her sing, quietly, along overcame years of self induced bias.
How do I know I am cured?
Last weekend I was part of the Santa drive-by out here in Flatville. As we cranked out the kiddy tunes over the P.A. there came up the inevitable "Christmas Time", by the trio.
Watching the joy of those kids as Santa stepped off the firetruck, and Alvin and the gang warbled, I did not flinch. In fact I smiled.
Thank you Flower. Thank you Alvin, Theodore, & Simon. You have taught this old Flatratter that the circle is truly round.
Peace ya'll

365 vs 24/7

2008-12-24T18:47:00.005-09:00

Merry Christmas ya'll.
Tonight, as we wrap up the final preparations for Christmas day, I am reminded of my mothers annual refrain.
Christmas is 365 days a year.
Every year I listened to that response, whenever I queried her for hints as to what I could give her. Now, I understand what she meant.
Folks, Christmas really should be 365 days a year. Not the gift giving, but the very spirit that fills the majority of us all tonight.
Think about it. When you were standing in line today, or waiting for that cherished parking spot, did you step back and relinquish your right, to a person you felt needed it more? Did you help that elderly person with their bags? Smile and talk to child you did not even know? Are you filled with a sense of benevolence that you cannot explain, but must act on? If nothing along those lines entered into your life in the past week, then stop reading right now and do some serious soul searching.
In today's society we are inundated with promises and quips of 24/7. That is not a realistic goal for the Christmas spirit, but 365 days is.
What if every one of us, once a day acted in a Christmas like manner? What if you avoided using the empty row of handicapped parking, even though it was only going to take a minute. What if you talked to that friend, just because, no holiday guilt involved? What if you simply understood, that the actions of that person,(that you don't know), might have reasons behind it that you are not aware of. In realizing that you act in forgiveness, rather than anger?
History has shown over and over again, amazing acts of peace and understanding on this night and tomorrow. Let that be our proof. Love and understanding not only work, it is in our very nature to seek. We find as much comfort in comforting as being comforted.
God so loved us he gave us his only son.
Tomorrow we shall celebrate the birth of a man. A man who is recognized by every major religion, discussed by theologians of every creed. A man who changed the world by teaching forgiveness and love.
Thank you Mom, you taught me many things. Most of all you taught me this,
Christmas is 365 days a year.
Do the right thing ya'll, just not for yourself.
Peace
Griff

A great weekend

2008-12-11T19:17:00.006-09:00

I had the privilege of coaching the St. Mary's Saints boys basketball team this season. The season culminates at the ACSAA tournament.
This year the tournament was intense. Every team fought hard for their place and I am grateful for the level of competition that was there.
The boys team played six games in two days, placing third out of 10 teams overall and securing a trophy. We lost our first game by one point and battled all the way back up to lose by five in the semi.
The girls team also finished 3rd overall, losing both their games in overtime!
My thanks to a team that never gave up. The Saints made their opponents pay for every inch of the court. They put the D in defense and gave 110%.
The hosts of the tourney were awesome, the players and coaches amazing. I am blessed to have have participated.
My gratitude goes out to all who made it possible. My personal gratitude goes to a team of young men that did not give up. They played until they could no longer play, overcoming injury and exhaustion.
My offensive/assistant coach, Culen, could not come over to Kenai, but his spirit and training was there. This young man was the conscience that got me to step up 3 years ago and coach this wonderful group of players. It was my last season with my son as assistant coach and I will miss that.
Thanks to Kenai Christian Church for giving us a place to stay.
Coach Dan; it was your first tourney and I pray it will not be the last. Reagan, Dorise, and Sam, thank you for all the hard work and support.
Shout out to Josh Lewis, the parents, and supporters, who in various ways made this trip possible.
As for me; well I am going to sit back and start getting ready for next season.
GO SAINTS!!!!

OBAMAMANIA

2008-11-30T17:06:00.007-09:00

A friend sent me an interesting clip from the net. Check it out.
I am grateful for a country that can overcome it's past and elect a candidate such as Barack Obama. As a child I remember the surprise when John Kennedy was elected. Listening to the adults discuss the future with him in office was enlightening. The adults of that day were not amazed that a man of Kennedy's political beliefs made the oval office. They were surprised that a catholic got voted in. Different days, different biases.
That said; president elect Obama has already boosted one small section of our economy.
Gun sales. The numbers are astonishing, some gun categories have reported a 400% increase in sales since November 2nd. Basically, in fear of losing their constitutional rights, thousands are beating down the doors of gun shops. Stocking up on weapons that they fear will be unavailable in the future.
Crazy paranoia of a bunch of gun nuts? Not likely. We've been there folks, during the Clinton administration we let our gun ownership rights be whittled away. We traded a misplaced desire for safety for the right to defend ourselves.
Did violent crime decrease? No it did not, in fact, in some areas it increased.
When the new legislation steps onto the floors of the senate and congress there will be agendas waiting to come to fruition. Do not blame the new president if you lose one of the rights our founding fathers thought so important that they made it a constitutional right.
It is the senate and congress that should truly represent our interests. this will only happen if we hold them accountable for their actions or inaction's. Our own inaction will be the tool those in office find most useful. Our apathy will provide fuel for their freight train.
Let gun control be, there are already enough laws on the books to keep honest folks honest. We don't need more laws, just enforce those already in place.
Let's focus on our nations real problems. Poverty, hunger, and education are what we, as a nation, need to fix.
Ask hard questions, demand real answers.
Peace Ya'll.

Do ya think I'm that far off base?

2008-11-28T17:46:00.003-09:00

My handful of readers may think that my stance on BLACK FRIDAY is just another disgruntled rant. Today, sadly, my point is made.
Check out this story on newsday.com.. The sad fact is that even after this horrific event occurred, shoppers were actually walking in and around the EMT's as they tried to save this poor mans life. I hope the savings were worth it.
Jdimytai Damour lost his life, under a stampede of shoppers who, truly, lost their sense of priorities.
Peace to you Mr. Damour, peace to your family.
Thanks to Ish for the link to the story.
Monday is Cyber Monday folks. The latest version of today's corporate driven shopping madness. Sit on your hands, send a message, do the right thing.
'Nuff said.
Peace ya'll
G.

Black Friday Redoux

2008-11-28T06:16:00.003-09:00

I said it last year and I still believe it's true.
So click the title link and peruse my post from one year ago.
Do the right thing.
Peace ya'll
G.

Thank you for today and every day.

2008-11-27T12:09:00.004-09:00

Following on the path of the mighty Ishmael
My short list of thanks.
Thanks to Mom for having me.
Thanks to Mom for keeping me.
Thanks to Dad and both father-in laws, for teaching me.
Thanks to the two women in my life that brought my children into this world.
Thanks to my children for making my world beautiful.
Thanks to the wonderful people of this island for accepting me.
Thanks to all the soldiers around the world for keeping us safe.
Thanks to God for making all this possible.
If you get some down time, cruise the blogoshpere and check out what thanks are out there. You might be surprised at how much we all have in common.
Over at I Eat Gravel the president -elect speaks and an original poem follows. Good stuff.
As I leave for dinner I'll leave ya'll this.
From Tecumseh.
Give Thanks
When you arise in the morning,
give thanks for the morning light, for your life and strength.
Give thanks for your food and the joy of living.
If you see no reason for giving thanks,
the fault lies in yourself.

Peace ya'll

A life well lived

2008-11-21T20:48:00.004-09:00

In my last post, I dedicated my rant to John. John Strahle was my father-in-law, and he left this world Tuesday. Why would I dedicate such a rant to him?
Besides being a husband, father and grandfather he dedicated a large portion of his life to protecting the resources so many take for granted. A Korean war veteran, former fish and game officer, he ended up as a career agent for the National Marine Fisheries Service. Not the folks most of us deal with. He was an active investigator. The kind most folks do not encounter. Protecting the migrating whales from do-gooding green peace activists. Busting the folks trying to smuggle illegal and unsafe ocean species into an unsuspecting American marketplace.
That was his professional life.
I knew him as "Jack". A man who loved the life up here. A man whose name I could mention in several areas of the country and hit an accord with another agent. You see in my previous life, the agency I worked with interacted with the NMFS on a regular basis. We would fly them around and count on their expertise to recognize a vessel that broke the fisheries laws of our nation. Almost every time we hauled an agent, I could mention my father-in -law and the agent on board would know him, or know of him.
That was our professional overlap. In my personal life, John ended up in a place I never imagined would happen. I know that he had his misgivings when his baby daughter told him of her plans to marry a young Coastie. He gave me fair measure and trusted his baby girls judgement. Now, as a father of three girls married, I understand how difficult that can be.
Sixteen years ago and three years into our marriage, my father passed on. Over time John became the closest thing I had to a father. Many miles separated us, but our visits together were priceless. The conversations on the phone often helped me over the inevitable bumps in the road life provides.
I met you when I was sure that I was a grown man. I learned that I still had a fair amount of growing to do. Now, I still realize that I am not fully grown. I learned from you, that each stage in our lives teaches us more, and therefore we are forever growing. Thank you for that.
Thank you for your daughter; that I married. She is a blessing in my life. Our children are a blessing threefold.
Rest well, my friend you have earned it. You never met my father, or my first son. I hope they are there to greet you on your new journey. I will see you again.
Good night John, Dave S., Robin,Dave B. Dwayne, Tom, Tim, Dad, & Cory.
Peace Ya'll

Sea Kittens

2008-11-19T18:45:00.005-09:00

This one's for John.
Now that the political circus is winding down, I'd like to point out the latest lame attempt of one organization to alter the way we live.
That would be People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals; PETA for short.
It would appear that they have recruited at least one web guru to help them start a new, insidious campaign.
Sea Kittens.
This new approach is comparing fish to the adorable kittens that so many homes have. The website offers stories, some cute, some horrifying, that try to show that fish are the same, and as loving as that fuzzy little kitten we have all had at one time.
It also is filled with medical reports showing that eating fish is not only morally wrong, but dangerously unhealthy.
Over the years, PETA has tried to convince us that eating any animal is wrong. The majority of us realize that this group is just slightly off center.
Now their approach has taken a new twist. In some lame attempt to shape future generations, they are targeting our children. I would go on, describing this web site, but you should see it for yourself to realize the potential it has.
Therefore; I offer PETA this.
Your facts are gleaned from thousands of studies that disagree with your stance. Granted, the beauty of the I-net is that you are capable of providing only the opinions that support your particular cause. I respect every individuals right to their beliefs and opinions. However; I draw the line at any attempt to recruit children in some lame hope that they will convert to your ideals.
That said.
YO PETA, put your money where your mouth is.
You want to save the planet by saving everything that breathes? Think about this.
Science has proven several times that plants respond to speech and music. Does that not insinuate a form of sentience? So the next time you're chomping down on that handful of sunflower seeds try not to choke on the hypocritical fact that you have devoured a beautiful and planet improving species.
Do you have a lawn? Do you realize that a lawn is an unnatural and hard to sustain environment for grass. Actually a lawn is the horticultural equivalent of a caged chicken farm. Never mind the horror of that mower you run across it every couple of weeks. Oh yeah, what about the thousands of species that contributed to the fuel, gas or electric, that powers that death machine.
So, now you can't or won't eat meat. If you're being just, you can't eat plants either. What's left?
Water, that's what.
Wait a minute, every drop of water is filled with living organisms from several phyla, so I guess that is out of the question also.
Here is my challenge then. Either be fair and just, thus protecting all living things, or accept your place in the food chain & accept the fact that Human Beings are omnivores.
If you choose the latter, then I won't have to worry about your whining histrionics. Should you choose the former; well then your generation will come to a slow lingering end.
BTW the next time you want to swim with the "Sea Kittens", may it be a beautiful tiger kitty. Tiger shark that is; and then you will realize your place in the food chain.
AAHH, I had me fill and run me rant.
I will explain why this one is for John later folks. Suffice to sat another great soul has moved on.
Do the right thing tomorrow, no matter how hard it is.
Peace Ya'll.
Griff

What a great week.

