A reply letter to Florida Senator Bill Nelson from Arnie Sherr June 22, 2008 6:30 AM EST
This letter is in response to Senator Bill Nelson's reply to my original suggestion that impeachment proceedings be started by the Congress against President Bush.
ARNOLD SHERR
June 22, 2008
Bill Nelson, United States Senator (D-F)
Fax: 202.228.2183
Washington, DC 20510-0905
Dear Senator Nelson:
I thank you for your speedy response to my letter referencing a Bush impeachment action.
Given, as you state in your letter, “Many American’s would agree that certain actions taken by this Administration warrant impeachment” you’ve not emphatically stated ‘your’ agreement hereto.
Respectfully sir, “impractical” is yet another of Washington’s political avoid, stall, and/or evade words. Unless we utilize the disciplinary tools so thoughtfully placed into law by our founders we are giving permission to future presidents to abuse presidential powers because as is the mind-set of our elected Senators and Congressmen and women, it is “impractical.” Such convenient excuses are synonymous to placing statutory limits on capital offenses. Certainly if it is acceptable to strip an Olympic champion of their gold metal for steroid abuse, after the fact, then is ever appropriate to strip a past president of his lifetime salary and all other benefits except ‘security’ for his abuse of power and deliberate manipulation and breach of United States Law which is inclusive the act of deliberately misleading the Senate and the Congress is his pursuit of permissions to wage what has proved to be unwarranted military action causing greater than 4000 American deaths, untold thousands of injuries of which a preponderance are life altering, and God only know how many Iraqi deaths. Senator, because it is expected that Presidents should be held to a higher standard, I submit that omitting, fabricating, exaggerating, misleading, twisting, and/or misrepresenting to the Congress and the Senate are “Acts of Perjury.” Doing so impeaches a President’s “I do” at his or her inauguration.
US Constitution, Article II, Section 1
Before he enter on the execution of his office, he shall take the following oath or affirmation: "I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.” When a sitting President officially and deliberately misleads both Houses and the American people he or she has not “faithfully executed the office of President of the United States, and has not to the best of his or her ability, preserved, protected, and defended the Constitution of the United States."
His or her oath of office carries to every function of the Presidency even if formally swearing-in a sitting President is not performed as by his oath of office he has sworn to “preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States." It is my interpretation that omitting, fabricating, exaggerating, misleading, twisting, and/or misrepresenting to the Congress and the Senate and the American people are indeed breaches of the Presidential Oath of Office and are capital impeachable offenses against “We the People.”
Doing nothing, because it is believed by you, and I submit most of your colleagues feel similarly, that it is "impractical" extends latitude to future Presidents to undermine the integrity of the Presidential Oath of Office and sends an aberrant message to America’s populous, its youth, and to the entire global community that still and always has looked up to the United States as the preferred place to immigrate. Impeachment proceedings against this President will also help to repair our worsening global reputation and example, if you will democracy at work for the entire world to witness.
I urge your sir, please reassess your “impractical” criteria and let “We the People” know, among all within our government that is perceived as broken, that our elected officials will always hold he or she who has been trusted by the American people to occupy the Office of the Presidency of the United States of America “accountable” at all times.
Respectfully,
ARNOLD SHERR
Cc: Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi
Fax: 202.225.4188
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Angels on two wheels, and Italian too!
The “Italian Angels Motorcycle Brotherhood” their contributions, their value, their mission
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info/AskArnie.php
“The benefits of giving are as generous as or greater than that which is given” - Arnold Sherr
The “Italian Angels Motorcycle Brotherhood” their contributions, their value, their mission
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info/AskArnie.php
“The benefits of giving are as generous as or greater than that which is given” - Arnold Sherr
Apart of the Florida Federation of Italian American Clubs, Inc., an organization made-up of greater than 50 clubs throughout the State of Florida is the “Italian Angels Motorcycle Club,” a group whose aspirations dedicate to helping those with commitments of helping others. I speak herein of the “Italian Angels Motorcycle Club” and their unselfish desire not only to with the set-up at the recent Parrott Heads’ Save the Manatee’s event, but as generous and dedicated purveyors of charity they manned their own booth, cooked and sold delicious Italian sausage sandwiches and Italian Angels tee shirts, policed the entire area efficiently enforcing that the event’s perimeter remain impenetrable by visitors seeking convenient parking and access and all for the benefit of this one of many worthiest of causes.
The Florida Federation of Italian American Clubs, Inc. was an idea started by a group of dedicated men. They shared a dream to enhance the Italian heritage and culture throughout the State of Florida. They held their first meeting in "Hank's Coffee Break Restaurant" in Vero Beach, Florida, in November of 1976. They contacted the Florida Chamber of Commerce for a list of known Italian clubs throughout the State. In turn, each club on the list was contacted and asked to join in this great dream. The response was overwhelming and a meeting was held in Vero Beach, Florida, to discuss ideas and purpose with a future convention as the target. Through these efforts the first annual convention was held in Vero Beach. By the time the second convention was held, the organization boasted a membership of over twenty-one clubs, almost ten thousand individuals. The Italian Angels Motorcycle Brotherhood are but one of many affiliate clubs throughout Florida that succeeds in fulfilling the Federation’s mission, and I am happy to add, they do it well.
Frankly, since wisdom - speaking for me - comes with age, I’ve never demonstrated voluntary expressions of charity as part of a group. For individuals in need I’ve definitely made many marks, however I am awed by the good that is shaped when it emanates from the heartfully driven efforts of groups and/or organizations like the “Italian Angels Motorcycle Brotherhood,” the “Italian-American Clubs,” and the many other Federation clubs throughout Florida; other charitable groups like them are a growing culture that is weaving goodness and greatness throughout America’s society.
However, after further research, I’ve uncovered of this noble group of motorcyclists a dedication that I and I venture most will have difficulty surpassing has left me in awe.
In the early morning hours of February 24 , 2005, Jessica Lunsford, a nine-year-old girl who was abducted from her home in Homosassa , Florida. Before it was know that she held captive over the weekend, was raped and later murdered by 47-year-old John Couey who was living nearby the Italian Angels Motorcycle Brotherhood put their Harleycan compassion and humanism to work for the ultimate of causes, to help find Jessica Lunsford.
The Group immediately set out to raise monies for the search. They enlisted more than 2000 people to participate in the search who when they signed-up donated $10.00 or more. Additionally, they were able, with no resistance to have the Gulf Coast Harley-Davidson located in New Part Richie donate to Jessica Lunsford’s father Marc Lunsford with a new Harley so he could lead the search for his missing daughter.
“Hey Mom, she started it; No I didn’t, he started it!”
Political back and fourths
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info/AskArnie.php
Political back and fourths
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info/AskArnie.php
How many of us with brothers and/or sisters or even really close friends remember saying the above after our parents or even an adult other than a parent (a teacher, etc) stepped-in to break-up arguments. “He started it; No she did, I swear!”
Earlier today Barack Obama recanted an earlier statement that he along with McCain would accept public financing to fund his run in the general election. Of course, McCain is pouting angrily about his worthy opponent’s tactical decision to do what he thinks will advantage his stakes in the months leading up to December 9, 2008. The pundits, well they are doin’ the “he started it; no he started routine for both candidates. Barack spoke too soon about using public funding, but McCain said one thing and voted another, but Barack’s team attacked Cindy for turning over incomplete tax returns, but the McCain campaign scolded Michelle for her misstatement about being proud of this country, and the list goes on, and on, and on, and on, and on, and so one.
Just like a couple a juveniles, they banter back and forth; only the pundits are keeping score much the same as the announcers that spout obscure stats and theories about strategy at every Ray’s game at Tropicana Field and elsewhere. But you know there is a bigger picture about campaign financing.
Of this campaign and at this point however, each of the two candidate’s proceeds funding-wise and because it is not this one segment of public financing that by itself will revamp campaign finance Barack’s change of mind doesn’t matter. It must start before the primaries.
Over my entire lifetime (65 years, keep it a secret?), I can not remember when most I spoke to about their election choices that their reasoning was not that they were selecting the lesser of however many evils are running in the primary and the lesser of two in the general election. Why do you suppose that is? Perhaps the reason is because the way the system is set up average Americans who may in fact be much better qualified can not (1) accumulate the needed numbers of signatures in each of the primary states to get on the respective state’s ballot and (2) even if they were to get on the ballot they probably can not raise enough money to compete in the respective primary effectively. I submit, until campaign finance reform attends the entire process, inclusive of the primaries the playing field will never be level.
The way in which the funding system is designed the average well-qualified “Joe” has no way to participate. In order for the playing field to be “Fair and Balanced” (no sarcasm intended), qualifying criteria for each state’s ballot must be attainable to all, who by other more logical criteria are permitted to compete. It is at this point that campaign funding reform is needed.
Campaign donations on federal tax returns must be mandatory – at present it is optional – and on state returns as well. Federal for the general election and the state for its primary. An example might be $1.50 per federal return and $15.00 per state return because as in this past primary there were more than 20 combined candidates.
This is where the Playin’ field gets leveled. In the primary the states shall divide equally the state return election fund. Every candidate campaigns with the same amount of money, no personal funding or outside donations permitted. There are many leadership and economic transparencies that voters will be witness of and may consider when going to the polls - money management, fiscal responsibility, and more.
