I wrote about this restaurant chain in December 2010 and indicated the food and service was falling by the wayside. I also indicated I feared that the company would follow their service down the tubes.
The inevitable has happened and the corporate Pat and Oscar's has gone bankrupt, closing their company owned restaurants without notice as I have gathered. Some franchise operations remain operating and I understand will attempt to make a go of it without the corporate albatross hanging on.
Again, I finished that previous story in wishing them luck. But it takes more than that to bring the customers back, To those franchisees out there, you have a wonderful product, so best of luck and maybe with your abilities to preserve your own customer base and without the pressure of a corporate presence, you can be successful. I sure hope you can.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Warning - Warning - Holiday Delivery and "Free Shipping"
Did you know that many of the companies out there, including the big ones that you do business with are turning to alternative shipping solutions to save money on shipping? Yes, and that might turn out to be a very bad thing for you, the consumer, especially at this time of year as holiday shopping hits its frenzied peak.
You probably are aware that United Parcel Service or UPS takes about 7 days to get a package from coast to coast. Of course, with what they call "delivery exceptions" it can take longer. But for small packages, retailers are now using a service called UPS Mail Innovations or UPS MI in which the original package is shipped through UPS and moved about the country, then at some point is handed over to the US Postal Service for the final legs of delivery. The catch? Ten days or more between NY and CA on one delivery. 13 days on a shipment from Chicago weighing about 6 ounces where the seller, Dyson Vacuums charged $6.95 and could have Priority Mailed it for less than $5.00 and still made two dollars on packaging in the envelope. Imagine 13 days without a vacuum if you didn't have a spare. And they never said it would be going by UPS Mail Inovations, just UPS!
Problem here is that the shipper electronically manifests the shipping company who may not pick up for a day and it doesn't get shipped for a day. Then even as it moves from terminal to terminal, it changes hands several times more. Then the shipping company manifests the post office before giving them the package and finally hands it over. Then the package is on its way again with several stops in the interim before being delivered.
Think FedEx is any better? Think again! We loved FedEx Ground for heavier shipments as they were always faster than UPS with 5 day coast to coast times and for home delivery, they delivered on Saturday. But wait, FedEx came up with FedEx Smart Post where it now takes 10 days in some cases to get an article from outside of Phoenix, Arizona to San Diego, less than 400 miles away. Same type of deal as with the UPS mail , it moves through the FedEx Ground system and then gets handed off to the Postal Service down the line. But one wrong move and then nobody has any idea what happened to your package. Mine disappeared in Phoenix for days and neither the shipper nor FedEx could tell me anything about where it was except it was still there somewhere. Big freaking help!
There are others too, but those are the big two. My daughter became frustrated with one called Streamlite Delivery where they promise 5 business day delivery, but not to her door!
Amazon.com has taken to similar shipping on its free shipping deals with economy shipping. Yet, for some reason, Amazon does it right. Whether the shipper is afraid to lose Amazon as a client, thus moves their mail post-haste or whatever, the items actually have been delivered quickly. But, then again, maybe that's just an anomaly as this is the beginning of the holiday season, and the items are starting to move at the start. We'll see as the season progresses.
The caveat here is to ask before you choose the free or reduced shipping, or any other shipping this holiday season. Even at QVC.com and on the air purchases, you have a choice. If you click "best way" they will ship UPS or US mail at their prerogative, but you usually have the choice on smaller items to click down to have them use US Mail at the same price and it will arrive faster with less chance of damage.
The problem is so many shippers won't tell you who they actually use. They say your order will ship UPS but it will ship UPS Mail Innovations for one hellishly long ride. Or, their ads will say they use FedEx so you think you're getting FedEx. Well, you are, sort of. But it's a bastardization of the mail and FedEx Ground that may leave you scrambling for a last minute replacement present when the one you bought doesn't show up. Try telling your wife/fiancee/significant other it was UPS or FedEx fault on Christmas!
