That Day

I was standing before Magistrate Bauders in the Wayne County Court of Common Pleas, Wooster, Ohio. I was an Assistant Prosecutor assigned to the Child Support Enforcement Agency, prosecuting dead beat parents. Tuesdays were the primary court day for my docket, and we had just begun to wade through the myriad of cases on the morning list. I recall looking up from my files to see Deputy Garrett (Jim) step through the courtroom door; we were between hearings and it wasn't unusual for a deputy to step in and shoot the bull with us until the next case was called.

"Did you hear that a plane hit the World Trade Center?" he asked with little emotion to Magistrate Bauders.

"What, like a plane crash?" I responded incredulously. I was picturing a Cessna with an out of control hobby pilot meeting his end on the side of a skyscraper.

"Not sure," Jim said, glancing over at me, "sounds like a big one, though."

If anything else was said, I do not recall now some eight years later. I remember finishing out the morning's work. Perhaps the deputies updated us as the court scheduled plodded along, perhaps not. I specifically recall hearing from my office staff that the Daily Record would be running a special edition that afternoon. The newspaper was directly across the street from my office, so I picked up a copy, which remains to this day in our blanket chest at the foot of our bed. I also remember that I didn't think much of what I had just heard from the deputy until everyone started getting the news over the wires, the radio, the television, and the Internet.

Memories of such momentous events are funny, though. I cannot recall specifically when I learned that the Twin Towers had collapsed. I remember watching the news all evening with my wife and seeing the video of the buildings' destruction, but I am certain I knew they had fell before I got home (as the newspaper reported, which I had in my hands before I got home). But I can't remember the exact moment I heard that they had fallen. I don't know why I don't remember the exact moment, but I just don't.

In any event, that day, after the news of the hijackings as the cause began to spread, I remember thinking, "We are at war." I remember contemplating whether I should answer the call to the defense of my country...a call I was so sure at the time would go out. I was only 26 years old at the time, and I would have been eligible to enter the military (barring any other physical reason to reject me).

As I sit here today, I can also recall the moment I learned that our country was at war in the first Persian Gulf War...and 9/11 didn't feel at all the same. An attack on U.S. soil, on a non-military target (the Pentagon was certainly a military target, but the Twin Towers and Flight 93 were not), utilizing non-military means seemed so incredibly cowardly. In fact, I still have those feelings today, that we lost over 3,000 civilians because of 19 cowards. Does that make sense to anyone?

I am left with one enduring belief regarding the evil wrought upon the United States that day: the terrorists won. Not because their planes struck their targets, and not because we are still fighting terrorists in the Middle East eight years later. The terrorists won because we, as a nation and as a world, were completely unable to unite against a common enemy. There certainly were those in power who took decisive action at times, but the nation's heart was not in it...and a nation without heart will die. I remember those that died that great and terrible day, I honor those who have answered the call (such as it was), I honor those who still serve today- doing what our leaders ask so that our country remains safe (or at least safer), I honor those who given their last full measure of devotion for me, my family, and my fellow citizens. I despise the 19 cowards, those 19 "men" who believed that murdering innocent civilians is acceptable for a particular end, I despise the creatures that planned this devious venture, and I despise the failure of will in my own nation.

Ahhh, the First Saturday in September

There are few things to say this day, except: O-H-I-O...GO BUCKEYES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Moral Center

Webster's Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, 1996 Edition, defines "morality" as: 1. conformity to the rules of right conduct; moral or virtuous conduct. 2. moral quality or character. 3. virtue in sexual matters; chastity. 4. a doctrine or system of morals. 5. moral instruction; a moral lesson, precept, discourse, or utterance.



What I find interesting about morality is that, by and far, most people consider themselves to be moral. They view themselves as "conform[ing] to the rules of right conduct" as Webster's sets forth. I'm not going to dip into whether they are in fact conforming their conduct to rules of right conduct, since my point here is more about where the "rules of right conduct" are established. I am not an anthropologist, nor am I a sociologist, but I think those professionals would say that the "rules of right conduct", or the mores of society, are established primarily through religious history. Let's be clear here: I am NOT saying that society's mores are religious in nature (it is hard to argue that secularism is not reigning free in America). I am saying our morals came from religious beliefs.

An example may help illuminate the point: little Johnny steals a pack of gum from the store. His mother finds out about it and drags him back to face the music with the store manager. Let's ask first, was it immoral for Little Johnny to steal the pack of gum? If your answer is no, then what is the point of his mother forcing him to make it right with the store? Because it is illegal? Fine, let's go with that.

