Boston continues. 🖤🐾+ The quietest part so. Less about movement, more about meaning. The kind of things that are always there but rarely named. Silence Is Not Empty. You think silence is the absence of sound. That is because you listen with your ears. I listen with everything. Silence is full. It holds the shape of what should be there. When something changes—even slightly—it becomes obvious. A missing insect. A bird that stops mid-call. Wind that hesitates instead of flowing. These are not small things. They are sentences. The Space Between Us. We are not always close. You inside. Me outside. A door between us. A wall. A pane of glass. And yet— We are rarely separate. You move through your routines, and I move through mine, and somewhere in the middle, those routines overlap just enough to create something steady. You call it companionship. I call it alignment. Why I Don’t Always Come When Called Sometimes you call my name. “Boston.” You expect movement. A response. A return. Sometimes I do. Sometimes I don’t. This is not defiance. It is judgment. If I am needed, I come. If I am in the middle of something that matters, I finish it first. You may not always understand the difference. I do. Belonging Without Being Held I belong here. Not because I am kept. Because I stay. There is a difference. Being owned is a boundary placed from the outside. Belonging is a boundary chosen from within. Every time I leave and come back, I am choosing this place again. That choice matters more than any door, any bowl, any fire. The Way You Look at Me. There are moments when you look at me and forget everything else. You don’t speak. You don’t move. You just look. I feel it. There is weight in that gaze. Not heavy in a bad way—just… full. You are trying to understand something you cannot quite reach. Who I am. What I think. Why I live the way I do. I let you look. I do not explain. Some things lose meaning when translated. Why I Sit Near You (But Not Too Close). When I come inside, sometimes I sit near you—but not touching. Close enough to share space. Far enough to remain myself. This is intentional. Closeness without pressure. Presence without demand. It is a form of respect. The Sound of Your House at Night Houses speak. Wood shifts. Air moves. Small systems hum and click and settle. At night, these sounds become clearer. I learn them. So when something sounds wrong, I know immediately. Most of the time, nothing is wrong. But knowing that matters. Love, Defined Correctly You think love is warmth and closeness and soft things. Sometimes it is. But more often, love is consistency. I return. You open the door. I speak. You listen. Over and over. No surprises. No conditions. Just repetition that builds trust so slowly you don’t notice it happening. Until one day, it’s just there. Solid. The Nights When I Stay Out Longer. Sometimes I stay out longer than usual. You notice. You try not to worry, but it builds anyway. Those nights are not accidents. Something has shifted. Something needs more attention. Something requires me to extend beyond routine. I always return. But I understand the stretch of time feels different to you. If I Could Explain One Thing Clearly It would be this: I am not choosing away from you when I am outside. I am choosing for something larger that includes you. This land. This quiet. This pattern we live inside. You are part of it. You are not separate from it. When Everything Is Exactly Right There are rare moments when everything aligns. The temperature is perfect. The air is still but not empty. The night is calm but not silent. You are inside, at rest. I am outside, alert but untroubled. Nothing needs to be done. Nothing needs to be watched more closely. Those moments do not last long. But when they happen— I notice. And When I Come Back In.. When I step through the back door, when I speak and you answer, when I settle near the fire or within sight of you— That is not the end of my night. It is the completion of a cycle. Everything checked. Everything confirmed. Everything still in place. Including you. End of Chapter Seven Views: 1
Category: Medical
Public Service Announcement Hurricane Season Is Here — Prepare Now
Hurricane season is here, and now is the time to prepare, not panic. Each year, hurricane season brings the potential for dangerous winds, torrential rain, flooding, power outages, and severe property damage. Even communities far from the coast can experience life-threatening weather conditions from the outer bands of these storms. A hurricane does not need to make a direct hit to cause devastation. Strong winds can bring down trees and power lines. Heavy rain can lead to flash flooding in a matter of minutes. Roads may become impassable, and emergency services can be delayed during the height of a storm. That is why preparation is essential. Be Ready Before the Storm Arrives: Every household should have an emergency plan and supply kit ready before any storm watches or warnings are issued. Your emergency supplies should include: Drinking Water Canned and nonperishable food Flashlight and (extra batteries) Portable