2008-11-15T12:55:00.007-09:00

I normally do not take any pleasure in another persons mistakes. However that is not the case when it comes to meteorologists and their shamanistic predictions. Over at the Devils Club and the mighty KoKon there is drooling and howling about the beautiful moon lit nights we have been experiencing. I could not agree more with their attitude.
This time of year it is the hunters moon I love, nights when a flashlight is a comfort, but not needed. The wilderness is at its most seductive beauty on nights like that. I am drawn, entranced, into the blue night of the snow reflecting the moons robust fullness.
It is no wonder that I have often compared my beautiful bride to the moon. Her beauty is the same gentle light that not only illuminates, but smooths and beautifies everything around her. I am drawn to her side, seduced over and over again, by her beauty.
Oh, but I wander. My better half is far away and I miss her. She has been down to the West Coast spending time with two of the daughters and welcoming the latest addition to our clan. Yup, as of Nov. 12th, we have a new Grandson. Korben Gabriel is his name and he is as beautiful as his mother. That brings our total grandchild count up to 4 and another is due any day now. So lets see, 4 kids, 4,(soon 5), grand kids, and we haven't even hit the big 50 yet! Maybe my family needs more hobbies.
BTW today is AMERICA RECYCLES DAY, so get out there and do it! Besides providing a great service, Rick down at threshold provides employment for a bunch of challenged folks, that might otherwise be sitting around. Did you know that two Saturdays ago the Saint Mary's Saints basketball teams had their annual Kodiak Clean up day? It is an annual event that raises money for the boys and girls teams to go to the ACSSA tournament. So about 25 kids got sponsors and in 3 hours picked up 140 bags of trash and 4 bags of recyclables for a total of 2620 lb.s of refuse. Not bad huh? Man I love those kids.
It's not to late to show your appreciation for these hard working 6,7, & 8th graders. Contact Saint Mary's school if you want to donate to the basketball traveling fund. My many thanks to all the sponsors and parents that helped out this year.
Found a great new website, if your interested in Native American history check this one out.
Summing up: Great weather, Veterans Day caught up with me old buds, new grandson, one night and one day out in the woods with the girls(our dogs).
What a great week. I am grateful.
Do the right thing ya'll, and not just for yourself.
Peace.

Thank you

2008-11-11T18:01:00.003-09:00

After reading the latest entry from Ish at the mighty KoKon, I happened on this at You Tube.
Wonderful.
Peace

Famous Veterans speak.

2008-11-11T11:44:00.004-09:00

After reading an excellent piece over at T.K.P., I wanted to put some of my favorite quotes made by some famous Veterans. Some were republicans, some Democrats, and some whose only political affiliation was being American.
Here they are.
George Washington:
"Observe good faith and justice toward all nations.
Cultivate peace and harmony with all."
OR
"If we desire to avoid insult, we must be able to repel it; if we desire to secure peace, one of the most powerful instruments of our rising prosperity, it must be known, that we are at all times ready for War."
Patrick Henry:
"Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?
Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death!
John Paul Jones:
"An honorable Peace is and always was my first wish! I can take no delight in the effusion of human Blood; but, if this War should continue, I wish to have the most active part in it."
Theodore Roosevelt:
"A man who is good enough to shed his blood for his country is good enough to be given a square deal afterward."
Dwight d. Eisenhower:
Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket fired signifies, in the final sense, a theft from those who hunger and are not fed, those who are cold and not clothed. This world in arms is not spending money alone. It is spending the sweat of its laborers, the genius of its scientists, the hopes of its children. This is not a way of life at all in any true sense. Under the cloud of threatening war, it is humanity hanging from a cross of iron.
Douglas MacArthur:
"I have known war as few men now living know it. It's very destructiveness on both friend and foe has rendered it useless as a means of settling international disputes."
George Patton:
"Wars may be fought with weapons, but they are won by men. It is the spirit of men who follow and of the man who leads that gains the victory."
Colin Powell:
"War should be the politics of last resort. And when we go to war, we should have a purpose that our people understand and support."

There are a great many more great quotes out there. Read, Ask hard questions, and demand real answers.
Peace ya'll
G.

A Day of Thanks

2008-11-10T22:53:00.003-09:00

Tuesday, November 11th is Veterans day. It is also one of the few national holidays that has not been trivialized by morphing it into a 3 day weekend. It stands alone, as it should.
As a nation we have Memorial Day to honor those fallen in service to our country, in September we have Patriots day to remember those fallen on September 11, 2001. Both the victims of the attack and the public safety professionals & volunteers who gave their lives.
Veterans day is different folks, it is the chance we all have to give reverence and thanks to all who have served. This is your chance to thank a living individual who chose service above self. Take advantage of this!
Tomorrow, find a vet. Take the time to shake their hand and thank them. I am a veteran, but tomorrow I will take the time to find the vets that made my younger life safe and possible. I will thank them for that.
I am not talking about some long diatribe about why you are grateful.
Just shake their hand and say thank you. Believe me they will know what you are saying with a simple expression of thanks.
When tomorrow passes, remember that every time you stand for the national anthem, or pledge allegiance to our flag, you are fortifying the beliefs those vets chose to defend.
To defend our constitution against enemies both foreign and domestic, is the oath every one of those veterans took and lived.
'Nuff said. Take a moment tomorrow and be grateful.
Peace ya'll
Griff

Now you can double wrap your fish!

2008-11-02T16:41:00.002-09:00

Just kidding folks, there is a new paper 'round town and I love it.
The journalism class at our own KHS has started /revived the school paper. Hats off to the folks at the Mirror for printing it up. Sure this new paper probably is not going to put our beloved daily out of business, but in a one paper town any addition is welcome. Judging by the content and thickness of the Friday Mirror I think the interaction with youthful journalists might have revived some of that good old journalistic giddy-up we have needed.
The next edition of the Necessity is rumored to hit the street any day now. so give the kids a buck,(that's the going rate), and help support the newest endeavor of Ms. Heitman and her crew.
I listened to the debates thanks to our own KMXT, the other night. I think they were better than the nationals, maybe because I feel more affected by the local election than the national. Still, I need to ponder some more before I mark the block on Tuesday. These may be the toughest election decisions I have ever made. It makes me wish we could add "none of the above" as an actual choice. That we could get a Mulligan and maybe some candidates of substance would step forward.
Wanna have some fun? Monday night watch one of my favorite movies. It is called Wag the Dog, and is still so relevant today it is scary. If you do watch it make sure you read all the special info at the end.
Anyways folks, I really don't care if you agree with my choices or political views. Just get out there and vote! They have made it so accommodating this time, that I anticipate taxi service next time around. Oh, wait I think that was tried before and it ended badly for the candidate that provided the rides.
Do the right thing tomorrow folks, no matter how hard it may be.
Peace

I gotta quit drinkin'

2008-10-25T13:17:00.007-08:00

At the very least I need to stop drinking so much that I sleep through an entire season. That must be what happened, because what I had believed to be a weather anomaly last week, turned out to be winters onset. So using my amazing powers of deductive reasoning, I must conclude that I slept through autumn. Actually I must have Rumpelstiltskinned most of summer also. Global warming, my ass.
That said, I did in fact tip a few frosties last night. Val and the gang hosted a great fundraiser at the Rondy. They raised a fair amount for the injured Seth Freeman and band. For all of the crappy weather, insanely high fuel prices, and quirky politicians; you gotta love this place. I have lost track of the number of times our neighborhood has pulled together and thrown a fund raiser for some one fallen on hard times. I am blessed to live here.
Anyways, back to the party. The music was great. Mutinous and the crew kicked things off and then it evolved into a carousel style jam session. Various local artists would hop on stage and play with others, rotating and mixing it up.
I caught up with some old friends and made a few new ones. Only one downer the whole evening.
While I was sitting there planning our next duck hunt with a buddy, a couple of the younger patrons must have got confused about their location. In true Mecca style they threw each other on the floor and commenced to tussle. Then the rest of their buds had to crowd in to see if they were OK or offer words of encouragement.
Long story short, a couple of the local graybeards waded in with Val and drug the two bad boys out back. The music started back up and the refreshments flowed.
Here's a few tips for you youngun's when visiting at the Rondy.
1. Play Nice, folks in the Flats, (and most of Kodiak) have a live and let live
mentality.
2. Play nice, Flatters don't usually like violence, but are not afraid of using it
either.
3. Never start a fight with an old guy. If you win,(and that might be more
difficult than you realize) no one is impressed. If you do not win, well you
just got your ass kicked by an old guy. It's a lose -lose.
4. If all else fails and you completely lose your ability to react rationally
Return to the scene in a day or two, in the daytime, and apologize to the owner
and staff. Even if you did not start the fracas, it is the right thing to do.
So ends the sermon.
Tonite there is another fundraiser at my favorite hazard to navigation. Check out the poster at the mighty KoKon There is also an acoustic gig at the Rondy. So you might a s well start partying those winter blues away, after all Halloween is right around the corner.
Check out Devils Club his spin is a entertaining as usual.
Do the right thing today folks, no matter how hard it may be.
Peace Ya'll

What assembly is this????

2008-10-18T10:45:00.008-08:00

So there I was, in the garage, listening to the borough assembly meeting. A cold brewsky in one hand, and a handful of skepticism in the other.
Why the garage? The terrain of my compound makes reception a challenge, and I just didn't feel like sitting in the house listening to it on the 'puter, (I love the KMXT live streaming). Besides the kids gotta get his homework done. Oh yeah, if you do check out local radio on the web, click on the Donate button and help support the best media on the rock.
Is me or was that the shortest, most jovial borough assembly meeting in history? I actually had to double check the tuner to make sure I had not tuned into some other borough meeting. I felt like I was standing at the edge of a funeral party for the town bully. You know, where everyone stands around trying to say nice things about a person very few actually liked. I suppose it is never good to speak ill of the dead, or of the departed.
The high lights for me?
1. Apparently the ambulance Mel Stephens was chasing passed by the borough building, enabling him to drop by and put his 3 cents in. His gratitude for the departing assembly matters was tear jerking, (tears of mirth, that is). After all the pain you have suffered trying to hold the assembly accountable it is too bad your covert write-in campaign failed so miserably. I guess we'll have to listen to your comments from the floor for a while still.
2. The news that our community will be receiving a kickback from the 700 billion dollar bail-out. It could be as much as 400K for the next 3 years. Hopefully the assembly won't piss it away on studies and plans for the desperately needed borough administrative building. BTW, didn't I hear something about our school lunch program being short about 292K this year? Maybe they can trim some of the waste, as they are planning, and the assembly can now afford to fork over the rest. For that matter, why don't we invest some, and then give the rest to our school district?
3. Mr. Abell went out with some class and I really did like his suggestion that everyone should give public service a try. Thanks Tom, now move on and enjoy that lifetime of medical benefits you take as a parting gift.
4. Mr. Oswalt : that was the most eloquent & intelligent statement of your career and I will follow your lead.
With two legs of the triad removed, I am curious to see how the remainder will stand without their support. Its gonna be a fun winter, so pay attention folks. Ask hard questions, and demand real answers.
Peace
Griff

Election aftermath.