Finally kudos are in order to the Busted Knuckle Garage because after a package went awry from them, I called Warren, the owner, and he now posts on his web site that they do ship FedEx Smart Post for Free Ground Shipping on orders over $99, and it may delay your receipt of shipments. If you would like another way to ship, please inquire when ordering. A real stand up company who does right by their clients through informing them of choices. That's all the consumer asks...let us know what to expect and when to expect it. Busted Knuckle Garage...a 5 Star Company. I don't usually do plugs for anyone but these are really stand up folks: http://www.bustedknucklegarage.com/
You probably are aware that United Parcel Service or UPS takes about 7 days to get a package from coast to coast. Of course, with what they call "delivery exceptions" it can take longer. But for small packages, retailers are now using a service called UPS Mail Innovations or UPS MI in which the original package is shipped through UPS and moved about the country, then at some point is handed over to the US Postal Service for the final legs of delivery. The catch? Ten days or more between NY and CA on one delivery. 13 days on a shipment from Chicago weighing about 6 ounces where the seller, Dyson Vacuums charged $6.95 and could have Priority Mailed it for less than $5.00 and still made two dollars on packaging in the envelope. Imagine 13 days without a vacuum if you didn't have a spare. And they never said it would be going by UPS Mail Inovations, just UPS!
Problem here is that the shipper electronically manifests the shipping company who may not pick up for a day and it doesn't get shipped for a day. Then even as it moves from terminal to terminal, it changes hands several times more. Then the shipping company manifests the post office before giving them the package and finally hands it over. Then the package is on its way again with several stops in the interim before being delivered.
Think FedEx is any better? Think again! We loved FedEx Ground for heavier shipments as they were always faster than UPS with 5 day coast to coast times and for home delivery, they delivered on Saturday. But wait, FedEx came up with FedEx Smart Post where it now takes 10 days in some cases to get an article from outside of Phoenix, Arizona to San Diego, less than 400 miles away. Same type of deal as with the UPS mail , it moves through the FedEx Ground system and then gets handed off to the Postal Service down the line. But one wrong move and then nobody has any idea what happened to your package. Mine disappeared in Phoenix for days and neither the shipper nor FedEx could tell me anything about where it was except it was still there somewhere. Big freaking help!
There are others too, but those are the big two. My daughter became frustrated with one called Streamlite Delivery where they promise 5 business day delivery, but not to her door!
Amazon.com has taken to similar shipping on its free shipping deals with economy shipping. Yet, for some reason, Amazon does it right. Whether the shipper is afraid to lose Amazon as a client, thus moves their mail post-haste or whatever, the items actually have been delivered quickly. But, then again, maybe that's just an anomaly as this is the beginning of the holiday season, and the items are starting to move at the start. We'll see as the season progresses.
The caveat here is to ask before you choose the free or reduced shipping, or any other shipping this holiday season. Even at QVC.com and on the air purchases, you have a choice. If you click "best way" they will ship UPS or US mail at their prerogative, but you usually have the choice on smaller items to click down to have them use US Mail at the same price and it will arrive faster with less chance of damage.
The problem is so many shippers won't tell you who they actually use. They say your order will ship UPS but it will ship UPS Mail Innovations for one hellishly long ride. Or, their ads will say they use FedEx so you think you're getting FedEx. Well, you are, sort of. But it's a bastardization of the mail and FedEx Ground that may leave you scrambling for a last minute replacement present when the one you bought doesn't show up. Try telling your wife/fiancee/significant other it was UPS or FedEx fault on Christmas!
Finally kudos are in order to the Busted Knuckle Garage because after a package went awry from them, I called Warren, the owner, and he now posts on his web site that they do ship FedEx Smart Post for Free Ground Shipping on orders over $99, and it may delay your receipt of shipments. If you would like another way to ship, please inquire when ordering. A real stand up company who does right by their clients through informing them of choices. That's all the consumer asks...let us know what to expect and when to expect it. Busted Knuckle Garage...a 5 Star Company. I don't usually do plugs for anyone but these are really stand up folks: http://www.bustedknucklegarage.com/
Monday, July 18, 2011
Warning...Children at Play
In Washington, I mean. Grown adults, or maybe people sized as adults with minds that are so filled with lack of logic except political partisanship, that they just can't seem to get anything right. Or anything done!