For the general campaign the federal election fund shall be divided equally between the two nominees; would this be the case now, Barack would not be dealing with the scolding’s he must tolerate for his flip-flop.
I firmly believe, under this campaign funding ethic, American’s would actually be voting for the “better of the two good’s.”
Just as of other challenges the Congress makes them complicated, therefore difficult debates append; vetoes, filibusters and then angry and frustrated citizens. Immigration is another example; simply take away the jobs and those here illegally will self-deport. I went fishing for bass once; I tried fishing without baiting the hook – you fill in the rest.
To summarize, do I really care whether or not Obama uses public funding? NO. Do I give-a-hoot whether Cindy McCain shows her complete tax returns or not? NO. Could I care less, about the “McCain started it, no it was Obama, he did it first,” routines? You can bet your bippy (dating myself) I don’t.
What I am passionate about is that every American who genuinely feels qualified and believes he or she will benefit “We the People,” has an equal opportunity not only to run, but also to be President of the United States of America.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Divisiveness
‘causing disagreement or hostility within a group so that it is likely to split’
Discordant
‘in disagreement, or incompatible’
Troublesome
‘producing annoyance, discomfort, or anxiety, especially in a recurrent way’
Disruptive
‘interrupting usual order or progress’
Conflict-ridden
‘a disagreement or clash between ideas, principles, or people’
Dissonant
‘incompatible or inconsistent’
Jarring
‘to have an irritating, unsettling, or unpleasantly disturbing effect on somebody or something’
Harsh
‘severely scrutinizing, critical, and rigid in manner’
Inharmonious
‘characterized by disagreement and conflict’
Cacophonous
‘a disagreement or clash between ideas, principles, or people’
More synonyms are
‘cruel, unkind, unsympathetic, callous, ruthless, unforgiving, inconsiderate, troublemaking, unruly, disorderly, unsettling, upsetting, and disturbing’
Arnie Sherr writes of his interpretation of
“Divisiveness”
Above are listed twenty two synonyms of the word “Divisiveness.” All American’s who are even lightly exposed to what is turning out to be America’s longest Presidential primary, without exemption have heard the word “Divisive” used over and over to describe what is in-part portrayed as a cause of our broken government. Our primarily two-party political system (the Independent party slowly growing) is so far apart on the basic but most important issues facing America’s immediate and long term futures, it seems that what used to be a middle-ground for achieving compromise has become a mega-crevice too wide for either side to navigate for acceptable positive solutions. It is said by some in both Houses, what used to be opposite-sides-of-the-isle friendships are no more; that much of the fun of being senators and representatives has deteriorated significantly. Many are retiring back into civilian life, as a result.
But, let us leave the political scene for a moment and travel, if you will and if the following scenario is applicable, to a prior but failed marriage. Whatever the grounds portrayed by the respective lawyers and officiating courts, the route-cause of all that fails between human beings is “divisiveness;” whether of marriage, business partnerships, singing groups, friendships, neighbors, sports teams, and others similar, it is the unwillingness to meet in the middle with open minds and an earnest desire to negotiate without ‘discordance’, ‘trouble’, ‘disruption’, ‘conflict’, ‘jarring attitudes’, ‘harshness’, and so on that blocks progress, reconciliation, harmony, and unity.
What I envision after having defined the above list is a stubbornness and narrowness of minds. When one takes a position and is unwilling to listen to opposing positions, the latitude for reconciliation, solutions, and unity are indeed sabotaged. When the state of “divisiveness” evolves into “stubbornness” then reason is sacrificed and positive results are generally at risk, especially when power is striven intrusively.
Politically, at least in relation to election campaigns “divisiveness” is practiced tactically and is prevalent for this purpose. But in this context it is important to realize than campaigns are not negotiations, they are sales presentations. Therefore, “divisiveness” is appropriate and justified as each attempt selling their plights for the benefit of attracting the greater numbers of buyers, or voters as in the case of political campaigns. And, just as in sales the caution “buyers beware” applies, so it does in political campaigns. It is the voter’s obligation to gather, verify, challenge, debate, inquire, and whatever else is necessary to decide for whom of the candidates he or she feels is worthy of their respective support.
Irrespective of campaigning it is apparent that our government is every of the twenty two synonyms above of the word “divisive.” Whether in the House of Representatives or in the United States Senate, the 4.5’ center-isle that divides the right from the left may as well be as expansive as the mega-crevice of which I have previous referred. There are no campaigns to be won, only challenges to be solved, needs to be filled, and America’s prosperity for which to be planned. Until those of our “government” unite then how in “God’s” reverent name will the American people come together as one?
Many street corners throughout this great land host anti-war/anti-troop demonstrators and in close opposing proximities are pro-war/pro-troop demonstrators. Most times these groups are so divided that animosities display back and forth; minimally, violence has been reported to have broken out.
If you’ve ever been part of a divorce, partnership dissolution, team break-up, or other I’m sure you’ve looked back after a time and reflected, if only I had…
“To communicate with others or another in manners that best achieve a mutually desired result ensuing the best proven, taught, or otherwise learned methods as proficiently as known or able, is infallible.”
- Arnold Sherr
A United America, once again!
What is best for America; is it that which is best for America’s majority?
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info/AskArnie.php
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, most of America has not the time to take in every political media source because they are not simply busy doing that which Americans should embrace with passion in order to provide for the families those things their parents, regardless of the financial stations, would have liked to provide for them, but instead struggle aimlessly to keep their homes free from foreclosure, to keep their credit ratings at respectable levels, to hold on to what may be insecure employment situations, to maintain 401K’s and deposits to college savings funds for their kids, to meet the ever escalating gasoline prices at the pumps, to pay the rising food prices which are a direct result of growing gasoline prices, to hold on to their emergency funds if they have been fortunate enough to accumulate same, to meet the growing costs of health care; its rising deductibles and exclusions, to afford the high cost of flood insurance which has been a derivative of the overwhelming amount of and degree of natural disasters that have devastated parts of America - not to mention the globe, and to put all of this in a simple sentence; to survive against the greedy ambitions of those elected officials that decide ultimately what should be best for “We the People” rather than exceeding to their own selfish motives; I call them America’s “Cashocrats.”
The coming general election is not about the right or the left; it is about America’s population that is between the farthest reaches of the right to the farthest reaches of the left. When it gets down to reality, every American rich and poor, young and old, male and female, of every race, of every sexual orientation is faced with the economic challenges dividing “We the People.” “We the People” are facing challenges unlike ever before; we face terror, we face losing our sovereignty, we face losing the American dream, we face losing our dominance as the world’s source of goods and commodities, we face losing what all of the world has of America; a picture of streets paved in gold and opportunity for all, we face unhealthy foreign investments in and for control of American companies and real estate because of our devalued dollar against the Euro, we face being held hostage by OPEC, we face an America where it is not “big brother” in whom we live in fear but the megacorps that do now and will continue to ultimately shape “We the People” into “We, their People.” Whatever your human difference it is not relevant if we permit ourselves to continue this, our present destination to a submissive life at the will and direction of Special Interests who have and will continue their dominance through those we elected to pass our laws, mold our policy, protect our rights, and guarantee all of the above, the “Cashocrats.” They, like those who have earned academy awards, act and perform so well to portray themselves as dedicated to “We the People.”
We must be one people, not Democrats, not Independents, and not Republicans. We must search our hearts for what is best for those if us who comprise the majority of “We the People.” We must forget our personal greed and do what is meaningful for all of “We the People.” So I urge all Americans to reach deep down into their hearts and see beyond their bank accounts, their dreams of individual wealth at the expense of “We the People” and I am sure there are in every American family examples of relatives who struggle from day to day, from week to week, from year to year to pay utility bills, put food on the table, and more. Americans have always been a caring and compassionate people, giving to others around the globe who are starving, devastated by tsunamis, massacred by dictators, and more; it is now time to think inside of America’s borders and elect for our next President, he or she in whom we each individually believe will abandon the “Cashocrat” ideology and act once again for as our Founders had written, “We the People.”
What is best for America; is it that which is best for America’s majority?
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info/AskArnie.php
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, most of America has not the time to take in every political media source because they are not simply busy doing that which Americans should embrace with passion in order to provide for the families those things their parents, regardless of the financial stations, would have liked to provide for them, but instead struggle aimlessly to keep their homes free from foreclosure, to keep their credit ratings at respectable levels, to hold on to what may be insecure employment situations, to maintain 401K’s and deposits to college savings funds for their kids, to meet the ever escalating gasoline prices at the pumps, to pay the rising food prices which are a direct result of growing gasoline prices, to hold on to their emergency funds if they have been fortunate enough to accumulate same, to meet the growing costs of health care; its rising deductibles and exclusions, to afford the high cost of flood insurance which has been a derivative of the overwhelming amount of and degree of natural disasters that have devastated parts of America - not to mention the globe, and to put all of this in a simple sentence; to survive against the greedy ambitions of those elected officials that decide ultimately what should be best for “We the People” rather than exceeding to their own selfish motives; I call them America’s “Cashocrats.”