radio First aid supplies Prescription medications Important papers in (waterproof storage) Phone (chargers and backup batteries) CASH Pet food and supplies Plan for at least several days without electricity or access to stores. Know Where to Go, If local authorities issue an evacuation order, do not delay. Know your evacuation routes in advance and discuss a family meeting location in case you become separated. Make sure all family members know where to go and who to contact. Protect Your Property: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, grills, tools, and anything that could become dangerous in high winds. Check your roof, windows, doors, and gutters for any needed repairs before storm season begins. Stay Informed Pay close attention to local weather reports and emergency alerts. Keep your phone charged and monitor official forecasts as storms can strengthen or change direction quickly. Final Warning: Hurricanes are unpredictable and can become dangerous with little notice. Preparation today can save lives tomorrow. Do not wait until the storm is on the radar. Prepare now, protect your family, and stay safe this hurricane season. Views: 1
THE TRUTH BEHIND SOCIAL SECURITY’S ‘2.8% INCREASE’
The Truth Behind Social Security’s ‘2.8% Increase’ (This is in proportion to benefit amount, Those with a higher benefit will not see the full 50% loss, as COLA is percentage based and Medicare raise is not. This does apply to many, probably the majority, who need the full raise in the pocket) Why Many Seniors Say It Feels More Like 1.4% — And Why That Matters: Every fall, millions of Americans watch anxiously as the Social Security Administration announces the next year’s COLA — the Cost-of-Living Adjustment. It’s a number tied to inflation that’s meant to help retirees keep pace with rising prices. In 2025, the headline figure was 2.8%. At first glance, that seems like a meaningful boost – especially against a backdrop of stubborn inflation and higher costs for everyday goods and services. But here’s the rub: half of that increase goes straight to Medicare premiums. For many beneficiaries, that turns a 2.8% increase into something closer to a 1.4% net gain. And when you consider the rising living costs of food, housing, utilities, and especially healthcare, that net gain may not be enough to maintain a stable standard of living. Let’s break this down — why it matters, how average Americans are affected, and what real solutions might look like. Understanding the “2.8% COLA” Claim: The annual COLA is calculated based on changes in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) — a specific inflation index that measures how much prices rise for a basket of goods and services over time. Great, right? Inflation goes up, your benefits go up to match. But here’s where it gets complicated. Premiums Come First: Every year, Medicare Part B (medical insurance) and Part D (prescription drug coverage) premiums are deducted directly from Social Security benefits before recipients see their checks. In 2025: The COLA was announced at about 2.8%. But Medicare Part B and Part D premiums increased, consuming roughly half of that raise for many beneficiaries. If you’re receiving $1,800/month in Social Security, a 2.8% boost adds about $50/month — but if your Medicare premium increases by $25, your net gain is only $25/month. That’s roughly 1.4% in real terms. So despite the celebratory headlines about a 2.8% raise, many retirees see only half of that reflected in their actual spending power. Medicare Advantage: Lower Benefits, Higher Costs Compounding the problem, many seniors have turned to Medicare Advantage (MA) plans — private plans that replace traditional Medicare. Medicare Advantage was marketed as more affordable and offering extra benefits. But in recent years: Deductibles have increased Out-of-pocket expenses have risen Some benefits have been cut or tightened Providers are limiting coverage in ways that increase actual spending for seniors So even if gross premiums stay stable, many seniors end up spending more on care — meaning that the real cost of healthcare goes up faster than Social Security benefits. Is a 1.4% Increase Enough in Today’s Economy? The short answer: No, not for most people. 1. Food Costs: Food prices have consistently risen faster than the general inflation rate over the past few years. Even modest increases in cereal, bread, dairy, and produce add up quickly for households on fixed incomes. 2. Housing: Rent and home maintenance costs continue to climb in many areas. (Also as we age we cannot do some of the home maintenance we could when younger THUS we have to pay for the maintenance). Housing is often the single largest expense for retirees — and it’s not proportionally captured in the CPI-W used to calculate COLA. 3. Utilities: Electricity, gas, water — fluctuate widely but have trended upward overall. 