What's the huge problem is settling the debt fiasco? And why do these imbeciles seem to believe the way to do it is to screw the old, the infirm, the senior citizens, the veterans, the middle class and forget about all the special interests and the rich? The Republicans are becoming as bad as the Democrats in their self-serving lack of logic. The filthy rich have told them "Tax Us!" That's right, a group of the wealthiest people said they don't pay their fair share and should pay more. What? Many of those Republicans signed a No Tax Increase Pledge? But that's only for their rich assed friends and special interests? It sure seems that way when we hear that to "fulfill the pledge" they can cut Social Security or veterans benefits to offset not reducing a tax loophole or giveaway for oil companies or ethanol production, or some other pork barrel item, thus not increasing taxes. For example, to avoid eliminating 7 billion dollars in ethanol subsidies, you simply cut slightly more than 7 billion dollars in benefits to the working class Americans, and you avoided a tax increase, although you just screwed tens of millions of people. Take away the homeowners income tax mortgage interest deduction, property tax deduction and their tax bill will rise markedly. Those on the cusp of losing their homes due to affordability will fall over the edge. But do these buffoons care? Nope. Because they didn't have to raise taxes on big oil or corporate jets, or simply do away with the deduction of interest on planes or yachts for multi-millionaires and billionaires, nor the mega-mansions in Malibu, Laguna, Miami or the Hampton's! They'll simply put the screws to middle class America once again, and sit back and watch as more people lose their homes, because nobody thought about the long term consequences of what this would do.
That has become the hallmark of our politicians. They don't think long term. Here and now and not about later on. Like a child buying candy with their last money and eating it all at once. When it's gone and nothing is left, then they get concerned because they made a bad choice and they want more candy. So they cry and whine, kick and shout, and ask for more money or candy. See the parallels here? Sounds like politicians, doesn't it? Maybe oversimplified because I don't know any kids needing several trillion dollars for candy...yet! Maybe after this administration gets done with us....
We'll all have to bite the bullet in this mess. But those who can least afford it shouldn't be asked to bite a howitzer shell while the mega rich are asked to chomp on a .22. Once again, politics shows, that the most vulnerable are the ones most likely to be chopped up in this mess as it runs the course in Washington.
The backlash won't be pretty. No matter how this is sliced and diced, nobody will like the outcome. Those pushing cuts with no tax increases will incur the ire of those they hurt; those pushing tax increases will incur the wrath of those who have to foot the bill, who might not be those who should be footing the bill at all.
One final thought...you just have to look at them like a group of school children running amok before the bell. Even after they take their seats, nothing gets done. Because the head of the class is no smarter than any of the students, and no one is leading the group to a successful conclusion. The only thing they excel at is...recess!
What's the huge problem is settling the debt fiasco? And why do these imbeciles seem to believe the way to do it is to screw the old, the infirm, the senior citizens, the veterans, the middle class and forget about all the special interests and the rich? The Republicans are becoming as bad as the Democrats in their self-serving lack of logic. The filthy rich have told them "Tax Us!" That's right, a group of the wealthiest people said they don't pay their fair share and should pay more. What? Many of those Republicans signed a No Tax Increase Pledge? But that's only for their rich assed friends and special interests? It sure seems that way when we hear that to "fulfill the pledge" they can cut Social Security or veterans benefits to offset not reducing a tax loophole or giveaway for oil companies or ethanol production, or some other pork barrel item, thus not increasing taxes. For example, to avoid eliminating 7 billion dollars in ethanol subsidies, you simply cut slightly more than 7 billion dollars in benefits to the working class Americans, and you avoided a tax increase, although you just screwed tens of millions of people. Take away the homeowners income tax mortgage interest deduction, property tax deduction and their tax bill will rise markedly. Those on the cusp of losing their homes due to affordability will fall over the edge. But do these buffoons care? Nope. Because they didn't have to raise taxes on big oil or corporate jets, or simply do away with the deduction of interest on planes or yachts for multi-millionaires and billionaires, nor the mega-mansions in Malibu, Laguna, Miami or the Hampton's! They'll simply put the screws to middle class America once again, and sit back and watch as more people lose their homes, because nobody thought about the long term consequences of what this would do.
That has become the hallmark of our politicians. They don't think long term. Here and now and not about later on. Like a child buying candy with their last money and eating it all at once. When it's gone and nothing is left, then they get concerned because they made a bad choice and they want more candy. So they cry and whine, kick and shout, and ask for more money or candy. See the parallels here? Sounds like politicians, doesn't it? Maybe oversimplified because I don't know any kids needing several trillion dollars for candy...yet! Maybe after this administration gets done with us....
We'll all have to bite the bullet in this mess. But those who can least afford it shouldn't be asked to bite a howitzer shell while the mega rich are asked to chomp on a .22. Once again, politics shows, that the most vulnerable are the ones most likely to be chopped up in this mess as it runs the course in Washington.
The backlash won't be pretty. No matter how this is sliced and diced, nobody will like the outcome. Those pushing cuts with no tax increases will incur the ire of those they hurt; those pushing tax increases will incur the wrath of those who have to foot the bill, who might not be those who should be footing the bill at all.