The coming general election is not about the right or the left; it is about America’s population that is between the farthest reaches of the right to the farthest reaches of the left. When it gets down to reality, every American rich and poor, young and old, male and female, of every race, of every sexual orientation is faced with the economic challenges dividing “We the People.” “We the People” are facing challenges unlike ever before; we face terror, we face losing our sovereignty, we face losing the American dream, we face losing our dominance as the world’s source of goods and commodities, we face losing what all of the world has of America; a picture of streets paved in gold and opportunity for all, we face unhealthy foreign investments in and for control of American companies and real estate because of our devalued dollar against the Euro, we face being held hostage by OPEC, we face an America where it is not “big brother” in whom we live in fear but the megacorps that do now and will continue to ultimately shape “We the People” into “We, their People.” Whatever your human difference it is not relevant if we permit ourselves to continue this, our present destination to a submissive life at the will and direction of Special Interests who have and will continue their dominance through those we elected to pass our laws, mold our policy, protect our rights, and guarantee all of the above, the “Cashocrats.” They, like those who have earned academy awards, act and perform so well to portray themselves as dedicated to “We the People.”
We must be one people, not Democrats, not Independents, and not Republicans. We must search our hearts for what is best for those if us who comprise the majority of “We the People.” We must forget our personal greed and do what is meaningful for all of “We the People.” So I urge all Americans to reach deep down into their hearts and see beyond their bank accounts, their dreams of individual wealth at the expense of “We the People” and I am sure there are in every American family examples of relatives who struggle from day to day, from week to week, from year to year to pay utility bills, put food on the table, and more. Americans have always been a caring and compassionate people, giving to others around the globe who are starving, devastated by tsunamis, massacred by dictators, and more; it is now time to think inside of America’s borders and elect for our next President, he or she in whom we each individually believe will abandon the “Cashocrat” ideology and act once again for as our Founders had written, “We the People.”
Power of Passion
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info/AskArnie.php
Arnie Sherr wrote: Improving this single attitude makes your days fly by. You wake up excited to work. You make the right decisions. You get more done in less time. Improving this attitude affects everyone around you. They believe in you, trust you and want to support you.
This one attitude can change your entire life for the better.
A vital attitude with which you may constantly improve is YOUR PASSION.
As a young man I had endeared tremendous passion. But my father, a loving but insecure man calmed my dreams by directing me ‘not to’. Dreams are the fuel of passion; the residue of innate interest; embedded dedications to something; they are anything that serves to dictate a person’s future and the magnitude of achievement thereof. Never permit anyone to douse your fires of passion; they are your calling. If you wish, they may be perceived as God’s gift and a natural vehicle for huge achievement, monetary milestones, powers of influence, and magnets that attract the respect of others above, equal to, and below your achieved standards of accomplishment.
This past Thanksgiving I was invited graciously by the Son of my neighbor Sarah to join them at Sarah’s grandchildren’s home to share with them Thanksgiving festivities. The alternative was a boring and rather depressing evening at home; quite alone. I was and am humbled by their gracious invite and also by the warmth extended at their most loving home.
Having been introduced to their entire family, one of Sarah’s grandsons Kyle who has accumulated a collection of matchbox and hot wheel cars estimated at approximately 1000; neatly stored in large totes in a room especially designated for toys and such. In fact, Kyle’s dad demonstrated this eight year olds’ passion for cars by flashing quickly pictures of exotic cars from within the pages of an exotic car magazine; Kyle, without even a second’s hesitation identified these pictures as if having studied them for far more years then his eight years to the present.
As a believer in passion and dreams I was and continue to be impressed that one so young should be gifted with such innate interest and passion. Bring so impressed, I researched and created pictorial and written histories of the Lamborghini and Bugatti automobiles mounted impeccably, each in their own 11.5” x 11” frames. For Kyle such passion is the recipe for immense success. Persons like Bill Gates and Donald Trump are supreme examples of successful hobbyists. I think it was Andre Agassi who said, “I am so blessed to enjoy such a great success by doing my hobby.” Donald Trump said, “To be successful it is imperative that a person must love their work; live for everyday; be excited to get up every morning and conquer more horizons.” I believe Kyle has that kind of passion and all around him should do everything to encourage, support, and feed his passion and interest.
Passion is not fickle; is not temporary; is not overrated. It is a gift from God and should be revered and respected with every fiber. A unique thing about passion is that as goals are met, passions increase. This is why the worlds wealthiest continue to strive. For them, practicing their ‘hobby’ is not ‘work’; it is their joy of living.
I hope I am alive to know of Kyle’s achievements!
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info/AskArnie.php
Arnie Sherr wrote: Improving this single attitude makes your days fly by. You wake up excited to work. You make the right decisions. You get more done in less time. Improving this attitude affects everyone around you. They believe in you, trust you and want to support you.
This one attitude can change your entire life for the better.
A vital attitude with which you may constantly improve is YOUR PASSION.
As a young man I had endeared tremendous passion. But my father, a loving but insecure man calmed my dreams by directing me ‘not to’. Dreams are the fuel of passion; the residue of innate interest; embedded dedications to something; they are anything that serves to dictate a person’s future and the magnitude of achievement thereof. Never permit anyone to douse your fires of passion; they are your calling. If you wish, they may be perceived as God’s gift and a natural vehicle for huge achievement, monetary milestones, powers of influence, and magnets that attract the respect of others above, equal to, and below your achieved standards of accomplishment.
This past Thanksgiving I was invited graciously by the Son of my neighbor Sarah to join them at Sarah’s grandchildren’s home to share with them Thanksgiving festivities. The alternative was a boring and rather depressing evening at home; quite alone. I was and am humbled by their gracious invite and also by the warmth extended at their most loving home.
Having been introduced to their entire family, one of Sarah’s grandsons Kyle who has accumulated a collection of matchbox and hot wheel cars estimated at approximately 1000; neatly stored in large totes in a room especially designated for toys and such. In fact, Kyle’s dad demonstrated this eight year olds’ passion for cars by flashing quickly pictures of exotic cars from within the pages of an exotic car magazine; Kyle, without even a second’s hesitation identified these pictures as if having studied them for far more years then his eight years to the present.
As a believer in passion and dreams I was and continue to be impressed that one so young should be gifted with such innate interest and passion. Bring so impressed, I researched and created pictorial and written histories of the Lamborghini and Bugatti automobiles mounted impeccably, each in their own 11.5” x 11” frames. For Kyle such passion is the recipe for immense success. Persons like Bill Gates and Donald Trump are supreme examples of successful hobbyists. I think it was Andre Agassi who said, “I am so blessed to enjoy such a great success by doing my hobby.” Donald Trump said, “To be successful it is imperative that a person must love their work; live for everyday; be excited to get up every morning and conquer more horizons.” I believe Kyle has that kind of passion and all around him should do everything to encourage, support, and feed his passion and interest.
Passion is not fickle; is not temporary; is not overrated. It is a gift from God and should be revered and respected with every fiber. A unique thing about passion is that as goals are met, passions increase. This is why the worlds wealthiest continue to strive. For them, practicing their ‘hobby’ is not ‘work’; it is their joy of living.
I hope I am alive to know of Kyle’s achievements!
Are America’s youth “ready” to work?
Not prepared, but ready!
By Arnold Sherr
The following list of skills which, according to Dawn Rosenberg McKay, are necessary if our youth are to survive in the workplace.
Dawn Rosenberg McKay is a career planning professional with eighteen years of experience. She is the author of several books on this subject.
Experience: Dawn has been the Career Planning Guide on About.com since 1997. She ran a job and education information center at a large public library for over five years, working with clients who were going through career transitions, such as career change and job loss. Dawn also assisted new high school and college graduates during the transition from school to starting a career. She has led workshops on resume writing, job interviewing, networking and job searching on the Internet. Dawn is also the author of The Everything Practice Interview Book and The Everything Get-a-Job Book, both published by Adams Media, as well as several civil service test preparation books that were published by Peterson's and Pearson Education.
Education: Dawn completed the Career Development Facilitator Certificate Program at Hofstra University in 1999. She also earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Hofstra and a Master's Degree from the City University of New York - Queen's College.
Dawn wrote the following as published on About.com: What Skills Will Your Child Need to Succeed?
We all want our children to be successful in life. We hope to one day see them in satisfying careers with the promise of growth. The thought of seeing our children in dead-end jobs saddens us. We wonder, though, if there's anything we can do to help ensure that they are successful.
In 1990, then Secretary of Labor Lynn Martin wondered the same thing and formed the Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS). Martin asked the Commission, comprised of representatives from schools, government, unions, and corporate America, to examine the demands of the workplace and to determine whether American youth are capable of meeting those demands. After a year of talking to employers, supervisors, workers, and union officials, the Commission identified a set of competencies and foundation skills, known as SCANS, skills that everyone entering the workforce must have.
SCANS Skills
Following are the eight areas the Commission identified as being essential for both students who are going directly to work after high school and those who are going on to college.
SCANS skills are made up of five competencies and three foundation skills. Competencies and foundation skills are intertwined -- They are used together and should be learned together.
The Five Competencies
Resources
· allocates time
· allocates money
· allocates material and facility resources
· allocates human resources
Interpersonal
· participates as a member of a team
· teaches others
· serves clients/customers
· exercises leadership
· negotiates
· works with cultural diversity
Information
· acquires and evaluates information
· organizes and maintains information
· interprets and communicates information
· uses computers to process information.
Systems
· understands systems
· monitors and corrects performance
· improves and designs systems
Technology
· selects technology
· applies technology to task
· maintains and troubleshoots technology
Not prepared, but ready!
