1st Double Library Day

Today was our typical Tuesday. We went to the Franklin Library for storytime ( 10:15 am). As yesterday was the first day of spring - the season was the focus. A pre-school class joined us and ensured a VERY full room. Siah loved it.

Earlier in the morning I had called Way to Grow and found that they were having a meetup at the Sumner Library just north of downtown. They would begin (noon) with playtime, then cleanup, followed by an arts activity, wash hands then have a snack. It would end with another playtime and end at around 2pm.

I signed up to have someone visit our home to assess Josiah's preparations for kindergarten. Way to Grow specialty is in their tagline: "Promoting school readiness." Since I cannot get Josiah into a preschool, I want to ensure he has as much socialization as possible prior to kindergarten. This used to mean only going to parks ( in the winter he is the sole kid and most of the summer as well) . Then I found the library storytimes and now WTG. I found a Way to Grow sticker at Sabathani Community Center when I attended the Green Party Caucus earlier this month. And now I feel quite fortunate to have found them. =)

Their programs are free. They even tried to give me free bus tokens to get to their weekly event. But I have a bus pass, and truly do not mind using it. ( it is very cheap and even convenient)

Since I did not expect a snack or anything Josiah and I went to Subway ( or "Eat Fresh" as Siah calls it ) at the corner of Franklin and Chicago Avenue. Then it was a short hop on 2 buses to the Hosmer Library. Siah enjoys the intermission between buses, as it is his snow stomping time.

After this we went home, and Siah was able to stomp more snow walking from Nicollet Avenue. He watched "Dark Crystal" while I tidied up our apt. and he was very much entertained. We stayed at home for the rest of the night, as it is cold outside and I didn't much want to go out again.

I watched a video I received today that was in Paste Magazine, and just lent the DVD to our neighbors. It was chockful of vids from the likes of: Kraftwerk, the Decemberists, Bloc Party, KT Tunstall, and Johny Cash. It had some award winning shorts as well. I couldn't pass up sharing this lovely find of a magazine with those who would appreciate them.

I called Lori Yakle tonight and had a short convo as her cordless phone died on us. :( Oh well, she should really visit me sometime to give me back my CDs and let me lend her more! :)

Anywho, tried to get in touch with others, but to no avail. =(
Mayhaps tomorrow, though I plan to help make pasta at Dan's across the hall. ( Josiah will most likely wrestle with Dewey ) Twill see what happens! ;)

SNOW RETURNS!

Just a few days ago I was contemplating wearing my sandals instead of shoes. Seeing the first official day of spring less than 2 weeks away had given me such hope. Our snowstorm of the year changed that. Not cool.

Anyways, I was SO BORED at work the other day I kept track of how many guests were in my small section of the casino. Usually there are hundreds per section - as I work evenings.



Here is my list:

3PM - 41 ; 4:30PM - 55 ; 5PM - 53 ; 6:45PM - 55 ; 7:40PM - 66 ; 9PM - 82 ; 10PM - 62 ; 11:15PM - 55

It was exceedingly boring but I occupied myself on this and other things.

That was Monday - TODAY was typical for Tuesday. Went to the Franklin Library for pre-school storytime. Then went home for lunch and Siah's naptime. Then when Siah got up we had a pre-dinner snack then off to sledding. After sledding we went home had dinner , playtime, cleanup then bedtime for Siah. Again, not fascinating but typical. :)

Spirit Guide hopping in Minneapolis

I was listening to Chicks on Speed through my Sony Walkman MP3 CD-Player, when I saw something in an alley. It was very still, and on the other side of Franklin Avenue by the Peace House. It looked like a ball or possibly snow, but being in even a rarely used alley this was odd. So I hoped it was a rabbit - and it WAS! This all while walking home from work at 12:46 A.M.

You may not find such a thing to be significant - but I do. I picked up a copy of the Edge Life holistic journal, and read an article about animal spirit guides. I already know my spirit guide - a rabbit. But since returning from Iraq ( where I saw no rabbits) I had not seen one. I have seen a bald eagle on my way to work, and your typical urban animals like squirrels, cats, dogs, pigeons - but no rabbits. I was slightly concerned, because when you see an animal quite frequently when others are not - you know it is your spirit guide reminding you of its presence and its lessons. And today, I saw one - the same day I felt more concerned about it since I first stepped into Iraq. ( there I did not truly have a spirit guide as the military kills all forms of life on its bases except humans and palm trees )

As shamanism is the oldest religious tradition - there are variations on what a rabbit spirit guide means. But it is also based on who the person is and what their needs are. I am rabbit because that is what bet suits me. Being a vegetarian is probably the biggest. But I do fit other qualities as listed from various sources:

Rabbit - alertness, nurturing

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RABBIT

The rabbit never goes far from its burrow as it timidly searches for vegetable foods to supply its growing family. There are over twenty four species of rabbits in America and many more around the world. Rabbits serve as a perfect example of nature's balance as nearly all predatory animals eat rabbits, but because they multiply so fast, their numbers are kept fairly constant. Quick reflexes and keen observation skills are its two most important traits.

