Indeed it is.
As I leave the first day of the new decade, January 1, 2010, I am, indeed, thankful for all my good fortune. Let me count the ways....without jinxing it, I hope.
Good health.
I will be 70 on April 7th. Yes, I do fall more than I like. And, yes, I do have aches and pains in my feet, legs, hips, etc. But, by in large, I am in excellent health. I walk a lot, exercise several times a week, and still can read the newspaper easily. Neither of my parents made it this far. And, both were in far worse health than I when they passed in their 69th years. My life had the good fortune of being during the hey day of good times in the U.S.. And I benefited from that.
Great Family.
This starts with two great daughters. And now, a great son-in-law. You all know who they are.
Mira, Sara and Victor. Just now, I got off the phone with Mira, wishing her a happy new year. And hearing all about her fun time in Key West after Sara's and Victor's wedding. It warmed my heard to see her sincere happiness for her sister. And, to see how much fun she has on her trips about. I enjoyed my life when I was her age and revel in seeing her enjoy hers.
The highlight of the year, decade and century, for me, of course, took place on the last weekend of the year. The whole weekend...
Starting on Friday with Sara, Victor and Victor's family. It was clear that they welcome Sara into their family with the same open arms that we welcome Victor into ours. Although I was unable to talk much with Victor's mother, Lolita, The joy in her eyes was clear in any language. I look forward to celebrating many more happy times with the Moscoso family.
I view the Hugo/Paula family as a model of what Sara and Victor might have together. And, what can I say, little Marianna captivated all of our hearts.
Then Saturday and the Welcome dinner. It was worth every penny spent on a good meal and fun times. A little dark and a bit cold. But memorable never the less.
Finally, the main event. Sunday's wedding. EVERYTHING....and I mean...EVERYTHING...about this was great. The setting, the words, the food....Everything was as good as it gets. I expected to cry. But, in fact, I did not. I got close when I actually saw them slip the rings on each other's fingers. One terrific thing about the event was that I got to share it with so many people who mean so much to me. Barbara, Bunny, Greta, Alvin, Jay, Sandra, my great friends, Bill and Francine Gemmill. Good times are meant to be shared. And share it I did...........
I might add that seeing Sylvia's family was also most enjoyable. Too long away from them. Hopefully, we will share more happy times together.
I doubt they will read this, but I want to also mention how much I enjoyed interacting with Sara's friends. My father was very popular with my friends. I hope I am similarly popular with Sara's.
The weekend ended on Monday - Wednesday visiting with my cousins, Greta and Alvin. Their hospitality was a joy to behold. And then to see motion pictures of me at 2 months old and my parents, sister and cousins as we all grew up together. A fitting finale to a memorable time.
New Family
It is rare that a person has the opportunity to add family at an advanced age.
But my marriage to Barbara has given me that opportunity. I share more than almost a common name with the Weinbergs. I share a common love. They have accepted me into their family like I was born there. The feeling is mutual.
Friends
Beyond family, one hopes to have good friends. And, indeed I do . I am saddened by the passing of Bob Silverstein. But, my Penn State friends make up for that. The Gemmills, Andersons and Shanks are my extended family. "Brothers" that I never had, Bill, Bob and Mitch. "Sisters" Francine, Nancy and Cheryl. The best thing about Penn State was not the degrees I got from there. But, it is the lifelong friends I made.
Even here in Washington, I gather new friends. Guide friends, NARFE friends, even neighborhood friends.
Indeed, Barbara and I are fortunate to be living a full and active life here in Washington.
So, in closing, let me return to my opening theme.....It's a wonderful life.
Indeed, it is. On into my 70's.
Alan at almost 70.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Afghanistan
I walked to a Climate Change lecture downtown today.
So, I had lots of time to think about things....Like Afghanistan.
I sure hope that President Obama knows more about this than i do.
But, from my limited viewpoint (and I have read and attended lectures on this) I think it is hopeless.
I have heard estimate that it will take upwards of a million Afghan Militia/Police to establish central government rule there. Even if this is possible altogether. In recent times, anyway, there has never been an effective central government anywhere outside Kabul and, maybe a few other cities. The countryside has been governed by tribal chiefs, even during the brief Taliban days. With low pay for the government soldiers, graft will run amok. Soldiers will be in the employ of local chiefs as much, if not more than by the central government.
So, what will these chiefs do with their power?
Some will let the Taliban rule. Others will become safe havens for Al Qaida. But, most will just be local fiefdoms. These local chiefs just want what is best for them. Some might even have the best interests of their people at heart.
So, whats so bad about local rule?
OK...back to President Obama's plan. I can only hope that two months of briefings have given him better insight than I have. I worked hard for his election because I had confidence in his basic intelligence to solve very complicated problems.
I guess I will give him the benefit of the doubt....What alternative do I have?
So...what do I think will happen?
I think in June, President Obama will voice confidence that things are getting better....But...That more needs to be done. So, the troops need to stay.
I think he will call for reviews on progress every six months.
Each time, he will show confidence and ask for six months more time.
This will go on until we approach his re-election campaign,
Then, I predict, he will declare victory and begin bringing the troops home.
I hope it is true victory, but I doubt it.
So, what about his re-election prospects?
Some said his Afghan policy was a road to a one term presidency. For now, I hope not.
Too many other things ride on a continued Democratic Presidency....And Democratic majorities in Congress.
OK...enough for now.
Any comments?