By Arnold Sherr
The following list of skills which, according to Dawn Rosenberg McKay, are necessary if our youth are to survive in the workplace.
Dawn Rosenberg McKay is a career planning professional with eighteen years of experience. She is the author of several books on this subject.
Experience: Dawn has been the Career Planning Guide on About.com since 1997. She ran a job and education information center at a large public library for over five years, working with clients who were going through career transitions, such as career change and job loss. Dawn also assisted new high school and college graduates during the transition from school to starting a career. She has led workshops on resume writing, job interviewing, networking and job searching on the Internet. Dawn is also the author of The Everything Practice Interview Book and The Everything Get-a-Job Book, both published by Adams Media, as well as several civil service test preparation books that were published by Peterson's and Pearson Education.
Education: Dawn completed the Career Development Facilitator Certificate Program at Hofstra University in 1999. She also earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Hofstra and a Master's Degree from the City University of New York - Queen's College.
Dawn wrote the following as published on About.com: What Skills Will Your Child Need to Succeed?
We all want our children to be successful in life. We hope to one day see them in satisfying careers with the promise of growth. The thought of seeing our children in dead-end jobs saddens us. We wonder, though, if there's anything we can do to help ensure that they are successful.
In 1990, then Secretary of Labor Lynn Martin wondered the same thing and formed the Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS). Martin asked the Commission, comprised of representatives from schools, government, unions, and corporate America, to examine the demands of the workplace and to determine whether American youth are capable of meeting those demands. After a year of talking to employers, supervisors, workers, and union officials, the Commission identified a set of competencies and foundation skills, known as SCANS, skills that everyone entering the workforce must have.
SCANS Skills
Following are the eight areas the Commission identified as being essential for both students who are going directly to work after high school and those who are going on to college.
SCANS skills are made up of five competencies and three foundation skills. Competencies and foundation skills are intertwined -- They are used together and should be learned together.
The Five Competencies
Resources
· allocates time
· allocates money
· allocates material and facility resources
· allocates human resources
Interpersonal
· participates as a member of a team
· teaches others
· serves clients/customers
· exercises leadership
· negotiates
· works with cultural diversity
Information
· acquires and evaluates information
· organizes and maintains information
· interprets and communicates information
· uses computers to process information.
Systems
· understands systems
· monitors and corrects performance
· improves and designs systems
Technology
· selects technology
· applies technology to task
· maintains and troubleshoots technology
The Three Foundation Skills
- Basic Skills:
· reading
· writing
· mathematics (arithmetical computation and mathematical reasoning)
· listening
· speaking - Thinking Skills:
· creative thinking
· making decisions
· solving problems
· seeing things in the mind's eye
· knowing how to learn
· reasoning - Personal Qualities:
· individual responsibility
· self-esteem
· sociability
· self-management
· integrity
Ms. McKay, I could not be more in-line with what you’ve written. However, I submit that endearing at least a preponderance of the above KSA’s (Knowledge, Skills & Attributes) does not a successful employee make!
Over my lifetime I have, as an integral part of my professional responsibilities recruited, interview, hired, and trained numerous individuals for a vast selection of career paths. Many were adept at most that is of your list; many were not so pre-equipped. But more important than bearing an arsenal of the above, I was more impressed with an applicant’s intellectual prowess, comprehensive probabilities, and all forms of communication vehicles. Much of the above may be learned while on the job. With the exception of a select few that possess certain innate qualities, many of which are less likely learned by the time an individual is of age to enter the workforce, most may only be able to function tasks as they may realistically lack innovative, flexible, and uniquely creative challenge solving skills and as well, leadership potential; knowing and doing are for many, very far apart.
Comparative results proved after from having hired those persons I believed were coachable with important innate attributes like positive mental proclivities, assumptive nature, energetic, creative in both thinking and executions, outgoing and personable, and a demeanor which attracts and encourages enthusiasm and conversely, sedates hostilities.
I am complicit that those who would be equipped so well as to be all that you list would most likely be the 20% of the Pareto rule. Realistically, your depiction is but a dream, certainly not a probable reality for a couple of reasons:
1. Of your list you suggest parents teach this prodigious quantity
2. I challenge anyone to find even a small group of parents so well equipped as to be able to adequately achieve what you suggest of them
As a manager, an employer, and as a human being I feel it is my responsibility to, after hiring according to the profile I have designed for my staffs, to gradually introduce these KSA’s, as many as is possible in the order of their relevance, as part of ongoing development and training program. It is too bad present day corporate culture has forgotten these basic human generosities.
Moreover, even with all you and I have related, our youth are much less motivated than when I was a much younger and ambitious career prospect. I’ve spoken with many employers and they all seem to agree today’s youth want jobs, but do not want to work once they are employed.
So, if parents are to ingrain within their kids anything, it should be a “work ethic.”
I am regretful that verbal parental teachings are majorly insufficient to a winning result. What is proved effective are those parents who by example practice excellent work ethic not only at work, but at home and with and of everything they undertake, even the fun things and family activities. It takes a well honed and engrained “performance ethic” to contribute equally and impressively within the larger “work ethic.” Most times when children are witness to hardworking parents, they absorb subliminally from that which they are exposed. However, this is but one quality; when practiced at work it falls under the category of “work ethic.” Morality spans all and has no boundaries; you have it or you don’t.
Employers who seek morality among applicants may find better attrition, a larger promotion pool, and excelled productivity. Employees who practice an excellent “work ethic” generally grow and prosper without limitations.
How corporate America has redefined the human factor!
I’m sorry, perhaps it has been eliminated altogether, ya’ think?
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info
Martin Luther King, Jr. coined a phrase in pursuit of equal rights for African Americans. It seems that phrase like many that make important points has been copied, imitated, and even plagiarized by many famous and infamous people since he made his great and inspiring speech.
Well, I too have a dream! Actually, what I am having is a déjà vu. What you may be having is a ‘dream’. A dream that employees are once again treated as human beings. That they have families, homes, pets, bills, expenses, and plans for their futures. The reality is, the once important and revered human condition is no longer in the business ethics handbook; a handbook that contained words and definitions like prosperity, growth, family values, personal health, marriage stability, quality of life, happiness, and more.
And why would any of us wish for such a dream? Perhaps it is because humans thirst for that which is forbidden and elusive. Certainly in the corporate workplace today the reality of this dream has been discarded forever.
Global corporations have but two goals: profits and growth. They stop at nothing to meet their goals even at the expense of humanity.
The race for President is down to five candidates: McCain, Huckabee, Paul, Obama, and Clinton. Of all they speak, none addresses how employees are measured not in terms of humanity, but in terms of their equity value for their God-like employers; their salaries less the value of their productivity equals for corporate America profits which are analogous to markups derived from product and/or service sales.
No longer is it practical to dedicate entire life spans to a single employer nor does the employer expect same. Employees are only important for what they have done lately. But then again, is that not true of life in general?
“Yesterday’s shinings quickly loose their luster when yesterday becomes today.” - Arnold Sherr
It is no longer prudent to settle-in too comfortably. Once new jobs are started expectations of significant raises are severely overblown. Factually, raises seldom make a dent when compared the rate of inflation (CPI). For most the only way to keep up with inflation is to market one’s self periodically for new employment. Since each position expands our personal portfolios it is a better shot to significantly increase personal incomes by perusing new and exciting opportunities.
Be mindful, global warming is soon to make available many new high paying opportunities. Consider expanding your academic attributes by enrolling in curriculums that shall prepare you for that which is assured to be America’s upcoming domestic career ops menu.
Be first in line, it is a given that these jobs will eventually follow the in-sourcing theorem. Corporate America feels no loyalty to any single nation or society only to growth and profits.
I’m sorry, perhaps it has been eliminated altogether, ya’ think?
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info
Martin Luther King, Jr. coined a phrase in pursuit of equal rights for African Americans. It seems that phrase like many that make important points has been copied, imitated, and even plagiarized by many famous and infamous people since he made his great and inspiring speech.
Well, I too have a dream! Actually, what I am having is a déjà vu. What you may be having is a ‘dream’. A dream that employees are once again treated as human beings. That they have families, homes, pets, bills, expenses, and plans for their futures. The reality is, the once important and revered human condition is no longer in the business ethics handbook; a handbook that contained words and definitions like prosperity, growth, family values, personal health, marriage stability, quality of life, happiness, and more.
And why would any of us wish for such a dream? Perhaps it is because humans thirst for that which is forbidden and elusive. Certainly in the corporate workplace today the reality of this dream has been discarded forever.
Global corporations have but two goals: profits and growth. They stop at nothing to meet their goals even at the expense of humanity.
The race for President is down to five candidates: McCain, Huckabee, Paul, Obama, and Clinton. Of all they speak, none addresses how employees are measured not in terms of humanity, but in terms of their equity value for their God-like employers; their salaries less the value of their productivity equals for corporate America profits which are analogous to markups derived from product and/or service sales.
No longer is it practical to dedicate entire life spans to a single employer nor does the employer expect same. Employees are only important for what they have done lately. But then again, is that not true of life in general?