Theft is illegal in all 50 states. The laws passed by the 50 states making theft illegal are based upon common law from good old merry England. Where did the Brit's get that law from? Their Kings and Queens, of course...and where did they get it from? That's right, folks, religion. Crow all you want about criminal laws being for the purpose of maintaining order in society, but you cannot deny they are based on...wait for it...religion (specifically Judeo-Christian history, i.e., the Ten Commandmants). Thou shalt not steal (theft); Thou shalt not kill (Murder); Thou shalt not commit adultery (divorce - adultery is always legally grounds for divorce). If we start with the position that morals are (or should be) a-religious, then we have vacuumed any answer to the question: Why does society value certain behavior over others? If we take the religious heritage out of our laws and morals, then they make no sense. In other words, why should theft be wrong? No one can provide an answer for that without eventually landing on the doorstep of religion. In fact, you can take it a step further and do away with the "maintain order in society" argument for morals: why does society value order? If we have no basis (religion) for believing a certain way, then theft, murder, adultery, drugs, etc., cannot be de-valued any more than honesty, integrity, kindness, helpfulness can be valued. Am I talking in circles? Probably, but I defy anyone to explain morals without eventually ending at religion. Suffice it to say, if I was an atheist (which I am not), I would lie, cheat, and steal to get whatever I wanted. And to those atheists who do not do those things, I ask, why not?

The Big Ten

I've decided to jump on the band-wagon of prognostication in regards to my favorite sport: NCAA Football - FBS. Before I begin, let me say this: whoever decided that the former divisions within the former D-I level schools should be renamed the Football Bowl Subdivision and the Football Championshiop Subdivision deserves to be flogged...as quickly as possible. But then again, the FBS doesn't have a play-off...and a lot of people (read: conference commissioners) deserve to be flogged for that as well...as quickly as possible.

Soapbox aside, I spend the majority of the fall watching the Big Ten Conference. Therefore, looking into the crystal ball that we call "conference predictions", I will now prophesy concerning where each team in the Big Ten will finish within the conference.

1. The Ohio State University - Pryor will come into his own this year, and everyone will know who's the leader of this talent-laden (but inexperienced) team. If he develops into at least a competent pocket-passer, and gets good protection from the relatively young O-Line, watch out everyone else! If Jaamal Berry gets his crap together off the field and concentrates on filling Beanie's shoes, he could really be something special as a true freshman. But lets face it, very few teams can roll into Beaver Stadium and win...especially when Joe Pa has some talent to put on the offensive side of the ball. Prediction: 7-1(PSU), Conference Co-Champions.

1. Penn State University - I'll admit that Daryl Clark has arrived and will do extremely well this season for the Nittany Lions. However, the major outstanding question is in the receiver corps. The youngsters stepping into the starting line-up will replace the best receiver trio in the history of PSU (Butler, Williams & Norwood). That alone could relegate PSU to a one-dimensional team, albeit running with either Clark or Royster (both are threat to take it to the house on any given touch). Prediction: 7 -1(Michigan State), Conference Co-Champions.

3. Michigan State University - If MSU can find an every-down tailback to replace Javon Ringer, and the two sophomore QB's don't turn the season into a struggle for sole starting duties, the Spartans have a real chance to finish 3rd, or even grab a share of the conference title. Ohio State is off their schedule, and they get Michigan (I know, but it's still an in-state rivalry) and PSU in East Lansing. With a glut of returning talent, they are the dark horse to share the title with either OSU and/or PSU. Prediction: 6-2 (Wisconsin, Purdue).

4. Northwestern University - A very favorable slate should give Northwestern a shot at cracking the top five of the Big Ten this year. Ohio State is off the schedule, and Penn State and Wisconsin are at home. A tough road win at Purdue on October 3 could spark a respectable showing for the normally mediocre Wildcats. Prediction: 5-3.

4. Purdue - I know, you can no longer take me seriously with this prediction. However, with Ohio State, Illinois, and Michigan State at home, and Penn State off the schedule this year, it is not inconceivable that Purdue could come up as high as fifth in the conference. Last year's 2-6 conference record is deceiving; they lost at Ohio State 3 to 16, at Iowa 17 - 22, and lost to Penn State at home 6 - 20. Those losses represent relatively close games with some of the better teams in the conference. Prediction: 5-3.