4. Healthcare: Healthcare costs are not only rising — they’re rising faster. Prescription drugs, (over the counter drugs), specialist visits, long-term care, and dental care often exceed inflation measures used for COLA. 5. Inflation Mismatch: While the CPI-W tracks price changes for a typical urban wage earner, retirees spend their money differently. They have heavier healthcare costs and different consumption patterns — meaning the official inflation figure often understates the real inflation experienced by seniors. In other words: Even a 2.8% gross increase is unlikely to keep pace with actual inflation for retirees — especially after Medicare premiums. How Does This Compare to the Average Wage Earner? So how does a 1.4% net increase stack up for a typical worker? Wage Increases: In 2025 and into 2026, many workers have seen annual wage increases between 3% and 5% in many industries — often more in high-demand fields like tech, healthcare, logistics, etc. Even at the lower end of that range: Workers with a 3% pay increase see far more purchasing power growth than retirees with a 1.4% net COLA. Moreover, workers often receive performance bonuses, overtime, and opportunities for advancement — things retirees don’t have. Retirement vs. Working Households: Working households can adjust budgets dynamically: Take on extra shifts. Re-skilled to higher-paying roles. Benefit from employer-sponsored healthcare. Retirees do not have these options. Their safety net is Social Security and Medicare. When real increases lag behind wages, it highlights a growing disparity between those still in the workforce and those surviving on fixed benefits. Should Medicare Premium Increases Count Toward Cost-of-Living Adjustments? Absolutely. Here’s why: 1. Healthcare Is Not Optional: You can’t decide not to buy healthcare if you get sick, have chronic conditions, or need regular prescriptions. Medicare premiums are a necessary cost for seniors — not a luxury. 2. The Goal of COLA Is to Maintain Purchasing Power: If a benefit increase is immediately consumed by mandatory costs, the purpose of a COLA is undermined. It should be tied to actual cost burdens — including… Continue reading THE TRUTH BEHIND SOCIAL SECURITY’S ‘2.8% INCREASE’
**The Death of Junior Seau: A Tragic Loss and the Rise of CTE Awareness**
Junior Seau was a football icon, a defensive powerhouse who dominated the NFL for 20 seasons and earned a reputation as one of the greatest linebackers of all time. His larger-than-life personality and relentless playing style made him beloved by fans, teammates, and opponents alike. However, in May 2012, Seau’s life came to a tragic and shocking end when he died by suicide at the age of 43. His death left the sports world in disbelief and raised serious questions about the long-term impact of head injuries in football. Following his passing, Seau’s family donated his brain for research, and it was confirmed that he had suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma. His death not only underscored the dangers of concussions in contact sports but also helped spark a national conversation about player safety in the NFL. Junior Seau’s Football Career: A Legend on the Field Before his tragic death, Junior Seau’s football career was the stuff of legend. Drafted fifth overall by the San Diego Chargers in the 1990 NFL Draft, Seau quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier defensive players. Known for his intensity, leadership, and ability to read offenses, Seau was the heart and soul of the Chargers’ defense for 13 seasons. He earned 12 Pro Bowl selections and was named to the All-Pro team 10 times. Seau’s legacy extended beyond San Diego. He went on to play for the Miami Dolphins and later the New England Patriots, where he was part of two Super Bowl teams. By the time he retired in 2009, Seau had cemented his place as one of the best linebackers in NFL history, finishing his career with 1,849 tackles and 56.5 sacks. Despite his incredible success on the field, it became clear after his death that the toll the game took on his body and mind was far greater than anyone had realized. The Tragic Death of Junior Seau On May 2, 2012, Junior Seau was found dead in his home in Oceanside, California, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the chest. His death by suicide stunned the sports world, as Seau was known for his infectious energy, positivity, and love for life. He was not someone anyone expected to take his own life. Seau’s suicide was eerily similar to the death of former Chicago Bears safety Dave Duerson, who also died by suicide in 2011 after shooting himself in the chest. Like Duerson, Seau left his brain intact, suggesting that he may have been aware of the potential damage caused by his years of playing football. At the time of his death, Seau did not leave a suicide note, but his family and friends were left searching for answers, grappling with the possibility that the cumulative impact of concussions had contributed to his mental health decline. The Link to CTE: A Family’s Donation and Medical Discovery In the wake of Junior Seau’s death, his family made the decision to donate his brain to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for scientific research. The results of the analysis