The Purity of Sport Competition

Sport competition has dramatically impacted my life.  As a ten year old boy beginning a fifty-one year competitive sport journey, I have witnessed great moments in sport competition and likewise some ugly moments.

 In 1988, eventual IHSA State Basketball Champions, East St. Louis Lincoln played Jacksonville high school in a Shoot-Out at the JHS Bowl in mid-January. The game featured future Division I standouts, Andy Kaufmann (Jacksonville) and LaPhonso Ellis and Cuonzo Martin (Lincoln). Before the sold out contest began,  I noticed young and old basketball fans clamor to get autographs from the soon to be college standouts. The game was a hotly contested battle. As the two teams entered the court to begin the final quarter, it was pointed out by an assistant coach that 3,300 fans came to their feet in a standing ovation. They appreciated the spirited and talented show. It ranks as the best moment in sport competition I ever experienced. That same season, I saw two disgusting and ugly sport competition moments. Both of these incidences occurred in Quincy, Illinois. At Norte Dame high school a OND player punched Kaufmann in the stomach and a fight broke out between players and several Norte Dame fans came from the stands to engage in the melee. In another incident at Quincy high school a Blue Devils' player spit in Kaufmann's face on three different ocassions before refereees spotted and ejected the player for unsportsmanlike behavior.

As a sport participant is basketball and baseball during my high school and college days, I never engaged in trash talking, bantering or even friendly conversation with opponents.  I fraternized one time and one time only with an opposing player and that player was SIUC baseball player Richard 'Itchy' Jones. We met for dinner during a weekend baseball series at Illinois State at a mutual friend's home. My philosophy regarding opponents when playing remained the same during my coaching career: I did not dislike my opponent but let's face it, my opponent wants to beat me and I want to beat him and that gets confusing in friendships. 'Respect All; Fear None.'

I often thought that highly anticipated games between my mid-1960's, Mason City teams with San Jose and Havana high schools would have been more fun without fans. Likewise, I felt the same way about those Edwardsville vs. Collinsville games and my Crimsons' squads vs. the Blue Devils. Players of all stripes play best when they shut out all exterior noises and find themselves in a talent-game-flow...easier to do without fans.

I thought about this the other night watching St. Louis Cardinals' pitcher Adam Wainwright celebrate his 39th Birthday pitching a complete game victory regeristing 9- strike outs and allowing only four hits. Like all games during this abbreviated  2020 Covid baseball season it was played before an empty stadium. When the game ended, the opposing team (Cleveland) stood in their dugout until Wainwright noticed them at which time they tipped their hats in an acknowledgement of his performance...a true sportsmanship gesture in...The Purity of Sport Competition.

Catch, Dunk, Homer, Win Gold But Keep Your Mouth Shut!

The first Black slaves were brought to America in 1619. As slavery developed and took a socio-econimic foothold in the new country so did mythical beliefs of White's perceptions of Blacks. Don't forget the fact that for 244 years Whites 'owned' Blacks and therefore generations of Whites grew up with the misconception that Blacks were endowed with greater physical strength but at the same time had lesser capacity in intellect when compared to Whites.

Long after the emancipation of Blacks the obstacles for them to achieve were difficult if not nearly impossible. In track and field White America applauded a Black guy named Jessie Owens who stuck it in Adolf Hitler's ass during the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Before that Boxing Champion, Jack Johnson caught America's eyes. It was in the late 1940's that Jackie Robinson and Larry Doby endured the slings, arrows and race baiting ugliness of White baseball fans and other White players.  Even as the Black man proved his worthiness on the sports' stage it wasn't good enough to earn him a place at the table, same restrooms or any bus seat with Whites. Nothing illustrates this better than when a 22 year old Cassius Clay dethroned Sonny Liston to claim the World Boxing Championship but later realizing he would be denied service at a lunch counter back in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. Then Whites vilified a Muhammad Ali for refusing to serve in a USA military.

As some laws demanded equality, i.e., civil rights, voting rights and federal laws prohibiting job discrimination, White people still get pissed off  if a person of color dares to speak his political opinion or protest against or for a cause. An NFL player kneeling during the National Anthem sets off   the anger of a President who lied about a his own physical disability to avoid military service for that country. Fox News anchor, Laura Ingraham probably epitomized that 'White' superior attitude when after NBA player LaBron James spoke out about politics. Ingraham said, "I'm not interested in the political advice from someone who gets paid 100 million dollars a year to bounce a ball...shut up and dribble." Ingraham also took the opportunity to make light of James' language skills saying his speech was "Barely intelligible and ungrammatical." She could have added what many Whites have said for centuries, 'Those people need to know their place.' Perhaps Trump said it another way when on the heels of the NBA boycotting games after a police killing of a Black man, Trump suggested The NBA is a political organization. In short a group largely comprised of Blacks should not have an opinion.