6. Wisconsin - Bielema had better get his act together if he wants to remain in Madison much longer. The Badger faithful are just not accustomed to a 3-5 conference record, as was posted in the 2008 campaign. In fact, starting on Sept. 27, 2008, Wisconsin lost four straight conference games (Michigan, OSU, PSU, Iowa). This year, PSU is off the schedule and Michigan must face the rowdies at Camp Randall. However, away games at OSU and Northwestern could just be the tip of more losses. Prediction: 4-4.

6. Illinois - Most pundits have Illinois contending for at least a share of the conference title, almost exclusively because of Juice Williams return for his senior season. I have no such lofty expectations. Illinois is always in the background, but never gets invited out for the big dance. Besides, can you honestly see them representing the Big Ten in a BCS bowl? Prediction: 4-4.


THE REST

8. IOWA (Not as good as everyone says - PSU, OSU, MSU, Wisconsin all away...ouch)
9. MINNESOTA(PSU and OSU away, but it's still Minnesota)
10.MICHIGAN (I can't even credibly speak about this team...seriously)
11.INDIANA (They'll be more competetive when they get a football team)

There you have it: my Big Ten Predictions. I'll try to remember to check back at the end of conference play to see how I fared. Side note: I am not intricately familiar with all the tie-breaking scenarios, so there may be some error in the place-finishes I've indicated above. But that is the order they will finish in, regardless of whether they tie for a place or win it out-right.

Favorite Cities (International)

Semper Opera House - Photo Copyright unknown, but here is where I got the image from: http://andrerieufan.com/2008/08/23/dresden-opera-house.aspx (and no, I have no idea who Andre Rieu is).

I did a little foreign travel in my younger days. I haven't stepped foot outside the United States in a long time, and I doubt I will ever do so again (with the exception of Great Britain, Ireland, and Australia...but there are an awful lot of animals Down Under that will kill you like greased lightening so I'm not so sure about that one). That being said, I still have my favorite foreign cities I've visited, so here they are:

1. Salzburg, Austria - I visited this wonderful city a couple of weeks before Christmas. Sure, I didn't get to see the rolling mountain meadows and bright Alpine sun, but who cares? This is Austria at Christmas time, and Austrians know how to celebrate Christmas.

2. Dresden, Germany - I still remember walking the streets of this great city and seeing shrapnel from the bombs of WWII embedded in the stone walls of numerous buildings. The Semper Opera House is a must see if you are ever in town.

3. Rome, Italy - There are cities, and there is Rome. Based on my own experiences (and they are limited in foreign travel), nothing compares as far as historical significance, ancient ruins, religious impact, and shear size. Yes, smarty pants, I am aware that the Vatican is in fact it's own sovereign and not part of Rome the political city. However, it is physically part of Rome and therefore included. If you ever go, climb to the top of St. Peter's and try to find the edge of the city from that height (hint: I did, and I couldn't - ginormous city).

4. Pompeii, Italy - "Ha! Foul" I can hear you cry, "Pompeii is not a live city!" Alas, you are correct, but I set no such limit on this list. Ahem, now if you'll look out the left side of the train out of Naples (hands down the creepiest and scariest city I have ever been to - and I was there less than 30 minutes each way from Rome to Pompeii) you'll see Mt. Vesuvius, the culprit in the death of 10,000 to 25,000 in 79 A.D. when it blew its top. When you actually get to the excavated city, go to the coliseum, have a friend sit in the seats and you go to the center of the floor. You'll be able to talk to him/her by raising your voice barely above a whisper.

5. Venice, Italy - No, it's not fair that one country has three cities on this list. But I've only visited 5 foreign countries, 4 not named Canada. And besides, it's VENICE. Had a great time there and the ice cream (called simply ice there) was incredible. The mint-chocolate chip was off the charts. However, if you have a fear of water or if you are unable to forget that the city is literally held above water by stilts, it's probably not the place for you. For what it's worth, the stone streets and sidewalks I walked upon felt as solid as if they were laid upon soil.

Honorable Mention: Berlin, Germany; Florence, Italy; Linz, Austria; Leipzig, Germany

Health Care

I'm sure most of you (that being the one or two people who read this blog) are sick and tired of the health care debate (pun most definitely intended). What I can't figure out is, what exactly is the debate? From what the media spews forth, you'd think it was over how to "reform" health care. However, I'm a little unclear as to what needs "reformed" to begin with. I hear a lot of statistics regarding the "uninsured" in America, and how the government needs to provide insurance for them. If that is the "debate", and I am going to assume so for this post (you know what they say about assuming), I have a few thoughts:



1. Don't mess with private insurance. Don't force anyone who has insurance to change, don't allow employers who currently offer insurance to stop in favor of any government program, etc. Basically, don't do ANYTHING to mess with those of us who have bothered to take enough responsibility in our lives to get jobs (with or without going to college first) that have benefits.