The Rabbit: Teaches us about fear and now to overcome it. Mr. Bunny lives in with fear every moment of its life, yet it is the most prolific critter going , they are everywhere, blast of speed on 4 feet, gentle , yet don't ever corner one you will learn quickly that Mr. Bunny is perfectly able to defend itself :) Fear has its place in the scheme of things, we need a "certain" amount of it , it keeps us out of trouble. We "fear" fire for good reason , it can burn us, but does this mean we don't use it ? No we respect it and treat it with the care it deserves .This is the lesson of the Rabbit .. Fear ?.. Maybe but don't let it run your life ,go on and live , with care and respect and you can live well

Steven D. Farmer, the Author of "Power Animals" has this to say:

"Animal spirit guides also teach you when they show up in your dreams, meditations, or ordinary reality. When they do, whether or not the animal is your power animal, they're attempting to give you a message. When an animal shows up in ordinary reality in an uncommon way or at unusual times, such as an owl in the daytime, a deer in your front yard, or a whale out of season, this is most definitely an omen. Pay close attention to whatever's going on and see if you can discern the message. You may have to meditate on the experience before gaining some insight as to the meaning, and it can be helpful to consult this book or other resources as to the significance of that particular animal.

"Another powerful omen is when an animal shows herself to you frequently or persistently (at least three or more times) in a short period of time, such as over a few hours. It can be the actual animal, a symbol for the animal such as a carved figure or totem, or the printed word for the animal. Pay close attention and see if you can discern the meaning. If Deer shows up three times in relatively rapid succession, is this a call for gentleness with yourself or someone else? If it's Hummingbird, are you missing the joy and sweet nectar of life by your narrow focus? These signs don't tell you their precise meaning; they're merely trying to get your attention. The meaning is for you to discern."

And so I will discursively meditate (Metta Bhavana) on what Rabbit has to teach me. But when I see rabbit, I do feel that I am on course in life. Kind've a relief sometimes when life seems so chaotic. ;) If you need to overcome Fears .. ? Call on the Spirit of the Rabbit

Gus Gus rememembered

Our hamster died earlier this week. Josiah named him Gus Gus. We found him the day I was leaving for Saint Cloud. The next day in St. Cloud, I would board a bus and head to Camp Ripley and not see my family again for 11 months.

Gus was found by myself in our apartments courtyard while watching Josiah. He was playing while I watched him, until I saw a hamster digging by a window - and I picked him up. He was very skinny and dirty - probably had been living outside for a few months. But this was October of 2004 - he was lucky it wasn't freezing outside at night yet. So I took him in that night, committing ourselves to replenishing his health and inducting him into our family.

But Gus got sick about a week ago - very badly. His eyes filled with a pus that caused his eyes to shut. I read about this online and found I could clean it off and re-open them with a warm cloth. I had to do this each day as they kept filling with the gook. Then he died in his sleep while I was at work.

Siah has been quite upset, and doesn't want to believe that Gus is gone forever. He cried for quite a while, even waking up at 2 AM to ask me to get him. He is starting to accept it now. But I do not plan on getting another pet for a while. Our apartment already seems overcrowded with everyone here currently and current pets - 3 cats and 2 doves. So Josiah can wait until he gets older to have another pet - but perhaps we can plan it a little more than just finding one.

Block Patrol in the news =)

I am re-posting an article here from the Southwest Journal ( which I have been in before ) because I volunteer with the SSCO Block Patrol. The article is specifically about this program. The article can articulate in a way I don't usually - in a professional journalistic manner. ;)

Photo to the left is Dave Delvoye ( FT employee of SSCO as its safety director) and my neighbor Judy Austin ( who I used to live right across from).

Hope you enjoy it:
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Solvitur Ambulando: “It is solved by walking”

By Kari VanDerVeen

Kingfield, CARAG follow the lead of other Southwest neighborhoods and form walking groups to combat rising crime

Scott Engel knows several residents who have been victims of the recent rash of robberies and burglaries in his neighborhood.

“That's when it really starts to hit home,” said Engel, community coordinator for the Calhoun Area Residents Action Group (CARAG). “Everybody's talking about it.”

And residents have decided they've had enough. After the number of crimes spiked in recent months in typically quiet Southwest neighborhoods like CARAG and Kingfield, residents are forming block patrol groups that will hit the streets.

The organized effort will send small groups of two or more neighbors out several times each week to walk the neighborhood and report suspicious behavior and problematic properties. Walkers will wear some sort of identification - like hats or vests - and carry cell phones to alert police. The goal is to create a presence in the neighborhood that will deter would-be criminals.

“We're not like a vigilante, crime-fighting group,” Engel said. “We're more of a presence group.”

Kingfield is taking the same approach.

“We just want to create a positive presence in the neighborhood,” said Kingfield Neighborhood Association (KFNA) Project Organizer Joanna Hallstrom. “We're not going to be enforcers of anything.”

In October, November and December 2005 - the last reporting period for which there is data - there were 97 Part One crimes in the Kingfield neighborhood. Part One crimes include homicide, rape, aggravated assault, robbery, burglary, theft, motor vehicle theft and arson. There were 70 such crimes during the same period in 2004 and 71 in 2003.