2008-10-11T17:31:00.004-08:00

Tuesday has passed and both props on the ballot didn't. Not a big surprise to this blogger.
Prop one would have shielded our local seat holders & seekers from public disclosure.
it seems the local neighborhood wants full disclosure from it's elected officials, and with all that is going on in the big ring, I was not surprised by the outcome.
I did read one thing in our local fishwrap that caught my attention. It was the comment from Betty Odell.
Her statement would lead the average citizen to believe, that out of respect, we should not expect disclosure from our local elected officials. Balderdash!
I, for one, do respect anyone bold enough to step up and represent our neighborhoods. Well Ms. Odell ; our nation was founded by a group of folks that did not "respect government". I think that our inherent ability to question government is what makes this nation what it is.
That said; the majority of our local elected officials are exempted from the requirement. I would recommend that Ms. Odell actually read the rules before she comments. I will never trade "respect" for carte blanche or accountability. The lawyers and doctors who cross the threshold that requires such disclosure are covered by client attorney privilege and HIPA. All they have to do is pursue the rights they and their clients are protected under. If Ms. Odell is not able to find the time to protect her interests, then perhaps she does not have the time to represent our community.
Prop 2 got voted down, not only because of the local economy. Granted it may have been a major factor, but that was not the only factor that turned voters away. In my opinion Prop 2 was a sirloin steak served with a side of horse manure. The 8.7 million tack-on for the addition of a borough facility and the destruction of the old did not belong on that proposition. Nice try though. If memory serves me, a short time ago the original pool vote involved water slides and other extravagant add-ons, we decide not necessary. The borough brought it back, in a more economical and practical presentation, and we voted it in. I am fairly certain that will be the case for our badly needed new high school. BTW Juneau is building a Shangri-La of a facility for a round 80 million.
As for the elections, well no real surprises there. Those that ran, for the most part, got voted in. I am glad to see that write in vote for borough assembly went to Dave Kaplan. Did anyone else notice the other three contenders? Yep, there was a Stephans. and a couple of Arndts in the mix. I am glad there was enough voter turn out to prevent that from happening.
Petal Ruch won a much deserved school board seat, and this voter believes she will bring a much needed new perspective to the board.
Lastly, HATS OFF to all who ran and doubly so to all who showed up to vote. The power of government truly rests in our hands.
Check out the KoKon, rumor has it the comments section is coming back, that and his spin on Uncle Ted vs. Hobo Jim is hilarious. The Kodiak Perspective is keeping us posted on his travels and is enlightening as usual.
As for me; I am off to the Rondy for a burger and a brew,(or two).
Do the right thing tomorrow ya'll, regardless of the effort.
Peace.

Tuesday is the day!

2008-10-06T20:51:00.005-08:00

That's all I got. Regardless of your opinion, just get out there and vote.
Peace Ya'll
Griff

Drinkin' Coffee and Stumblin' About

2008-10-05T09:03:00.005-08:00

So here I am sippin' some fine Java and stumblin' about the blogosphere. In my mourning quest to replace Art Vandelay I have started linking off my fellow bloggers and discoverin' some real winners.
Thanks to FlictheBic I have discovered Alaska Robotics, this a blog worth checkin', just make sure you click on the Sarah Palin bumper sticker.
Ish over at the KoKon has a excerpt from a great piece at the Rogue Wave. I sure do miss that ability to comment on Ish' stuff, although the latest entries seem tame when compared to the old, I figure he is still reeling from the after effects of his Palin/Vogue cover craziness. As a big believer the "in reap what you sow" approach to life, I wish the mighty Ishmael would shake it off and return to us with his usual wit, sarcasm, and candor.
Anyways, I reckon I should move on before I get to sloppily reminiscent. Point is I miss Art and Ish. So to all you readers & bloggers out there. Read, comment, ask hard questions. I truly believe the blogosphere could some day drive public opinion enough to help effect positive change in all our neighborhoods.
Do a good thing today ya'll; just not for yourself.
Peace

What would Sarah Palin do?

2008-10-04T10:48:00.005-08:00

Actually I don't care what she would do. I just wanted to see what effect that name in the title would have on my hit counter.
All funnin' aside, after reading the collection of letters in our local fishwrap I figure it is time to run my rant on the local elections.
There are several good arguments to the two main issues, and one one not so good. Apparently Tropical Storm Lorna swept through the Mirror again,(and I do hope all the editors are OK) waving her broom and spouting anti-immigrant propaganda. Fireweed has already skewered both the paper and the Arndt so I will only say this. If every PURE native Kodiakan met downtown and joined hands there would not be enough to cross the street. That said; I guess we are all immigrants or the children of, so get over it already Lorna. As for the "I walked 10 miles, uphill, both ways", mentality of your Alma Mater check out mine. I went to a school that covers 166 acres, and we did have classes on opposite ends of the farm, and I was never late, but often out of breath. It was great school called Essex Aggie and it had to add a new building, without stairs, so that those unfortunate students that were incapable of climbing stairs could attend class. Maybe Miss Lorna doesn't believe the physically challenged should attend public school, I don't know.
As upsetting as her entries are I must give credit where it is due. She is not afraid to put her name to her poison pen, and that's something.
Moving on.
Prop 1: The current state law does not really affect the majority of our local elected officials. They are exempt under current APOC rules and only have to fill out a very simple form, IE read, agree and sign, to achieve exemption. I am voting YES only because I do not want my name on the I-Net as a client of anyone who is not exempted and holds office. There are to many privacy issues wrapped up in state law for this blogger to be comfortable.
Prop 2:This is the hot one! I agree wholeheartedly that this community needs a new High School, for that matter we need a new middle school also. However, I must vote NO and here's why.
This proposition is poorly thought out and in typical borough fashion being rammed through at the last minute, mainly to avoid a special election later. I do not think that the $8,740,000 for the creation of a new administration building and the demolition of the old belong tacked onto this proposition. The need for a new school and a new borough building are completely separate issues and should be voted on accordingly. This is also exactly the wrong time to be asking the citizens to kick in more tax money. That extra $100.00 a month could push many families over the edge they are so precariously balanced on.
I heard the word "Conceptual" a lot at the last board meeting; so here's my concept. SELL LAND! let the borough sell twenty or so lots at 40K and the city finally give up some waterfront Near Island lots; say 5-10 at 80K and voila, new school money! Lets take it one step further. The city now donates 3 acres and we build a new high/middle school facility on Near Island. Build it with a communal cafeteria separating the two. Let the residents at the new senior center come for lunch and interact with the students , creating a kind of mentoring atmosphere that enriches both generations alike. Perhaps even institute and after school grandparent club for the students.
Old school complex gets converted into a borough/city administrative building also possibly housing the library & cop shop and the auditorium becomes a community arts center. The old borough building is converted into guest lodging for visiting students, artists, and dignitaries. How's that for conceptual?
So Yes on Prop 1 and NO on prop 2.
Vacancies I am allowed to vote on:
First, remember you can write in any candidate for any vacancy, they do not have to "declare" to be voted in.
Borough Assembly : Three seats open my vote is
Sue Jeffrey because she has proven to me that she actually listens to the neighborhood when she vote.
I am WRITING IN Rick Pillans and Dave Kaplan because they will bring new and positive view to the assembly.
School Board; two three year seats and one , one year seat.
My picks are:
Peggy Rauwolf- in her short tenure she has done well and earned a chance to continue on.
I am WRITING IN Petal Ruch and Jeryl Lampl, they both have a vested interest in our schools and our students.
Womans Bay service board, three open seats for three years.
My picks are:
Dave Heuman, as a member of the advisory council out here he has shown the clear thinking and fair-mindedness that I like in an elected official.
John Isadore, he is seeking a second term and after watching him work for the past three years, I would like to see him there for another three.
My third pick, that's a tough one.
I am WRITING IN a new resident out here. His name is Bert Ensley. He has shown an interest in the service board activities and what better way to learn the system than from the inside? He is a smart and practical person who would benefit our neighborhood.
It is not important if you agree with my votes. What is important is that you vote.
That's all folks. I have run my rant and bloodied my two typing fingers long enough.
Do the right thing ya'll; no matter how hard it might be.

Stepping up.

2008-09-27T10:47:00.008-08:00

It looks like the previously empty seat on the KIB school board has now made that contest the most interesting this election.
Jerel Lampl, Petal Ruch, and Jana Turvey have all thrown their hats in the ring. Way to step up folks! In all this political excitement I would remind the handful of visitors to this blog that there are not just three candidates for one seat, but using the true power of write-in capability there could be five seekers of three vacancies.
Let's have a debate! With all the controversy of the proposal for a new school on the ballot, lets hear what they have to say in a public forum!
My initial spin on the new candidates is this.
Petal is an excellent choice so far. Her interview showed some clear headed thinking about the new school issue and she has the interactive background,"where the rubber hits the road".
Jerel also shows some levelheadedness about the new school business, and I appreciate any one who realizes that public service is as important to your family as to your community.
Jana, ah Jana, you started off pretty good for this Kodiakan. I appreciate anyone who has grown up here and stayed to better our community. However, once I heard your spin on a new school and it ended with "regardless of the cost", you struck out with this voter. That spend now, worry later mentality is what helped this nation get into the economic pickle it is in. I cannot in good conscience vote for any candidate who shows even an inkling of financial recklessness or naivete.
So here are my picks so far; Peggy for one three year seat, Write in Petal for the other one, and write in Jerel for the one year and let him get his feet wet.
That's it folks probably not what some would think of, but then again sometimes you gotta step outta da box to see inside.
Last notes;
Ish' ramblings over at the mighty KoKon are great as usual. Although the pic of the bear pawed outhouse is actually in A-town. MY BAD, THE OUTHOUSE IN QUESTION IS ACTUALLY AT THE BUSKIN BEACH. THANKS TO THE INVESTIGATIVE SKILLS OF ISH, I STAND CORRECTED! I am still unable to leave comments at the most prestigious blog in the north. Whatup with that?
K.P. is off on a little trip and dagriff wishes him safe journey.
There is always good stuff a the gravel eaters
place so check that out also.
Lastly; I will leave ya'll with this to think on.
NO ONE has openly declared as a write-in hopeful for the, less than advertised, vacant seat on the borough assembly. That does not mean that there are not quiet little "among friends" campaigns taking place. Think about all the trouble makers and money seekers that have clogged up our assembly meetings over the past year. I would bet that there is an Arndt, Stevens, Oswalt, or even an Abell quietly gathering support. Think on that Kodiak and be scared, very scared.
Do a good thing today folks, just do it for somebody else.
Peace
G.

