Born a 10th generation Oregonian, (5 generations on each side) I have an enthusiasm for learning and teaching new things. After a ten year mini career in the dental field I moved on to research and embraced the social web. Though the internet is far too large for any one person to claim to be an expert, I can hold my own with the latest trends.
I enjoy researching and writing blogs. As the "Internet Program Director" for myMotherLode.com since 2008, I update the website and have a wide variety of interests. There is always something entertaining, educational or inspirational to share.
We are as upset as anyone by the violence in Washington on Wednesday. The storming of the “People’s House” resulting in four deaths was an unconscionable act by an unruly mob. The D.C. mayor wants domestic terrorism charges brought against those that caused the destruction and we don’t disagree; but, where was this outrage for those that fomented violence and property destruction in cities across America this summer? Some are calling for President Trump’s impeachment for his rhetoric that inflamed his supporters. Instead of wasting time pounding nails into President Trump’s political coffin, better that Congress focus on more important issues over these next 12 days, like getting vaccines into arms and economic aid to the people hurt by the shutdowns.
As President-elect Biden makes plans to rejoin the Paris Climate Accords, let’s note the success that effort has had since our departure: U.S. CO2 emissions are down 3%, while only Morocco and Gambia are meeting their obligations under the Accords. In the meantime, China is allowed to continue their expansion of CO2 emissions until 2030.
British novelist Timothy Mo says that “There’s no such thing as a hero – only ordinary people asked extraordinary things in terrible circumstances – and delivering.”
On this first day of a New Year, playwright Hillary DePiano reminds us that “We all get the exact same 365 days. The only difference is what we do with them.”
According to recent research, while as many as 45 percent of Americans say they usually make New Year’s resolutions, only 8 percent are successful in keeping them. But, this rather poor record probably won’t stop people from making resolutions, a practice dating back some 4000 years to the ancient Babylonians.
Say what you will about the Trump Presidency, but during the time period of 2016 through 2019, huge gains were made among minorities. The net worth among blacks increased by 32.1% and by 63.6% for Hispanics compared to whites at 4%. A big reason for these historic gains was growth in businesses owned by blacks and Hispanics, up 13% and 63% respectively. That is until the government shutdowns. Again and again.