One final thought...you just have to look at them like a group of school children running amok before the bell. Even after they take their seats, nothing gets done. Because the head of the class is no smarter than any of the students, and no one is leading the group to a successful conclusion. The only thing they excel at is...recess!
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
A Curt Reply
I received a comment from a reader whom, in my opinion, is simply infantile and wanted to do nothing but mount a personal attack. Thus, it wasn't published. This blog, while my opinion about companies and organizations and our government, is simply that, a blog. My opinions and nothing more. Except for those public officials who fail to keep promises and who rape, plillage and plunder for their own good, and those who attempt to set themselves up as ideals to the world in general, I don't set out to attack them, or their sometimes corrupted morals, although it sometimes ends up that way because of their own behavior. I don't set out to attack individuals, so when someone decides to attempt to dissect the blog and tell me who they think I am, in a hateful way, I exercise my right to hit the delete button and send their junk to the trash heap. However, I would like to address a few points of that person's writings anyway:
1. You stated your one grandmother hates kids. By the tone of your vile writing, your grandmother probably hates kids because she has you for a grandchild. If you were mine, I know I could learn that pretty easily. Your drivel and venom would make you easy to dislike very quickly.
2. You make unqualified statements as to my dislike for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. I don't know how you discern that. The only rant I made was about some idiot who decided to take a beauty pageant entrant to task because she answered honestly. She was entitled to say whatever she wanted to and nobody has the right to spew venom about what she said. That's EXACTLY what the problem has been for the LGBT community. If they want to be accepted for who they are, they have to accept everyone else for who they are. Idiots like you who toss every minute thing up to make it sound homophoboic are the problem, not the cure.
3. You talk about "beautiful California"? Liberal politicians and others like you are the reason we're nearly bankrupt because everyone wants something for nothing. There's no free ride and the money's running out. But of course, you're not contributing anything, are you?
4. You're right on one count. I don't like the way legislators deal with gun control. Why? Because they have no idea what they're doing. They are pushed and manipulated by people who think guns are evil, rather than understand that it's the idiot behind the gun that needs attention. Guns don't just up and shoot someone. Cars don't just run off and drive over a kid on a bike. The idiot behind the wheel or trigger is to blame. People who wish to own firearms need to be trained, tested, a thorough background check initiated and have a reasonable waiting period. There are people who should never own a gun. There are people who should never drive a car. You might be either, or neither. And if you commit a felony with a gun, or a car, your right to own and operate either should be removed and your ass should go to jail. Period. No fancy attorney to get you out or back on the road. In my opinion, a person who drives impaired is as dangerous as an idiot with a loaded gun. And cars are much easier to obtain.
4a. Oh, one more thing on Gun Control. As one who has been through war and in law enforcement, gun control in the hands of a trained user means a well placed first shot, so you don't have to waste a second shot. I'm sure that will cause your tidy whites to crinkle.
5. You think I should be deported? That made me really laugh. Where? To Ireland. About half my family came from there so I'll be waiting for your personal cashier's check to move the family.
6. You said you wouldn't bleed for this country. People like you are the reason we're in such sad shape. A real candy ass who sits and waits for someone else to defend the land while he sits at home and devours the benefits of their blood and sweat. While they keep aggression and terrorism from your door, you make such a statement. You are a sad piece of trash, a boil on the buttocks of humanity.
6. Finally, I'm glad you got it all off your chest. I served two tours in Vietnam so people like you could continue to have the freedom to run your mouth and say whatever you like. Service men and women have and will continue to do so for the same reason, so continue to enjoy life in America while you contribute absolutely nothing to it.
1. You stated your one grandmother hates kids. By the tone of your vile writing, your grandmother probably hates kids because she has you for a grandchild. If you were mine, I know I could learn that pretty easily. Your drivel and venom would make you easy to dislike very quickly.
2. You make unqualified statements as to my dislike for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. I don't know how you discern that. The only rant I made was about some idiot who decided to take a beauty pageant entrant to task because she answered honestly. She was entitled to say whatever she wanted to and nobody has the right to spew venom about what she said. That's EXACTLY what the problem has been for the LGBT community. If they want to be accepted for who they are, they have to accept everyone else for who they are. Idiots like you who toss every minute thing up to make it sound homophoboic are the problem, not the cure.