2. For those who truly need health insurance but do not fit into #1 above (disabled and/or those who cannot obtain private insurance because of pre-existing conditions), provide for their needs through Medicaid or some other government funded system...sort of like we do now (except it would need to be expanded to cover pre-existing condition individuals who can afford private insurance, but cannot obtain coverage).



3. For those who have not demonstrated personal responsibility, they can earn their health insurance by doing such things as: entering college and working towards a degree, entering a trade-school to learn something to benefit society, getting a job...any job where they pay taxes, etc.



4. Finally, get the trial lawyers out of the healthcare system by imposing limits on medical malpractice verdicts for non-intentional and non-gross negligence claims. Expecting physicians to get it right 100% of the time is not realistic nor morally right. They will make mistakes, and when those mistakes are not intentional or nor grossly negligent (legal definition), the payout should not be exhorbitant. I know it doesn't feel right, but we don't expect any other profession to get it right 100% of the time; physicians are no different. Grow up, it's a fact of life.

Favorite Cities (United States)

Got to thinking today how much I enjoy traveling to new places, particularly areas of the large urban type. I grew up in the small-town country type setting, so I enjoy cities, at least for a visit. Here are my favorite U.S. cities:

1. Washington, D.C. - There are a couple of things that keep our nation's capitol at the top of my list. First, there is a prohibition against any building being constructed which inhibits viewing the Washington Monument from ground level. As a result, it is a large city with a non-large city feel. Second, the mass-transit system is excellent and enables a visitor to travel just about anywhere in the city sans-automobile. Third, there is a tremendous amount of visitor-ish things to do that cost absolutely nothing (except as a tax-payer, of course). If you ever go, make sure you see the evening parade at the U.S. Marine Corps barracks on 8th and I (get tickets ahead of time). My experience with that is a something I'll never forget. Also, call your congressman well in advance of your trip. They tend to be more than willing to set up a private tour of the Capitol building (shout out to the staff of former Congressman Ralph Regula, R-Ohio).


2. San Diego - Spent a week there a couple of years ago at a conference. Enjoyed it immensely. Loved the weather, and the city was exceptionally clean. Public transit was pretty good, and the light-rail ran right by my hotel. Spent a day down-town and at the harbor. If you go, make sure to see the U.S.S. Midway museum (which is actually the U.S.S. Midway).


3. Las Vegas - Spent a week there last year for a conference and took the wife. We stayed at the New York, New York. We didn't even begin to see everything there. We pretty much stayed on the strip and didn't really see anything twice the whole week. I'd like to go back and spend some time in the older part of town.


4. Los Angeles - Wife and I went in 1999 to visit a law-school friend of mine doing his third year out there. I didn't care for the dirty feel of Hollywood, but we went to a game show taping (Hollywood Squares), shopped at an extremely expensive mall (didn't buy...just shopped), and spent a wonderful evening with my friend's in-laws, who happened to have the greatest media center I've ever seen, ever. I'm also positive I saw Gywneth Paltrow in a 911 with her father, Bruce Paltrow (my wife is skeptical).


5. Boston - I have been there a half-dozen times or so in my life, the most recent being on my honeymoon. Great town with a great culture. Boston Museum of Science is worth it if you have kids, but not on your honeymoon... On a side note, the staff at the Hard Rock in Boston is the nicest of any I've ever encountered (although, if you are familiar with the staff at most Hard Rocks, you know it wouldn't take much to be the nicest).

6. New York - My better half surprised me with a weekend in the Big Apple a couple of years ago. It is an awe-inspiring place. However, if you are a theater lover as I am, you can do no better than the Great White Way. My wife, God bless her, obtained front row seats for the Broadway production of Chicago. I don't even particularly love that show, but to sit practically on stage with actors at the top of the game was awesome. We stayed at a hotel in Seacaucus, NJ, and took the bus into the city during the days. Great way to see the sights but not have to deal with them 24/7.

Cities I have yet to visit but will: Chicago, New Orleans, Atlanta, San Francisco, Nashville