were devastating but not entirely surprising. In January 2013, the NIH confirmed that Seau had suffered from **chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain condition linked to repeated head injuries and concussions. CTE can lead to symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, depression, and suicidal thoughts—all of which are believed to have played a role in Seau’s death. CTE is caused by the buildup of an abnormal protein called tau, which forms clumps that slowly spread throughout the brain, killing brain cells and impairing cognitive functions. The disease had been discovered in the brains of other former NFL players, including Duerson and former Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster, but Seau’s case added a new level of awareness to the discussion because of his high profile and the circumstances of his death. The findings confirmed what many had feared: Seau’s years of repeated hits to the head had likely led to his CTE diagnosis and the mental health struggles he faced leading up to his death. His family later spoke out about how Seau had exhibited signs of emotional instability, mood swings, and difficulty sleeping in the years before his death, which they now believe were linked to his brain condition. The Impact on the NFL and Player Safety The death of Junior Seau and the confirmation of his CTE diagnosis marked a turning point in the NFL’s handling of concussions and player safety. While concerns about concussions had been growing for years, Seau’s case brought the issue to the forefront in a way that was impossible to ignore. His death raised serious questions about the long-term health risks that players face from repeated blows to the head and whether the NFL was doing enough to protect its athletes. Following Seau’s death, the NFL took significant steps to address the growing crisis surrounding head injuries and CTE. The league implemented new concussion protocols, improved sideline evaluations, and placed greater emphasis on player education about the risks of head trauma. In 2016, the NFL publicly acknowledged the link between football-related concussions and CTE—a statement that had been long overdue. Seau’s family also filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the NFL, alleging that the league had failed to protect players from the risks of repeated head injuries. While the lawsuit was eventually settled, it highlighted the growing legal and moral battles between former players and the league over the issue of player safety. Ongoing Debate and Theories Although the discovery of CTE in Junior Seau’s brain helped explain some of the reasons behind his tragic death, the case has also raised broader questions about how head injuries are managed in professional football and the overall culture of the NFL. Some of the ongoing debates and theories surrounding Seau’s death include: 1. Could More Have Been Done? – Many have questioned whether more could have been done to prevent Seau’s death. Could the NFL… Continue reading **The Death of Junior Seau: A Tragic Loss and the Rise of CTE Awareness**
The Disappearance of Glenn Foster: A Tragic Death Still Shrouded in Mystery
Glenn Foster, a former defensive end for the New Orleans Saints, was an accomplished athlete, a businessman, and a family man. After retiring from the NFL, he built a successful career in construction and real estate, but his life took a tragic turn in December 2021 when he died in police custody in Alabama. His sudden and mysterious death has left many unanswered questions about the circumstances surrounding his detainment, and despite an ongoing investigation, there is still no clear resolution. As the case continues to unfold, questions about possible foul play, misconduct, and gaps in mental health care for those in custody remain at the forefront. Glenn Foster’s Football Career and Life After the NFL Glenn Foster’s path to the NFL was anything but typical. After playing college football at the University of Illinois, he went undrafted in the 2013 NFL Draft but was picked up by the New Orleans Saints as a free agent. He played two seasons with the Saints, where he showed promise as a pass rusher, recording three sacks in his rookie year. However, Foster’s NFL career was short-lived due to injuries, and by 2015, he had transitioned out of the league. After leaving football, Foster became a successful entrepreneur, founding his own construction and real estate development company. He was respected in his community for his business acumen and his commitment to helping others. But beneath the surface, it appears that Foster struggled with mental health issues—an aspect of his life that may have contributed to the tragic events that led to his death. The Arrest and Death of Glenn Foster On December 4, 2021, Glenn Foster was arrested by police in Reform, Alabama, following a traffic stop. He was reportedly driving at high speeds, and the police charged him with reckless endangerment, resisting arrest, and attempting to elude law enforcement. Foster was taken to the Pickens County Jail, and it