Shifting focus

2008-09-18T19:33:00.003-08:00

The media has turned the current presidential race into a real circus. They are scrambling to find any info or dirt they can on a VP hopeful from a place that the majority of the nation knows nothing about.
Let's shift focus folks.
Granted the prez's election is looming over our heads, but the real issue at hand is our own current election ballot. Perhaps we should take a break from the national circus and focus on the local and immediate business of our local ballot.
There are several seats left undeclared on the ballot. This means we must seriously consider write in potentials.
Reviewing the election pamphlet I came across a possible discrepancy. The pamphlet only listed two vacant seats on the borough assembly. I could be wrong, but I thought there were three open seats. Think about that before you head to the polls. Your write-ins could make a serious impact on our neighborhood.
There are numerous open spots on the ballot, talk to your neighbors, seek to find the person you think will have a positive impact on the various boards that have vacant seats.
I have had a small amount of time to talk to my neighbors this week, but I have come up with one write-in I would endorse.
I believe that adding Petal Ruch to the members of the school board would be a positive change in our community. she has long supported the arts in our schools, she has brought state and national recognition to our students who strive, under her tutelage. Thanks to her efforts Kodiak is becoming known for producing superior artists.
I will be writing Petal Ruch in as my choice for school board.
That said; who do you know that would be a positive addition to any of the seats currently available on the ballot?
If we do not seek and gain folks on our local boards and committees, we will not gain the representation we need.
Extrapolate that; if our local government truly represents the neighborhood, then at state level we will have the voice we need to enact change. Carry that further and, as a state, we will have a representative voice at the federal levels.
I might seem altruistic but, is this not the very foundation our nation was built upon?
That is my rant tonight, and I am spent.
Welcome back to the Kodiak Perspective!
Peace Ya'll
Griff

TODAY WE CELEBRATE

2008-09-13T11:44:00.004-08:00

I got back from from A-town last night. It was a short but interesting trip.
I read a bunch of local news and sat around listening to a lot of Palin chatter.
I get the feeling the she will not carry her home state this November. Just a hunch, but more on that later.
Today we will celebrate the life of a friend. At 400pm we will gather at Holiday beach & begin a Surfers wake for Dave Skimin. It will be a traditional paddle out ceremony beginning at 600pm. The exact same thing will take place at the same time on Sunset beach in Hawaii.
After the paddle out it will be a potluck/barbecue, music, stories, and the celebration of a life well lived.
This is a "weather irrelevant" get together; so suit up, grab your board, kayak, dingy, or just come on out and celebrate with us.
Peace ya'll
Griff

Patriots Day

2008-09-11T06:58:00.004-08:00

I do not have much to say on this day of remembrance. I believe we all remember exactly where we were when we heard the news in 2001.
Do we remember the promises we made ourselves and our children over the following days? Have we forgotten the desire to make our lives and the lives of our friends and families better and more meaningful? How about that immense wave of patriotism that swept the nation? Will you be flying your American Flag today?
This year is a major turning point for our nation, but today set aside all that petty BS of politics, avoid the spin of the corporate driven government; instead reflect and remember. Remember those we have lost, those who are now spread across the planet, fighting, teaching, and saving the world.
A lot of people have paid the ultimate price for our nation, and a lot more will do so in the future.
So today, put aside all else and just be an American and proud.
Peace to you all and god rest and keep the fallen.
Do the right thing today folks, but not for yourself.

Please check out the incredible photo essay by James Nachtwhey it is awesome

Less heroes in the world.

2008-09-06T17:01:00.009-08:00

Please follow the link off the title.
There are three less heroes in this world today, possibly four.
By now I am sure that our beloved island is well aware of the tragic loss of the Coast Guard helicopter crew in Hawaii.
As a former USCG flyer I am saddened by any loss in our community, but the sorrow is always ten fold when someone I know is involved.
My friend, Dave Skimin will not be returning to Kodiak anymore. Being stationed with Dave and working with him was always a pleasure. Playing with him after hours even more so. His love and zest for life's adventures, coupled with his amazing ability to accept life's hurdles was inspirational.
I will always remember the excitement and fervor in his voice as he described surfing our beaches, building a new board, or just the latest camping adventure. I will admit that when he opened the surf shop here I was skeptical, and I told him so. But, with his normal zeal and love of the sport he made it happen. I have always believed that he was one of the the driving forces that put Kodiak surfing on the map.
Working with Dave was fun, many nights ,as we tried to fix this or that, we would discuss anything from sports to politics. He was never reticent when voicing his opinion, yet always opened minded and considerate when listening to the other side.
Last night I sat in the garage, listening to the radio, and mourning the loss of a friend, I realized that there were many people worldwide doing the same thing.
I stood up and said a prayer, I asked for god rest and god bless for the crew lost, I prayed for strength and good fortune for the missing pilot. I also prayed for strength for those the heroes lest behind. Then I thanked God for bringing me home all those times before.
When my prayers were finished the song on the radio shifted to an old Byrds tune. I heard Turn, Turn, Turn drift across the garage. For those that do not know, that popular song is almost direct quotation of scripture. I am not a big believer in coincidence, but I do believe that everything happens for a reason, so did Dave, I heard him say it many times.
My thoughts and prayers to the families and friends of Andrew, David , and Joshua, they are heroes and so are you.
I could go on, but then again; I can't.
I have written this before, it bears repeating.
Treat every conversation as if it is the last time you will talk to that person; it may very well be.
This weekend I will be calling my old flyin' buddies and checking in, as will many other Coasties I am sure.
Next week, I am taking a six-pack and driving out to Pasagshak, just to watch the waves.
Good night Doc, Duane, Matt, Dave B., Robin, and Mr. Skimin. You are missed.
Peace ya'll
Griff
PS Check out the list of USCG aviators that did not come home.

SOMEBODY STOP ART VANDELAY!

2008-09-01T11:02:00.004-08:00

Breaking news over at Al-Anon. It seems Art has decided to leave the blogoshpere.
Check in and voice your support and wish him well.
I for one, will miss his wit and honesty.
Good luck and peace Art.
Griff

Remember why you are not working today.....

2008-09-01T10:02:00.005-08:00

Good morning ya'll,
Check out the link from the title, definitely worth a read.
Both the KoKon and Al-Anon have promised a day without "you know who". I hope that does not mean they will take the day off entirely, but if they do it's a fair trade off.
I have tried to celebrate every holiday on this blog by reminding myself ( and hopefully others) of the importance of that particular day.
Start with this:
Samuel Gompers on Labor Day
Labor Day differs in every essential way from the other holidays of the year in any country. All other holidays are in a more or less degree connected with conflicts and battles of man's prowess over man, of strife and discord for greed and power, of glories achieved by one nation over another. Labor Day...is devoted to no man, living or dead, to no sect, race, or nation.
Samuel Gompers, founder and longtime president of the American Federation of Labor.

Labor day is my day, it is your day, it is also a day to thank all the folks , who by doing their job, allow you to do your job. From the kids pumping out fast food, to the highway workers, rescue personnel, and law enforcement agencies that keep us relatively safe; I say Thank you!
So to you all, Happy Labor Day, enjoy it. Appreciate the bloodied noses of the unions that made it possible, appreciate your neighbors and coworkers who every single day make this nation the power that it is. And lastly, appreciate yourself, for what you do is just as important as the other person.
Peace,
Griff

Rungs in the ladder.

2008-08-30T09:04:00.006-08:00

Well, I used to say that nothing in politics surprises me. However;my surprise at the current entry into the circus is conflicted. I am not sure which is the greater upset for me, that Sarah was picked, or that she accepted.
I mean, I actually believed that she had our states best interest in heart when I voted for her. I understood she was ambitious and could be a tough as nails when needed, thats what I liked.
The blogs are alive with rosy and not so; spins on this turn of events. Terry over at Rogue Wave is definitely not happy. The Devils Club has an excellent post as does Fireweed at Arctic Brainfreeze. Art Vandelay has written volumes and I am not sure if he is caught up in the Palin glamor or not. I do know that Ish over at the KoKon is , but he always has been.
My spin is this. This is a time when our state needs strong, honest leadership. There is a lot coming down the pike and we Alaskans need a good leader at the wheel. We had that and now we are losing it. We are facing the very real possibility of needing to find a new governor and Lt. governor in the middle of a critical period for this state.
So now what? Do we sit back and hope they don't make the cut, then welcome them home with gratitude and fervor? I say NO! I don't give a rat's ass about all the good they will do for our state in their new positions. Sure, Sean could end up in a role where he could make a difference, but Sarah? Face it folks the VP has a lot less influence than a congressman or senator down in D.C.
The right thing to do was for Palin to put a check on her avaricious political ambitions, let Sean make a run at it, and look out for us. Whose gonna mind the store while these two wannabe's are on the campaign trail? The next few months of campaigning will absorb the majority of their time and leave little left over for the state they purported to love.
Face it folks, we were just rungs on Sarah's ladder to somewhere else. As for Sean, well I think your move , at the time made sense, but now you have been overshadowed by the Palinator.
Too bad, your new job would have had direct impact on the policies that affect out great state, not so much for your bosses. Maybe Sarah has already written your chances off and figures you can run things in her absence, maybe she doesn't care either way.
How about this? Sarah step down as governor now, and focus on the next achievement in your life. Let Sean step up and do his best. If you don't make it to VP then you can come home and wait for the next election round to regain your seat in Juneau. Or are you a "cake and eat it too" girl?
My feelings om Ms. Palin,s attitude are easily summed up by quoting the title of one of my favorite books,(by Douglas Adams), "So Long and Thanks For All the Fish".
I will post more later on our neighborhoods politics, but for now I am heading out into the sun and bake of this dirty, used feeling I am left with.
Do the right thing ya'll, even when it ain't easy.
Peace
Griff

Tourists

2008-08-24T08:58:00.007-08:00

Ok this is what the bears chillin' out in the Flats look like.
So now every time you get the urge to sprint out here and block the highway while you take pictures, or risk the lives of your families as they run back and forth across the road,(the speed limit is 55 BTW), just look at these and stay home!
Better yet, print these, and put them in your pocket. That way you can gaze in wonder at the magnificent beasts while you wait in line at the KFC/Taco Bell thing.
If you insist on driving out to watch the critters at least park in the parking areas and when your done mosey down the road and throw some of that town money around at Java Flats or the Rondy.
Sorry if I sound a little put off, but some of us actually live out here and have places to go and things to do. Sitting around while the person in front of you stops their car in the middle of the road to chat about the cute little omnivores, gets old after three or four times.
Oh yeah, theres a new Island blogger on the scene, check out Fireweed.
Drive sensible ya'll and think about the other person.
Peace
Griff

I started the day off in a good mood, but...........