Alan
So, I had lots of time to think about things....Like Afghanistan.
I sure hope that President Obama knows more about this than i do.
But, from my limited viewpoint (and I have read and attended lectures on this) I think it is hopeless.
I have heard estimate that it will take upwards of a million Afghan Militia/Police to establish central government rule there. Even if this is possible altogether. In recent times, anyway, there has never been an effective central government anywhere outside Kabul and, maybe a few other cities. The countryside has been governed by tribal chiefs, even during the brief Taliban days. With low pay for the government soldiers, graft will run amok. Soldiers will be in the employ of local chiefs as much, if not more than by the central government.
So, what will these chiefs do with their power?
Some will let the Taliban rule. Others will become safe havens for Al Qaida. But, most will just be local fiefdoms. These local chiefs just want what is best for them. Some might even have the best interests of their people at heart.
So, whats so bad about local rule?
OK...back to President Obama's plan. I can only hope that two months of briefings have given him better insight than I have. I worked hard for his election because I had confidence in his basic intelligence to solve very complicated problems.
I guess I will give him the benefit of the doubt....What alternative do I have?
So...what do I think will happen?
I think in June, President Obama will voice confidence that things are getting better....But...That more needs to be done. So, the troops need to stay.
I think he will call for reviews on progress every six months.
Each time, he will show confidence and ask for six months more time.
This will go on until we approach his re-election campaign,
Then, I predict, he will declare victory and begin bringing the troops home.
I hope it is true victory, but I doubt it.
So, what about his re-election prospects?
Some said his Afghan policy was a road to a one term presidency. For now, I hope not.
Too many other things ride on a continued Democratic Presidency....And Democratic majorities in Congress.
OK...enough for now.
Any comments?
Alan
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Alan at 69
"Will you still need me, will you still love me, when I'm 6……9"?
OK, so the Beatles said "64", but I say it 5 years later.
69.....the year both of my parents died.....Well...I have to much to live for to go their way.
In fact, I have as good a life as anybody could ask for.........family, friends, intellectual stimulation.....good health...even reasonable finances. I hope this rambling will not jinx any of that.
My mother would never write such a thing. Never tempt the evil eye, she would say. But, me, well I forge ahead undaunted.
Why? You ask....Well because I am so very happy right now.
First, my family.....Immediate and distant all love me and likewise.
First, there is Barbara. Late in life, I met the most generous, loving person imaginable. Her generosity reminds me of my father. And that is saying a lot for those who knew him. She and he would have hit it off splendidly...except for one important difference.......their views of women's place in the world. But, I will not go there. Yes...Barb and I differ a lot, both being quite opinionated. But, on one thing we agree totally....we are deeply committed and....yes.....love each other.
Next....my girls....Mira and Sara. Both fully mature adults with societally important careers that make me so proud.
My eldest, Mira, arrived around Thanksgiving in 1969. And I have been giving thanks for her ever since. My mother was so happy when we named her after her mother. Sylvia and I gave up smoking to assure Mira’s pre natal health. The first of many good things attributable to Mira. Some say Mira is my clone. OK, so I am exaggerating a bit….OK, a lot. But, we do look alike (if you look beyond the facial and head top hair differences) and have many similar interests. Like loving baseball, photography, politics...... Mira reminds me so much of my father....loving, generous, gregarious. He would, in fact DID for the few years they knew each other, love her as I do.
About two years later, Sara arrived. Her birthday date being one day before my father’s, Feb 9, 1972. He always said she was one day older than him. My father was so happy to have a grand daughter named after his mother. Often when I am with Sara we arrive at the same thought simultaneously. Must be in the genes. I say great minds think along the same lines. Sara brings me a bonus, Victor. It is hard to imagine a better son-in-law (still to be at this writing). The only thing that separates Victor from perfection is that he has no serious interest in baseball.
Seven years my junior, Bunny, is the next most important person in my life. The Easter time gift in 1947. How much fun I had in teasing her in our youth. And now have in confiding in her in my adulthood.
Next, comes my adopted family through Barbara. Lenore, Jonathan and Anne, and their spouses, have all welcomed me like I was a long time member of their family. But, in fact, Jonathan and Anne bring me another bonus……three grand nieces and a nephew. As of this writing that is as close as I get to grandchildren. I am reveling in their childhood and maturation as if they were my own.
I cannot leave family without mention of my cousins, Jay (closest in age to me), Greta (and Alvin), and Sandra. Few in number, but large in sentiment. Alas, my final cousin, Blanche and I do not communicate these days. Well, you can’t win 'em all.
No life relationship can be complete without friends. In that regard, I am well endowed, indeed. Although, my closest boyhood friend, almost brother, Bob Silverstein, is passed, I have many other friends to warm my heart. Throughout the various times in my life, from high school, through undergraduate and graduate school, to various parts of my professional life, I have accumulated friends. Too many to single out by name. But, all helping to fill out my most fortunate life.
That completes the companionship component of my life. What about intellectual stimulation?
After retiring from a fulfilling, 40-year career in meteorology (and oceanography) research, I have taken up tour guiding. From scientist to historian. The only thing in common is my love to perform. And love it, I do. Imagine a job where people pay me to lecture to them and hang on my every word. Well, some do, anyway. Science went from my profession to my hobby. And history went from my hobby to my profession. I love the reversal and revel in both.
Health? Well for a 69 year old, I feel pretty good. Sure, as my friend Bill Gemmil says, “…at our age, the warrantee on the parts starts running out”. But, they all still work. Knock on wood.
