(Please keep in mind that a whacko theory is just that: a fantastic theory pertaining to world events, with nothing to back it up, not even one's conceptions through imagination!)
The mounting concern over the burgeoning population of youth worldwide has been met within the globalization movement as a challenge to meet the demand for job creation.
In the Social-X series, the item "SC: Globalization" (1/20/11) details what I take to be the thrust of globalization in world governance, namely, the identification of dominant nations within some region of the globe, whose primary responsibility is to work with the countries in the area to maintain a stable environment.
Now, the dominant nations having been identified, it yet remains for each to assert its leading role in a region. I take it, China's insistence on having an insinuating role in the affairs of certain islands in the Pacific is no different than its role in observing the everyday affairs in Hongkong: it does not meddle in what goes on there, nor will it "go away." Also, because of its leadership position in Asia, it has extended warm friendship to S. Korea; and relations between them are very good. At least, if there were regional dominant nations and China were one of them, it might so act.
-------------------------------
This theory is ridiculous!
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
--I'm starting up a new item in the Didactics series "Follow ups." It will relate a particular item in these blogs to some event--expected or reported.
--Working out Whacko theory #10 on the globalization topic. I first learned of the globalization project as a member of Rotary in Glen Ellyn, Illinois in the early 1980s. Thought I'd take a course on the subject when I was living in L.A. only to discover that the material it was to cover was something I was well familiar with already! The project has literally "taken off" and is today heralding major changes around the globe.
--Happy holidays! Gee whiz, Las Vegas is sure famous, I'm discovering.
--Working out Whacko theory #10 on the globalization topic. I first learned of the globalization project as a member of Rotary in Glen Ellyn, Illinois in the early 1980s. Thought I'd take a course on the subject when I was living in L.A. only to discover that the material it was to cover was something I was well familiar with already! The project has literally "taken off" and is today heralding major changes around the globe.
--Happy holidays! Gee whiz, Las Vegas is sure famous, I'm discovering.
Friday, November 22, 2013
The Real Reason for US to stay in Afghanistan
Undoubtedly, the President of Afghanistan would like his country to be totally on its own. That way, he could negotiate the development of Afghanistan's natural resources to the highest bidder! But the US has over 10 years of investment in that country and has sacrificed its country's blood to establish a vital nation with a central government in place and a social structure that is meeting citizenry's needs to a greater extent each day. The US ought to have privileged status in reaping the benefits that are bound to accrue to that country--a land rich in natural resources,including its population. For, we've joined hands in a unified effort.
I recall years ago as Russia was pulling out from Afghanistan, I had several discussions with my Russian friends (who were in Russia), pleading the case that Russia should stay there. I feared a disintegration of the governmental structure, not to say the return to a pre-dawn civilization, that the land would undergo. Whatever the reason, Russia was hell-bent to get out--too many helicopters lost?
Anyway, I'm hopeful, as is former President Bush, that the relationship between Afghanistan and the US will flourish in coming years.
I recall years ago as Russia was pulling out from Afghanistan, I had several discussions with my Russian friends (who were in Russia), pleading the case that Russia should stay there. I feared a disintegration of the governmental structure, not to say the return to a pre-dawn civilization, that the land would undergo. Whatever the reason, Russia was hell-bent to get out--too many helicopters lost?
Anyway, I'm hopeful, as is former President Bush, that the relationship between Afghanistan and the US will flourish in coming years.
Sunday, November 10, 2013
IX: A Theoretical Version of Obamacare
I studied Obamacare when it was first proposed. Here's a preposterous, yet I think proper, theoretical version of it. I'm including this discussion in my Social-X series, Social Uplift topic "Entitlements" as a justification for government control of any universal health care project, such as Obamacare. Basically, the justification is that it's just too comprehensive and complicated for business or the health care industry to administer on its own. No one agency or corporation could gather all the data and interpret the results yielded from analyzing the data on its own. Over time, the cost would be prohibitive; the findings too limited and restricted.
What this theory proposes is to find the methods, procedures, medicines, even body structures that enable long life. No system to date anywhere in the world has been constructed to include a morass of data pertinent to these proposed inclusive variables. With the help of the most advanced, super computers in the world, the system will keep records on the results of using each and every drug, administered or recommended by each and every medical personnel, at each and every hospital, to each and every person; and each and every treatment and procedure performed by medical agents upon each and every patient, etc. Results will be measured in terms of outcomes: how much or how often and how effective are the drugs to be administered; how many times are procedures repeated with what curative or remedial findings; and performed or recommended by whom.
Using the most sophisticated software (i.e. artificial intelligence), the system will be "self-instructing"--noting from various evaluative studies, what criteria are most illuminating of bodily conditions--and will be "self-correcting"--discerning how to improve the data reliability and consistency of its data.
The aspect of comprehensiveness explains how difficult it is to even enroll persons in the system, because it needs as much information about a patient (i.e., the individual insured) it can initially gather in order to ascertain where to find lab and test results and operations and procedures on file somewhere over the last, say, 10 years about him!