2008-08-23T10:46:00.009-08:00

What the hell?
Do those literary geniuses at our local fishwrap ever proof read anything Lorna writes? I have never agreed with the Arndt matriarchs style of prose and she is certainly entitled to an opinion, but for a public forum to print her scything commentary every time she submits it is irresponsible; at best.
I can see it now. Tropical storm Lorna enters the senior editors office with her latest offering to the opinion section. She sets it down and, shaking her poison pen in the editors face , threatens to reveal one of the deep dark secrets she has if they don't print her latest tirade. The associate editors stand ,trembling in the corner, for fear of attracting her attention.
OK; probably not true, but what else could possibly explain the fact that everything she writes ends up in print? The editor of the Mirror screens a lot of good material out of the opinion section, so well in fact the majority of us have quit trying and now have blogs with which to rant.
Disagree? Think about this, our community and our country are in the middle of political changes, economic turmoil, and BTY we are at war. So what is the thought provoking poll in the latest edition? It concerns cosmetic surgery.
I challenge the mirror; if ya'll can't rub your collective brain cells together long enough to actually give off a creative spark and ask questions that matter, then add another choice to the poll. Let the answers include a face lift for the Kodiak Daily (oneway) Mirror.
Perhaps that answer scares you more than the disapproval of Mrs. Arndt.
For my handful of faithful readers, I would apologize for sounding pissed off, but I am.
Ish and Art V.; keep it up I love your stuff.
Ask hard questions, and expect real answers.
Peace ya'll
Griff

Where does the time go?

2008-08-17T08:36:00.005-08:00

This pic is for Art V.

15 days since my last post? That also means 15 days since I have visited the varied blogs I enjoy so much.
Yup, I was on the road again and I am happy to be back. As I traveled about our state I was amazed at two things. The amount of former Kodiakans I ran into and the number of mainlanders who had wonderful comments about our little isle.
Living here I should not be amazed at any positive commentary, it was just surprising to run into so many people who have been here. I am grateful for both the comments and the fact that they all didn't move over here.
I got to fly on what of the new micro planes that ERA purchased, and while I appreciate the nostalgic feeling that flying with my knees around my chin and looking over the pilots shoulder, for the price of the ticket a little leg room and a snack would have been nice. As for snacks; I flew over on the jet, in the afternoon, and all they offered was a water, orange juice, and a teeny bag containing about five micro-pretzels. What's up with that? I hope the three dollars they saved on that flight gives them a comfortable buffer zone to pad the millions they have made this season.
Good news is that after I got of the flight my bags were actually already on the turnstile. Although this was probably due to the extra time it takes for the copilot/flight attendant to help revive the several passengers who knocked themselves unconscious when they foolishly tried to stand upright, it was nice to have my luggage waiting on me for a change.
So next, after assuring my wife that my knee would eventually straighten out, we headed out the the Flats; Java Flats that is, for a great Cup o' Joe and the best Breakfast Burrito I have ever had.
Anyways, it is good to be home and catch up on whats been going on. The Kokon has been keeping on top of things and BTY Ish, Congrats on the 100,000 hits! Mr. Vandelay over at Al-Anon has been keeping busy and is still a pleasure to peruse.
I must catch up on all the intrigue and shenanigans that have taken place in my absence, but i did hear that there some new assembly candidates in the wings.
Feel free to quote me on this.
I WILL VOTE FOR ANY CANDIDATE THAT OPPOSES OSWALT OR ABELL.
Providing they are not a felon, pedophile, religious extremest, or related to the any member of the triad.
Do a good thing today folks;, but not for yourself.
Peace
Griff

What are you gonnna settle for?

2008-08-02T11:15:00.005-08:00

I love election years!
I would like to say all the current political intrigue surprises me, but it doesn't. Teflon Ted is under the spotlight, The Don is circling his wagons, Saucy Sarah is getting her first taste of public disapproval and the borough has settled with that miscreant trio of dissidents.
I might not like the idea of the borough settlement much, but it does make financial sense. By my calculations the total cost of this adventure has cost the tax payers over six figures. Best to end it now and save our money.
As for Ted, Don , and Sarah, I am holding my judgments for later. I urge all my fellow citizens to do the same.
Never forget that the majority of this country does not understand the causes and problems of our great state. There is also a certain amount resentment harbored towards a state that many see as abundant in resources, scenery, and capital funding wind falls. Couple that with a population that loves a good media blitz as much as the Romans loved the coliseum and there is bound to a lot of negative press.
What I am saying is this. Do not let media hype convince you of what is right or wrong. Listen to both sides, seek to find the middle, (where the truth usually hides), and draw your own conclusions.
I am not a huge fan of Ted or Don anymore. However, I am not convinced that they are guilty of any more than any one of their mud slinging colleagues are.
This year we must make some serious decisions at the polls. Are you going to vote your conscience, are you going to vote your party line, or are you going to vote the path of least resistance?
This year we must decide if all the good that the incumbents have brought to our state is outweighed by their controversial and possibly criminal behavior. Like it or not, their actions reflect on the ethics and moral image of all Alaskans. Face it if you run on a program of moral and ethical superiority then you will be held to the standards you tout. If not, well I think President Clinton showed us the other side of that coin.
Locally we will have the power to remove two of the money seeking dissidents from the assembly by not voting for them, but will you have the conviction to do so? Will it be easier to vote the status quo, or even not vote at all?
I mean if the the mail shows up, and the trash gets picked up then the majority of the populace seems to settle for who ever the rest of us vote in. Sad but true. It is Apathy, not terrorists, or the economy that is eating away the foundation of our great nation.
So I guess the question is this. When you step into the voting booth this fall, what are you gonna settle for?
I will end this rant with my favorite e-mail quote of the week
The real reason that we can't have the Ten Commandments in courthouse........
You cannot post "Thou Shalt Not Steal," "Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery" and "Thou Shall Not Lie" in a building full of lawyers, judges and politicians --
it creates a hostile work environment.
Peace
Griff

All things new

2008-07-26T11:11:00.005-08:00

I linked into a new Kodiak blogger thanks to Ish at the KoKon. Its called the Devils Club advocate and its worth a read over.
The advocates latest post discusses the the ways things used to be on our island, nostalgic and historic.
It got me to thinking about all the cool new things around here, lately.
Oh sure we all are waiting for the fiesta le grande when Dan's new joint opens, but how about Gwen's place?
Also there is a great new place out here in the Flats. It's called Java Flats and it is this ratters new fave. They open at 530 in the mourning, serve excellent coffee and homemade breakfast burritos, and bagels with hand blended/flavored cream cheese. They also offer an eclectic lunch menu filled with amazing salads combining fruit, nuts, and veggies. They also offer up some pretty tasty sandwiches, shakes, and smoothies to boot. Check them out, just past the mini AC and just before the Rondy.
We have a new boat in town which means more customers, more tenants, and more talent for our various groups in the community. We are also now an official Coast Guard City; not really sure what that means, but I do know there is only a few in the nation.
Lastly, did you see the Clarkster step up to the plate with his huge front page article? Excellent story Derek, keep up the good work.
So some change is good,maybe on that note we will see some positive changes on the assembly this fall; but I digress...........................

Nothing in Particular

2008-07-19T19:40:00.005-08:00

WOW! has it really been that long since my last post? I guess I am filled with summer time projects.
I have been researching the state web trying to get some facts on lawsuits against the borough, painful at best. FYI, you can't get anything more current than March at this time.
I am still waiting patiently for some citizen to lay that recall petition on the table. I don't think it's gonna happen. sure, I could do it, but would negate the main purpose behind my rants. I was hoping that someone on our beloved island would jump in and feel the power of participation. We all want to change the world; but it needs to start in the neighborhood. With the prez' elections looming in the future, how can we enable change if we cannot enact change in our own town?
Ah; enough of this obviously dead horse.
What has happened that has warmed my heart?
The local fish wrap
has highlighted troop 626 for building bridges. The local gathering last weekend pulling invasive weeds on Near island, Friday there was an actual sports piece on a local boy doin' it right! Steven Pillans is tearing up the tracks all around the state. I have had the pleasure of watching this young man race for several years. Stay strong Steven! You are showing this state that Kodiak has more to offer than most thought.
Lastly, get out tonite and help celebrate the anniversary of biggest hazard to navigation in Kodiak. McSkank and the crew will be ripping it out at Tony's. Personally this is my favorite local band and one of my favorite watering holes.
Me; I am going to spend some time teaching my granddaughter to fish over the next couple of weeks, so I'll check in when I can.
keep up the good work Ishmael, I love the KoKon.
Peace
Griff

Enjoy Independance Day

2008-07-04T11:18:00.002-08:00

There is much on my mind today.
Mostly though, I am grateful.
Thank you to those who serve, have served, and to those who have payed the ultimate price for us all.
Thank You Daytona Karl for this video.
Peace
Griff

Disillusioned

2008-06-24T19:27:00.005-08:00

I am back to our beloved isle. I took a business / fun trip to the A-town.
Once business was outta the way I manged to get the wife over and we enjoyed a great weekend. We spent the solstice at our good friends housewarming/barbecue and caught up with some old friends. I also got to meet some new folks that I hope to see again.
I was lucky enough to take my buddy's '78 R60 for a spin in the hills and enjoy some good ole riding time on the bike.
So now I am back. I had hoped that one disillusioned voter would start the recall petition while I was gone. I have not been able to locate one, so if anyone knows where it is at, please clue me in so that I might sign on.
I have had several comments, since my last post, on "throwing my hat in the ring". News flash folks; my hat has been in the ring for some time now. I do serve in an elected position and several other volunteer positions.
The point I have been trying to get across is this: community involvement. The government that serves us is only as good as we citizens expect. Sure, we can bitch & moan all we like. That is the beauty of our constitution. The downside is that the only change enacted is enacted by the voters.
Plain & simple; if we do not step up, then we get what we asked for. The question is this: are you willing to accept the actions of our government when it listens? If only a handful of voters speak up then the government will only listen to that handful. Do not be shy, we all have the right to speak. Unfortunately, the professional politicians, and gold diggers are using this option.
Sure, I could start that petition tomorrow; but so could anyone else. That's my point. Maybe today you will call in and voice your disappointment, desire, or outrage; maybe not. This I know, if the voters do not change the way they approach the issues, do not expect elected officials to act as if public desire matters, if you are not willing to speak up.
Please, let democracy rule once again.
I will not start this petition, perhaps I will step up to fill a seat, perhaps not.
Personally the time is not good for me. I would reconsider if if I thought that the neighborhood was willing to become an active part of the process.
When i cautioned the assembly to "reap what you sow', I realized that it is a double edged sword.
Not only do we reap, we also starve for lack of planting. There is a reason change is often begun in a "Grass roots" movement. The seeds of dissension are started in the neighborhood.
Perhaps I am currently disillusioned.
If anyone out there actually believes their voice, their vote does not matter than I would remind them of this.
In the 1700 hundreds a handful of neighborhoods overturned the strongest nation in the world. In doing so they set a precedent that has continued to change nations worldwide.
I have run my rant, and I am spent.
Peace
Griff

Local news catches up with the public.