I am a privileged White American. Thank God I was not born Black in this country. I cannot imagine the hardships facing my brothers and sisters of color. Make no mistake this imbedded sin of bigotry and racism in our beloved America is coming to a sociological crescendo with the 2020 Presidential election. This election is all about COLORS: It's about Green, White & Black; not Red, White & Blue.

'Us Against Them' Sadly Within

I cannot say that I predicted what has become apparent in this year 2020, but in hindsight and based upon my experiences it sadly makes perfect sense. No, I'm not talking about the coronavirus pandemic. Only few could have imagined that nightmare. I am talking about making openly known that which has always existed, America's  'Bigotry' and Racism.' The catalyst or vehicle bringing this issue into the light of day has been the speech act of one President Donald J. Trump. It began with veiled subtleties, innuendos and coded language.

To best connect the dots, I would offer my formative experiences of the 1940's and 1950's. I was raised by hardworking, God worshiping parents and an extended family in multicultural/diversified East St. Louis, a city of some 80,000 people who understood the unspoken boundaries of forced and unforced separation. Many second generation immigrants continued to intentionally settle in geographical pockets, which afforded the desired comforts of practiced language and customs similarities. I don't recall shared fears that folks from Poland, Italy, Ireland, Checloslavia, France, etc. would move into your neighborhood but woe betide should the 'Colored' people from the 'Southend' move in. Oh, it was okay if Black women came into those White neighborhoods to do domestic work but they best be on a City bus headed to their 'own' area come four o'clock. Those folks best 'know their place.' The Blacks of that period were denied many good paying union jobs and forced to live in slums. Whites could then point to them in a condescending tone suggesting 'laziness.' However if a black man looked to be energetic and bent on upward mobility, White folks could label him as an 'uppity ni*#er.' I heard it over and over.

I can't speak for other cities but I can for St. Louis and East St. Louis when I state that ignorant prejudices unsubstantiated by facts were muted and consealed in those times but nevertheless existed. I heard those conversation that promoted those 'white-man' fears and negative attitudes towards people of color. It was confusing. Most in my neighborhood were Church going people. Following the teachings of Christ but sure the hell not living those teachings. (And Christians today weigh-in on abortion and gay-lesbian rights while ignoring racism as obvious as brown children locked in cages separated from parents).

In the past three and one half years our President, propped-up a complicit Republican Party has gone from negative racially charged coded hate language, ie,  "Drug dealers, Thugs and rapist," to the less subtle fear mongering about safety in the suburbs should he (Trump) not be re-elected..."Your home will go down in value."  Trump sells the fear of Blacks coming into your neighborhood would cause  crime to go up while home values and safety decreases.

America's hate filled divisiveness nurtured by a President who wishes to play upon fears promotes racial intolerance and rippens the field for conflict, which may soon culminate with horrible sights in our streets. I fear circumstances following our 2020, Presidential election. The most powerful nation in the world can defeat all outside enemies but cannot protect from within.

"A house divided against itself cannot stand." Abraham Lincoln

Time To Sell...Sellers Market.

We Americans have little control if any control over the events governing our nation. I once thought that our voting exercise was powerful but between the foreign influence from Russia and the fraud laced mail-in voting reported by our current President, it (voting) is 'smoke n' mirrors.' If reasonable minded countrymen (a fast dwindling number) would step back and clear their heads they would see all kinds of indications suggesting the time is ripe to cut a deal and sell America. Relax! Don't work yourself into a dither or tell me to "Love America or Leave it." I love this country but I've been paying attention to the obvious things that support this notion to 'sell.' Hear me out...

It's been a terrific run. Starting with the Pilgrims, the Westward expansion, the industrialization and high technology, we did ourselves proud notwithstanding a few moral missteps along the way, i.e., cheating and massacring Native Americans, enslaving Black people, operating Japanese Internment Camps and turning away Hispanic immigrants while they support our economy with the cheap wages given to those illegals we ignore. We got filled with ourselves and got cocky. Bob Hope and Bing Crosby made all those 'Road Movies' back in the 1940' & '50's and it pissed off the Arab nations who slowly starting getting even with us. The Mexicans never got over their war lost to America and the land we stole from them and now the descendants of Santa Ana keep sneaking into our country screwing up the economy, our schools and the health care system, however they do keep our lawns looking good. If you have been paying attention foreign countries have been buying up American land.