If this system becomes practical, then the government will pay according to its findings and evaluations. If some drug company is touting a drug better than aspirin but does actually show little improvement over aspirin over time, results being equal in terms of efficacy, then the government won't pay for it! And too, with the variance in administering MRIs between $320 and $1,200, the government will look at what differences there are in determining the condition of the patient; and there being little difference, it won't fund the expensive MRIs!
So, I think it stands to reason that doctors who are specialists, capable of charging premium rates for services rendered, may seek to limit their practice to "sure-thing" results' patients, leaving possible candidates for treatment to others!
Importantly, over time, as more and more data is evaluated according to criteria set by professionals in medicine, medical costs, by definition, must go down because expensive methodologies will no longer be paid for nor reimbursed through the government. Any costs incurred by the patient's treatments not authorized by the government must come out-of-pocket and be paid for by the patient.
Typically, such a comprehensive system will offer 3 different plans to those insured by it:
1. The premium care plan. It will provide for health care that is more attentive and upon occasion may be more efficacious than what is typical for particular health conditions and treatment.
2. The standard care plan. It tests, treats, and monitors health care conditions as would be stated or recommended in a medical textbook or journal update.
3. The patient involvement care plan. This demands greater participation of the patient in the diagnosis and treatment of any condition he is found to have.
Any of the three should yield results beneficial for the patient, but there may be greater risks in the patient involved health plan, since he must be on top of what he must do. I've gone to medical doctors who are willing to provide treatments where I must do a good deal in order to improve my condition, but I also noted that I became more aware of that part of my body and made sure to "baby" it!
The "never-done-before" result stands as a surd in the system; and usually, is not government approved unless, I suppose, there's a lot of empirical research behind it.
So, this is my theoretical version of Obamacare; and it will be done at some time or other, if it isn't already underway.
What this theory proposes is to find the methods, procedures, medicines, even body structures that enable long life. No system to date anywhere in the world has been constructed to include a morass of data pertinent to these proposed inclusive variables. With the help of the most advanced, super computers in the world, the system will keep records on the results of using each and every drug, administered or recommended by each and every medical personnel, at each and every hospital, to each and every person; and each and every treatment and procedure performed by medical agents upon each and every patient, etc. Results will be measured in terms of outcomes: how much or how often and how effective are the drugs to be administered; how many times are procedures repeated with what curative or remedial findings; and performed or recommended by whom.
Using the most sophisticated software (i.e. artificial intelligence), the system will be "self-instructing"--noting from various evaluative studies, what criteria are most illuminating of bodily conditions--and will be "self-correcting"--discerning how to improve the data reliability and consistency of its data.
The aspect of comprehensiveness explains how difficult it is to even enroll persons in the system, because it needs as much information about a patient (i.e., the individual insured) it can initially gather in order to ascertain where to find lab and test results and operations and procedures on file somewhere over the last, say, 10 years about him!
If this system becomes practical, then the government will pay according to its findings and evaluations. If some drug company is touting a drug better than aspirin but does actually show little improvement over aspirin over time, results being equal in terms of efficacy, then the government won't pay for it! And too, with the variance in administering MRIs between $320 and $1,200, the government will look at what differences there are in determining the condition of the patient; and there being little difference, it won't fund the expensive MRIs!
So, I think it stands to reason that doctors who are specialists, capable of charging premium rates for services rendered, may seek to limit their practice to "sure-thing" results' patients, leaving possible candidates for treatment to others!
Importantly, over time, as more and more data is evaluated according to criteria set by professionals in medicine, medical costs, by definition, must go down because expensive methodologies will no longer be paid for nor reimbursed through the government. Any costs incurred by the patient's treatments not authorized by the government must come out-of-pocket and be paid for by the patient.
Typically, such a comprehensive system will offer 3 different plans to those insured by it:
1. The premium care plan. It will provide for health care that is more attentive and upon occasion may be more efficacious than what is typical for particular health conditions and treatment.
2. The standard care plan. It tests, treats, and monitors health care conditions as would be stated or recommended in a medical textbook or journal update.
3. The patient involvement care plan. This demands greater participation of the patient in the diagnosis and treatment of any condition he is found to have.
Any of the three should yield results beneficial for the patient, but there may be greater risks in the patient involved health plan, since he must be on top of what he must do. I've gone to medical doctors who are willing to provide treatments where I must do a good deal in order to improve my condition, but I also noted that I became more aware of that part of my body and made sure to "baby" it!
The "never-done-before" result stands as a surd in the system; and usually, is not government approved unless, I suppose, there's a lot of empirical research behind it.
So, this is my theoretical version of Obamacare; and it will be done at some time or other, if it isn't already underway.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Monday, October 28, 2013
--They've opened a computer center 3 mornings a week that I can use. I've moved into my new apartment in senior housing near downtown Las Vegas this past month; and this is incredible that they re-opened the computer room which had been closed about a year. The housing complex is administered by the Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority.
--I'm busy editing the social uplift topics, plus doing some other stuff.
--I've discovered that the African Union is informed about the Nigerian northeast violence, but I was listening to the BBC last night to those reporters based in Nigeria and they evidently didn't appear to consider the problem serious. The Nigerian economy is incredibly strong; and that's a real plus. I want to become up-to-date in the Kenyan terrorist recent attack, since there's obviously something the Kenyans are lax in doing to vouchsafe security against such disturbances that could be informative as to the state of security throughout. Also, I've just heard that the terrorists were in touch with people in Norway about the time of the attack.