2008-06-14T11:36:00.007-08:00

Believe it or not, our local news hounds have actually caught up with local opinion and starting addressing this island's swelling tide of ire.
Friday's fish wrap has not one, but two items concerning the great borough assembly debacle.
This weeks poll asks about the recall. Some , all, or none are the choices. There is currently a small lead in the "all" over the "some" bracket, but "none" is far behind.
Then there is a wonderful opinion article co-written by the three main powers at the Mirror. Basically it starts with a short, sparse history of what led us into this quagmire, and follows with some surprisingly honest thoughts on the matter. I love the challenge to "put your name on the ballot". Although I do not agree with the opinion, this may be one of the best pieces that has been printed for some time. There weren't any misspellings either!
After doing some research and making some calls I have some thoughts on a good way to clean this mess up. If you call 486-9310 you will talk to a very nice borough clerk and then she will e-mail you the recall paperwork and rules. Very informative stuff. Next you can go to the Borough web site and peruse the records. I chose to look for any worthwhile resolutions or ordinances that were introduced by one of the three dissenters. It was a lot of clicking and reading, but no real results. I did not come across anything introduced by one of the three that did not appear to benefit the triad in some way.. but please, look at it and judge for yourself.
So here's the deal. Oswalt,Abell, and Jeffrey cannot be recalled because there is less than 180 days left in their term. That means if we recall the entire assembly then those three will remain. Not enough to vote as the quorum would not exist. Not really an effective approach.
How about this folks?
Let the election this fall weed out the money seekers. If they have reached their magical ten year mark they will walk away with medical benefits for life, which was at least one of the the triads goal anyways.
Sure that irks me a little, but hell I help pay retirement checks to a few ex- presidents, senators, and congressman I don't much care for also.
So lets recall the last remaining member of the triad before she can do any more harm. I have no sympathy for the "I'm just the poor new girl who got misled" defense.
By recalling this assembly member we would also be sending a message to the remaining members. A clear message that we will not tolerate any elected official who takes punitive action against our neighborhoods democratic process. It will also send a similar message to any seat seekers who have any other goals other than honest public service.
In my conversations at the borough building I got some good news. Now when you call the assembly number it actually goes to six, count 'em, SIX lines. Lets burn 'em up at the next meeting. Rant and rave for your 2 minutes and tell the assembly what you really think about this. Maybe the triad will resign rather than take any more taunting from the public. Actually I kinda like that idea, sometimes falling on your own sword is the honorable thing to do.
Thats all I got for now. Tonight I'm gonna watch a little Monty Python. I will probably replay the little Frenchman saying "go away or I shall taunt you some more" a few times and laugh into a cold glass of my favorite local brew.
Peace
Griff

ARRGH!!!!

2008-06-09T07:44:00.008-08:00

I hope that the three readers of my rant will forgive my absence. After reading the headlines and checking in at the KoKon I felt it necessary to consult my lawyer prior to any further entries. I had reason to be cautious as apparently you can now be sued over a difference of opinion or worse yet, taunting.
"This will be remembered", was that not the quote from the dubious Reed Oswalt at the last meeting? I considered that a veiled threat, and it proved true. No matter what the outcome we voters can look forward to one thing. This fall Abell and Oswalt's seats will be on the ballot. Never,ever forget that.
Is anyone going to pursue the legality of the resolution that Jerome Selby vetoed? I mean if an assembly member can introduce, vote and bully through a resolution that pays borough funds directly to them, is that not the epitome of CONFLICT of INTEREST? That lame attempt at rewriting the definition of ethical is no different than me getting on the board and voting on a resolution that makes my house tax exempt.
In case one of the triad is reading this, I'll make it simple. It is OK to put a resolution on the table, even if it benefits you personally. It is NOT Ok to vote on any resolution ,ordinance, or amendment thereof, which directly benefits you personally or financially.
If the resolution cannot be voted on due to the fact that the assembly is split, it should go to a general public vote or die on the floor.
Heres a thought, and forgive me if it sounds redundant, but I have said it before.
RECALL the entire board. Let those still interested run again and we can vote this fall on the ones we deem worthy. Now this radical approach at cleaning the kitchen will only work right if two things happen.
We ,as a neighborhood must go down to the clerks office and start filling out the recall paperwork. Then we must follow up by listening to the seat seekers this fall and VOTING. That's right if you don't vote and someone slides on in with the apathy vote, then we get what we deserve.
Thats all I have for now. Today I will be at the borough building getting information and starting the paperwork to clean up the cesspool that our assembly has become.
If this lawsuit wins out and our entire community is punished for the hurt pride of a few dissident elected officials, then we should consider a few lawsuits of our own.
1. Copy write infringement for rewriting Roberts Rules of Parliamentary Procedure.
2. Pain & suffering for being forced to listen to the triads whining and drivel over
over the past several months.
3. Fraud, after all did not the three dissenters run for office under the pretense
of "for the good of the community"?
4. Lastly, damages caused as a direct result of non-consensual sex. After all, if we
have to pay these bullies, that is what is happening to our community.
This may seem far fetched, but really, this entire sideshow has been from the beginning.
Stay strong Chris,Pat,Sue, and Jerome, you are on the right path. While you walk that path, do us a favor. When you come across Jerrol sitting on that fence, either pull him onto the right path of knock him over to the other side where he belongs.
Peace
Griff

The people have spoken!

2008-05-22T06:22:00.003-08:00

This just in. According to our local newsfilter the borough citizens have a different opinion on the subject of paying off the triad, than the call-ins at the last assembly meeting led us to believe.
According to the latest poll, 75% of the voters do not want to pacify the whining trio with a pay off. 16.95% were in favor, and 8.05% had no opinion.
Apparently the on=line folks feel differently than the majority of the contractors, former assembly members, and career committee sitters, that called in. I cannot even fathom the logic of taxpayers telling elected officials to continue suing the borough. Maybe if they were out of work lawyers,(is there such a thing?), or hoping to create an open seat so that their chances of sliding back in increase, I could see it. Maybe the local rag can publish another poison pen letter from one of our neighborhood matriarchs and the ungrateful population of this island can get the scolding we deserve. Then , out of guilt, we would vote in a certain seat-addicted relative of hers at the next election for anything. I sometimes wonder if the inly reason they even publish those scathing letters is out of fear that they will bear the brunt of her next letter.
I realize that I might seem a little harsh, but ever since that particulars statement of "you should sue the borough" coupled with "the borough always loses" has been eating at me for a week. Following Scott's logic, the next time he runs for a seat on any board, and we all know he will, we should not vote for him. Not because of his beliefs, but simply because he also has a history of losing.
Just a thought.......
Enjoy Crab Fest folks it only comes once a year.
I have heard rumors on the KoKon of a new event next year, and it sounds like fun. Check it out. Then go to Tony's tonight and see what real writers do.
Peace,
Griff
Peace

Last weekend

2008-05-20T20:32:00.003-08:00

Isn't it great that spring has sprung? The weather was good and we got a lot done.
I was able to start the annual yard clean-up. The family spent Saturday prepping the St. Mary's booth for Crab Fest; along with several other volunteers.
Over the past week I noticed many volunteers doing the same for their respective booths.
Hat's off to all the volunteers taking the time to make this Crab Fest an event to remember! In a time when so many are just trying to get by, it is heartwarming to see how many folks realize that labor can offset monetary donations.
I did get a chance to swing by the Rookery for it's grand opening. Great place! Local art and an open, airy atmosphere really made it a nice experience. We were able to purchase a beautiful basket at a very reasonable price,; a gift for someone near and dear that is departing our island.
That said; Crab Fest tends to bring out the best in this community. Why not carry that desire to volunteer and get things done? Remember the feeling of accomplishment when you are done and seek to find it in a new endeavor. If we continue this desire to volunteer this community could resolve a lot of its problems.
Maybe if we carried the same desire to accomplish community activism as the four new Eagle Scouts did, honored on Sunday, we could fix many of our neighborhoods problems.
Just a thought.
Enjoy the weather, enjoy Crab Fest. If you want to experience Kodiak's finest poets, make sure you attend the event at Tony's Thurs. night.
Thats my rant, I am spent.
Peace ya'll
Griff

This will be remembered.

2008-05-15T21:19:00.004-08:00

I just got done listening to the arguments for and against the plaintiffs of the lawsuit debacle. Thanks to KMXT for the broadcast.
I was surprised by the lack of "citizens comments". The talk in the neighborhood was one of support for Mayor Selby's precedent setting decision to veto the resolution allowing us taxpayers to foot the bill for the triad. However; only three citizens called in or spoke on the mayors decision.
The discussion on the motion to override was amazing! Can someone please explain to me how we are able to ignore the "conflict of interest" issue can be overlooked? How are the three assembly members, who clearly will benefit financially from the outcome are allowed to vote on this decision? How can they even put forth a motion that benefits their personal bank account?
That said; a few of the members clearly stated their case for why their vote would go the way it did. I can understand why the alleged affronted parties feel so strongly that their decision should be payed for by the constituency. I do not agree with it, though. I understand why the opposing members feel the way they do, and I do agree with that. I do not understand the reasoning of one assembly members opinion that he did not agree with overriding the mayors veto, but just wanted to "put it behind them".
Wrong answer. If you felt that the mayors decision was valid, why would you choose to roll over? I do not elect my representatives to make easy decisions; hell I can do that all by myself. Assembly member Friend; whereas I commend your community service, you bare watching.
I really like the innuendo dropped by Oswalt and I do agree with it. "This will be remembered" came a cross as a veiled threat to this voter. I also agree with Oswalts's desire to be a simple man. Newsflash ; if you want things simple, then you should not have sought a seat. Stay a member of the herd and let others make your decisions.
As for memory; well next time the ballot is in front of me, and I see the names Stutes, Abell,, or Oswalt I will remember tonight.
As for the rest of the assembly and our Mayor, when your name appears on the ballot, this voter will remember your actions also.
That said; the only thing that made made sense in Mr. Oswalt's whining tonight was one statement.
Yes sir, this will be remembered.
Peace Y'all.
Griff

Standing up

2008-05-14T20:34:00.007-08:00

Just when I thought all was lost, two of our politicians have shown that we have hope.
My standing tenet of "doing the right thing, is not always the easy thing, but it is the always right thing", was exemplified by Mayor Jerome Selby and our governor Sarah Palin.
Mayor Selby vetoed the resolution passed by the assembly to payoff the three dissenters on the assembly. Hats off to you sir! You not only set a precedent for an elected official in your position, your act showed the public that there is still honor in politics. I listened to you interview on our local KMXT, I read the article in our Daily Mirror. This is good stuff. The triad is scared, veiled threats coupled with certain assembly members wishes to "put this behind us" are dangerously close to making us taxpayers foot the bill for their petulance.
I strongly urge the public to call in tomorrow night and voice their support of Mayor Selby's decision. By the way, why are three plaintiffs able to vote on the outcome of this decision anyway? Clearly the honorable thing to do is excuse yourself from the vote. Never mind that it is obviously meets the very definition of conflict of interest. What are you afraid of? The attorney general will prove this fact? Maybe you realize that the state supreme court will give you the legal spanking you deserve? Veiled threats of future litigation might worry some; but not this voter. If you choose to continue muddying the water, wasting time with frivolous lawsuits, and trying to browbeat the rest of the assembly into giving in, then be prepared to reap what you sow.
I urge the triad of plaintiffs to follow Selby's example and do the right thing. Save the constituency the time and tax dollars of recalling you. Resign, step down, walk away, and let this community move on to challenges we need to face.
Next:
Congratulations to the Palin family on the addition to their family. Governor Palin proved to this blogger, that she walks the talk. Knowing that Trig had a significant chance of being developmentally challenged, your family chose life. In a society where 92% of the couple faced with this choice, do not choose life, you stuck to your beliefs and proceeded to have this child.
Governor Palin, you have done a few things that I admire and respect. Your decision to keep this child and grace our planet with his presence, proves to me that you "walk the talk". It is refreshing, and heartwarming to see evidence that an elected official do not always spout rhetoric. Some actually have convictions and beliefs. I will not always agree with your gubernatorial decisions, but I will always know that you mean what you say.
God bless you and keep you as your family faces the challenges ahead.
Thats it; I have spun my spin. I go to bed tonight feeling better. There are leaders out there doing the right thing. Give them your support and your prayers.
Peace ya'll
Griff