Today, we got a pandemic that soon will kill over 200,000 Americans and obviously our leaders cannot make intentional and intelligent decisions to arrest the plague. We need to 'sell' America to the highest bidder and that's not an irrational statement. An irrational statement is when somebody says, "The Spanish Flu of 1917 caused a lot of soldiers to get sick and probably ended World War II."

America has already allowed foreign countries to control and manage our Port Terminals, as well as selling off United States' tollways and bridges to foreign countries. If we check into an American hotel or motel these days or visit a 7/11 Store, we are frequently greeted by a Middle Eastern person whose grandfather owns the property.

I'm convinced we can get a good price for the country along with some important desirable perks. Consider: 1) Give us reservations just like the Indians have but make sure it's gated so we don't have to live next to people who don't look like us. 2) Make sure we can get cheap gas for our SUV and plenty of beer and brats for our tailgating parties. 3) No restrictions on hunting game with semi-automatics. 4) Television access for porn movies, preacher programs, game shows, reality shows and sports. Since the national passtime will become Camel racing, we should be guaranteed revenue off one Camel race track ownership. (Note: We would give the profits to our educational system).

Beholden to Lou

Word came a few days ago that former University of Illinois basketball coach Lou Henson died at age 88. Without question, Lou Henson was a true gentleman in every manner. He was also somebody that helped my basketball program immensely. Let me explain. At the close of the 1984-85 basketball season, Andy Kaufmann had completed his freshmen basketball year at Jacksonville Routt Catholic high school where he led the team in scoring. The summer before his sophomore season, Kaufman attended an Illini basketball camp where he impressed the entire coaching staff and namely, Head Coach Lou Henson. Henson suggested to Andy and his father, Bill that Andy would benefit playing a larger school schedule than Routt's. The rest as the say is history. Andy enrolled at Jacksonville high school where he would lead the state in scoring three consecutive years and catapult the Crimsons to a Sweet 16 birth in 1988.

 As I recall the recruiting process of Kaufmann, I cannot help but think of Henson's style and demeanor. Lou was kind, smooth and always ready to compliment the high school mentor. I suppose many college coaches think that their targeted recruit is going to listen to their high school coach when deciding which college they would attend. That may be true in many cases but not in this coach's case. I never did attempt to influence my players in their college choice because I knew very well they'd have good days and bad days at whichever college they attended and therefore it was important that college choice was the student-athletes and not their high school coach. That said, the buttering up of the high school coach remains a factor. From 1986 to 1987, Henson and assistant, Dick Nagy became fixtures in Jacksonville. Henson would attend some JHS home games and during warm ups he'd come down to courtside to visit with me and the opposing coach...visual, very visual for fans and community. Lou and Nagy once asked what time of the school day did Andy eat lunch. After sharing that information within a couple of days Henson and Nagy ate lunch with me in the school cafeteria...visual, very visual for Andy and his JHS school mates. At the end of Andy's sophomore season, Coach Henson asked me to be on a Coaches Panel at his Illini Coaches Clinic. Chicago King's Coach Sonny Cox was the only other panelist. Sonny and I answered one question about the high school coach's approach handling communications to their players. I was paid $500.00 for that answer. I told Henson that I thought Kaufmann would make a choice between Illinois and Iowa. Before Andy made that choice, I warned Lou that he might have issues with Andy at the college level that I did not have. I suggested, "Lou, Andy never met a shot he didn't like. I can at times control his passion for offense by posting him. At the college level you cannot post a 6'5" player so easily." Lou simply shrugged off the notion. It's fair to say that Lou at times was frustrated with Andy but needed his incredible scoring ability on the floor. Andy ranks 11th on the all-time individual scoring list. Enough said! During Andy's Illini pre-season, Coach Henson brought his Illinois team to The Bowl (JHS) where they played an intra-squad game before a packed house at $5.00 per ticket. The proceeds went to the Jacksonville Crimsons' basketball program. As I said, Lou Henson was a true gentleman in every manner. May he Rest In Peace. I feel blessed that our paths intertwined during our respective journeys.

Slip Sliding Solidarity

"USA, USA, USA!" We all feel that patriotism, togetherness and solidarity when the USA Women's Gymnastic Team garners Gold. We feel a warm union and affinity belonging to a country that ranks above all other countries in Olympic medal count. Times as these are uplifting as we are reassured through sports that We're Number One. I'm sure you as I get a similar boastful love of country when seeing military reviews or hearing our National Anthem.

These days our country tops another leader board, which hardly elevates joyous pride and feelings of ethonocentrism. The United States of America is number one in total coronavirus cases during this world wide pandemic and it is certainly not causing celebratory nationalistic chants. To the contrary, America's response to this deadly virus has become fractured at the least and building towards deadly chaos in our streets.