3. You talk about "beautiful California"? Liberal politicians and others like you are the reason we're nearly bankrupt because everyone wants something for nothing. There's no free ride and the money's running out. But of course, you're not contributing anything, are you?
4. You're right on one count. I don't like the way legislators deal with gun control. Why? Because they have no idea what they're doing. They are pushed and manipulated by people who think guns are evil, rather than understand that it's the idiot behind the gun that needs attention. Guns don't just up and shoot someone. Cars don't just run off and drive over a kid on a bike. The idiot behind the wheel or trigger is to blame. People who wish to own firearms need to be trained, tested, a thorough background check initiated and have a reasonable waiting period. There are people who should never own a gun. There are people who should never drive a car. You might be either, or neither. And if you commit a felony with a gun, or a car, your right to own and operate either should be removed and your ass should go to jail. Period. No fancy attorney to get you out or back on the road. In my opinion, a person who drives impaired is as dangerous as an idiot with a loaded gun. And cars are much easier to obtain.
4a. Oh, one more thing on Gun Control. As one who has been through war and in law enforcement, gun control in the hands of a trained user means a well placed first shot, so you don't have to waste a second shot. I'm sure that will cause your tidy whites to crinkle.
5. You think I should be deported? That made me really laugh. Where? To Ireland. About half my family came from there so I'll be waiting for your personal cashier's check to move the family.
6. You said you wouldn't bleed for this country. People like you are the reason we're in such sad shape. A real candy ass who sits and waits for someone else to defend the land while he sits at home and devours the benefits of their blood and sweat. While they keep aggression and terrorism from your door, you make such a statement. You are a sad piece of trash, a boil on the buttocks of humanity.
6. Finally, I'm glad you got it all off your chest. I served two tours in Vietnam so people like you could continue to have the freedom to run your mouth and say whatever you like. Service men and women have and will continue to do so for the same reason, so continue to enjoy life in America while you contribute absolutely nothing to it.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Memorial Day 2011
Memorial Day has traditionally been celebrated as the beginning of Summer. No, not the actual date summer begins, but the official day when the seasonal holidays start and the barbecues begin, beaches open, playgrounds are filled with children, parks, lakes and pools ring with the laughter and mirth of kids and adults alike. The sweet smoky smell of hot dogs, hamburgers and even marshmallows over a fire waft through the air, an odor that beckons each and every one of us to childhood memories no matter our age.
But wait, somehow, in all of the fun and frivolity, many seem to have forgotten the solemnity and sacred meaning of Memorial Day. What it should mean to every American. Memorial Day is a day set aside each year to remember the fallen warriors of our country; those who made the ultimate sacrifice to give each of us freedom, and the ability to reach out for the American Dream. No, they didn't give you the American Dream, you have to work for that yourself. But they gave their lives to assure you had the freedom to reach out for it, free from oppression, tyranny and grave injustice as is the case in so many other countries.
It doesn't matter whether you call it a war, police action, or what name you pin on combat. Or any other action that places our military men and women in harms way to defend freedom. Men and women gave all so that we might live free. They didn't do it for fame or glory, or a medal to pin on their uniform. Medals usually came too late to shine in a parade; many were laid on rows of caskets at ceremonies in such places as Arlington and Fort Rosecrans. The Soldier, Sailor, Marine, Coast Guardsman, Air Forceman or Merchant Marine never saw the glint of the Silver Star or Purple Heart or other medal in the sun as it laid upon his casket. But the family knew the bravery that he or she displayed many days or weeks or months before this day came to pass.
Most of our fallen warriors did come home, to be interred in their beloved country near family and loved ones. But many didn't and are buried on foreign shores in huge cemeteries, marked by simple crosses and markers, the only remnants of fierce battles, where Americans shed their blood to give freedom to others in a foreign land. They didn't know the people, but knew freedom was as important to them as it is to us. Freedom, the one thing that is perhaps as much important as life itself.
In my humble opinion, the three most important things are life, love and freedom. Without them life is just a bleak and somewhat hopeless experience. With perseverance and luck, many find love, but it takes a very special person willing to lay it all on the line to fight for your freedom. When you realize the warrior doesn't know you, or the individuals they are fighting for in most cases, it makes it even more impressive that they are willing to sacrifice all for others, to give them a chance at a better life.
On this Memorial Day, I will remember my brothers who have fallen in Vietnam, as well as all those who have fallen before, and after, in every war and conflict. I will remember those who have been ravaged by the remnants of war, and who have died as a result of service-connected injuries and illnesses, those who never appear in casualty rolls, but who are casualties just the same.