Capitalism Shines

2008-05-10T09:55:00.004-08:00

After viewing the clip posted on KoKon about Peak Oil ,(and it is artfully done), I decided to look into this some more. I have heard the term before and have always believed that the oil problem we are facing now is a direct result of capitalism at its worst.
I do not argue that oil is probably a finite resource, given the nature of consumption versus the rate at which our planet makes it. However; the rate of distribution by the oil companies and cartels is the driving force behind our current situation.
In my research I came across several good reads on the subject. Two really stood out, for they are polar in their theories.
The first one I read was Life After the Oil Crash is full of doomsday prophesies. However; they make sense. Given the numbers and science used throughout this article it is very believable, and a little unsettling. If you read it, click on the highlights and check out the sources.
The next gem I came across was The Myth of Peak Oil. Interesting stuff. These guys make a very believable argument for corporate and government conspiracies being the crux of the problem. Again, check out the links in the text. This article is also full of facts and science so it too is believable and a little unsettling.
Also, compare the type of things advertised on both these sites. That might give you an idea of which side of the road they walk.
Me personally, well I fall somewhere in between. As I stated earlier I do not doubt that we are consuming oil faster than the planet can replace it. However; it is the greed of a few that is causing the current situations. Face it; the majority of the major oil producing countries do not like the American Government. Whether it is an ideological disagreement, an environmental view, or an outright mistrust of a super power is irrelevant. The end result is the same.
Giving up the majority of our industrial production coupled with letting the agricultural legacy that built this country dwindle, has remade our economy into one that is overly dependent on foreign resources.
Basically if you insert parts of your anatomy into a vice, eventually someone will start cranking the handle.
That said; right now,right here; capitalism is shining. It is not the shine given from the aura of a saintly halo. It is not the shine that comes off the smiles of people when the good things happen. Rather it is the same shine that glared on the sweaty backs of thousands of workers that built railroads to expedite the growth of the land barons that generated the basis of all wealth in this country. It is the same shine that glistened on the brows of thousands of children working in the textile industry, the mining industry, and the factories that built the rest of our countries financial giants.
So next time, as you sit by the shiny chrome covered pumps at the local Quicky-Mart, and you are weighing whether to buy ice cream for the kiddies, or put gas in the car, try this.
Do not blame, war, Muslims, Venezuelans,or any other group of people. Their citizens are poorer, hungrier, and more destitute than our majority. Put the blame where it belongs. On greedy, uncaring, corporations and cartels. Then wag your finger, like a scolding parent, and give out a big SHAME ON YOU, to the governments that suck-up to these companies and have allowed this to happen.
Read, ask hard questions, and hold your elected officials accountable.
Lastly; do a good thing tomorrow, and not for yourself.
Peace
Griff

Whatta YOU gonna DO?

2008-05-09T11:50:00.007-08:00

I've been hearing some interesting rumors. It seems a certain assembly member is quietly urging some folks to start a call-in campaign.
I LOVE IT!!!!
If you are unhappy with the assembly's decision to "put this behind us" or "take the easiest solution, by paying the attorney fees for Abell, Oswalt, and Stutes; then act.
If you agree with the fact that this was nothing short of extortion, then act!
Next Thursday night at 730pm the borough assembly will meet and broadcast. I strongly urge every citizen to set aside time for this one. Go to the meeting or stand by the phone, but be ready to act. When the time for public comments comes up step up to the microphone or start dialing. Jam up that pathetic one line communication hurdle with protest! Demand for the assembly to set yet another precedent and rescind last meetings lame decision to pay off the three dissenters.
It just might work. Near Island, the Post Office, and Island Lake have all proved that if the citizens stand up and fight for what they want, then the responsible members and even the pension seeking, time wasters, will listen and act accordingly.
Wanna have some fun? If you go to the meeting, wear a black armband and start your comment with "shame on you".
There are other options. We could get an assembly member to make a motion that allows the borough to make small incremental payments. Say;5 dollars a year, that if not collected within 5 days of the new fiscal year, is forfeit. Or better yet, it will be presented at the first assembly meeting of the fiscal year. That way we will be reminded of their treachery.
Another option would be a small scale tax revolt. How about nobody pays their dumpster fees until the assembly rescinds the decision to pay off the triad?
At a time when the school board is looking at major budget cuts and the average citizen cringes at the gas pump, fourteen thousand dollars of our money should not be squandered to placate a bunch of cry-babies; simply because it is the easiest thing to do.
Enough about my thoughts.
Check out this Rogue Wave. Although he is on another assembly, his voice is well known in the "letters" section of the Mirror, and now he jumps head first into blogdom.

Unbelievable

2008-05-03T19:51:00.003-08:00

I had the pleasure of being in A-town in time to catch the last chance our Aces had in the play offs. Sadly it did not not end well for them. They played their best against the Wranglers, from Nevada, but this aggressive and physical team overcame the Aces finesse. Even though we lost, it was great game. The Aces played hard and fast, and we all left the arena knowing they did their best. I look forward to next season.
Mean while back home, it seems the borough's unholy triad secured victory. Apparently we taxpayers will be footing the bill for their attorneys after all.
I listened that night to the arguments. It seemed, at first, that the assembly was on the right track. Tom Abell tried to get one, then another resolution passed. The first was proven unnecessary and voted down. However; the second was passed.
What does this mean? There were veiled threats of future lawsuits, there was the unavoidable whining of assembly members to " put this behind us', to take the easiest way out.
Shame.
Shame on an elected group of officials that seek to sue the very body they represent over a difference of opinion. Shame on the assembly members who seek to put a band-aid on a cancer.
We cannot undo the precedent that this assembly just set; this time. However; I will never check a block on any ballot that is next to the names of Abell, Stutes, or Oswalt, again.
As for the rest of the assembly; well those that sought the easier path, at our expense, you bare watching. As for the two that did not vote to "fix this", hat's off.
Assembly members that serve ten years are given certain benefits for the rest of their lives. Those benefits are more than the average Kodiakan could ever expect from their employment. If you doubt that. look at the health care insurance they walk away with.
Let's try this, next election vote for anyone but these three. If they have managed to squeak out their tenure; fine, but cut them loose before they can do any more harm. If not, then cut them loose before they find another way for us taxpayers to pay for their petty squabbles and indulgences.
I guess what I am trying to say is nothing more than to repeat an old political slogan.
THROW THE BUMS OUT!
Peace ya'll.
Do the right thing tomorrow; no matter how difficult it may seem.
Griff

Erasing footprints

2008-04-26T10:29:00.003-08:00

It might not seem it today, but spring is upon us. Eventually all will be green. I suppose that is what has made me notice other subtle and progressive changes on our little island.
The emerald isle is becoming greener!
There is now a recycling drop-off point in the Flats, and I highly encourage my fellow ratters to use it. Just remember that the majority of the folks working for Threshold are already facing big enough challenges in life, so please don't add your trash to their efforts. Rinse, sort, and be nice, that's somebodies kid down there sorting your stuff after all.
Congrats to Rick Pillans and the crew for pursuing and receiving the grant& financing for the new facility. I can't think of a more deserving group. The more I think about that enterprise, and after talking with Rick about the future, the more I am awed. These folks are making our island a better place every day. The enterprise decreases the use of our inundated landfill and, not only provides employment for folks who might otherwise have difficulty getting a job, they give them a job with a mission. How many of us can say our job improves the planet every day? Pretty cool stuff.
Lets hear it for Boy Scout Troop 626!!
They went camping on Long Island and performed a massive beach clean-up. The 14 scouts and 11 adults that went collected over 2200 lbs. of trash off the beach in two days. When I was Scout I was taught that "leave no trace " was the most important part of camping. This troop exceeded that by far.
When talking with some of the scout leaders I learned that they were surprised by the amount of trash from other countries washed up on our shores. Just proves that pollution has no boundaries and should be a planetary concern.
In my past I have visited the Pelican recovery center in Florida and I have seen first hand the damage done by the irresponsible disposal of plastics in our oceans. Crippled and maimed birds whose only fault was doing what nature designed them to do. If you doubt that think about a certain gut truck and a flock of eagles not to long ago.
I have been to Midway and walked the plastic covered beaches there. I have walked with biologists and wept inside, as they showed me the dying young Albatrosses, the ones who would never fly, because they were starving. They were starving because a disposable lighter looks like the fish they normally eat. So; full of plastic instead of fish, they will slowly starve as their system shuts down. Until that day I had no idea how many disposable lighters were floating around the world. The dozens of young Albatross carcasses scattered on the sand opened my eyes and broke my heart.
This rant is getting long, so I will sum up.
Scout troop 626 and Threshold Recycling have raised the bar. Next time you go hiking, camping, walking, fishing, or whatever. Don't just bring your trash back, bring any other trash you find. Cut your fishing line, destroy your disposable lighters, take the extra time to rinse and recycle.
"Leave No Trace" is no longer enough folks. We must follow the example a group of Boy Scouts just set. We must begin erasing the footprints our ignorant past habits have left behind.
Do a good thing tomorrow ya'll, it ain't that hard.
Peace
Griff

Spring Fever

2008-04-11T21:09:00.003-08:00

Spring is here!
As I look out & enjoy the sunshine I am reminded of "cabin fever" and it's aftermath.
Vandalism and violence tend to peak this time of year. Perhaps it it just our citizens acting out as the weight of winter slowly gives way to the promise of better weather and good times. We are caught between the drudgery of winter and the promise of spring. The sun shines but the breeze is still cold. School is nearly out, but not quite. The energy stored all winter seeks to pour forth, yet is frustrated by the environmental reality of our island.
It is release we seek, but patience has worn thin. Big deep breath folks; it will come. Longer days are now coupled with weather that is not entirely conducive to our goals.
I look at my gardens and lawn, frustrated by the fact the the temps are there if I want start spring planting, but are stymied by the reality of the 2 feet of snow that still exist.
It will come. Spring/summer will bud. I have songbirds flitting about, fresh bear tracks, and semi-white hares in the backyard.
My question is this. Will we forget the issues that plague our community and our state just because we have crossed the half-way mark for daylight?
My challenge would be this.
Regardless of the long days, the fish running, the ability to get off work and play; do not table the issues. Our island has a propensity for putting things on hold during the summer. We should curtail this. If we keep putting things off until winter then progress will be slow.
I guess what I am trying to spin here is this. The good times are coming; but if we forget the trials and tribulations of the winter, then we will repeat them next year.
Just a thought. I have spun my spin, and I am spent.
Lastly: the next conversation you have with a friend; act as if it is the last time you will talk to them. It might well be.
Peace
Griff

Just when you think it's over........