Finances? Well, you can’t win ‘em all. The financial and real estate bubbles put a crimp in my plans. But, tour guiding keeps the wolf away from my (very expensive) Washington, DC condo door. Like my parents, my goal is to die with just $100 in the bank. Sorry, no inheritance to be had here. Other than spiritual. And there is also my trove of photos on my computer and my barometers on my wall.
So….how do I feel in my 69th year? In a word….GREAT.
Stay tuned for a report at 79.
OK, so the Beatles said "64", but I say it 5 years later.
69.....the year both of my parents died.....Well...I have to much to live for to go their way.
In fact, I have as good a life as anybody could ask for.........family, friends, intellectual stimulation.....good health...even reasonable finances. I hope this rambling will not jinx any of that.
My mother would never write such a thing. Never tempt the evil eye, she would say. But, me, well I forge ahead undaunted.
Why? You ask....Well because I am so very happy right now.
First, my family.....Immediate and distant all love me and likewise.
First, there is Barbara. Late in life, I met the most generous, loving person imaginable. Her generosity reminds me of my father. And that is saying a lot for those who knew him. She and he would have hit it off splendidly...except for one important difference.......their views of women's place in the world. But, I will not go there. Yes...Barb and I differ a lot, both being quite opinionated. But, on one thing we agree totally....we are deeply committed and....yes.....love each other.
Next....my girls....Mira and Sara. Both fully mature adults with societally important careers that make me so proud.
My eldest, Mira, arrived around Thanksgiving in 1969. And I have been giving thanks for her ever since. My mother was so happy when we named her after her mother. Sylvia and I gave up smoking to assure Mira’s pre natal health. The first of many good things attributable to Mira. Some say Mira is my clone. OK, so I am exaggerating a bit….OK, a lot. But, we do look alike (if you look beyond the facial and head top hair differences) and have many similar interests. Like loving baseball, photography, politics...... Mira reminds me so much of my father....loving, generous, gregarious. He would, in fact DID for the few years they knew each other, love her as I do.
About two years later, Sara arrived. Her birthday date being one day before my father’s, Feb 9, 1972. He always said she was one day older than him. My father was so happy to have a grand daughter named after his mother. Often when I am with Sara we arrive at the same thought simultaneously. Must be in the genes. I say great minds think along the same lines. Sara brings me a bonus, Victor. It is hard to imagine a better son-in-law (still to be at this writing). The only thing that separates Victor from perfection is that he has no serious interest in baseball.
Seven years my junior, Bunny, is the next most important person in my life. The Easter time gift in 1947. How much fun I had in teasing her in our youth. And now have in confiding in her in my adulthood.
Next, comes my adopted family through Barbara. Lenore, Jonathan and Anne, and their spouses, have all welcomed me like I was a long time member of their family. But, in fact, Jonathan and Anne bring me another bonus……three grand nieces and a nephew. As of this writing that is as close as I get to grandchildren. I am reveling in their childhood and maturation as if they were my own.
I cannot leave family without mention of my cousins, Jay (closest in age to me), Greta (and Alvin), and Sandra. Few in number, but large in sentiment. Alas, my final cousin, Blanche and I do not communicate these days. Well, you can’t win 'em all.
No life relationship can be complete without friends. In that regard, I am well endowed, indeed. Although, my closest boyhood friend, almost brother, Bob Silverstein, is passed, I have many other friends to warm my heart. Throughout the various times in my life, from high school, through undergraduate and graduate school, to various parts of my professional life, I have accumulated friends. Too many to single out by name. But, all helping to fill out my most fortunate life.
That completes the companionship component of my life. What about intellectual stimulation?
After retiring from a fulfilling, 40-year career in meteorology (and oceanography) research, I have taken up tour guiding. From scientist to historian. The only thing in common is my love to perform. And love it, I do. Imagine a job where people pay me to lecture to them and hang on my every word. Well, some do, anyway. Science went from my profession to my hobby. And history went from my hobby to my profession. I love the reversal and revel in both.
Health? Well for a 69 year old, I feel pretty good. Sure, as my friend Bill Gemmil says, “…at our age, the warrantee on the parts starts running out”. But, they all still work. Knock on wood.
Finances? Well, you can’t win ‘em all. The financial and real estate bubbles put a crimp in my plans. But, tour guiding keeps the wolf away from my (very expensive) Washington, DC condo door. Like my parents, my goal is to die with just $100 in the bank. Sorry, no inheritance to be had here. Other than spiritual. And there is also my trove of photos on my computer and my barometers on my wall.
So….how do I feel in my 69th year? In a word….GREAT.
Stay tuned for a report at 79.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Inauguration
Well, we (Barbara and I) did it. We attended the inauguration ceremonies of our 44th President, the first of color....Barack Hussein Obama. Live, in person......
We Metro'd to the L'Enfant Plaza stop, with surprisingly little delay at about 6AM.
We actually led a student tour group, with whom we stayed overnight at their motel.
So, a 4AM wake-up call and a meager breakfast had us on our way to the Branch Avenue Metro stop (Leading the group) by 5AM. Yes....I started that early. Not something I usually do. But, the event necessitated extreme action.
We stood outside (Of course) for about 5 hours in freezing temperatures (High 20's) to witness this historic event. No food, no water and no bathroom break. Yes, there were many porta poddies, but not in our area. And besides, we would have had to give up our spot to get to them. No way.......