And some special prayers to several brothers who are very close in my heart today and always will be. Rest well my brothers; we'll all be crossing the bar to join you some day.
And, just in case anyone ever forgets:
But wait, somehow, in all of the fun and frivolity, many seem to have forgotten the solemnity and sacred meaning of Memorial Day. What it should mean to every American. Memorial Day is a day set aside each year to remember the fallen warriors of our country; those who made the ultimate sacrifice to give each of us freedom, and the ability to reach out for the American Dream. No, they didn't give you the American Dream, you have to work for that yourself. But they gave their lives to assure you had the freedom to reach out for it, free from oppression, tyranny and grave injustice as is the case in so many other countries.
It doesn't matter whether you call it a war, police action, or what name you pin on combat. Or any other action that places our military men and women in harms way to defend freedom. Men and women gave all so that we might live free. They didn't do it for fame or glory, or a medal to pin on their uniform. Medals usually came too late to shine in a parade; many were laid on rows of caskets at ceremonies in such places as Arlington and Fort Rosecrans. The Soldier, Sailor, Marine, Coast Guardsman, Air Forceman or Merchant Marine never saw the glint of the Silver Star or Purple Heart or other medal in the sun as it laid upon his casket. But the family knew the bravery that he or she displayed many days or weeks or months before this day came to pass.
Most of our fallen warriors did come home, to be interred in their beloved country near family and loved ones. But many didn't and are buried on foreign shores in huge cemeteries, marked by simple crosses and markers, the only remnants of fierce battles, where Americans shed their blood to give freedom to others in a foreign land. They didn't know the people, but knew freedom was as important to them as it is to us. Freedom, the one thing that is perhaps as much important as life itself.
In my humble opinion, the three most important things are life, love and freedom. Without them life is just a bleak and somewhat hopeless experience. With perseverance and luck, many find love, but it takes a very special person willing to lay it all on the line to fight for your freedom. When you realize the warrior doesn't know you, or the individuals they are fighting for in most cases, it makes it even more impressive that they are willing to sacrifice all for others, to give them a chance at a better life.
On this Memorial Day, I will remember my brothers who have fallen in Vietnam, as well as all those who have fallen before, and after, in every war and conflict. I will remember those who have been ravaged by the remnants of war, and who have died as a result of service-connected injuries and illnesses, those who never appear in casualty rolls, but who are casualties just the same.
And some special prayers to several brothers who are very close in my heart today and always will be. Rest well my brothers; we'll all be crossing the bar to join you some day.
And, just in case anyone ever forgets:
FREEDOM ISN'T FREE!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans
Here it is, almost Memorial Day, 2011, and about 45 years since some of us came home from 'Nam to face a country full of hostilities. No bands, no parties, no big group welcomes, not even cities or towns flying flags to say thank you. Other than family and close friends, there was no "welcome home." Even then, many never confided much to family or friends, because this just wasn't a popular war. No sense discussing it with people who would never understand anyway.
Vietnam Vets returned in ones, two and threes to the cities and towns across America, still filled with misery over what they had seen and felt a continent away. Little time to re-integrate into society, many were thrust back into civilian life to wend their own way through a system that had damn near discarded them, now that their active duty was over.
Bearing the scars of war, internally, externally or both came at a terrible price. Sure, the external scars were lots easier to see. Those could be treated, and maybe even healed a bit over time. But what about the scars that couldn't be seen? The suicide rate and divorce rates for Vietnam Vets has been publicized to be higher than the national averages. I don't believe all the data because every study seems skewed based on different data sets. But I do know that a major reason is because nobody thought much about Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome and how to treat it effectively. The "get over it" logic and the macho willingness to "hide it deep" gave way to the inability to keep it bottled up, and it manifested itself in numerous ways, none good. The DOD was putting people back in civilian life without adequate medical screening, the VA didn't have adequate mental health programs to diagnose and treat PTSD, and many veterans found it shameful to admit they had a problem. As a result, a good number turned to drugs and alcohol to mask their actual illness, a disease which should have fallen on the shoulders of the military and the VA to treat effectively.
You can't blame the warriors for turning to solace wherever they found it. When your mind is ravaged, nobody is helping, and red tape is wrapping around your every move, the vices are said to cut the pain and dull the senses. To each his or her own I suppose!