2008-04-11T06:42:00.004-08:00

Yup, I'm back. I had to to a little break and take care of other stuff. Sadly, (for me), the blog moves to the back of the heap during the busy times.
Anyways, I am glad to see that the borough assembly hasn't been to boring in my absence.
What's this? It smells of democracy in action and it does seem like the assembly is learning as they go. The voices in Chiniak were heard and heeded. Imagine that, the will of the community outweighed the desires of one. Although I did hear a couple of waffling hints of the traditional "lets table this for further discussion at the next meeting" the assembly made their decision. Good Job!
By the way, it is irrelevant if everyone agrees with this decision, majority rule prevailed. If the assembly keeps this up we might actually start moving forward again.
There is a new lawsuit on the table, only this time it is the other four members. Funny the only three dissenters voicing shock and outrage are the three not named as plaintiffs on this one. Yup, it's the three that threw their hat in with Mr. Stephens and then cried foul when we would not pay for the lawyer fees they are incurring.
I am going to look into this one some more before I comment any further.
One last comment for the Stephens gang : Reap what you sow.
Do a good thing tomorrow, ya'll.
Peace
griff

Reflecting on last weekend.

2008-03-27T19:52:00.002-08:00

Last weekend was phenomenal, at least for me. I attended the tail end of Kodiak Out Loud and greatly enjoyed the what I heard. Jon Campbell's renditions were humorous and poignant. Dave Densmore read a piece that truly struck a tone with the loss any one of us has felt. I was also was able to catch our own Toby Sullivan's reading. His ability to describe an event that leads to further events is captivating and reflective of our fishing community.
Later I proceeded down to Tony's to catch the "after show". That to was great. I caught a set from our local McSkank band, (those guys are rockin'), and caught up with several folks I have not seen for far to long.
Joanna Fynn Reichhold, a poet/singer from Cordova, blew me away. Her voice and rhythm reminded me of the old Irish chanties I grew up with. Moe Bowstern's poetry was full of life and vinegar. Erin Fristad's poetry was meaningful and also rang true of the emotions in a fishing community. I loved her introduction of "I don't write happy poems". Pat Dixon's poetry was also a blessing to hear and remember.
The next day I was able to catch the end of the writers seminar that was hosted at the new refuge center. The openness of the writers and the chance to talk with them almost overcame my experience the night before. I bought some CD's and have enjoyed listening to their works ever since. In talking with these folks I was refreshed by their awe and appreciation of this island. I hope they will come again to share their talents with us.
In short: hats off to Toby Sullivan and the sponsors that made this happen. I would also reiterate one of the comments on the KoKon blog. Do not forget the "out loud" that Toby has organized every Crab Fest. It is always entertaining and sometimes thought provoking.
Later that evening I met an interesting individual, (imagine that), at Tony's. I was introduced to Ray Metcalfe. This man has a purpose, and it mostly involves holding our elected officials accountable for their actions. although I agree with his goal, I must ask one thing. To what purpose? The man who would be king, must first unseat the king.
Good luck Mr. Metcalfe you have a tough row to hoe. If you are able to bring the CBC to their knees will you be able to bring your ideals to office? I would like to think that you can do what you say, but as we both agreed that night; we must follow the dollar.
I will continue to do so. I hope you do the same.
Overall, it was a great weekend and this weekend is also full of entertainment. there is a KMXT show at the Golden Anchor, a kickin' band at the Rendezvous, and Othello is playing at the high school. So get out and enjoy!
Lastly; do a good thing this weekend, but not for yourself.
Peace
Griff

A NEW WORLD RECORD !!

2008-03-23T13:21:00.002-08:00

It is Done! It is done!
My best friend and cancer survivor has escorted his daughter, ( and one of the brightest spots in my life), around the planet on an epic journey. Victoria White is now the youngest person to ever ski all seven continents and she did it in under a year.
Check out this amazing story at their web site and be sure to check the link to their blog. It is an amazing story.
Oh yeah,
HAPPY EASTER
Griff

The great Kodiak debate?

2008-03-23T09:10:00.006-08:00

I just got done reading Ish' reviews on the KoKon blogspot.
Interesting stuff and sadly predictable. Somewhere near the end I actually tripped into the Charlie Brown's teacher flashback that fills all of our heads with white noise once in a while.
In short, Gabbie did well, Berkowitz & Metcalfe are very confident, even though I do not believe any Democrat can solve our problem. Just because they are in the same club as the current majority does not mean they will sway an established group of cronies that seems determined to steal the resources that provide our independence & livelihood . Never forget that it was a Dem in the oval office when IFQ's were forced down our throats. Not only that, it was a Dem from Arkansas, the same state that the corporate fishery raider Tyson is from.(check and see how much of their fleet got IFQ's).
Don Young sounded as I expected. I give him credit for not actually saying " I am The Don for crying out loud", but I sure could hear it in his voice. Face it Don, it's time to move on, before you are asked to.
The vocal sparring between Gabbie and Don was actually that. Sparring, where every one gets some exercise and no one actually gets hurt. Only in politics can you witness two people disagree, discuss it, and walkaway having actually said nothing and still feel like they won.
I want to thank Diane Benson for professing her love for our state so well. I also love this state, but I am not sure it is a strong enough pogrom to base a campaign on. you scared The Don a little last election so I know they are not taking you lightly. Good luck to you Ms. Benson and I hope Donny's boys don't play too rough.
As for the absent LT. Guv Parnell; don't give up the day job. Snubbing a fishing community at the beginning of your run could be your undoing. Perhaps some mainlander's can't grasp how much of our economy is based on this resource. I recommend you sit back and wait for the newest Palin to come. Then blaze forth in Ms. Palin's absence and show us your skills. There will always be another election to try again.
To sum it up,
The debate was as boring as the assembly meeting held the same day. Once again, an assembly member showed their lack of knowledge about a process, that; by now the entire assembly should be thoroughly familiar with. My advice to that individual would be to save embarrassing questions for work sessions and not closing remarks on public radio. Speaking of embarrassing. Where were the other two members of the lawsuit gang? That's at least two in a row now. Maybe you think that if you are on the same side as a certain, pain -in -the butt, no positive contributions, I just want my seat back, lawyer we know; you can't get ousted.
Remember, there is no honor among thieves.
Anyway, I have spun my spin, and I am spent.
Next entry will be about a group of visiting poets I met and a future king.
Do a good thing tomorrow, but not for yourself.
Peace
Griff

Happy St. Patricks day!

2008-03-16T18:36:00.000-08:00

Wow! Where have I been, what the hell have I've been doing?
Does it matter?
The assembly has been so quiet, and I must admit that they have been fuel for my fire lately. Enough!
It is St. Patrick's day and time for celebration. I am going to celebrate the day of a great man. For those who do not know; here here are some facts.
Synopsis:
St. Patrick was not Irish. He was a captured Brit slave who escaped and returned to his homeland. While he was a slave of an Irish lord he spent the majority of his youth in solitude watching over the flocks of his master. In this solitude he found strength in his belief of Jesus and the Christendom. Later; after he returned to England and became ordained, he chose to return to the land he believed needed the word of salvation.
St. Patrick became one of the greatest evangelists in history. The majority of all Christian sects will agree that he was an amazing individual who overcame a century of violence and sadness.. He was able to combine the pagan beliefs of a nation with the beliefs of the fastest growing religion in the world. In doing this he enabled an entire people to grow strong in their conviction.
In doing this he took a nation that was lost. A nation that had been oppressed and had become the storm troopers of an empire. He gave them belief in the greater good. He took the genetic melancholy and violence of a people and unified them in the belief that God is good and we will suffer no more than we can bear.
That said; I give you this.
Enjoy tomorrow; I know I will. While you celebrate the day remember.
1. St. Patrick is a saint.
2. When the dark ages arrived it was Irish monks who recorded all the scientific and medical records, thus saving civilization.
3. The Irish were the shock troops the Brit's sent in first. Including the settling of our great nation.
4. Irish music is the foundation of all our country music. It also is the driving influence in our folk music and Canada's.
5. Only in America does this day result in drunken excess. In the rest of the world it is a day of somber gratitude for a man that saved a nation.
Doubt my Irish pride?
Read history. Do you feel oppressed? Do you feel the world owes you something because of the injustice served to your ancestors?
Get over it.
Put the wrongs of the past behind you and strive to prevent the real problems that face our nation. Ask hard questions, don't lay down and accept what the world serves you.
We cannot undo past wrongs. We can only choose to make sure they are not repeated.
More than one nation has shaped the world. Find strength in what your predecessors have done and build on it.
Woosh; I am spent. Tomorrow night I will have a pint and be glad to be here. I will listen to music full of sorrow and triumph. I will tell my son at least one story of triumph. Let him realize, that as we are surrounded by all the groups that claim foul and seek recompense, he has descended from a nation that persevered.
God bless the Irish and all who have an Irish heart.
Happy St Patrick's day!
Peace
Griff

Ya gotta have faith.

2008-03-09T15:10:00.000-08:00

I have been reading again. There is so much in the media about the latest scandals that I am, at times, overwhelmed.
I will choose the latest headline grabber, our own local Russian Orthodox church.
Ok, there are problems in the church. Big surprise! Almost every religious organization in the U.S. has come under scrutiny for these same accusations.
Get over it. If you are seeking self gratification because a religious leader and his following are under media scrutiny, then I would lump you in with all the millions that slow down for car wrecks and follow media accounts of athletic icons falling from grace.
Face it; people are people. It does not matter where they work. Regardless of their fame or prestigiousness, some folks will make mistakes. Perhaps mistakes is an understatement, given the nature of some situations. However, it is in our very nature to make mistakes. We also have a unique ability to forgive.
The media will always focus on the negative. So long as it grabs the average person by their self righteous antennae, it will continue to so so.
Truth; every religious organization has fallen under this spotlight at one time or another. It is the individuals that must be judged, not the group.
If you do not believe this, think about it.
Muslims, true followers, do not blow people up. Mormons, do not advocate the forced marriage of teenage girls. The Southern Baptists do not condone the actions of a few of their misguided libidinous leaders. Catholics, school teachers, and The Boy Scouts of America do not recruit pedophiles and lecherous members. The sad fact is that certain predators are drawn towards vocations that give them access to victims.
I am not saying this is the case for the Orthodox church, I am saying that bad things happen and we must be ready for the outfall.
The very desires that drew us into the various beliefs we have has one basic tenet.
Faith, and belief in God.
Draw on that now, whether your organization is under the current spotlight, or you are a watcher on the sideline, is irrelevant.
My prayers go out to all the faithful, regardless of their religious following. Let man judge the actions of a few. God will decide in the long run.
For many years my beloved bride wondered where I drew my strength and conviction. At times it has made those close to me feel that they let me down when they chose the easy solutions, rather than the difficult. I finally came to the realization that it was never my strength that carried me through. It was my faith. God's strength; not mine, gave me perseverance. When I shared that with them, a family wide epiphany ensued. You are allowed to make mistakes, we were not meant to be perfect, we only strive towards perfection. However; that must be countered with understanding and forgiveness.
So let the media run with it's latest blood on the road stories. Draw strength in what you believe and persevere. After all, regardless of the outcome, we all answer to the same power in the end.
Maybe this will be the death nail to my little blog, maybe not.
The truth will set you free................
Peace
Griff