Barbara got official tickets to the "Silver" area, just inside (east of) 3rd street on the Mall. We could see the speakers' stand, but were too far away to actually see the speakers. So, we watched it on the jumbotrons. Like all the people outside the official area and along the Mall. An estimated 2 million of them.
But....we have our official tickets (secured from a contact of Barbara's in Speaker Pelosi's office) as souvenirs.
In fact, when we got to the entry gate, all they did was a hand body tap down and a cursory search of our bags. In fact, they never asked to see our official tickets.
So, after all that, what did I think?
Well, it was not as much of a circus as I expected. No colorful hats or clothes. No banners were allowed in our area. So, I cannot speak for the rest of the Mall. But, I think banners were banned there as well. Maybe it was the season, but things were definitely drab. My red coat was a rare display of color. No creative buttons. At $10 - $20 a pop, the vendors could have done better. They were so much more creative and colorful at the Denver convention. My $5 hat, purchased in my neighborhood across from the Zoo, was among the more colorful.
Everybody was well behaved. Cheered for the good guys and booed the bad. I will let you guess who was who.
But, unlike the acceptance speech at Invesco Field in Denver, the scene at this inaugural was definitely not electric. Polite cheers but no jumping up and down like at Invesco. This was an historic even, but not a "Peak Life Experience" like the acceptance speech. Or even his Convention speech four years earlier. I guess another emotional speech was too much to hope for. It will be interesting to see if any of his phrases become historic. I did not hear any.
Of course, what made it historic was the color of the man and the tenor of our times, not necessarily his words.
But, now that history has been made, we will soon have to see effective action. Effective....action. I surely do not know what that is.
But, at this juncture, I am confident the Barak Obama will find the right action.
I think he has the proper, maybe even unique, combination of charisma to instill hope, and intellect to make that hope be fulfilled. It will take both to carry us through what lies ahead of all of us. Charisma is necessary for people to believe things will/are getting better. And intellect to insure he will make the kind of decisions to make that charismatic inspired belief actually come true. I believe in self fulfilling prophesy. If we think these are improving, they will. But, only for a while. In the end the decisions will have to be successful on their own.
You can do it Barack. I am behind you.
We Metro'd to the L'Enfant Plaza stop, with surprisingly little delay at about 6AM.
We actually led a student tour group, with whom we stayed overnight at their motel.
So, a 4AM wake-up call and a meager breakfast had us on our way to the Branch Avenue Metro stop (Leading the group) by 5AM. Yes....I started that early. Not something I usually do. But, the event necessitated extreme action.
We stood outside (Of course) for about 5 hours in freezing temperatures (High 20's) to witness this historic event. No food, no water and no bathroom break. Yes, there were many porta poddies, but not in our area. And besides, we would have had to give up our spot to get to them. No way.......
Barbara got official tickets to the "Silver" area, just inside (east of) 3rd street on the Mall. We could see the speakers' stand, but were too far away to actually see the speakers. So, we watched it on the jumbotrons. Like all the people outside the official area and along the Mall. An estimated 2 million of them.
But....we have our official tickets (secured from a contact of Barbara's in Speaker Pelosi's office) as souvenirs.
In fact, when we got to the entry gate, all they did was a hand body tap down and a cursory search of our bags. In fact, they never asked to see our official tickets.
So, after all that, what did I think?
Well, it was not as much of a circus as I expected. No colorful hats or clothes. No banners were allowed in our area. So, I cannot speak for the rest of the Mall. But, I think banners were banned there as well. Maybe it was the season, but things were definitely drab. My red coat was a rare display of color. No creative buttons. At $10 - $20 a pop, the vendors could have done better. They were so much more creative and colorful at the Denver convention. My $5 hat, purchased in my neighborhood across from the Zoo, was among the more colorful.
Everybody was well behaved. Cheered for the good guys and booed the bad. I will let you guess who was who.
But, unlike the acceptance speech at Invesco Field in Denver, the scene at this inaugural was definitely not electric. Polite cheers but no jumping up and down like at Invesco. This was an historic even, but not a "Peak Life Experience" like the acceptance speech. Or even his Convention speech four years earlier. I guess another emotional speech was too much to hope for. It will be interesting to see if any of his phrases become historic. I did not hear any.
Of course, what made it historic was the color of the man and the tenor of our times, not necessarily his words.
But, now that history has been made, we will soon have to see effective action. Effective....action. I surely do not know what that is.
But, at this juncture, I am confident the Barak Obama will find the right action.
I think he has the proper, maybe even unique, combination of charisma to instill hope, and intellect to make that hope be fulfilled. It will take both to carry us through what lies ahead of all of us. Charisma is necessary for people to believe things will/are getting better. And intellect to insure he will make the kind of decisions to make that charismatic inspired belief actually come true. I believe in self fulfilling prophesy. If we think these are improving, they will. But, only for a while. In the end the decisions will have to be successful on their own.
You can do it Barack. I am behind you.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Hello Again
I have probably lost whatever meager following I had. Since it has been months since my last posting. Once you fall out of the habit, it is hard to come back.
Since my last posting, in turn, I have had hip replacement surgery.....and ....Barack Obama has become our President Elect.
Of course, all of you know the latter. And most know the former.
So, why post this now?
No good reason really. But, I just visited my Blog. So here I am.
First, I am pretty much recovered from my hip replacement surgery. And am looking forward to an active tour guide year ahead.