Americans have a documented history of meaningful and essential solidarity when facing nature's tragedies and attacks of foes. Despite differences our people came together facing two world wars, a President's assassination, earthquakes, hurricanes and terrorists attacks.

Unfortunately, America has slowly but surely developed enemies within. We seem to quickly view things from a perspective of self-interest and 'us' versus 'them.' A nation which once embraced immigrants is now in a free fall fight about accepting the traveler. We are a people who debate the scientific realities of global warming and a killer virus. We have a large population segment that claim constitutional freedoms and thus refuse to do things for the good of the order.

Recently, I learned of a central Illinois school district that offered to pay the internet service for students to facilitate online education. Several of the internet providers rejected some families in the process because they have outstanding delinquent payments. Really? During a nation wide pandemic!

It has been said through the centuries that difficult and challenging times make great men. I would add it also makes for great women. For that greatest to come forth somebody must demonstrate courage and intentional unifying leadership. We need that now becausemour solidarity is quickly
slip sliding away.

Change So Subtle, But Change Indeed.

Certainly considering the current backdrop of Americana, the news was not tragic but it saddened me
nonetheless. The opening sentence in the Decatur Herald-Review letter read: "Beginning August 17, 2020 the Herald-Review will transition from printing seven days a week to five days a week (Tuesday through Saturday)." Obviously, it is a business decision driven by a profit-loss reality. Slowly but surely another indicator of cultural change or more likely defined by generational cultural erosion.

From my East St. Louis growing-up days of the 1940's and 1950's, I recall the hawk-call of the early evening when a paper boy meandered the neighborhood streets calling out: "PAPER, Morning Globe!" And later the next day, you could peruse another St. Louis paper, the Post Dispatch or the East St. Louis Journal. No wonder why the Boy Scouts had an annual Paper Drive, we had papers!

I understand the instantaneous internet and cable television news availability and perhaps it's convenience, yet I also wonder about the greater incidence of today's stress, anxiety and the 35% increase of suicides in the United States over the past twenty years. No, I don't suggest that America's decline in newspaper circulation causes these aforementioned maladies, however it may be reflective of a society's larger decline, the loss of innocence, which gives way to cable news wrapped with angry agendas. Today's informational news is more often cloaked in a political philosophy begging one to view the events as how it affects 'Us' and 'Them' and suggests who's winning.

Old habits die hard and I'm an old guy with habits. Several years ago, the late sports writer, Jim Barnhart wrote a piece for the Bloomington Pantagraph promoting a book I had penned. During our conversation, I shared with Jim that I was not a big Internet news gleaner, but I still enjoyed turning the printed pages at my own leisurely pace and noticing ink left on my fingers.

A simpler place-in-time to which there is no return. The old man must get with it or get off the train.

I am Cornered; A Captive.

A few days ago, I had a estimate on a privacy fence and the fella doing the measurements told me that their company was two months behind completing jobs. He told me that it's the busiest his company had been in the 17-years he's been with them. He theorized that people have been in their homes more due to the pandemic and they look around at things and decide on changes and/or improvements. I believe the gent is correct and his thought even supported by my own behavior.

My wife and I returned from Florida on March 9, just about the time the 'coronavirus-hit-the-fan.' Since then, I have filled the auto with gasoline only two times; we don't go as in normal times. We don't eat out in restaraunts. We don't take day trips or weekend jaunts to visit our children. We are stuck at home.

Since I'm not spending monies on the aforementioned activities, I rationalize expenditures on the following: (1) Wild bird seeds and exotic feeders for Finches, Song Birds and Hummingbirds. (2) I am on first name basis with Wayfair agents after buying three patio umbrellas and two yard fountains. (3) this year's flower planting cost set a personal record and now I look to create a 'compound' with a six foot high privacy fence. Some say, "You're losing it." Kinder folks opine, "He's eccentric."

The unfortunate reality of this backyard fantasy escape will end with falling leaves and winter snows. It is then that the emotional frustration and anxiety will set in. I will be 'inside' the house instead of outside. I will be answering the endless soliciting telephone calls from every charity under the sun. I will get frequent reminders about an auto warranty expiration on a vehicle, which was totaled in an  accident nine years ago. I will turned down numerous freebies from cruise company's, casinos, resort hotels and United Healthcare's 'Home Nurse Visit Program.' I will also hear from Rachael regarding my credit card and hear from Social Security that somebody in Southwest Texas is engaged in suspicious financial activities using my Social Security number. (I hate it when that crap happens).