--The BBC has reported on Tuesday that the UN Forces in the Congo have chased out of the country terrorist group, "the 23" with the assistance of the US Military in a supportive and advisory capacity. That's a vital role the military can do without placing combat troops in harm's way, in most cases, I think. Dick Cheney, former Vice President, on the Charlie Rose Show last night also supports a training role for the US military and pointed out that there should have been left in Iraq military personnel to help out in this capacity. I might add the comment that Rose made about the Iraq war: would that the war had not cost in lives a dear number and in dollars nearly a trillion to the US--what with a quick getaway at the end.
--African leaders are saying, I am led to believe, that if they receive assistance to control internal terrorism, they will be in position to handle the corruption problems extant virtually throughout the continent! Clearly, the message is getting through to them; and I applaud the foreign NGOs for their persistence in reminding these governments.
--I'm busy editing the social uplift topics, plus doing some other stuff.
--I've discovered that the African Union is informed about the Nigerian northeast violence, but I was listening to the BBC last night to those reporters based in Nigeria and they evidently didn't appear to consider the problem serious. The Nigerian economy is incredibly strong; and that's a real plus. I want to become up-to-date in the Kenyan terrorist recent attack, since there's obviously something the Kenyans are lax in doing to vouchsafe security against such disturbances that could be informative as to the state of security throughout. Also, I've just heard that the terrorists were in touch with people in Norway about the time of the attack.
--The BBC has reported on Tuesday that the UN Forces in the Congo have chased out of the country terrorist group, "the 23" with the assistance of the US Military in a supportive and advisory capacity. That's a vital role the military can do without placing combat troops in harm's way, in most cases, I think. Dick Cheney, former Vice President, on the Charlie Rose Show last night also supports a training role for the US military and pointed out that there should have been left in Iraq military personnel to help out in this capacity. I might add the comment that Rose made about the Iraq war: would that the war had not cost in lives a dear number and in dollars nearly a trillion to the US--what with a quick getaway at the end.
--African leaders are saying, I am led to believe, that if they receive assistance to control internal terrorism, they will be in position to handle the corruption problems extant virtually throughout the continent! Clearly, the message is getting through to them; and I applaud the foreign NGOs for their persistence in reminding these governments.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
US military assistance to Nigeria
I am thankful that currently the Philippine government is receiving pledges to institute a peace from the rebel groups who have waged war over these several years. I understand that the US military has had advisers stationed on the islands to lend expertise in achieving this success. And let us make no mistake about it--this is a wonderful day in Filipino history.
Now, Nigeria is embattled in its northeast region--this conflict still remaining, after years of continued violence all over the country. The Nigerian President appears to be well-meaning and deserving of help to rid the conflict in the northeast, possibly supported by rebels from other nearby lands. But clearly, the reports of atrocities from Amnesty International accusing the government of horrible acts in the region upon persons--residing there and those in opposition alike--is an indication the government does not know how to handle the country's insurrection problem. Its approach is, apparently, to liquidate the opposition--an approach not dissimilar to what Russia instituted against its Islamic uprising in mountainous regions-- until nothing is left today but the silence of the brutally-tamed resistors yet alive.
I have confidence, that the US military could render assistance, given what miracles the US military has worked in the Philippines in supporting that government. (I also wish the US military had current bases in Iraq to sustain the peace it wrought among antagonist Islamic factions.)
I have followed the Nigerians struggle to attain a lasting peace throughout the entire country; and I've spoken, somewhat recently, with Nigerians about their struggle to bring about peace. I think they're trying, even today, to attain that end; but they simply are going about it wrongly.
Now, Nigeria is embattled in its northeast region--this conflict still remaining, after years of continued violence all over the country. The Nigerian President appears to be well-meaning and deserving of help to rid the conflict in the northeast, possibly supported by rebels from other nearby lands. But clearly, the reports of atrocities from Amnesty International accusing the government of horrible acts in the region upon persons--residing there and those in opposition alike--is an indication the government does not know how to handle the country's insurrection problem. Its approach is, apparently, to liquidate the opposition--an approach not dissimilar to what Russia instituted against its Islamic uprising in mountainous regions-- until nothing is left today but the silence of the brutally-tamed resistors yet alive.
I have confidence, that the US military could render assistance, given what miracles the US military has worked in the Philippines in supporting that government. (I also wish the US military had current bases in Iraq to sustain the peace it wrought among antagonist Islamic factions.)
I have followed the Nigerians struggle to attain a lasting peace throughout the entire country; and I've spoken, somewhat recently, with Nigerians about their struggle to bring about peace. I think they're trying, even today, to attain that end; but they simply are going about it wrongly.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
--I'm re-using the topic "Action Item" under the rubric "What's Up John?" Under this, I'll be placing as items my hopes for action that will lead to the results I am urgently pleading for! Usually, I won't advocate how to bring about an action that I'm recommending, save to wholeheartedly endorse it. Perhaps, there's already a means in place to achieve the action I am supporting.
--I'll also be adding shortly to the Didactics 2 new items. This blog really has only "interplay" as a sub-topic at this time.