Like many of you, I am discouraged by much of the news. But, looking forward to better times under an Obama presidency.
Of course, things CAN'T get worse. When have we heard that before.
My father used to tell the joke, that things were bad. So, his friend said "Cheer up, things could be worse" So, he cheered up, and sure enough, THING GOT WORSE. Ouch......
My major fear is that there is so much enthusiasm for an Obama presidency that, if things do not quickly improve, the public will react negatively and the new Administration will soon be playing catch up.
But, I am hoping that the Obama team is smart enough to recognize that and take the appropriate steps.
So far, again like much of the country, I am impressed with his appointments.
The thing that most encourages me is that so much of the country seems to think Obama will change things for the better.
I strongly believe in self fulfilling prophesies.
If people believe things will get better, I think they will.
Living in DC, we have the opportunity to witness history in the making, in person.
Whether we actually will, depends a lot on the weather.
A cold, wet day will keep us home like most of you, watching it on TV.
But, anything better, will tempt us to walk the 2 miles from our home to the Mall, to be among the 2 million or so others who will be able to tell their grandchildren that they were there.
Just like we can already tell ours that we witnessed Obama's acceptance speech in Denver. I still proudly wear an "I was there" button on my Obama cap to prove I was there.
(By the way, whenever I wear that cap, I get at least one friendly comment about it, often more. Never have had a unfriendly one yet.)
When at the acceptance speech, I wondered how his inauguration speech could improve on the acceptance one.
Well, we will soon find out.
Let me sign off now with holiday greetings.
Tonight is the first night of Chanukah. So Happy Chanukah to my Jewish friends.
Thursday is Xmas. So, Merry Christmas to the rest.
And,.....finally.....Happy New Year to all.
Alan
Since my last posting, in turn, I have had hip replacement surgery.....and ....Barack Obama has become our President Elect.
Of course, all of you know the latter. And most know the former.
So, why post this now?
No good reason really. But, I just visited my Blog. So here I am.
First, I am pretty much recovered from my hip replacement surgery. And am looking forward to an active tour guide year ahead.
Like many of you, I am discouraged by much of the news. But, looking forward to better times under an Obama presidency.
Of course, things CAN'T get worse. When have we heard that before.
My father used to tell the joke, that things were bad. So, his friend said "Cheer up, things could be worse" So, he cheered up, and sure enough, THING GOT WORSE. Ouch......
My major fear is that there is so much enthusiasm for an Obama presidency that, if things do not quickly improve, the public will react negatively and the new Administration will soon be playing catch up.
But, I am hoping that the Obama team is smart enough to recognize that and take the appropriate steps.
So far, again like much of the country, I am impressed with his appointments.
The thing that most encourages me is that so much of the country seems to think Obama will change things for the better.
I strongly believe in self fulfilling prophesies.
If people believe things will get better, I think they will.
Living in DC, we have the opportunity to witness history in the making, in person.
Whether we actually will, depends a lot on the weather.
A cold, wet day will keep us home like most of you, watching it on TV.
But, anything better, will tempt us to walk the 2 miles from our home to the Mall, to be among the 2 million or so others who will be able to tell their grandchildren that they were there.
Just like we can already tell ours that we witnessed Obama's acceptance speech in Denver. I still proudly wear an "I was there" button on my Obama cap to prove I was there.
(By the way, whenever I wear that cap, I get at least one friendly comment about it, often more. Never have had a unfriendly one yet.)
When at the acceptance speech, I wondered how his inauguration speech could improve on the acceptance one.
Well, we will soon find out.
Let me sign off now with holiday greetings.
Tonight is the first night of Chanukah. So Happy Chanukah to my Jewish friends.
Thursday is Xmas. So, Merry Christmas to the rest.
And,.....finally.....Happy New Year to all.
Alan
Friday, September 12, 2008
NARFE Convention
Ah well, another week, another convention. The Democratic National Convention in Denver, the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis (I only saw this one on TV), the AARP Convention in Washington. And, this week, the 30th Convention of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association in Louisville, Ky. Or, as they say there....LOOOville. Home of the Kentucky Derby, the Louisville Slugger, Mohammad Ali, and many other interesting things too numerous to mention. But, I went to conventioneer, not to tour.
So....here are my impressions.
In a word, I was totally IMPRESSED.
Impressed by the orderly progression of the business at hand;
Impressed by knowledge and dedication of the NARFE staff and Officers (With the exception of one officer, who shall go nameless here---See me offline, if you want more on that);
Impressed by the enthusiasm of the attendees; and
Impressed by the venue, both hotel and city of Louisville.
Now some details.
Overall, there were no significant changes in the officers or operations of NARFE that came out of this convention. There is a new VP, Joe Beaudoin. The other officers remain the same. There are a few new Regional VP's. but most also remain the same. And there were a few nibbles around the edges of how they will do business in the future (i.e. The Board will select the Convention sites in the future, vice the Convention doing that.)
I will leave it to my readers to get the full details out of the upcoming NARFE Magazine.
There were two key issues at the Convention, Legislation and Membership.