“Yesterday’s shinings quickly loose their luster when yesterday becomes today.” - Arnold Sherr
It is no longer prudent to settle-in too comfortably. Once new jobs are started expectations of significant raises are severely overblown. Factually, raises seldom make a dent when compared the rate of inflation (CPI). For most the only way to keep up with inflation is to market one’s self periodically for new employment. Since each position expands our personal portfolios it is a better shot to significantly increase personal incomes by perusing new and exciting opportunities.
Be mindful, global warming is soon to make available many new high paying opportunities. Consider expanding your academic attributes by enrolling in curriculums that shall prepare you for that which is assured to be America’s upcoming domestic career ops menu.
Be first in line, it is a given that these jobs will eventually follow the in-sourcing theorem. Corporate America feels no loyalty to any single nation or society only to growth and profits.
“Thou protesteth too much”
The personal rage that is festering over the Iraq War
By Arnold Sherr
That which I am about to write many would suggest is dangerous ground. It is of the most divisive and emotional partitions of human emotion displayed openly since the Vietnam War. Many who demonstrate against the Iraq war, its justification, its failed strategy, its ambiguous interpretations, its controversial and split loyalties, its present and what is opinioned as a hopeless state seem unable to separate the well-being of the troops who regardless of why they are there are non-the-less Americans and who believe or not their presence is of a noble cause should without exception be prayed for by every American as if they, our men and women in uniform were of their own families. Moreover, in the sense that we are all Americans we are indeed, family.
I served honorably during the Vietnam era and I must attest I am ashamed and embarrassed for those who returned home from Vietnam to face an ungrateful, angry, and ambivalent America. There were no ticker-tape parades, no celebratory expressions of gratitude, and only after years of national guilt did America build monuments to honor those who so bravely perished in one of histories most difficult and dangerous wartime environments.
Earlier this evening I spoke with Angela Le May, Editor and Chief of the Tampa Bay Informer. She spoke of a group of anti-Iraq war protestors who, since July 7, 2007 have routinely gathered at the Marina at Dunedin. They gather there to protest the war every Wednesday afternoon at 4:30 PM. Angela approached one of the protestors only to be met by stubbornness. They, I’ll call them the Dunedin Marina Protestors, are impassioned by a rage unbendable and reactions to passersby who seem of opposing points of view with defiant yells and gestures.
I am fretful that another historically embarrassing Vietnam-like homecoming may be evolving. Those who are risking all for what may be their beliefs whether in support or not of the reasons they are waging war in Iraq to begin with are in-fact American heroes. To those who wish to withdraw their support of the troops for any reason, there are no reasons sustainable as justification for doing so.
Is it okay to protest the war? Yes! Is it okay to despise the present administration for having sent us there? Yes! Is it okay to stand-aside support of our men and women who as dedicated military obeyed what many feel were unwise orders of their Commander in Chief? No it is not!
A retired Marine, Derrick Haefs who dresses in a blue “Captain America” super hero outfit while standing on a ladder waiving an American Flag and holding a sign stating “I support the troops and the War” is opposing the Anti-War, Anti-Bush protestors at the Marina in Dunedin and this writer feels he is equally entitled for his actions. More than just Derrick’s efforts, a group of motorcyclists known as the “Patriot Guard Riders” - http://www.patriotguard.org/ - has been increasing their presence along-side in support while he counter-protests on Wednesday afternoons.
What about our constitutional right to protest peacefully and openly? Truthfully, many protest the war, hate Bush, and want us out of Iraq. I fully support their right to demonstrate
Derrick Haefs, a few Patriot Guard Riders & Italian Angels against just as I support Derrick’s right to demonstrate for. What is unacceptable is standing for any position that would hurt or otherwise deprive our troops in any way.
Are some Americans so out of touch with compassion, concern, gratitude, caring, and all other human empathies? It is well they understand something about the troops that may change their perceptions of why the troops seem and are so dedicated within the performance of their ordered tasks.
Simply that they have and continue to obey their Commander in Chief and have performed magnificently is not an endorsement of political policy. In fact, after a time living within Iraq zones of danger they become more loyal to each other’s survival than to any political agenda, past and/or present. Many after furlough beg to return if only to protect the personal alliances they have formed in the sandy battlefields of Iraq, those who fought beside them day after day, political reasons and objectives aside. They have indeed become brothers and sisters. So, keep this in mind; it is heartless to condemn the troops simply because the war is loosing public support as ‘watched pots never boil’. Believing in the Constitution, I’ve no reason to protest their rights of protest. In the end that which I pray for so diligently is a warm homecoming, not the ungrateful display of ambivalence and apathy such as that which was met by our troops returning from the war that played out in the jungles of Vietnam.
Of course, it is not my mission herein to teach the Constitution but to explain among other things the presence of an ever growing organization of bikers who travel America in support of our troops, many in support of the war. They, the “Patriot Guard Riders” have been and continue to grow by huge numbers. I am warmed by the prospect that the “Patriot Guard Riders” will guarantee the ticker-tape parades, the monuments to the our fallen, and that we shall never forget those who have not only perished, but will live the remainder of their lives with prosthetics, in wheelchairs, in VA domiciles, in homeless centers, under psychiatric care, and more.
The Dunedin Marina Protestors, not as yet a significant presence nationally, but theirs and the voices of others similar are becoming more prevalent as the war continues.
Michael E. Ruane, a Washington Post Staff Writer reported on Thursday, March 20, 2008: “There was a brass band of protesters dressed in green. There was a woman in a pink bed being pushed through busy downtown D.C. intersections. There were demonstrators in black who lay down in the middle of the street.” His article aptly entitled “Cries against War Sparse but Fierce, Fewer Than 1,000 Protest; 33 Arrested in Scattered Displays in the District” is but another indication of growing opposition over what many feel, like Vietnam, was and is an unjust military exercise for reasons other than originally portrayed. An Internet search yields numerous reports of protests ‘against’.
As for Derrick Haefs, after a lengthy exchange less than 20 minutes ago, of beliefs and ideas; he and I not always on the same page, we mutually respect a new-found connection, not based on total agreement but rather on an intense appreciation for each other’s passions but even more important, our differences. The Dunedin Marina Protestors have tired numerous times and in many ways to encourage Derrick to abandon his presence of opposition, whereas he holds no personal grievance against those of whom he opposes because he fully believes for everyone the words of the First Amendment apply; “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
The personal rage that is festering over the Iraq War
By Arnold Sherr
That which I am about to write many would suggest is dangerous ground. It is of the most divisive and emotional partitions of human emotion displayed openly since the Vietnam War. Many who demonstrate against the Iraq war, its justification, its failed strategy, its ambiguous interpretations, its controversial and split loyalties, its present and what is opinioned as a hopeless state seem unable to separate the well-being of the troops who regardless of why they are there are non-the-less Americans and who believe or not their presence is of a noble cause should without exception be prayed for by every American as if they, our men and women in uniform were of their own families. Moreover, in the sense that we are all Americans we are indeed, family.
I served honorably during the Vietnam era and I must attest I am ashamed and embarrassed for those who returned home from Vietnam to face an ungrateful, angry, and ambivalent America. There were no ticker-tape parades, no celebratory expressions of gratitude, and only after years of national guilt did America build monuments to honor those who so bravely perished in one of histories most difficult and dangerous wartime environments.
Earlier this evening I spoke with Angela Le May, Editor and Chief of the Tampa Bay Informer. She spoke of a group of anti-Iraq war protestors who, since July 7, 2007 have routinely gathered at the Marina at Dunedin. They gather there to protest the war every Wednesday afternoon at 4:30 PM. Angela approached one of the protestors only to be met by stubbornness. They, I’ll call them the Dunedin Marina Protestors, are impassioned by a rage unbendable and reactions to passersby who seem of opposing points of view with defiant yells and gestures.
I am fretful that another historically embarrassing Vietnam-like homecoming may be evolving. Those who are risking all for what may be their beliefs whether in support or not of the reasons they are waging war in Iraq to begin with are in-fact American heroes. To those who wish to withdraw their support of the troops for any reason, there are no reasons sustainable as justification for doing so.
Is it okay to protest the war? Yes! Is it okay to despise the present administration for having sent us there? Yes! Is it okay to stand-aside support of our men and women who as dedicated military obeyed what many feel were unwise orders of their Commander in Chief? No it is not!
A retired Marine, Derrick Haefs who dresses in a blue “Captain America” super hero outfit while standing on a ladder waiving an American Flag and holding a sign stating “I support the troops and the War” is opposing the Anti-War, Anti-Bush protestors at the Marina in Dunedin and this writer feels he is equally entitled for his actions. More than just Derrick’s efforts, a group of motorcyclists known as the “Patriot Guard Riders” - http://www.patriotguard.org/ - has been increasing their presence along-side in support while he counter-protests on Wednesday afternoons.
What about our constitutional right to protest peacefully and openly? Truthfully, many protest the war, hate Bush, and want us out of Iraq. I fully support their right to demonstrate
Derrick Haefs, a few Patriot Guard Riders & Italian Angels against just as I support Derrick’s right to demonstrate for. What is unacceptable is standing for any position that would hurt or otherwise deprive our troops in any way.
Are some Americans so out of touch with compassion, concern, gratitude, caring, and all other human empathies? It is well they understand something about the troops that may change their perceptions of why the troops seem and are so dedicated within the performance of their ordered tasks.