--P.S. I'm finding Las Vegas fertile ground for research and study! A vast improvement from the places I've had to settle down...in for a time.
--I'll also be adding shortly to the Didactics 2 new items. This blog really has only "interplay" as a sub-topic at this time.
--P.S. I'm finding Las Vegas fertile ground for research and study! A vast improvement from the places I've had to settle down...in for a time.
Friday, October 11, 2013
An International Rush toward Social Change
It started with the Arab Spring. Suddenly, Islam was in re-insurgence. Clearly, the Western powers had no inkling this would happen. They, in response, have attempted to gain hold of the phenomenon, to control it as best they can. In Libya, they supplied weaponry to the rebels to overthrow the dictatorship that was in existence. In Syria, they're trying once again to control events. Finally, their hopes lie with the Russian Federation (of all the nations in the world to count on!) to provide them with a way into the fast-moving world of the Middle-East, spear-headed by Saudi Arabia, and other very wealthy nations in the area; and the struggling Iran, with its oil-rich reserves and regional influence.
The presence of the US navy in Africa (Parenthetically, I understand the navy has been given the especial task of assisting African countries.) is a major thrust to bring about social change. In Somalia, the influence of alQaeda has been weakened by the navy seals' strikes. Just as important, the NGOs have brought about remarkable curtailment in the spread of AIDs, a disease long plagued South Africa. Then too, far off Indonesia is exhibiting Islamic leadership internationally. And, rebellion is seemingly lessening on the African continent, as witnessed by the containment of violence in Nigeria to its northeastern region.
But the clear winner in the Arab Spring movement is Egypt, led by its military junta.
The thought has arisen among intellectuals in the West that the European nations and the US may be in a decline. This impression is bolstered by the refusal of England to offer anything but aid to the displaced Syrians in surrounding countries, declining to assert leadership posture; and in the United States an indecision to support the rebel moderates on the Syrian battlefields against the loyal Assad forces.
What is a driving force in the US to near neutrality in the Syrian conflict is its middle class, weary of war and of being trodden upon by the rising tide of penniless workers around the world who are vying for jobs and the quest for a good life. Even the unions are motivated to reach out boldly in renewed ways to the working class in its never-ending struggle with wealthy entrepreneurs.
As noted by Fared Zakaria in his show of October 13 on FOX news, China is joining the frantic rush. It's not only seeking to win favor on the African continent by offering aid to native countries to develop their infrastructure and improve their trade posture on the world scene, but (though not brought out in Zakaria's piece) it is colonizing throughout that continent, much like Japan has done in South America. Because of its huge population surplus at home, it is nurturing the emergence of their own cultural meccas on foreign soils.
So, what's the rush propelling social change at this time? It's the growing masses of youths coming on the scene--without jobs, without comfortable living quarters--with only a demand they make along with the poor and neglected whatever their age--that those who have should see them, not as interlopers on the social scene, but simply as members of the human race no different from those who have. So that in the end, they, the next generation, will become property owners, too; and they will live the good life, too (even as presented on the TV!). That vision of a tangible good life currently inspires and carries these youth forth toward property ownership and toward an equal prosperity. That vision will be passed on to future generations, based on the fundamental fact of earthly existence: we are altogether a race of homo sapiens!
.
The presence of the US navy in Africa (Parenthetically, I understand the navy has been given the especial task of assisting African countries.) is a major thrust to bring about social change. In Somalia, the influence of alQaeda has been weakened by the navy seals' strikes. Just as important, the NGOs have brought about remarkable curtailment in the spread of AIDs, a disease long plagued South Africa. Then too, far off Indonesia is exhibiting Islamic leadership internationally. And, rebellion is seemingly lessening on the African continent, as witnessed by the containment of violence in Nigeria to its northeastern region.
But the clear winner in the Arab Spring movement is Egypt, led by its military junta.
The thought has arisen among intellectuals in the West that the European nations and the US may be in a decline. This impression is bolstered by the refusal of England to offer anything but aid to the displaced Syrians in surrounding countries, declining to assert leadership posture; and in the United States an indecision to support the rebel moderates on the Syrian battlefields against the loyal Assad forces.
What is a driving force in the US to near neutrality in the Syrian conflict is its middle class, weary of war and of being trodden upon by the rising tide of penniless workers around the world who are vying for jobs and the quest for a good life. Even the unions are motivated to reach out boldly in renewed ways to the working class in its never-ending struggle with wealthy entrepreneurs.
As noted by Fared Zakaria in his show of October 13 on FOX news, China is joining the frantic rush. It's not only seeking to win favor on the African continent by offering aid to native countries to develop their infrastructure and improve their trade posture on the world scene, but (though not brought out in Zakaria's piece) it is colonizing throughout that continent, much like Japan has done in South America. Because of its huge population surplus at home, it is nurturing the emergence of their own cultural meccas on foreign soils.
So, what's the rush propelling social change at this time? It's the growing masses of youths coming on the scene--without jobs, without comfortable living quarters--with only a demand they make along with the poor and neglected whatever their age--that those who have should see them, not as interlopers on the social scene, but simply as members of the human race no different from those who have. So that in the end, they, the next generation, will become property owners, too; and they will live the good life, too (even as presented on the TV!). That vision of a tangible good life currently inspires and carries these youth forth toward property ownership and toward an equal prosperity. That vision will be passed on to future generations, based on the fundamental fact of earthly existence: we are altogether a race of homo sapiens!