In the end, legislative influence is the prime reason d'etre for NARFE. In short, they are the lobby that Civil Service workers, both active and retired, have in Congress. And we will need every ounce of that influence in the upcoming couple of years. In the words of the Legislative Director, Dan Adcock, we are approaching a "Perfect Storm" of issues over the next year or so. With a looming budget crisis in the country, Congress will be looking for every opportunity to trim expenses. Our earned benefits will be under great pressure. It will be up to all of us, NARFE staff/officers, and NARFE members to ward off this storm. There will be great pressure to reduce COLAs and health benefits to help reduce the impact of entitlement costs on the overall budget. There will be many calls over the next year or two to contact your Congressperson on behalf of your benefits. Watch for those calls and respond when asked.
Even if you are not now, or ever been, a government employee. Because you are my friend...or at least one of my loyal readers. I hope I have a few.
The second key issue was membership. In a word, it continues to DECLINE. Down from a 1960's high of about 500,000 to the present approximately 325,000. Down 9,000 this year alone. To be honest, I saw a lot of hand wringing about this, but no fresh ideas on how to reverse it. The best approach to increasing membership is personal contact. If you know any active or retired federal employees, ask them if they are NARFE members. If not, recruit them. Not obnoxiously, but aggressively. If any of my readers are in that category, I beseech you to join NARFE. The only way to prevent that perfect storm I mentioned above is by increasing our clout. It all starts with increasing our numbers.
OK, enough lobbying on my part.
In summary, let me repeat my opening remarks about how impressed I was with my first exposure to a NARFE convention. I look forward to an active two years ahead and the next convention in Grand Rapids, MI in 2010. Louisville will be hard to beat.
All comments gratefully accepted.
Alan
So....here are my impressions.
In a word, I was totally IMPRESSED.
Impressed by the orderly progression of the business at hand;
Impressed by knowledge and dedication of the NARFE staff and Officers (With the exception of one officer, who shall go nameless here---See me offline, if you want more on that);
Impressed by the enthusiasm of the attendees; and
Impressed by the venue, both hotel and city of Louisville.
Now some details.
Overall, there were no significant changes in the officers or operations of NARFE that came out of this convention. There is a new VP, Joe Beaudoin. The other officers remain the same. There are a few new Regional VP's. but most also remain the same. And there were a few nibbles around the edges of how they will do business in the future (i.e. The Board will select the Convention sites in the future, vice the Convention doing that.)
I will leave it to my readers to get the full details out of the upcoming NARFE Magazine.
There were two key issues at the Convention, Legislation and Membership.
In the end, legislative influence is the prime reason d'etre for NARFE. In short, they are the lobby that Civil Service workers, both active and retired, have in Congress. And we will need every ounce of that influence in the upcoming couple of years. In the words of the Legislative Director, Dan Adcock, we are approaching a "Perfect Storm" of issues over the next year or so. With a looming budget crisis in the country, Congress will be looking for every opportunity to trim expenses. Our earned benefits will be under great pressure. It will be up to all of us, NARFE staff/officers, and NARFE members to ward off this storm. There will be great pressure to reduce COLAs and health benefits to help reduce the impact of entitlement costs on the overall budget. There will be many calls over the next year or two to contact your Congressperson on behalf of your benefits. Watch for those calls and respond when asked.
Even if you are not now, or ever been, a government employee. Because you are my friend...or at least one of my loyal readers. I hope I have a few.
The second key issue was membership. In a word, it continues to DECLINE. Down from a 1960's high of about 500,000 to the present approximately 325,000. Down 9,000 this year alone. To be honest, I saw a lot of hand wringing about this, but no fresh ideas on how to reverse it. The best approach to increasing membership is personal contact. If you know any active or retired federal employees, ask them if they are NARFE members. If not, recruit them. Not obnoxiously, but aggressively. If any of my readers are in that category, I beseech you to join NARFE. The only way to prevent that perfect storm I mentioned above is by increasing our clout. It all starts with increasing our numbers.
OK, enough lobbying on my part.
In summary, let me repeat my opening remarks about how impressed I was with my first exposure to a NARFE convention. I look forward to an active two years ahead and the next convention in Grand Rapids, MI in 2010. Louisville will be hard to beat.
All comments gratefully accepted.
Alan
Saturday, August 30, 2008
On Being a Democrat
My first foray into non-Convention topics.
I was born into a liberal Democrat family in NYC in 1940. My father was a lifetime Democrat and my uncle had a portrait of Franklyn Roosevelt over the couch in the living room. So, you know how I started my political life.
The first Presidential campaign I remember was Stevenson vs Eisenhower, when I proudly wore a a Stevenson button to school. (I wish I still had it)
But, I was not really emotionally committed to him. I was not really mature enough to follow politics. I was more interested in the Yankees.
The first emotional commitment I remember making was to John Kennedy. I worked on his campaign and was so very happy when he won, albeit, by a very close margin. I remember clearly that my Democrat father expressed some sincere worry about Kennedy's Catholicism. I wonder to this day how he actually voted. I never asked him.
(I mention this because of its relevancy to Obama's color. Will lifetime Dems harbor such similar worries? I surely hope not. But, racism runs deep in this country.) Most historian quote the "Ask not what your country..........." as the centerpiece of his inaugural speech. I connect more to his opening remarks on how "...the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans." I was 20 and part of that new generation. It still sends shivers through my body to repeat those words.
Like the rest of the world, I was crushed by Kennedy's death. I backed Johnson in the next election. But, not enthusiastically. I always respected his abilities on the domestic side. But, doubted his skill in foreign affairs. Those worries, of course, surfaced as the Viet Nam war deepened.