If I buy half of what's offered from telephone solicitors and commit to the plethora of $19 per month television pitches, i.e., St. Jude's (my wife already commits), ASPCA, Shriners, Wounded Warriors, local police fund, State Police Association,  Sheriff's Association and humane society,  I will deplete my monies for going South for the winter if and when this virus evaporates. And I've learned that when packing to go South for the winter, I should take 'half' the clothes and 'twice' the money.

Words From Great Presidents

Following are a few meaningful and telling quotes from American Presidents:

Harry S. Truman (33rd President)..."The Buck Stops Here."

Franklin D. Roosevelt (32nd President)..."The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

John F. Kennedy (35th President)..."Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do
                                                          for your country."

Donald J. Trump (45th President)..."Person-Woman-Man-Camera-T.V." /  "I Aced It."

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Molly McGee (wife of Fibber McGee)... "T'aint funny McGee!"

Chester A. Riley..."What a revoltin' development this is!"

Can't Decide

I am often times intrigued by the apparent desire of folks to have brief summations regarding people and events. There seems to be an appetite for information as long as it will not require much of our time. We've all heard the interviewer near the close of a conversation with a celebrity ask the question: "How would you like to be remembered?" We've heard the plea, "What one word best describes you?" From a personal perspective, I try not to self-grade because it can lead to self-aggrandizing, which leads to my father's ire and even though he's gone from this earthly journey...I still wish not to anger him on the good chance we shall meet again.

As most good Christians, I do enjoy 'judging others,' therefore I shall attempt to find that one word that best describes my wife of 60-years. There is a problem. I am conflicted choosing one of two words both of which come to mind. Gerry is deeply and sincerely 'CARING' and without question, Gerry is a 'TERRIER.' Let me advance a few examples supporting each word.

If I gave readers a list of family and friends' to contact and those readers asked the question, "Tell me something about Gerry Roustio," they would quickly say, "I have received all types of greeting cards from Gerry over the years, i.e., birthday, Anniversary, sympathy or simply Thinking About You cards, she is indeed most thoughtful and caring." New neighbors soon meet Gerry who offers a kind greeting word, shares endless information and a plate of 'Brownies.' Over the years, Gerry has nurtured children, grandchildren and great grandchildren while volunteering for various church service groups.  She epitomizes 'CARING.' But wait-a-minute...

Gerry could be the poster woman for eagerness and tenacity. That creature that refuses to 'Let it Go!'
She often demonstrates a Terrier mentality...relentless in a mission. If you will, consider: Every grandchild will tell you that if Nana (Gerry) offers that second food helping your best to say "yes" on the first overture because it is non-negotiable. Should Gerry converse with family or friends and asks "How are you?" >You best be prepared to give elaborate and detailed follow-up answers because the rapid-fire questions are coming similar to those asked by a New Jersey prosecuting attorney.

Just last week, I suggested a light supper of eggs over-easy, bacon and toast and Gerry obliged. As we sat down to eat, Gerry noticed one of my eggs was perhaps more over-hard than over-easy and she asked, "You want some of my yolk?" I responded, "No, I'm fine." Within moments, she again pleaded, "Take some of my egg yolk." Again I said, "I don't want any of your egg yolk." Almost immediately after her third offer and my third rejection, I saw out of the corner of my eye a teaspoon of yellow egg yolk being dropped on my plate accompanied by a deep-throated, command-like, directive-voice, "Here take this egg yolk!"  If that ain't TERRIER, "Then grits ain't groceries, eggs Ain't poultry and Mona Lisa was a man," to quote Little Milton.

Well, there you are folks...I can't decide that one word that best defines my wife: Caring or Terrier?

Who Wants to Be President?

We likely know of the basic qualifications to become the United States President: Born in the United States, 35-years of age and a resident of the United States for the previous 14-years. As children, we were told by adults that we could "grow up to be President." Personally, I always thought that was far-fetched and a bit of  'pie-in-the-sky' thinking. I suppose that's why we laughed about various folks over time who were suggested as Presidential candidates. I'm starting to believe what we were told as kids is true...anybody, I mean anybody can become President.

Back in the 1950's and 1960's, Alfred E. Neuman, the fictitious lovable poster boy for Mad Magazine was touted by the magazine and followers as a viable candidate for the Oval Office. You all recall those political posters, "Alfred E. Neuman For President." And then there was the Smothers Brothers promotion of deadpan comedian, Patrick Paulsen who repeatedly offered his vision as President.

Fast forward to the 2016, Presidential campaign and the perfect storm developed, which would catapult an unlikely character into the Commander-in Chief of the United States. Never mind that he was a known fraud, a vulgar self-admitted sexual predator and profoundly lacking in areas of education and political experiences, i.e., governing, foreign affairs, Constitution knowledge and compromising leadership skills.  He was the antithesis of the 'Black Man' who held the office before him. He was appealing to bigots, big business and underachieving people who needed scapegoats. His legacy? The most divided United States since the Civil War.