.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Thursday, October 10, 2013
--I'm reviving the blog-series Studies in Interplay to include my learning from encounters with the world. I've changed the blog's title to Didactics in recognition of its greater inclusiveness. First item,
"Tea Partiers vs. High Rollers:" the near-sighted politicos vs. the far-sighted industrial capitalists.
--I've moved already into a senior living housing project close to downtown Las Vegas. I've gotten used to being here--having located a place for dinner--The Las Vegas Rescue Mission, serving a really fine meal nightly; a quiet and pleasant public library for Internet stuff and frequent night faire--The West Charleston public library--and as backup, the Clark County Library, that features special events; and now a very, very nice place to live with a view of the hills in the east. I also take advantage of the area's pantries that enable me to benefit from more food than I could afford to buy. And, then there's the "Fremont Experience," not far away, which nightly serves as a street parade of fun and fancy for Vegas visitors and residents alike. I'm in the process of locating an Episcopal Church. But even more, more, more, through COX cable, I now can watch programs on the C-SPAN 1, 2, 3 channels! Still (thank God!) I've yet to need the local medical care facilities, though I wouldn't have come to Vegas without having first checked that they're really, really, really, really spectacular!!!
"Tea Partiers vs. High Rollers:" the near-sighted politicos vs. the far-sighted industrial capitalists.
--I've moved already into a senior living housing project close to downtown Las Vegas. I've gotten used to being here--having located a place for dinner--The Las Vegas Rescue Mission, serving a really fine meal nightly; a quiet and pleasant public library for Internet stuff and frequent night faire--The West Charleston public library--and as backup, the Clark County Library, that features special events; and now a very, very nice place to live with a view of the hills in the east. I also take advantage of the area's pantries that enable me to benefit from more food than I could afford to buy. And, then there's the "Fremont Experience," not far away, which nightly serves as a street parade of fun and fancy for Vegas visitors and residents alike. I'm in the process of locating an Episcopal Church. But even more, more, more, through COX cable, I now can watch programs on the C-SPAN 1, 2, 3 channels! Still (thank God!) I've yet to need the local medical care facilities, though I wouldn't have come to Vegas without having first checked that they're really, really, really, really spectacular!!!
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Iran without nuclear armament ambition
If I heard aright on CNN this morning, Iran's new President, a former member of Iran's nuclear monitoring team that included international monitoring delegates, has re-affirmed that his country will not pursue developing nuclear weapons such as a nuclear bomb; though it will attempt to use nuclear power for peaceful purposes.
I will continue to maintain that Iran is not a serious threat to world-peace, even though it has obviously aided the Syrian government in training and arming the Syrian military. There are factions in Iran that hate the US and attempt to do hostile actions against the West. But I think the present regime is making strides to cope with this internal problem.
I have argued also through the years that US policy pertaining to Iraq has actually brought it under Iran's sphere of influence. Currently, I understand, southern Iraq is strongly influenced by proximity to Iran's borders. But Iran seems a country in change for the better, despite its ties to Putin.
Specifically, I think Chinese trade is helping Iran re-assess its world posture.
I will continue to maintain that Iran is not a serious threat to world-peace, even though it has obviously aided the Syrian government in training and arming the Syrian military. There are factions in Iran that hate the US and attempt to do hostile actions against the West. But I think the present regime is making strides to cope with this internal problem.
I have argued also through the years that US policy pertaining to Iraq has actually brought it under Iran's sphere of influence. Currently, I understand, southern Iraq is strongly influenced by proximity to Iran's borders. But Iran seems a country in change for the better, despite its ties to Putin.
Specifically, I think Chinese trade is helping Iran re-assess its world posture.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
--I hope I've got senior housing, beginning very soon; and very nice! I'll order CSAN 1 & 2 the moment I get cable installed!
--Thanks to the West Charleston Library in the Las Vegas Library system, I'm making better progress on editing the Social-X series, but then I've got another chapter I'm introducing on "Social Meaning." Has to be researched a lot more than I've done already.
--Thanks to the West Charleston Library in the Las Vegas Library system, I'm making better progress on editing the Social-X series, but then I've got another chapter I'm introducing on "Social Meaning." Has to be researched a lot more than I've done already.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Saturday, August 31, 2013
--I'm still engaged in the project of editing the Social-X series. But I was derailed!
--Actually, I've moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. I'm not sure I'll be able to afford to stay here, but the town is great--almost equal in comparison to El Paso, Texas, which I consider the cat's meow--if only I could have learned Spanish. I'm just too old; and no refresher course would have done the trick.
I've had to become accustomed to a new library setting; and am learning to get around; get my documentation and id transferred, so it's going to take awhile. The 3 weeks I've been here have netted significant gains and accomplishments that will make this move a success--even if I have to move on. For the time being, I'm having fun! And, I like where I'm living.
Incidentally, in the course of moving here, I went back to Washington, DC in the hopes that maybe I could swing it there. No luck. Ugh.
--Good Labor Day weekend!