Next came Humphrey. Another quandary. A lifetime liberal (Like me) who was loyal to Johnson and the war (unlike me). Quite a dilemma. So, while I voted for him, I never strongly backed Humphrey. My vote was more against Nixon, than for Humphrey.
Next came Carter. Another worrisome Democrat. Would one term as Ga governor give him the credentials for leading the country? Another case of a man whose philosophy I strongly agreed with. But, about whom I had strong worries. In my opinion, those worries came home to roost. I have always felt that a President must be a strong, decisive leader. Carter kept changing his mind on important things. A weak leader, whose heart was in the right place. But, whose executive skills left much to be desired.
So, that brings me to Reagan. Just the opposite of Carter. An excellent executive, who surrounded himself with trusted advisers and followed their advise. Alas, bad advise. But, the wrong political philosophy. Big tax cuts, big military build up. Many say the tax cuts pulled us out of a economic mess and eventually led to the Prosperity of the Clinton years. I am not a professional Economist. Many say the military buildup led to the eventual collapse of Communist Russia. Again., that is beyond my expertise to tell. So, I cannot say. But, Reagan will go down in history (Has already, in fact) as an historic President. He transformed America into a conservative country. An awful transformation (In my opinion) But, a historic one.
George Bush Sr. A big disappointment to me right from the start of his campaign. At first, I had high hopes for him. Originally, he had been a liberal opponent, in the primaries, to Reagan. So, I hoped that once he could be his own man, his liberal, albeit Republican, tendencies might come out. How wrong I was in that hope.
Finally, we got a charismatic candidate in Bill Clinton. But, who was this obscure guy from Arkansas? Would that give him the experience to lead the country? Thank god for Ross Perot. He allowed Clinton to squeak in as a minority president. But, my fears were vindicated. Talk about inexperience. Clinton had that in spades for his first two years. Remember his first cabinet choices? I have tried to put them out of my mind. And, of course Hillary's ill fated health care initiative. But, Bill Clinton was a quick learner. I believe his mind borders on brilliant. By the end of his first term and into his second, we finally had a centrist liberal president with the right philosophy and the skills to execute them.
But, the conservative right dogged him at every step. And he gave them plenty of ammunition. I was living in London for much of Clinton's second term. So, I was kind of out of the loop for most of that term. I must admit to being somewhat embarrassed by how his sexual shenanigans were joked about in London.
So, next we come to Al Gore. Here we go again. Another man with the right political philosophy and poor executive skills. Thanks to an awful campaign and Ralph Nader, we got George Bush II. What more can I say. A crushing defeat for me .....and for the country.
John Kerry ....... God, can't the Democrats get it right? Right from the start, Kerry was all wrong. Even a lifelong Democrat like me could not really determine where he stood on any issues. Much too intimidated by the still very powerful conservative tenor of the nation. By this time, I was retired and had plenty of time to devote to campaign working. Living in Northern Va, I was ideally located to have an impact with my work. Indeed, I worked hard for Kerry. But, to be honest, it was not in favor of Kerry but, in opposition to Bush. I bought fully into the slogan...."Anybody but Bush" Honestly, that is no basis for a vote. But, it was mine.
Once I got the political bug, I continued working in the off year election. This time for Webb in Va. Another case of not being enthusiastic about our candidate, but being enthusiastic about winning the Senate. Nobody gave Webb much of a chance against George Allen at the start. But, finally, a Republican screwed up. And Webb won. I made the 9th most phone calls for Webb in Va (Or maybe it was Northern Va, I never really found that out). Anyway, I worked by butt off for Webb.....and finally was rewarded with a victory. It was so sweet. Still is.
So, that brings me to Obama. Finally, I have someone who I really love. Someone who I respect. Someone who inspires me. Now at 68, I am not one of his young devotees. But, one of his devout followers never the less. Again, as a lifelong Democrat, I see Roosevelt in him in his plans for the country. I see Kennedy in him in his youthful vigor. I see Clinton (Bill, that is) in him in his charisma. Such a combination cannot fail.... Right?
Well folks, anything is possible with the electorate. Will they succumb to the characterization of inexperience? Will they succumb to their latent racism, even if they will never say so in polls? Will they really think he is a Muslim (In fact, even if he was, not that I believe it for a second, would that invalidate his candidacy? That's a topic for another treatise.) Will seniors worry about his youth? Will women be disappointed in Hillary's defeat, even if they never say so openly? I am not a professional political expert. But, even the experts seem divided. Trust me, friends, it is far from in the bag. Even with his charisma and the country being fed up with Bush. I will work hard on his campaign in Va. And....hope for the best.
I beseech all my friends to work in their back yards.
Oh, while I am at it, we need to win overwhelming majorities in Congress. But, again, a topic for another treatise.
Regards from a lifetime Democrat.
Alan Weinstein
I was born into a liberal Democrat family in NYC in 1940. My father was a lifetime Democrat and my uncle had a portrait of Franklyn Roosevelt over the couch in the living room. So, you know how I started my political life.
The first Presidential campaign I remember was Stevenson vs Eisenhower, when I proudly wore a a Stevenson button to school. (I wish I still had it)
But, I was not really emotionally committed to him. I was not really mature enough to follow politics. I was more interested in the Yankees.
The first emotional commitment I remember making was to John Kennedy. I worked on his campaign and was so very happy when he won, albeit, by a very close margin. I remember clearly that my Democrat father expressed some sincere worry about Kennedy's Catholicism. I wonder to this day how he actually voted. I never asked him.