Now, we have a new budding Presidential wannabe who just might make the grade someday and be our 47the American President...Kanye Omari West. Hells Bells, Why Not? What rapper wouldn't make a great President? Oh, and about the coming storm? That storm is developing and should hit around 2045.

Tell Me How You 'Really' Feel

I was the second person to walk through the Decatur Target Store yesterday (Sunday) morning. When I left 35-minutes later, I was perhaps one of a total 6-shoppers in the entire store; appears to be a good time to shop Target.

After putting away groceries, I watered the garden and brought a few tomatoes and Zucchini's in for supper. Due to the stifling heat/humidity, I passed on yard work and walking. Got on the treadmill instead. I later joined my wife in the family room where she was already immersed in a Hallmark Christmas movies marathon event. I withheld my usual snide remarks and began reading the newspaper.

After my reading, I watched the movie for about 10-minutes, which took it to the conclusion, I guess. Here's what happened, I bent over to pick up Toy Poodle, Yodie and when I straightened up I think another movie had begun with one of the central characters from the previous movie. I said to my wife, "Hallmark should blow a siren between movies so you know when one movie ends and another begins." Whoa, Buddy, the girl was loaded and laying-in-wait as she quickly snapped, "At least I don't have to watch a boring back and forth parade of a free throw shooting contest at the end of my Hallmark movie or the endless changing of pitchers before a four-hour baseball game's conclusion!"

Like Ray Charles sang, "Everybody's got to their own opinion and you know, I SURE got mine..."

Learning From a Pandemic

If one pays attention it should be obvious to them that they are being 'taken-to-school' by this Covid-19 virus. Let me tell you,  I've learned a number of things in recent months and continue to be enlightened:  The coronavirus pandemic has taught me that>>>

 1) Haircuts are overrated.

 2) I'm fortunate to be married to the right person.

 3) Dogs really are your best bet for friendship.

 4) Angry people make bad decisions, especially at the voting polls.

 5) Sports watching is truly a needed tranquilizer for a nation of wannabes.

 6) There appears to be a correlation between the elimination of the military draft and the American
      people's ability to make sacrifices for the survival of a country.

 7) If I make a notation of the best thing that happened to me today, tomorrow seems to go better.

 8) The core reason for adult disagreements is often anchored in childish attitudes.

 9) Television movie channels could do better.

10) First responders and teachers' talents are more critical to a society than professional athletes and
      entertainers' talents AND their compensation should reflect that reality.

11) The lack of leadership and a universal plan to defeat this pandemic will cause the catastrophic
       demise of our great nation if State and local leadership fails to step forward a fill the void.

Pause and Weigh Responses

In this journey-experience called 'life,' I've come to appreciate that many things are both complicated and simple. The key to resolve is understanding that basic truths are found in the most complicated. Unfortunately, too many people don't seek truths in life but instead they seek other people who agree with their preconceived perceptions, thus manufacturing their own truths. Sound familiar?

Our saving grace is that circumstances, good or bad will not last forever. As much as we are often uncomfortable with change be thankful it comes...adjust and adapt and find joy.

And That's All I'll Say About That

Mixed messages can be a bummer and certainly frustrating. Take these somewhat conflicting Supreme Court rulings. In 2015, The U. S. Supreme Court ruled that 'Gays' could marry nationwide. Three years later the U. S. Supreme Court put a damper of the Gay couples wedding reception as it ruled that the local baker had legal (religious) rights to refuse baking the Gays a Wedding Cake.

This reminds me of 1964, when I was in my second year coaching and teaching in Assumption, Illinois. Gerry and I had been married three and a half years and had a two and a half year old son. Assumption is a small rural community with conflicting population figures. Entering the town from different directions you will see two different population numbers. When we lived there you could count one grocery store, one drug store, one hardware store one laundromat, one lumber store, one bank, three churches and I don't  know how many saloons because back then locals bought beer for faculty.

Anyway, one Saturday morning, I went into Hafner's Drugs and asked Mr. Hafner for condoms. To my surprise, I got a lecture from the old gent that I should not interfere with God's plan for how many children I should have and he went on to give a heartfelt testimony for his Catholic beliefs. At that moment, I wanted to tell Mr. Hafner to get on the school board and see if he could do something about my yearly salary of $4,850.00 for teaching six classes and coaching three sports. Later, I mentioned my Hafner Drug Store experience to a neighbor who happened to be Catholic and he said, "I should've warned you about old man Hafner, I go to Taylorville to get my condoms."