--Actually, I've moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. I'm not sure I'll be able to afford to stay here, but the town is great--almost equal in comparison to El Paso, Texas, which I consider the cat's meow--if only I could have learned Spanish. I'm just too old; and no refresher course would have done the trick.
I've had to become accustomed to a new library setting; and am learning to get around; get my documentation and id transferred, so it's going to take awhile. The 3 weeks I've been here have netted significant gains and accomplishments that will make this move a success--even if I have to move on. For the time being, I'm having fun! And, I like where I'm living.
Incidentally, in the course of moving here, I went back to Washington, DC in the hopes that maybe I could swing it there. No luck. Ugh.
--Good Labor Day weekend!
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Sunday, July 28, 2013
--I've just written in the ruminations series an item (or, post) as my reaction to O'Reilly's critique on the status of Black Culture in America on the FOX news network. No doubt his series of commentaries on the topic was prompted in anticipation of the conference held by Black leadership on the topic last Thursday in Washington. The point I wished to make in the item is that the facts he cites, e.g., youth unemployment and family disintegration, belie the most outstanding fact of all, viz., blacks living today have slavery as their heritage in America. Under slavery, the job a black was to have was not necessarily related to what he wanted to do.
Now, someone may note that slavery has been outlawed and a civil war was fought over its continuance in the States over a century ago. But to my mind, the effects continue: namely, blacks haven't been given the support from the American culture at large to develop in their culture--not the freedom to express their wants and desires--but the training to know what their personal wants and desires are and how to demand that these be met with the support of all Americans. We whites have had such training, I contend.
Specifically, with regard to black youth, education by those in charge of their upbringing must emphasize the importance of planning for their future as adults! Their adult supervisors should ask the question of each black child, starting at the age of 3, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" And from that child's early age, there should be drawn up a plan by his mentors and in line with his expressed idea of what he wants to become, a path for him to follow. Put generally, the black child should be respected such that his interests and wants are early asked for and subquently acted upon in a way which encourages him, so that once an adult, he will hold a job he wants to in a socially acceptable way and with the help of others who care about him!
I was honored to be on an evaluation team of Malcolm X College--I think the very first the college underwent. I believe the reason why he was looking to Africa for guidance on how to handle the social and psychological problems blacks encounter as a result of their slavery experience is that he did not find the culture of New York City sufficiently understanding.
I argue in my item that the black culture needs to take a giant step into the black future through individual planning for the place each black wants to assume in the USA; and with society's assistance be able to take that position.
--I'm still editing the Social-X series--up to the Social Change topic. Going slowly, but such is life!
Now, someone may note that slavery has been outlawed and a civil war was fought over its continuance in the States over a century ago. But to my mind, the effects continue: namely, blacks haven't been given the support from the American culture at large to develop in their culture--not the freedom to express their wants and desires--but the training to know what their personal wants and desires are and how to demand that these be met with the support of all Americans. We whites have had such training, I contend.
Specifically, with regard to black youth, education by those in charge of their upbringing must emphasize the importance of planning for their future as adults! Their adult supervisors should ask the question of each black child, starting at the age of 3, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" And from that child's early age, there should be drawn up a plan by his mentors and in line with his expressed idea of what he wants to become, a path for him to follow. Put generally, the black child should be respected such that his interests and wants are early asked for and subquently acted upon in a way which encourages him, so that once an adult, he will hold a job he wants to in a socially acceptable way and with the help of others who care about him!
I was honored to be on an evaluation team of Malcolm X College--I think the very first the college underwent. I believe the reason why he was looking to Africa for guidance on how to handle the social and psychological problems blacks encounter as a result of their slavery experience is that he did not find the culture of New York City sufficiently understanding.
I argue in my item that the black culture needs to take a giant step into the black future through individual planning for the place each black wants to assume in the USA; and with society's assistance be able to take that position.
--I'm still editing the Social-X series--up to the Social Change topic. Going slowly, but such is life!
Thursday, July 18, 2013
El Paso's Rumor Mill
El Paso, Texas is known for its wind and sand storms. It seems like every strong gust of wind blows in another rumor off the desert plains to the West. I'm not complaining much about El Paso because I've found churches I like here, which is a far cry from the Epicopal church I attended in Omaha, Nebraska; and none I found to my persuasion in Reno, Nevada. I want to stay Episcopalian, if I can; but you never know how that will work out ahead of time.
Anyway, back to El Paso as a rumor mill. I think it's location at the border with Mexico has something to do with the number of rumors coming through! I've been here several times before, but didn't think then I would end up here as I do now believe I will. So, I had forgotten what a rumor mill this city is!
I cannot attest to the veracity of any of the present rumors I'm listening to, but in sharing these salient rumors, I can give you a flavor of the town's dynamic hum.
1. I've heard from various individuals passing through the town that law enforcement agencies' personnel in the area including northern Mexico, except for those working for the FBI, are light on educational accomplishment. I could imagine that it's important for detectives and analysts to possess all the education they can afford, because their work requires a lot of brain ingenuity to handle their work load.
I've known through the years that some bosses and high-ups in the cartels send their kids to Ivy League colleges, resulting in one's being unable to tell their offspring from those of executives and CEOs of the major corporations with respect to degrees attained.