was there that things took a dramatic and troubling turn. According to reports, Foster’s behavior in custody became erratic, and his family has since confirmed that he had a history of bipolar disorder. They believe he was experiencing a mental health crisis at the time of his arrest. The day after his initial detainment, Foster was rebooked on charges of assault and robbery after allegedly attacking another inmate and a corrections officer. On December 6, 2021, just two days after his arrest, Foster was pronounced dead. Details surrounding his death remain unclear, but initial reports suggest that he died while being transported to a medical facility for an evaluation. His family was informed of his death shortly afterward, but the lack of transparency and details about what happened during his final hours has raised serious concerns. The Investigation and Lingering Questions In the immediate aftermath of Foster’s death, his family called for an independent investigation, suspecting foul play or misconduct on the part of law enforcement. They argue that Foster’s mental health crisis was mishandled and that more should have been done to get him the medical care he needed. The family’s attorney has raised questions about whether the physical altercation with officers and other inmates contributed to Foster’s death. The Pickens County Sheriff’s Office and the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) launched an investigation into the circumstances of Foster’s death. However, many details remain undisclosed, and the findings of the investigation have yet to be fully released to the public. The lack of information has fueled frustration among Foster’s family and supporters, who believe there may have been negligence or even abuse during his time in custody. The official autopsy report has also not been released, adding to the uncertainty surrounding Foster’s death. Without a clear cause of death or further explanation of the events leading up to it, many are left wondering whether Foster’s death could have been prevented with proper medical intervention and care. Theories Surrounding Foster’s Death As the investigation continues, several theories have emerged about the potential causes of Glenn Foster’s death. Some of these theories focus on law enforcement’s handling of the situation, while others highlight systemic issues related to mental health care in the criminal justice system. Police Misconduct or Use of Excessive Force One of the prevailing theories is that Glenn Foster may have been subjected to excessive force or improper restraint during his time in custody. The altercation between Foster and corrections officers has raised questions about whether physical force contributed to his death. With little information about the nature of the altercation or the actions taken by law enforcement, some believe that Foster’s death could be the result of misconduct or abuse while he was being detained. Mental Health Crisis and Negligence Another theory is that Foster’s mental health crisis was mishandled by law enforcement. Foster’s family has expressed frustration that he was not transferred to a medical facility earlier, despite his erratic behavior and known history of bipolar disorder. This theory suggests that had Foster received appropriate medical intervention and care, his death might have been prevented. The broader issue of how mental health crises are managed in the criminal justice system is also at the center of this theory, as many believe Foster’s case highlights the inadequacies of care for individuals with mental health conditions while in police custody. Natural Causes or Underlying Medical Conditions While less widely discussed, there is also the possibility that Foster’s death was the result of natural causes or an underlying medical condition, potentially exacerbated by stress or physical strain during his detainment. Without an official autopsy report, this theory remains speculative, but it cannot be ruled out until the full findings of the investigation are released. Calls for Justice and Reform Glenn Foster’s death has drawn attention to the broader issues surrounding mental health care in law enforcement and the criminal justice system. His family has been vocal in their calls for transparency and accountability, urging a thorough and independent investigation into the events that led to his death. Advocacy groups and public… Continue reading The Disappearance of Glenn Foster: A Tragic Death Still Shrouded in Mystery
Children Sports Burn Out