Simply that they have and continue to obey their Commander in Chief and have performed magnificently is not an endorsement of political policy. In fact, after a time living within Iraq zones of danger they become more loyal to each other’s survival than to any political agenda, past and/or present. Many after furlough beg to return if only to protect the personal alliances they have formed in the sandy battlefields of Iraq, those who fought beside them day after day, political reasons and objectives aside. They have indeed become brothers and sisters. So, keep this in mind; it is heartless to condemn the troops simply because the war is loosing public support as ‘watched pots never boil’. Believing in the Constitution, I’ve no reason to protest their rights of protest. In the end that which I pray for so diligently is a warm homecoming, not the ungrateful display of ambivalence and apathy such as that which was met by our troops returning from the war that played out in the jungles of Vietnam.
Of course, it is not my mission herein to teach the Constitution but to explain among other things the presence of an ever growing organization of bikers who travel America in support of our troops, many in support of the war. They, the “Patriot Guard Riders” have been and continue to grow by huge numbers. I am warmed by the prospect that the “Patriot Guard Riders” will guarantee the ticker-tape parades, the monuments to the our fallen, and that we shall never forget those who have not only perished, but will live the remainder of their lives with prosthetics, in wheelchairs, in VA domiciles, in homeless centers, under psychiatric care, and more.
The Dunedin Marina Protestors, not as yet a significant presence nationally, but theirs and the voices of others similar are becoming more prevalent as the war continues.
Michael E. Ruane, a Washington Post Staff Writer reported on Thursday, March 20, 2008: “There was a brass band of protesters dressed in green. There was a woman in a pink bed being pushed through busy downtown D.C. intersections. There were demonstrators in black who lay down in the middle of the street.” His article aptly entitled “Cries against War Sparse but Fierce, Fewer Than 1,000 Protest; 33 Arrested in Scattered Displays in the District” is but another indication of growing opposition over what many feel, like Vietnam, was and is an unjust military exercise for reasons other than originally portrayed. An Internet search yields numerous reports of protests ‘against’.
As for Derrick Haefs, after a lengthy exchange less than 20 minutes ago, of beliefs and ideas; he and I not always on the same page, we mutually respect a new-found connection, not based on total agreement but rather on an intense appreciation for each other’s passions but even more important, our differences. The Dunedin Marina Protestors have tired numerous times and in many ways to encourage Derrick to abandon his presence of opposition, whereas he holds no personal grievance against those of whom he opposes because he fully believes for everyone the words of the First Amendment apply; “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
The answer: Jimmy Buffett, Coral Reefer Band, the Eagles
The question: What is a Parrott Head?
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info/AskArnie.php
Timothy B. Schmit, a one-time member of the Coral Reefer Band; now with the Eagles, at a Jimmy Buffett concert at the Timberwolf Amphitheater outside Cincinnati, Ohio coined those entitled “Parrot Heads” because they most always had attended Buffett concerts wearing Hawaiian shirts, flip-flops and board shorts, or grass skirts and coconut bras while drinking margaritas, and still do!.
Groups known as Parrott Heads Clubs, “Party with a Purpose”; diverse from their usual celebratory get-togethers like happy hours, Meeting of the Minds @ Key West they contribute to and participate in various charitable causes routinely/causes like Toys for Tots drive, blood drives, raffles, and other events to raise money. Parrott Heads organizations have raised serious monies for environmental causes, cancer and Alzheimer's research, the March of Dimes, and so very much more.
Today, June 7, 2008 in Palm Harbor, the Tampa Bay Area Parrott Heads http://finsup.com/ are playing out a fund raiser to benefit “The Save the Manatee Club”; just another of many causes worthy of personal human sacrifice through volunteerism.
Covering the event, as I did today with others from the Tampa Bay Informer, I am indeed impressed and encouraged to ask myself, “When last have I volunteered to participate physically in such a fund raiser?” Furthermore, what is a person’s make-up that brings out such admirable and giving expressions of humanism?
Up until December 06 and of the five years preceding, Parrott Heads have raised more than $10.5 Million from almost 1.8 Million Volunteer Hours. Bob Heffelfinger, Director of Membership for Parrot Heads (http://www.phip.com/State.asp) reports in 2207 the club count was 200+ and memberships exceeded 3500. Perusing the internet yields too huge the list of charitable causes to express herein, however these unique, and what are to most and especially to me, I am embarrassed to admit, relatively unknown givers of good are giving of themselves 24/7, if not physically then mentally. Through their generous efforts many causes from the most obscure to the most publicized of venues are able to foster results better than had not the Parrott Heads enhanced their respective financial resources.
Having said and given great tribute to America’s and the Tampa Bay Area Parrott Heads I must place special emphasis on a group, also well committed to humanitarian generosities. In an article written by me and published in the Tampa Bay Informer’s volume 5, issue 8, (June 2008) THOU PROTESTETH TOO MUCH, I gave special attention to a biker group famously recognized as the “Patriot Guard Riders.” Well, I am happy to allay the list of biker clubs whose agenda makes for all of us an America that is a better place in which to live is also worthy of mine and your adoration and gratitude for not only who they are, but for what they also donate of themselves to and for humanity.
The Italian Angels Motorcycle Brotherhood, Inc. is apart of the Florida Federation of Italian American Clubs, Inc., an organization made of over 50 clubs throughout the State of Florida. From their website (http://ffiac.com): The Federation was an idea started by a group of dedicated men. They shared a dream to enhance the Italian heritage and culture throughout the State of Florida. They held their first meeting in "Hank's Coffee Break Restaurant" in Vero Beach, Florida, in November of 1976. They contacted the Florida Chamber of Commerce for a list of known Italian clubs throughout the State. In turn, each club on the list was contacted and asked to join in this great dream.
The response was overwhelming and a meeting was held in Vero Beach, Florida, to discuss ideas and purpose with a future convention as the target. Through these efforts the first annual convention was held in Vero Beach. By the time the second convention was held, the organization boasted a membership of over twenty-one clubs, almost ten thousand individuals.
Governor Askew and the Mayor of Orlando proclaimed Italian-American Week at this convention. Meetings were to be held quarterly, with locations alternating among the membership clubs.
The question: What is a Parrott Head?
By Arnie Sherr http://sherrent.info/AskArnie.php
Timothy B. Schmit, a one-time member of the Coral Reefer Band; now with the Eagles, at a Jimmy Buffett concert at the Timberwolf Amphitheater outside Cincinnati, Ohio coined those entitled “Parrot Heads” because they most always had attended Buffett concerts wearing Hawaiian shirts, flip-flops and board shorts, or grass skirts and coconut bras while drinking margaritas, and still do!.
Groups known as Parrott Heads Clubs, “Party with a Purpose”; diverse from their usual celebratory get-togethers like happy hours, Meeting of the Minds @ Key West they contribute to and participate in various charitable causes routinely/causes like Toys for Tots drive, blood drives, raffles, and other events to raise money. Parrott Heads organizations have raised serious monies for environmental causes, cancer and Alzheimer's research, the March of Dimes, and so very much more.
Today, June 7, 2008 in Palm Harbor, the Tampa Bay Area Parrott Heads http://finsup.com/ are playing out a fund raiser to benefit “The Save the Manatee Club”; just another of many causes worthy of personal human sacrifice through volunteerism.
Covering the event, as I did today with others from the Tampa Bay Informer, I am indeed impressed and encouraged to ask myself, “When last have I volunteered to participate physically in such a fund raiser?” Furthermore, what is a person’s make-up that brings out such admirable and giving expressions of humanism?
Up until December 06 and of the five years preceding, Parrott Heads have raised more than $10.5 Million from almost 1.8 Million Volunteer Hours. Bob Heffelfinger, Director of Membership for Parrot Heads (http://www.phip.com/State.asp) reports in 2207 the club count was 200+ and memberships exceeded 3500. Perusing the internet yields too huge the list of charitable causes to express herein, however these unique, and what are to most and especially to me, I am embarrassed to admit, relatively unknown givers of good are giving of themselves 24/7, if not physically then mentally. Through their generous efforts many causes from the most obscure to the most publicized of venues are able to foster results better than had not the Parrott Heads enhanced their respective financial resources.
Having said and given great tribute to America’s and the Tampa Bay Area Parrott Heads I must place special emphasis on a group, also well committed to humanitarian generosities. In an article written by me and published in the Tampa Bay Informer’s volume 5, issue 8, (June 2008) THOU PROTESTETH TOO MUCH, I gave special attention to a biker group famously recognized as the “Patriot Guard Riders.” Well, I am happy to allay the list of biker clubs whose agenda makes for all of us an America that is a better place in which to live is also worthy of mine and your adoration and gratitude for not only who they are, but for what they also donate of themselves to and for humanity.
The Italian Angels Motorcycle Brotherhood, Inc. is apart of the Florida Federation of Italian American Clubs, Inc., an organization made of over 50 clubs throughout the State of Florida. From their website (http://ffiac.com): The Federation was an idea started by a group of dedicated men. They shared a dream to enhance the Italian heritage and culture throughout the State of Florida. They held their first meeting in "Hank's Coffee Break Restaurant" in Vero Beach, Florida, in November of 1976. They contacted the Florida Chamber of Commerce for a list of known Italian clubs throughout the State. In turn, each club on the list was contacted and asked to join in this great dream.