2. I've hear rumors on the radio and TV, too. To me, their news oftimes is no more than a rumor, because the purported fact is said so quickly without any development into a story--just simply said as an item--that I really can't be sure I heard right! One such statement I heard just last night is that the several states will handle lowering the insurance rates as a direct result of imposing Obamacare. New York state, I believe it was said, is the first that will seek to lower their levels by as much as 60% annually. Wow, if true!
3. I've heard that the Zeta Cartel is crashing into oblivion. That cartel is known in this area as a violent, murderous gang. And, the reason I heard for their crumbling is that the cartel was caught money-laundering. I've also read somewhere that banks are reluctant to report their suspicions about money laundering at their branches, possibly because they make money off such transactions. In any case, I'm glad they're gone--and that's not predicated on a rumor!
Anyway, back to El Paso as a rumor mill. I think it's location at the border with Mexico has something to do with the number of rumors coming through! I've been here several times before, but didn't think then I would end up here as I do now believe I will. So, I had forgotten what a rumor mill this city is!
I cannot attest to the veracity of any of the present rumors I'm listening to, but in sharing these salient rumors, I can give you a flavor of the town's dynamic hum.
1. I've heard from various individuals passing through the town that law enforcement agencies' personnel in the area including northern Mexico, except for those working for the FBI, are light on educational accomplishment. I could imagine that it's important for detectives and analysts to possess all the education they can afford, because their work requires a lot of brain ingenuity to handle their work load.
I've known through the years that some bosses and high-ups in the cartels send their kids to Ivy League colleges, resulting in one's being unable to tell their offspring from those of executives and CEOs of the major corporations with respect to degrees attained.
2. I've hear rumors on the radio and TV, too. To me, their news oftimes is no more than a rumor, because the purported fact is said so quickly without any development into a story--just simply said as an item--that I really can't be sure I heard right! One such statement I heard just last night is that the several states will handle lowering the insurance rates as a direct result of imposing Obamacare. New York state, I believe it was said, is the first that will seek to lower their levels by as much as 60% annually. Wow, if true!
3. I've heard that the Zeta Cartel is crashing into oblivion. That cartel is known in this area as a violent, murderous gang. And, the reason I heard for their crumbling is that the cartel was caught money-laundering. I've also read somewhere that banks are reluctant to report their suspicions about money laundering at their branches, possibly because they make money off such transactions. In any case, I'm glad they're gone--and that's not predicated on a rumor!
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Thursday, June 27, 2013
--I started researchng Social-Meaning and discovered there's a lot more to the topic than I had anticipated; and it's complicated. So, I'm back to editing the Social-X series I've developed so far and will stay glued to that project until the I've completed it. Amazing, I didn't catch on to what Social meaning is all about before this!
--Nothing else to report. Enjoying El Paso's hot weather, which isn't as bad as Palm Springs, CA--a place I had tried to retire to, but that heat is really oppressive! I can't figure out who on earth would retire there.
--Nothing else to report. Enjoying El Paso's hot weather, which isn't as bad as Palm Springs, CA--a place I had tried to retire to, but that heat is really oppressive! I can't figure out who on earth would retire there.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
An Hiatus in the Project of Muslim People Control
Senator McCann is visiting with the Syrian rebels in Syria. The Syrian government appears to be gaining the upper-hand over the rebels. The rebels need support to continue their fight. It must come from Muslims! I personnally think the Hezbollah could have a major role in garnering Muslim support, since it's part of the Arab League and has territorial land to gain; and a Muslim preeminence role to play should the rebels take over. But Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah of the Hezbollah group is fearing that if Assad falls, Syria will be controlled by the US and Israel; and indeed, Israel may invade Lebanon. He is sending troops to help his friend Assad!
That kind of thinking is passe. The US and no other major power should interfere in the affairs of the Middle East (nor, should they be allowed to); and President Obama, to his credit, sees this; but Nasrallah is still wallowing in fear of big-power control of his country. Nasrallah has much to gain if Assad goes; his thinking is clouded with fear. (All Russia wants to do his keep its hand in the Middle Eastern pie.) Plainly, the Hezbollah should be calling for a meeting of the Arab League; and further, for Arab League intervention. The Muslims must stand together in unity.
It may seem to the Saudis that Muslim people control is a threat to its own governmental structure. I think this is a correct supposition, but as long as Mecca belongs to Saudi Arabia, there is little chance of governmental change in that country.
A real problem in any Muslim country is the radical political divisions that exist. I have often thought the Nigerians would dominate African politics should they ever become a unified country, instead of a manifold of factious, warring groups of cut-throats over oil, etc. that exist today. But that divisiveness has lasted for centuries in the Muslim world, giving rise to the many dictators that dominated until the Arab Spring marches of the people.
Once the Muslims become self-confident of their own powers to govern amicably among themselves, permitting dissent but not separateness, they will move ahead. Sure, the social problems are great, but not insurmountable. They must believe that Allah will give them strength and continued eye on the vision.
(P.S. Currently--as in every case of international prominence--there is distortion in accounts of what's happening.)