Yes, too much of one sport can indeed lead to burnout in children. Burnout usually results from chronic stress and might manifest as physical or emotional exhaustion, reduced performance, feelings of cynicism or detachment, and a lack of accomplishment. Although it varies from child to child, typically, playing multiple games a week, and adding in practices as well as travel for tournaments on weekends can become overwhelming. This intense schedule can cause physical fatigue and mental stress. To avoid burnout: 1. Variety: Encourage your child to play different sports. This can help them develop diverse skills and prevent overuse injuries. 2. Breaks: Ensure that your child takes breaks during the season and has an off-season when they do not play any organized sport. 3. Balance: Balance their sports activities with other things they enjoy like hanging out with friends, hobbies or family time. 4. Limitation: A common recommendation is that children should not spend more hours a week than their age playing sports. For example, a 10-year-old should play no more than 10 hours per week. 5. Listen: Pay attention to your child’s feelings about their sport commitment – if they’re consistently feeling too tired or unmotivated to participate, it may be time to reduce the intensity of involvement. 6. Fun element: It’s important that playing sports remains fun for your child rather than being perceived as a chore or job. 7. Professional guidance: Seek advice from a coach or pediatrician if you worry about burnout or over-exercise. It’s important to remember that every child is unique – one size does not fit all when it comes to an appropriate schedule for sports participation. Views: 52
Electoral College: Protector of Small Populous States RIGHT TO VOTE
It has been brought to my attention, some states are taking steps to eliminate the ‘ELECTORAL COLLEGE”. Apparently the people trying to eliminate the Electoral College, either missed that day in school, or was asleep when the subject was being taught. You see the Electoral College was put in the constitution to protect smaller states from being RULED by the whims of the larger populated states. It is a safe stop; which is more necessary now than at the time of its placement in the constitution. Before you begin reading the main body of this post, I ask you to keep in mind these numbers. (Although the Electoral College isn’t perfect please consider these numbers). Then tell me who completely controls the “POPULAR VOTE”. California: 38,889,700 people. Texas: 30,978,754 people. Florida: 22,975,931 people. New York 19,467,232 people. Pennsylvania 12,951275 people. I am using numbers available for April, 2024. The total population of just these 5 states, (according to my calculator), 335,893,238 that is almost 336 MILLION PEOPLE. Now as for the other 45 states (again according to my calculator), 206,982,776 almost 207 MILLION PEOPLE. My point being with 5 states having 129 MILLION MORE PEOPLE THAN THE remaining 45 states. These 5 states have more than enough people to elect whoever they want not necessarily who is best for the entire country. This conundrum (to ME). Do I want a president I do not want or even have a say in? The Electoral College is a mechanism established by the United States Constitution in Article II, Section 1. It was intended as a compromise between those who advocated for the election of the president through a vote in Congress and those who believed it should be decided by a popular vote of qualified citizens. The Electoral College consists of 538 electors in total, which represent the 435 Representatives, 100 Senators, and three additional electors from the District of Columbia. To win the presidency, a candidate must receive at least 270 electoral votes. This system is not based on equal representation of individuals, but rather on equal representation of states. Now let’s consider your hypothetical scenario where just five most populated states control a presidential election. These states are California (55 Electoral Votes), Texas (38), Florida (29), New York (29), and Pennsylvania (20) as per the 2020 allocations. This adds up to just 171 electoral votes – still far short from the required majority of 270. Therefore, even though these states might have large populations, they alone cannot decide an election through popular vote due to our current electoral college system. However, if we were to shift to a direct democracy model or use only popular vote to determine elections, theoretically these states with high populations could indeed dominate national elections. This could lead to political imbalance and neglecting interests of less populous areas which often have unique socio-economic and environmental issues that require specific policy attention. If this were the case, citizens from less-populated states might feel that their votes don’t carry enough weight or their voice is not heard adequately in deciding national leadership. This could lead to certain degree of voter disillusionment or lower voter turnout among them because they may see their role as insignificant next to larger populace areas. This concern forms one of key arguments behind maintaining our Electoral College – it ensures all parts of country can have recognizable say in choosing our national leader irrespective of their population size. Furthermore, the electoral college system forces presidential candidates to seek support from a wider geographic base, instead of just focusing on densely populated urban areas. It maintains the balance of influence among states and encourages candidates to understand and respond to diverse needs of different states. So despite criticisms, many argue that maintaining the electoral college is an important tool in preserving our federal system and ensuring that all parts of the country have an equitable say in national elections. In conclusion: What am i missing? After all I am sure these lawmakers have a much better education than I do. OR, are they ??? What is their motive for taking away the voters rights, as IT IS possible that the votes cast by these 45 states are just a matter of going through the motions, allowing the residents to feel their votes count. Thank you. Artie Fischal P.S. Please feel free to leave me comments those who agree and those who don’t agree. Maybe I’ll learn something. Views: 166