The response was overwhelming and a meeting was held in Vero Beach, Florida, to discuss ideas and purpose with a future convention as the target. Through these efforts the first annual convention was held in Vero Beach. By the time the second convention was held, the organization boasted a membership of over twenty-one clubs, almost ten thousand individuals.
Governor Askew and the Mayor of Orlando proclaimed Italian-American Week at this convention. Meetings were to be held quarterly, with locations alternating among the membership clubs.
- To date there are fifty-six Italian-American Clubs that hold a membership in the Federation and it is still growing. Their Mission:
- To promote mutual aid, understanding, communication and education for the purpose of bettering the welfare of our member organizations.
- To uphold the dignity and ethics of the Italian heritage.
- To protect the interests of the members from adversaries, public or private.
- To establish, coordinate and sponsor activities which will aid the furtherance of the objectives of the Federation-create and promote the welfare of all Italian Americans.
Their Motto…
WHAT IS DONE IS DONE! WHAT WE DO, IS HOW WE WILL BE JUDGED, LET US UNITE!
Reporting of such events is for me an eye-opener. Via TV sets, from newspapers, and from that which I hear environmentally, awareness of these charitable events is apparent, but for me what has been amiss is the effort and dedication expended willfully by volunteers with such magnanimous character; they who stand at the booths barking out loudly “Have you tried our Italian Sausage”? “Hot Dogs - have tasty hot dog, and more.” Every breath, every word meant to raise monies for one or another worthy cause.
Today at the Parrott Heads event in Palm Harbor the Italian Angels Motorcycle Brotherhood was there enthusiastically presenting for charitable profits tasty Italian sausage sandwiches with roasted green peppers on warm sub roles and selling their own club tee shirts to benefit yet another charitable cause.
For me, and I submit most like me simply donate by buying the Italian sausage sandwich (yum-yum) and a tee shirt or as it has been my practice as I grow older and become less enticed to physical participation, if I ever was, I write a check and mark on the memo line “donation.”
Frankly, since wisdom - speaking for me - comes with age, I’ve never demonstrated voluntary expressions of charity as part of a group or team. For individuals in need I’ve definitely made many marks, however I am awed by the good that is shaped when such good is from the heartfully driven efforts of groups and/or organizations like the Italian Angels Motorcycle Brotherhood, the Italian-American Clubs, and the many Parrott Heads chapters; other charitable groups like them are a growing culture that is weaving goodness and greatness throughout America’s society. Many say, America’s government is broken; certainly the hearts of America are well and living on!
As the saying goes, “Not only is there safety in numbers; results are compounded by those numbers and accelerated by the contagion of passion and enthusiasm” - Arnold Sherr
The answer to another question; The poor, the needy, the endangered, they who protest for that which is right, for a wing at a children’s hospital, for Alzheimer’s, for cancer research, for our brave soldiers returning home, for the 47 million kids without health insurance, for Toys for Tots, for ADD/ADHD/OCD, and so much more.
And the question is; what are some of the causes for which the Italian Angels Motorcycle Brotherhood, the Florida Federation of Italian American Clubs, and the many Parrott Heads clubs volunteer unselfishly their efforts for the purpose of raising much needed donations and revenue?
Take a breath; think for a moment; there is no Jeopardy in actually performing the answers and asking the questions after- the-fact.
“The benefits of giving shall be as generous as or greater than that which is given”
- Arnold Sherr
Estranged Dads and their Kids
One Dad’s depiction
As reported by Arnold Sherr
In 2004, 73.2 million children under age 18 lived in American households. Of those 19.3 million lived with one parent; 88% of which or 16.98 million lived without their Dads at home. (U S C E N S U S B U R E A U 2004)
What an astounding statistic. Of course there are other recipes of family make-up within the 2004 Census report from which the above was extrapolated. But, in and of this report, it is of kids living in absence of their biological Dads that is this writers theme.
Dissolution of this marriage happened when the families’ boy child was near one year of age and the girl child was within the mother’s second trimester. Mom and Dad arranged with the help of a Lawyer, a relative, an agreement satisfactory of support and visitation unregulated by the courts, not the practice in the early 70’s. Both children, while living with their mother would be destined to tolerate Mom’s two additional marriages during the next fourteen and one half years. Since Mom’s temperament was manipulative and charged with verbal explosions of anger and scolding’s, her two successive but short re-attempts at marriage also ended in failure.
Biological Dad, who while living in another State made several attempts to exercise visitations as delineated in and of their agreement but was denied that right repeatedly over those fourteen and one half years. At the advice of an attorney who was referred by a cousin, also an attorney of a specialty other than domestics, Dad was advised to be patient, that his day to be part of his kid’s lives not far into the future. The rationale was that since over the preceding ten years Dad’s once-spouse never requested or sought a court ordered support increase, it was well advised to be patient; that the court would most likely four-times the present support amount which in essence would have succeeded only in bankrupting Dad and the result, Mom would simply continue blocking visitations only at the risk of being slapped on the hand by the courts should Dad fight her legally. No surprises here; a common scenario I am sure!
The children of this dysfunction were to be exposed for the fourteen and one half year void of biological Dad’s presence to verbal abuses, couple fighting’s and arguments, and Mom’s addiction to spending which left the family unit in difficult financial straights between and after Mom’s three marriages, such as they were. In fact, up until this very day, some 25 years later, Mom still lives the life of a precarious spender who only a few short months ago was forced to sell her house of 37 years to prevent foreclosure due to non-payment of property taxes. The real crime hereof was the poor environment in which both children of the original marriage were exposed. Biological Dad, having been kept from exerting positives influences which may have softened the resulting damages evident in and of both children of who are today adults 39 and 41 years of age respectively, is indeed regretful.
The boy child, now a man age 41 effectively processed and managed well his issues and went on to achieve two associate degrees and most recently, at age 40, a four year BS in Psychology. He and Dad have developed over the past 25 years a mutual bond of love and respect unparalleled. But of his daughter, now 39, biological Dad is not so fortunate.
Issues of sibling rivalry and claims of Mom’s verbal abuses rein havoc over any reasonable chance for biological Dad to have ever grown a loving and respectful relationship with his daughter. In addition to her inability to accept and deal with her issues of the past, she is ever more burdened with health challenges, a stubbornness that precludes outside demonstrations of caring and love, and a conceit that promotes her desire to decision without guidance at the expense of costly mistakes and poor judgmental decisions. She has built a wall that repels any attempts by Dad to build that loving relationship he dreamed of for so many years hence, 39 to be exact.
This girl child, now a woman faults her biological Dad for having not been there to protect her from the abuses and to generally protect her interests during her first fourteen and one half years; that Dad is in essence culpable for it all. She complains verbally about her Mom, but when in her presence hugs and kisses dominate. Is Dad missing something? Perhaps the irony hereof!
What adds most painfully to this sadness is the presence of his eight year old granddaughter, born out of wedlock, for which biological Dad will once again suffer estrangement. Of his only grandchild he hopes to live long enough that he will once again be privy to enjoy a grandfather/granddaughter relationship such that he was unable to experience with his biological daughter.
His daughter married only a month ago and Dad chose not to attend because he was convinced of her disingenuous invitation; Dad’s invite was at the advice of another.
After interviewing this father and understanding that his story, although unique and painful to him, is but one of many of which the end result is similar, if not a mirror image.
There are Dads who dedicate their lives to their children of past marriages and there are Dads who for whatever rationale – certainly there are no justifiable reasons - divorce their kids at the same moment they divorce their spouses. I am not adept of psychiatric theorem nor statistically prepared to dwell on this intricate subject, but I can attest to this Dad’s pain; what he feels is akin to have lost a daughter to the unthinkable. He lives his life without obvious display but as he relates with sorrow, fantasies of his once dreamed of father/daughter relationship seem more elusive as time expends his remaining years. For him this fantasy is as chanced as the unknown length of his time left to fantasize-on.
One Dad’s depiction
As reported by Arnold Sherr
In 2004, 73.2 million children under age 18 lived in American households. Of those 19.3 million lived with one parent; 88% of which or 16.98 million lived without their Dads at home. (U S C E N S U S B U R E A U 2004)
What an astounding statistic. Of course there are other recipes of family make-up within the 2004 Census report from which the above was extrapolated. But, in and of this report, it is of kids living in absence of their biological Dads that is this writers theme.
Dissolution of this marriage happened when the families’ boy child was near one year of age and the girl child was within the mother’s second trimester. Mom and Dad arranged with the help of a Lawyer, a relative, an agreement satisfactory of support and visitation unregulated by the courts, not the practice in the early 70’s. Both children, while living with their mother would be destined to tolerate Mom’s two additional marriages during the next fourteen and one half years. Since Mom’s temperament was manipulative and charged with verbal explosions of anger and scolding’s, her two successive but short re-attempts at marriage also ended in failure.
Biological Dad, who while living in another State made several attempts to exercise visitations as delineated in and of their agreement but was denied that right repeatedly over those fourteen and one half years. At the advice of an attorney who was referred by a cousin, also an attorney of a specialty other than domestics, Dad was advised to be patient, that his day to be part of his kid’s lives not far into the future. The rationale was that since over the preceding ten years Dad’s once-spouse never requested or sought a court ordered support increase, it was well advised to be patient; that the court would most likely four-times the present support amount which in essence would have succeeded only in bankrupting Dad and the result, Mom would simply continue blocking visitations only at the risk of being slapped on the hand by the courts should Dad fight her legally. No surprises here; a common scenario I am sure!