(I mention this because of its relevancy to Obama's color. Will lifetime Dems harbor such similar worries? I surely hope not. But, racism runs deep in this country.) Most historian quote the "Ask not what your country..........." as the centerpiece of his inaugural speech. I connect more to his opening remarks on how "...the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans." I was 20 and part of that new generation. It still sends shivers through my body to repeat those words.
Like the rest of the world, I was crushed by Kennedy's death. I backed Johnson in the next election. But, not enthusiastically. I always respected his abilities on the domestic side. But, doubted his skill in foreign affairs. Those worries, of course, surfaced as the Viet Nam war deepened.
Next came Humphrey. Another quandary. A lifetime liberal (Like me) who was loyal to Johnson and the war (unlike me). Quite a dilemma. So, while I voted for him, I never strongly backed Humphrey. My vote was more against Nixon, than for Humphrey.
Next came Carter. Another worrisome Democrat. Would one term as Ga governor give him the credentials for leading the country? Another case of a man whose philosophy I strongly agreed with. But, about whom I had strong worries. In my opinion, those worries came home to roost. I have always felt that a President must be a strong, decisive leader. Carter kept changing his mind on important things. A weak leader, whose heart was in the right place. But, whose executive skills left much to be desired.
So, that brings me to Reagan. Just the opposite of Carter. An excellent executive, who surrounded himself with trusted advisers and followed their advise. Alas, bad advise. But, the wrong political philosophy. Big tax cuts, big military build up. Many say the tax cuts pulled us out of a economic mess and eventually led to the Prosperity of the Clinton years. I am not a professional Economist. Many say the military buildup led to the eventual collapse of Communist Russia. Again., that is beyond my expertise to tell. So, I cannot say. But, Reagan will go down in history (Has already, in fact) as an historic President. He transformed America into a conservative country. An awful transformation (In my opinion) But, a historic one.
George Bush Sr. A big disappointment to me right from the start of his campaign. At first, I had high hopes for him. Originally, he had been a liberal opponent, in the primaries, to Reagan. So, I hoped that once he could be his own man, his liberal, albeit Republican, tendencies might come out. How wrong I was in that hope.
Finally, we got a charismatic candidate in Bill Clinton. But, who was this obscure guy from Arkansas? Would that give him the experience to lead the country? Thank god for Ross Perot. He allowed Clinton to squeak in as a minority president. But, my fears were vindicated. Talk about inexperience. Clinton had that in spades for his first two years. Remember his first cabinet choices? I have tried to put them out of my mind. And, of course Hillary's ill fated health care initiative. But, Bill Clinton was a quick learner. I believe his mind borders on brilliant. By the end of his first term and into his second, we finally had a centrist liberal president with the right philosophy and the skills to execute them.
But, the conservative right dogged him at every step. And he gave them plenty of ammunition. I was living in London for much of Clinton's second term. So, I was kind of out of the loop for most of that term. I must admit to being somewhat embarrassed by how his sexual shenanigans were joked about in London.
So, next we come to Al Gore. Here we go again. Another man with the right political philosophy and poor executive skills. Thanks to an awful campaign and Ralph Nader, we got George Bush II. What more can I say. A crushing defeat for me .....and for the country.
John Kerry ....... God, can't the Democrats get it right? Right from the start, Kerry was all wrong. Even a lifelong Democrat like me could not really determine where he stood on any issues. Much too intimidated by the still very powerful conservative tenor of the nation. By this time, I was retired and had plenty of time to devote to campaign working. Living in Northern Va, I was ideally located to have an impact with my work. Indeed, I worked hard for Kerry. But, to be honest, it was not in favor of Kerry but, in opposition to Bush. I bought fully into the slogan...."Anybody but Bush" Honestly, that is no basis for a vote. But, it was mine.
Once I got the political bug, I continued working in the off year election. This time for Webb in Va. Another case of not being enthusiastic about our candidate, but being enthusiastic about winning the Senate. Nobody gave Webb much of a chance against George Allen at the start. But, finally, a Republican screwed up. And Webb won. I made the 9th most phone calls for Webb in Va (Or maybe it was Northern Va, I never really found that out). Anyway, I worked by butt off for Webb.....and finally was rewarded with a victory. It was so sweet. Still is.
So, that brings me to Obama. Finally, I have someone who I really love. Someone who I respect. Someone who inspires me. Now at 68, I am not one of his young devotees. But, one of his devout followers never the less. Again, as a lifelong Democrat, I see Roosevelt in him in his plans for the country. I see Kennedy in him in his youthful vigor. I see Clinton (Bill, that is) in him in his charisma. Such a combination cannot fail.... Right?
Well folks, anything is possible with the electorate. Will they succumb to the characterization of inexperience? Will they succumb to their latent racism, even if they will never say so in polls? Will they really think he is a Muslim (In fact, even if he was, not that I believe it for a second, would that invalidate his candidacy? That's a topic for another treatise.) Will seniors worry about his youth? Will women be disappointed in Hillary's defeat, even if they never say so openly? I am not a professional political expert. But, even the experts seem divided. Trust me, friends, it is far from in the bag. Even with his charisma and the country being fed up with Bush. I will work hard on his campaign in Va. And....hope for the best.
I beseech all my friends to work in their back yards.
Oh, while I am at it, we need to win overwhelming majorities in Congress. But, again, a topic for another treatise.
Regards from a lifetime Democrat.
Alan Weinstein
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