Recently the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Trump administration for employers to opt out of insurance coverage for contraceptives on religious moral grounds. I'll bet Mr. Hafner is smiling wherever he may be; Heaven, Hell or Purgatory.

Of course, in this 2020-year with a Pandemic up America's ass, we have some hardheaded religious fanatics that raise Hell about mandatory mask-wearing, even though it is proven that masks slow the spread of a killer virus. You hear the idiotic claim, "It's our Constitutional right to not wear a mask, blah, blah, blah," or "I'm covered in the blood of Jesus, therefore I don't need no mask." Aside from rejecting science and not being a team player for humanity, whatever happened to the baker's right not to serve the Gays or Mr. Hafner's religious convictions to not sell birth-control protection? Recently,  have seen several confrontations in stores and other businesses over the mask debate.  Listen folks, businesses have the right to refuse your entrance...'No Shirt, No Shoes, No Mask...NO SERVICE!' Hit the road, Jack!

For the purpose of transparency and recorded history:  Assumption had a terrible snowstorm in January 1964 and I couldn't make it over to Taylorville...in October of that year, Mason City, Illinois Doctor Jack Means assisted in the delivery of a little girl for Gerry and me. I wanted to name the baby, 'Haffie' but my wife won out and named her Dawn.

"I See a Bad Moon Rising."

For many years now and even in recent blog writings I have advocated for more female leadership in the United States. I truly believe that if the United States House of Representatives and Senate saw women in the majority, we would notice significant changes in governing philosophy reflected in governing policies.

There is little doubt that America would be less hawkish, more focused on protecting our environment and show more concern for health care and education. Before you question my premise ask yourself who in your lifetime has demonstrated NURTURING?!!!

I could go on attempting to convince the naysayers who are eager to disagree and attack but let me simply suggest that you hold off and just watch what happens with the current growing debate about 'to open or not to open our schools this fall during this escalating pandemic.' Fasten your seatbelt Americans and observe politicians fall like a house of cards when mothers start speaking their collective voices of concern for the safety of their children. Show me a mother who believes a man has casually dismissed the safety and importance of her child's wellbeing and I'll soon show you an emasculated man.

Heartless Leadership

If you have doubted the depth of Donald Trump's cold-hearted lack of empathy then mull over his most recent display of hardheartedness regarding the potential life and death dangers facing America's school children and their teachers should schools re-open while our country is falling behind in its fight to arrest the fast spreading and deadly coronavirus.

Trump's Republican puppet Governors rushed to re-open their States before meeting the criteria established by Trump's hand picked infectious diesease experts and now those States are pulling back because of the virus resurgence. In the midst of all this chaos, Trump is now pushing States to re-open schools and threatening States by withholding funding if they fail to re-open.

Question: When the hell did our children become pawns in a pandemic pilot program?

Trump Keeps Dividing Americans

A few facts about people's comments regarding the Coronavirus, which has to date killed over 135,000 Americans with a projection to eventually kill over 200,000.

Before continuing, let me share the definition of 'science:' "The intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment. A systematically organized body of knowledge on a particular subject."

During a February 28, 2020'campaign rally, Trump said of the coronavirus, "This is the Democrats new hoax."
     Other Trump comments about the coronavirus:
     1) we do have a plan.
     2) The United States appreciates China's efforts and transparency.
     3) we are on top of this 24/7.
     4) we could be at 1-or-2 people with the virus very soon.
     5) it will just go away when the weather warms in April.

This President is a lying buffoon but he's not the only buffoon. When it was discovered early in the coronavirus pandemic that the most vulnerable and likely to die was the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.  Texas  LT. Governor Dan Patrick said that he thought we should  shorten the 'lockdown' with the belief that "Seniors (grandparents will be willing to die to save the economy for their grandchildren." Are you Trumpers paying attention? Better yet, did you offer up your parents, grandparents or  yourself to die for  the Stock Market?

Trump appointed a Coronavirus Task Force Team headed by V. P. Pence along with notable medical doctors, namely a world renown infectious disease expert, Dr. Anthony Fauci.
Trump panicked and went against his own predetermined re-opening phases based on specific criteria as he encouraged and coerced Republican Governors to open their States before meeting those criteria. The expected has happened the virus found new life and today America is headed for a health  catastrophe never before imagined.