The children of this dysfunction were to be exposed for the fourteen and one half year void of biological Dad’s presence to verbal abuses, couple fighting’s and arguments, and Mom’s addiction to spending which left the family unit in difficult financial straights between and after Mom’s three marriages, such as they were. In fact, up until this very day, some 25 years later, Mom still lives the life of a precarious spender who only a few short months ago was forced to sell her house of 37 years to prevent foreclosure due to non-payment of property taxes. The real crime hereof was the poor environment in which both children of the original marriage were exposed. Biological Dad, having been kept from exerting positives influences which may have softened the resulting damages evident in and of both children of who are today adults 39 and 41 years of age respectively, is indeed regretful.
The boy child, now a man age 41 effectively processed and managed well his issues and went on to achieve two associate degrees and most recently, at age 40, a four year BS in Psychology. He and Dad have developed over the past 25 years a mutual bond of love and respect unparalleled. But of his daughter, now 39, biological Dad is not so fortunate.
Issues of sibling rivalry and claims of Mom’s verbal abuses rein havoc over any reasonable chance for biological Dad to have ever grown a loving and respectful relationship with his daughter. In addition to her inability to accept and deal with her issues of the past, she is ever more burdened with health challenges, a stubbornness that precludes outside demonstrations of caring and love, and a conceit that promotes her desire to decision without guidance at the expense of costly mistakes and poor judgmental decisions. She has built a wall that repels any attempts by Dad to build that loving relationship he dreamed of for so many years hence, 39 to be exact.
This girl child, now a woman faults her biological Dad for having not been there to protect her from the abuses and to generally protect her interests during her first fourteen and one half years; that Dad is in essence culpable for it all. She complains verbally about her Mom, but when in her presence hugs and kisses dominate. Is Dad missing something? Perhaps the irony hereof!
What adds most painfully to this sadness is the presence of his eight year old granddaughter, born out of wedlock, for which biological Dad will once again suffer estrangement. Of his only grandchild he hopes to live long enough that he will once again be privy to enjoy a grandfather/granddaughter relationship such that he was unable to experience with his biological daughter.
His daughter married only a month ago and Dad chose not to attend because he was convinced of her disingenuous invitation; Dad’s invite was at the advice of another.
After interviewing this father and understanding that his story, although unique and painful to him, is but one of many of which the end result is similar, if not a mirror image.
There are Dads who dedicate their lives to their children of past marriages and there are Dads who for whatever rationale – certainly there are no justifiable reasons - divorce their kids at the same moment they divorce their spouses. I am not adept of psychiatric theorem nor statistically prepared to dwell on this intricate subject, but I can attest to this Dad’s pain; what he feels is akin to have lost a daughter to the unthinkable. He lives his life without obvious display but as he relates with sorrow, fantasies of his once dreamed of father/daughter relationship seem more elusive as time expends his remaining years. For him this fantasy is as chanced as the unknown length of his time left to fantasize-on.
"You be the judge; I've already made my prediction"
by Arnie Sherr
Written by Arnie Sherr on Jun-5-08 11:21pm
Marc Chamot, thanks again for the gratis and reference.
The pundits, as recent as an hour ago show Barack only 3 points ahead of McCain in the poles. Be that as it may, Barack is now only beginning his general election campaign. It is my appraisal that he will be so much more definitive of explanation with regards to his change and hope agenda that McCain will require wrap-around safety goggles just to keep Obama's smoke from penetrating his eyes as he struggles to follow Obama's growing popularity.
Over the past 15 or so months the pundits have made a habit of comparing both Barack and Hillary's competitive strengths against McCain's. "Who is the strongest candidate that can most effectively topple the McCain long-time dream of the presidency, Barack or Hillary?" As I listened with frustration to their meaningless comparisons I tried feverishly to focus on the reality that either Barack or Hillary shall make of the race an easy time. Still and all, for the lack of newsworthy periods our TV wonder-guys and gals waste little time sensationalizing irrelevant data. Me thinks they mean well. Me thinks they think little about what they mean!
Obama, even in light of Hillary's most criticized speech the other night remains a most gracious prevalent. His respect for his most worthy of opponents, not so long ago opinioned as pandering, has always been consistent and sincere. I admire his interpersonal skills as another indication of his above average ability to lead diplomacy and furthermore, to achieve results at the highest of expectations.
Either or both you or I have referenced America's state of prejudice in prior writings. Many are indeed amazed that a black man no matter how qualified is able to penetrate historical walls of social impedance. As I've attested most prodigiously, focus and genuine goals for the good of the expansive population if presented for all transcend and relegate things as insignificant as prejudice to the very back of the bus, pardon the reference.
Barack’s focus on the totality of America and its citizenry, no matter its diversity has been and remains cause in and of the preponderance of Americans to hear the message and see of the man, not of his ancestry, heritage, religious, or racial climate but more of his expansive stance for the good of "We the People."
I for one am so very ‘turned on’ from this overwhelmingly exciting Democratic Primary. Have you ever watched a tennis match where you held empathy for the “second place winner.” In this race there were no losers, only the winningest of the two shall compete for the highest office in the land.
Together they have earned more than 35 million votes, closely divisive by any standard. Simply by turnout, if the primary is any indication, the Dems shall overcome and secure the Presidency, the Senate and the House. Research of McCain’s popular vote total yields little results. However, viewing the table below shows George Bush’s total popular vote in the Bush v Gore anomaly as a mere 50.4+ million votes and that was in a general election. Both Clinton and Obama, without adding in the elusive caucus vote totals, have a combined voter representation of more than 35 million; certainly it’s been many years since such a primary turn-out has been witnessed which is strong evidence that America is repulsed by the thought of another four years of Bushmanic catastrophic policies.
In the Gore v Bush race the total popular vote for Gore was 50.9+ million and Bush 50.4+ million.
Al Gore (Democrat) 50,999,897 48.38%
George W. Bush (Republican) 50,456,002 47.87%
Gore led Bush by 543,895 votes. Be mindful, the 28% approval rating that gratifies Bush’s failed policies means there could be possibly up to a 22% republican defection to the left.
Amen to that!
by Arnie Sherr
Written by Arnie Sherr on Jun-5-08 11:21pm
Marc Chamot, thanks again for the gratis and reference.
The pundits, as recent as an hour ago show Barack only 3 points ahead of McCain in the poles. Be that as it may, Barack is now only beginning his general election campaign. It is my appraisal that he will be so much more definitive of explanation with regards to his change and hope agenda that McCain will require wrap-around safety goggles just to keep Obama's smoke from penetrating his eyes as he struggles to follow Obama's growing popularity.
Over the past 15 or so months the pundits have made a habit of comparing both Barack and Hillary's competitive strengths against McCain's. "Who is the strongest candidate that can most effectively topple the McCain long-time dream of the presidency, Barack or Hillary?" As I listened with frustration to their meaningless comparisons I tried feverishly to focus on the reality that either Barack or Hillary shall make of the race an easy time. Still and all, for the lack of newsworthy periods our TV wonder-guys and gals waste little time sensationalizing irrelevant data. Me thinks they mean well. Me thinks they think little about what they mean!
Obama, even in light of Hillary's most criticized speech the other night remains a most gracious prevalent. His respect for his most worthy of opponents, not so long ago opinioned as pandering, has always been consistent and sincere. I admire his interpersonal skills as another indication of his above average ability to lead diplomacy and furthermore, to achieve results at the highest of expectations.
Either or both you or I have referenced America's state of prejudice in prior writings. Many are indeed amazed that a black man no matter how qualified is able to penetrate historical walls of social impedance. As I've attested most prodigiously, focus and genuine goals for the good of the expansive population if presented for all transcend and relegate things as insignificant as prejudice to the very back of the bus, pardon the reference.
Barack’s focus on the totality of America and its citizenry, no matter its diversity has been and remains cause in and of the preponderance of Americans to hear the message and see of the man, not of his ancestry, heritage, religious, or racial climate but more of his expansive stance for the good of "We the People."
I for one am so very ‘turned on’ from this overwhelmingly exciting Democratic Primary. Have you ever watched a tennis match where you held empathy for the “second place winner.” In this race there were no losers, only the winningest of the two shall compete for the highest office in the land.
Together they have earned more than 35 million votes, closely divisive by any standard. Simply by turnout, if the primary is any indication, the Dems shall overcome and secure the Presidency, the Senate and the House. Research of McCain’s popular vote total yields little results. However, viewing the table below shows George Bush’s total popular vote in the Bush v Gore anomaly as a mere 50.4+ million votes and that was in a general election. Both Clinton and Obama, without adding in the elusive caucus vote totals, have a combined voter representation of more than 35 million; certainly it’s been many years since such a primary turn-out has been witnessed which is strong evidence that America is repulsed by the thought of another four years of Bushmanic catastrophic policies.
In the Gore v Bush race the total popular vote for Gore was 50.9+ million and Bush 50.4+ million.
Al Gore (Democrat) 50,999,897 48.38%
George W. Bush (Republican) 50,456,002 47.87%
Gore led Bush by 543,895 votes. Be mindful, the 28% approval rating that gratifies Bush’s failed policies means there could be possibly up to a 22% republican defection to the left.
Amen to that!
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