If Elected I Will: Promises Made by Politicians
Election time is here ! We can tell by the sprouting of signs in lawns, billboards, newspapers, TV and Radio ads. (which is, it seems at least one or two out three ads). They fall into three different catagories. One is telling you how bad a person their opponent is. The second is telling you what a terrific person the one who’s being told what a louse he is by his opponent. The Third is PROMISES, that are in truth what the politician thinks the people he represents want to hear. So, today let’s take a short look at how valid, or likely those freely strewn promises have of actually happening. It is really more complicated than what we see here; but this will give you somewhat of an idea how most of the things promised Won’t happen. I would much rather hear, “These are the things I WANT to do”. Rather than, “This what I WILL do, if elected”. Doesn’t that sound more truthful? So here we go. When politicians run for office, they often make a variety of promises to the electorate. These campaign promises are designed to align with their constituents’ values and concerns, and are intended to illustrate the candidates’ goals if they are elected. However, it is true that these promises sometimes extend beyond what the politicians themselves can personally deliver. Let’s look at some of the reasons why this is the case. 1. Separation of Powers: In many democratic societies, powers are divided among different branches of government. For example, in the United States, power is split between executive, legislative, and judicial branches. If a candidate running for an executive office (like President or Governor) makes a promise that requires legislation to be passed or changed, they will need cooperation from the legislative branch where lawmakers may not share their views or objectives. 2. Opposition: Politicians often face opposition from other elected officials who either have different views or might not want them to succeed for political reasons. This opposition can come from within their own party (intra-party) or from other parties (inter-party). This opposition might block or delay legislation needed to fulfill certain promises. 3. External Constraints: Sometimes events outside a politician’s control can hinder their ability to fulfill promises made during campaigns. The economy could enter a recession; there could be natural disasters; international events could demand time and resources–all these factors can divert attention and resources away from certain campaign promises. 4. Public Opinion: Public opinion can shift over time due to external factors or changes in societal attitudes which may make it difficult for politicians to keep certain campaign promises without risking public approval. 5. Constraints by Law and Constitution: Many countries have constitutions that place restrictions on what government bodies can do within their jurisdiction which may limit a politician’s ability to fulfill some election promises. Despite these constraints, it’s important for citizens in any democracy to hold elected officials accountable for their campaign pledges within these realistic limits. If a politician consistently fails to meet their promises without good reason, voters can express their dissatisfaction at the ballot box in the next election. An educated electorate is a key pillar of any healthy democracy, and understanding the real constraints politicians face can help voters make informed decisions about which candidates truly have their best interests at heart. Views: 154
PSA: THE LIFESAVING IMPORTANCE OF COLONOSCOPIES
COLON CANCER is a silent threat that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. It’s the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States, but it doesn’t have to be a death sentence. Early detection through a colonoscopy can save lives, making it a crucial procedure for adults, especially those over the age of 50 or with a family history of the disease. A colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows doctors to look inside the entire large intestine. It helps find ulcers, colon polyps, tumors, and areas of inflammation or bleeding. During the procedure, a long, flexible tube (colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to view the inside of the entire colon. Why is a Colonoscopy Important? Early Detection: Colonoscopies