More recently, Trump has insisted that schools reopen with the same recklessness as the economy; with no plan.  Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos said just yesterday, "Only 2% of kids are likely to die when they go back to school." That would be approximately 14,700 dead children. Of course, Franklin Graham and other Evangelical leaders are silent on the matter. I suppose the fetus is more  precious than my six year old great granddaughter...shameless, absolutely shameless are these men of God. But Jesus said, "Suffer little children and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 19:14

And on the heels of all this impotent leadership, the White House yesterday raised questions about Dr. Fauci for openly disagreeing with the President in FAVOR OF SCIENCE. Okay, you folks who were placed in shop classes Trump knows how you feel about those nerds who took advanced  chemistry and physics.

Trump told Americans early in his presidency, "We have alternative facts...that's fake news."
Simply stated the real is NOT real, the truth is NOT the truth. In Trumps world there are three desirables in life's journey: money, lust and power and the fight is between 'THEM & US.'

Let's dismiss Dr. Fauci's scientific facts regarding the coronavirus and embrace Donald Trump's suggestion to drink bleach to rid your body of the virus. Let's free the likes of Roger Stone and indict Anthony Fauci.

What's The Rules Today?

Someone many years ago gave me excellent advice regarding coaching: "If you're going to prepare then don't worry,  but if you wish to worry then don't prepare; choose ONLY ONE."
Actually, my approach was always to anticipate everything that could come at you in a contest then prepare a counter move. I'd like to say that I never worried but then I would be lying. Funny thing, the only time I never worried about sport competition was when I was pitching, whether Little League, high school or college.  Think about it!

I tend to see the positives but always anticipate the potential for negatives. We've all heard those uplifting slogans: 1) Hope springs eternal, 2) The glass is half full, 3) However long the night, the Dawn will break, 4) Every cloud has a silver lining.  There's two other slogans I've thought of lately: 1) Fish or cut bait and 2) you crap your friends, I'll crap mine but let's not crap one another. (Folks, I cleaned that up a bit).

The Illinois High School Association causes me to doubt their 'Intentional Leadership' during this pandemic. I understand the profound delimma facing America's schools. Should they reopen? Can they reopen safely or should they teach online and embrace virtual classroom education until the winter semester and then make new assessments? These are monumental decisions for States and local School Boards. What is not a difficult decision is answering the question, should we have fall and winter sports? The answer to that question is found in the answers to these questions: Can sport competitors wear masks, social distance and keep their hands clean? If the answer to these questions is 'NO' then the IHSA leadership needs to stop dangling false hope  before student-athletes and  coaches.

I can't wait to see my first football game with the rules: 1)  'Players may not touch one another.'  and 2) If after a contest an official or player tests positive for COVID-19, all other players and officials must quarantine for 14-days.' There's a re-scheduling nightmare Mr./Ms. Athletics Director.

These times call for purposeful and deliberate leadership and a stoppage of offering guidelines for participation on Monday and then revoking those guidelines on Thursday. And even though there are obvious efforts in stated guidelines for the IHSA and local districts to 'Pass-the-buck' hoping to avoid liabilities...lawyers will have a field day.

Please know that I have long been and continue to be a strong advocate for the Illinois High School Associstion. As the result of serving on IHSA advisory boards, the legislative commission and as a national liaison for its coaching certification education program, I have witnessed close up the effectiveness of its mission. A few years ago when Illinois lawmakers were sticking their noses into the IHSA business claiming a lack of transparency, I was on the telephone with my representatives reminding them of Illinois' unprecedented political leadership failure. That said, I am not seeking to dismiss the great value in the IHSA.

I tout the educational value and growth development found in interscholastic sport and  extra-curricular offerings but the ultimate concern of the Illinois High School Association must be the health and well being of young student-athletes, mentors and their families during the apex of a pandemic.

The Most Inept Leadership In American History

Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis just might be a bigger buffoon than President Donald Trump. DeSantis made the analogy that if a State can permit the re-opening of of retail stores, i.e., Walmart and Home Depot during a pandemic, which has killed nearly 135,000 Americans then it's reasonable to re-open schools.

At best when I shop Walmart, I may be negotiating their aisles for some 30-to-40 minutes. A first or second grade six/seven year old child is going to be in a self-contained classroom for approximately six hours with some twenty other children speaking directly into the mouth of fellow students because they've yet to understand you hear with your ears. Speaking of ears,  their junior high counterparts cannot and will not keep their hands off one another while their high school siblings are going to scoff at mask wearing as they dismiss directives to take those damn ear-buds out of the head.

Could we get a head count? Would the politically elected 'grown-ups' please raise your hand or better yet take the throttle of this freaking run-away train headed towards disaster?! I'd just like to hear a statement more intellectually anchored than, "I hope I look good in a mask," or "We opened Walmart so let's open our schools." Folks, we are Ass deep in a 'Twilight Zone' episode.