Things have turned the corner for the newer veterans of the latest wars and conflicts. Better diagnosis and treatments, which helps us all. Some Vietnam Vets still feel left out in the cold, as the newer vets are pushed to the front of the line, while the older vets remain queued somewhere awaiting adjudication of their cases, benefits and, sometimes I am told, treatments. That is patently unfair. While we all wish the newest breed of warrior the best in their quest for fairness in obtaining their just benefits, the "front of the line" logic has many of the older vets concerned that as they get older, their conditions will worsen before they receive the benefits they are due. I can't argue with that logic either. Many with conditions related to Agent Orange have died before the VA finally admitted that AO was a cause of their illness. Didn't help them any to have that found posthumously. The 1991 Persian Gulf Vets were hearing the same about Depleted Uranium and Gulf War Syndrome/Illness. It took until 2008 for that to be admitted as an issue!
In any case, I want to wish all my brothers and sisters a very hearty
and thank you for your service. And to all vets and active duty out there, thank you for your service as well. You and I know where the real American spirit is. And it isn't in Washington or in a newsroom or Hollywood stage. It's in the heart of every American service man and woman and their families.
God Bless and Be Safe.
Vietnam Vets returned in ones, two and threes to the cities and towns across America, still filled with misery over what they had seen and felt a continent away. Little time to re-integrate into society, many were thrust back into civilian life to wend their own way through a system that had damn near discarded them, now that their active duty was over.
Bearing the scars of war, internally, externally or both came at a terrible price. Sure, the external scars were lots easier to see. Those could be treated, and maybe even healed a bit over time. But what about the scars that couldn't be seen? The suicide rate and divorce rates for Vietnam Vets has been publicized to be higher than the national averages. I don't believe all the data because every study seems skewed based on different data sets. But I do know that a major reason is because nobody thought much about Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome and how to treat it effectively. The "get over it" logic and the macho willingness to "hide it deep" gave way to the inability to keep it bottled up, and it manifested itself in numerous ways, none good. The DOD was putting people back in civilian life without adequate medical screening, the VA didn't have adequate mental health programs to diagnose and treat PTSD, and many veterans found it shameful to admit they had a problem. As a result, a good number turned to drugs and alcohol to mask their actual illness, a disease which should have fallen on the shoulders of the military and the VA to treat effectively.
You can't blame the warriors for turning to solace wherever they found it. When your mind is ravaged, nobody is helping, and red tape is wrapping around your every move, the vices are said to cut the pain and dull the senses. To each his or her own I suppose!
Things have turned the corner for the newer veterans of the latest wars and conflicts. Better diagnosis and treatments, which helps us all. Some Vietnam Vets still feel left out in the cold, as the newer vets are pushed to the front of the line, while the older vets remain queued somewhere awaiting adjudication of their cases, benefits and, sometimes I am told, treatments. That is patently unfair. While we all wish the newest breed of warrior the best in their quest for fairness in obtaining their just benefits, the "front of the line" logic has many of the older vets concerned that as they get older, their conditions will worsen before they receive the benefits they are due. I can't argue with that logic either. Many with conditions related to Agent Orange have died before the VA finally admitted that AO was a cause of their illness. Didn't help them any to have that found posthumously. The 1991 Persian Gulf Vets were hearing the same about Depleted Uranium and Gulf War Syndrome/Illness. It took until 2008 for that to be admitted as an issue!
In any case, I want to wish all my brothers and sisters a very hearty
WELCOME HOME
and thank you for your service. And to all vets and active duty out there, thank you for your service as well. You and I know where the real American spirit is. And it isn't in Washington or in a newsroom or Hollywood stage. It's in the heart of every American service man and woman and their families.
God Bless and Be Safe.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Mother's Day
On this special Sunday in May, we pay tribute and homage to Mother's everywhere, especially to our own.
Mom's are someone very special, and we only get one to go around. Sometimes children who lose a parent for whatever reason get lucky, and get a stepmother to help carry the burden, or a foster mother who cares for them, and in them embodies a special love that you won't just find anywhere else.
My mother was a very special person. A brilliant woman, the granddaughter of a Nova Scotia fisherman and a Scottish immigrant, and the daughter of a Maine ship builder and his French Canadian spouse, she worked her way through nursing school in the 1920's when you worked long hours at a hospital to pay your way through school, then slept a few hours and went back to class, and then did it all over again. She worked continuously throughout her life, taking time off to have three children and stay with us during our early years. She was nurturing, caring, and always made sure we were clean, bathed, fed and had good manners.