That kind of thinking is passe. The US and no other major power should interfere in the affairs of the Middle East (nor, should they be allowed to); and President Obama, to his credit, sees this; but Nasrallah is still wallowing in fear of big-power control of his country. Nasrallah has much to gain if Assad goes; his thinking is clouded with fear. (All Russia wants to do his keep its hand in the Middle Eastern pie.) Plainly, the Hezbollah should be calling for a meeting of the Arab League; and further, for Arab League intervention. The Muslims must stand together in unity.
It may seem to the Saudis that Muslim people control is a threat to its own governmental structure. I think this is a correct supposition, but as long as Mecca belongs to Saudi Arabia, there is little chance of governmental change in that country.
A real problem in any Muslim country is the radical political divisions that exist. I have often thought the Nigerians would dominate African politics should they ever become a unified country, instead of a manifold of factious, warring groups of cut-throats over oil, etc. that exist today. But that divisiveness has lasted for centuries in the Muslim world, giving rise to the many dictators that dominated until the Arab Spring marches of the people.
Once the Muslims become self-confident of their own powers to govern amicably among themselves, permitting dissent but not separateness, they will move ahead. Sure, the social problems are great, but not insurmountable. They must believe that Allah will give them strength and continued eye on the vision.
(P.S. Currently--as in every case of international prominence--there is distortion in accounts of what's happening.)
Friday, May 24, 2013
Friday, May 24, 2013
--I've been editing the Social-X series and have become discouraged. I was intent on editing it, then submitting for e-book consideration in the appropriate format. But as I continue the editing process, I am coming to think that there is very little interest in the topics that comprise the series as I have interpreted them. My treatment is too intellectual, technical and dissimilar, frankly, to how others talk of these matters. So, I am slowing down the effort to edit, etc. the series.
--However, that has given me time to think of extending the series by including at least one more topic: that being--social meaning. I raised the topic in the rumination on federalism paper and may include aspects of other ruminations under this rubric.
--Meantime, I am enjoying my move to El Paso, settling back into routines I have developed over the years of being in this city. One thing that concerns me as it would other seniors of my age: I want to stay downtown where I'm at, though it may seem I should be in some senior housing project, e.g., assisted living. I had a chance at living in that situation in L.A. before I went on to El Paso from Omaha.
--However, that has given me time to think of extending the series by including at least one more topic: that being--social meaning. I raised the topic in the rumination on federalism paper and may include aspects of other ruminations under this rubric.
--Meantime, I am enjoying my move to El Paso, settling back into routines I have developed over the years of being in this city. One thing that concerns me as it would other seniors of my age: I want to stay downtown where I'm at, though it may seem I should be in some senior housing project, e.g., assisted living. I had a chance at living in that situation in L.A. before I went on to El Paso from Omaha.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Friday, April 26, 2013
--There's a lot that's transpired in my life. For one thing, I've left Omaha, Nebraska, ending up back in El Paso, Texas as my permanent residence.
The frequent falls I was taking due to snow and ice and related problems forced me to give up a lovely one-bedroom apartment in the downtown Omaha district. It got so I became wary of walking the streets, if there were any incline to them! Also, I had one really bad fall in my bedroom last fall. when in the dark I reached out for what I thought would be the wall, only to miss short of it and fall flat on my face, hurting my shoulder--scary.
So, I left and first tried LA downtown, only to find there's a problem with bed bugs that I had encountered when I lived there--having turned down taking a room through one of the agencies there because I experienced a hoard of bed bugs the one night I stayed. Luckily, I hadn't given up the room I was staying in down the block. The advantage to the new place would have been the cheaper rent. Anyway, I hope I still have in LA the chance to get into assisted living quarters, should I ever need it.
The day I started to clean out my nice apartment downtown Omaha I took another fall in the ice and snow. Because I had thought the weather for the day would be mild, I hadn't worn my boots, my sneakers instead. Big mistake. Anyway, for several weeks, my leg--the one I had had operations on in Reno--hurt like hell--including during the trip to El Paso!
Well, I'm settled in El Paso, enjoying it muchly.
--I've got updates to do to some of the last ruminations' entries. That's next.
The frequent falls I was taking due to snow and ice and related problems forced me to give up a lovely one-bedroom apartment in the downtown Omaha district. It got so I became wary of walking the streets, if there were any incline to them! Also, I had one really bad fall in my bedroom last fall. when in the dark I reached out for what I thought would be the wall, only to miss short of it and fall flat on my face, hurting my shoulder--scary.
So, I left and first tried LA downtown, only to find there's a problem with bed bugs that I had encountered when I lived there--having turned down taking a room through one of the agencies there because I experienced a hoard of bed bugs the one night I stayed. Luckily, I hadn't given up the room I was staying in down the block. The advantage to the new place would have been the cheaper rent. Anyway, I hope I still have in LA the chance to get into assisted living quarters, should I ever need it.
The day I started to clean out my nice apartment downtown Omaha I took another fall in the ice and snow. Because I had thought the weather for the day would be mild, I hadn't worn my boots, my sneakers instead. Big mistake. Anyway, for several weeks, my leg--the one I had had operations on in Reno--hurt like hell--including during the trip to El Paso!
Well, I'm settled in El Paso, enjoying it muchly.
--I've got updates to do to some of the last ruminations' entries. That's next.
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