can detect precancerous polyps that can be removed before they turn into cancer. Prevention: Removing polyps can prevent colon cancer, as most colon cancers develop from polyps. Peace of Mind: Knowing your colon is free of polyps can give you peace of mind. Treatment: If cancer is found, treatment can start immediately, increasing the chance of a successful outcome. When Should You Get a Colonoscopy? The American Cancer Society, recommends that people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screening at age 45. However, those with a family history of colon cancer or polypsmay need to start screening earlier. What to Expect During a Colonoscopy? Preparation: You will need to clean out your colon before the procedure. This usually involves following a special diet and taking laxatives. Procedure: The procedure itself usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. You’ll be given medication to help you relax and might not remember the procedure afterward. Recovery: You will need someone to take you home because of the sedatives used during the procedure. You might experience some cramping or bloating, but this usually subsides quickly. Overcoming the Fear Many avoid colonoscopies due to fear of discomfort or embarrassment. However, the procedure is not painful, and the staff is professional and respectful. The benefits far outweigh any temporary discomfort. Take Action If you’re over 45 or at higher risk, talk to your doctor about scheduling a colonoscopy. It’s a decision that could save your life. Remember, colon cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable, but only if you take the necessary steps to detect it early. This PSA is a reminder that preventive healthcare is one of the most significant steps you can take for your long-term health. Don’t let fear or hesitation stand in the way of a procedure that could very well save your life. Schedule your colonoscopy today. For more information, please visit the American Cancer Society’s website or consult with your healthcare provider Remember, your health is in your hands. Don’t wait until it’s too late. For more information, visit the American Cancer Society’s website or consult your healthcare provider Views: 122
THE DISRUPTIVE SHIFT
[adrotate group=”1″] Daylight saving time, that biannual clock dance, disrupts our internal rhythms. Here’s how: Health Risks: The sudden shift messes with our bodies. Researchers link DST to increased risks of heart attacks, strokes, mood disturbances, and hospital admissions. Inflammatory markers spike due to stress, and car crashes become more likely after the spring forward. Energy Conservation Myth: Benjamin Franklin’s candle-saving idea birthed DST, but today it’s questionable. Lighting accounts for less energy use, and extending daylight hours encourages more air conditioning and heating. Mood Disorders: Contrary to popular belief, extra evening sunlight doesn’t necessarily make us healthier. Data suggests DST exacerbates mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Circadian Rhythms: Sunlight synchronizes our internal clocks. While evening light is great for outdoor activities, it can disrupt our sleep patterns, making it harder to fall asleep at our usual bedtime. The Two-Hour Gap Now, let’s focus on the peculiar scenario of a state being two hours ahead of the sun. Imagine waking up while the world outside is still cloaked in darkness. Here’s what happens: Darker Mornings: After DST, mornings become gloomier. The sun rises later, affecting our wake-up routines. On March 9, Milwaukee will see sunrise at 6:11 a.m., but on March 10, it won’t rise until 7:09 a.m. Evening Sunsets: On the flip side, evenings gain extra daylight. By April 15, the sun sets at 7:36 p.m. in Milwaukee, granting 13 hours and 29 minutes of daylight. Trade-Off: While longer evenings are delightful, the cost is darker mornings. Finding the right balance is tricky. Longest Day of the Year Remember the Summer Solstice? It’s the longest day, when the sun reaches its zenith. This year, Milwaukeeans will bask in 15 hours and 25 minutes of daylight on June 20. The sun rises at 5:10 a.m. and sets at 8:36 p.m. DST isn’t just about adjusting clocks; it’s about recalibrating our lives. As we spring forward, let’s be mindful of the effects—both positive and negative—of this temporal tango with time. BUT, Our government officials do not care about OUR HEALTH. All they care about is having more time to play Golf and enjoy the benefits of their extravagant lives. Nevermind the average working man’s needs. I suggest those who want DST should adjust their times to their schedules, NOT force the general public to observe DST’ers to go along with their whims. DST’ers I ask you. How much time have you saved. (SAVED, as a rule means to put aside for use at a later date). When to you plan to make that withdrawal of time. Answer YOU HAVE NOT ONE MINUTE IN YOUR BANK. YOU WILL NEVER USE IT. Maybe DST should really be called SDT (SUN DELAYED TIME), at least that would be more HONEST! [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 146