My mother was the disciplinarian in the house, although it was Dad who put the Fear of God into us if we did wrong. I suppose we'd be just as afraid to offend Mom and make her sad as we would to incur the wrath of Dad. Part of what makes Mom's so special. Mom was the one to yell if I tore my new trousers, yet she would set dutifully to mend them as close to new as she could. Mom was the one who bought the clothes for the kids; Dad bought the toys and the fun stuff. I retrospect, I guess we'd have had toys, but been cold, without the concerted efforts of Mom and Dad together.
My Mom retired from nursing at age 59, having suffered a cerebral thrombosis (blood clot in the brain) about 8 years before. At age 67 Mom began showing signs of what was called Senile Dementia, although we now know for certain that Mom had Alzheimer's Disease. Alzheimer's hadn't even been known at that time; older people who exhibited memory lapses, started forgetting every day important habits were just tagged as having senile dementia, but the symptoms were all classic Alzheimer's when described today. Over the next 4 years Mom declined gradually.
At age 71, Mom died not knowing where she was or why she was there. Alzheimer's had stripped her of her life and her dignity. And nobody could even understand the disease that had taken her down that path. Actually. Mom died from complications of Alzheimer's, congestive heart failure. I still see that small, frail, old lady, holding my arm, and somehow knowing that we were both surely wondering where my mother had gone.
You only get one Mother. Cherish her, love her, be good to her, make her proud of you and the accomplishments you make in life. She helped set the stage for your future. Go out there and be a star. That's all she ever wanted for you, to be a quality person, to have a good life and to excel in all you do. Nothing more and nothing less.
The best gift you will give to your Mother, on this, or any Mother's Day, is love and respect, and being the best person you can be. Because whether she's here to see you, or has passed on, that's all she ever wanted.
To all the Mother's out there:
Mom's are someone very special, and we only get one to go around. Sometimes children who lose a parent for whatever reason get lucky, and get a stepmother to help carry the burden, or a foster mother who cares for them, and in them embodies a special love that you won't just find anywhere else.
My mother was a very special person. A brilliant woman, the granddaughter of a Nova Scotia fisherman and a Scottish immigrant, and the daughter of a Maine ship builder and his French Canadian spouse, she worked her way through nursing school in the 1920's when you worked long hours at a hospital to pay your way through school, then slept a few hours and went back to class, and then did it all over again. She worked continuously throughout her life, taking time off to have three children and stay with us during our early years. She was nurturing, caring, and always made sure we were clean, bathed, fed and had good manners.
My mother was the disciplinarian in the house, although it was Dad who put the Fear of God into us if we did wrong. I suppose we'd be just as afraid to offend Mom and make her sad as we would to incur the wrath of Dad. Part of what makes Mom's so special. Mom was the one to yell if I tore my new trousers, yet she would set dutifully to mend them as close to new as she could. Mom was the one who bought the clothes for the kids; Dad bought the toys and the fun stuff. I retrospect, I guess we'd have had toys, but been cold, without the concerted efforts of Mom and Dad together.
My Mom retired from nursing at age 59, having suffered a cerebral thrombosis (blood clot in the brain) about 8 years before. At age 67 Mom began showing signs of what was called Senile Dementia, although we now know for certain that Mom had Alzheimer's Disease. Alzheimer's hadn't even been known at that time; older people who exhibited memory lapses, started forgetting every day important habits were just tagged as having senile dementia, but the symptoms were all classic Alzheimer's when described today. Over the next 4 years Mom declined gradually.
At age 71, Mom died not knowing where she was or why she was there. Alzheimer's had stripped her of her life and her dignity. And nobody could even understand the disease that had taken her down that path. Actually. Mom died from complications of Alzheimer's, congestive heart failure. I still see that small, frail, old lady, holding my arm, and somehow knowing that we were both surely wondering where my mother had gone.
You only get one Mother. Cherish her, love her, be good to her, make her proud of you and the accomplishments you make in life. She helped set the stage for your future. Go out there and be a star. That's all she ever wanted for you, to be a quality person, to have a good life and to excel in all you do. Nothing more and nothing less.
The best gift you will give to your Mother, on this, or any Mother's Day, is love and respect, and being the best person you can be. Because whether she's here to see you, or has passed on, that's all she ever wanted.
To all the Mother's out there:
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
and
God Bless
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