CARAG experienced an even more dramatic increase, with 127 Part One crimes during the fourth quarter of 2005 compared to 77 during the same period in 2004 and 66 in 2003.

Much of the increase comes from various forms of stealing.

“In our precinct, the increase is in robberies, burglaries and thefts from motor vehicles,” said 5th Precinct Crime Prevention Specialist Jennifer Waisanen.

In January, Kingfield held a meeting to address the increase of crime in the area. The neighborhood association formed the Crime and Safety Task Force, which will meet the third Wednesday of each month and will focus on connecting neighbors and devising hands-on crime-prevention strategies like the block patrols.

CARAG also is encouraging people to attend its crime committee meetings, Engel said. Engel stressed that CARAG “remains a relatively safe neighborhood” but added that many residents are concerned about the increase in robberies and burglaries. He's hoping residents embrace the block patrol groups as one way to fight crime.

“I think residents have felt sort of helpless with the rising crime, and it's a way to take a positive step,” he said.

Following in the footsteps of experience

Creating block patrols isn't a new idea. A number of Southwest neighborhoods - including Stevens Square, Lyndale and Whittier - have successfully used walking groups for years to deter crime.

The Stevens Square Community Organization (SSCO) arguably has the most well-organized walking crime-watch group in the city, largely due to dedicated walkers like Dee Tvedt. With the Latin phrase “Solvitur Ambulando” - “It is solved by walking” - as her motto, Tvedt is a solid supporter of the year-round block patrol formed in 1991. She signs up for several walking shifts each month and said the patrol definitely has been successful in deterring crime.

“Criminals usually don't want to be observed, so they leave when they spot us,” Tvedt said, adding that most of the problems the walking group sees are nuisance crimes like panhandling, drug dealing, public urination and prostitution. “We do what we call ‘counter-loitering' - stationing ourselves at a corner where people are loitering. It doesn't take long until we need to find a more interesting place to be. Chronic offenders have come to realize that we know them, and that we're bad for their business.”

Members of Lyndale's block patrol - dubbed the Lyndale Walkers - also are well-recognized in the neighborhood. The walkers wear neon yellow hats and have badges so residents know they are with the association.

“The beauty of a crime-watch group is that it affects the very crimes that most residents experience and are those that they are indirect victims of,” Lyndale block patrol member and Minneapolis Crime Prevention Specialist Luther Krueger said. “You're not a direct victim of a drug deal, but when you see it day in and day out, it's demoralizing. Š People are far less likely to try to pull that when the law-abiding are afoot and watchful.”

Lyndale Community Organizer Kristine Danzinger said the Lyndale Walkers was formed in 1993 after a spike in crime culminated in the shooting of a cab driver and an attack on an elderly woman.

“That was the final straw for neighbors,” Danzinger said.

The group started hitting the streets in full force - large groups of 20 to 40 people walked around crime-ridden areas in shifts for 20 hours a day. Their efforts “literally drove the drug dealers out,” Danzinger said.

The efforts of the walking group have helped create a neighborhood that developers want to invest in, she said.

“It's just dramatic what's happened there,” Engel said.

And the cost of the program is minimal - the expenses of the hats and occasional flyers need to be covered, but neighborhood pride and the work of volunteers is what really drives the program.

Both Danzinger and Tvedt said their block patrols have gladly shared information with other neighborhoods starting the program.

“We encourage them to walk along with us as guests; occasionally, we'll do joint shifts or rendezvous with patrols in adjacent neighborhoods,” Tvedt said.

Old groups put renewed emphasis on walking

Many longstanding block patrols also are focused on renewing their own efforts. As crime slowly decreased in some neighborhoods, so did the number of block-patrol volunteers. Whittier had a block patrol in the late 1990s but let the program lapse after crime subsided. In August, however, neighborhood organizers re-started the walking group following a crime-ridden summer.

“Coming out of the summer it was pretty bad, so people were really mobilized,” Whittier Community Organizer Josie Shardlow said.

Part One crimes in Stevens Square had dropped to 243 in 2004 after steadily decreasing from 442 in 1999, but in 2005 that number was up again to 309. The numbers have given the well-organized block patrol even more incentive to hit the streets.

“We like to stay on top of things, and when we're out on patrol, we tend to be the first to hear about new businesses about to open and the first to meet a new puppy,” Tvedt said. “People will often tell us they appreciate our presence, and that they feel safer when we're around.”

Danzinger said as Lyndale residents have noticed an increase in drug dealing, gang graffiti and robberies in the past few years, they've also renewed their emphasis on walking groups.

“We can't quantify all the crimes we've prevented, but we can demonstrate that the outreach while walking gets people involved and increases our visibility all the more,” Krueger said.

And there are other benefits to walking groups than just deterring crime.

“Our members often form friendships that extend beyond patrol activities. It's a great way to meet neighbors and discover common interests,” Tvedt said.

It also prompts residents to become familiar with the neighborhood they live in.

“People who had a very negative view of the neighborhood found that it wasn't nearly as bad as it had been painted in the news, and what few problems they encountered appeared to be easier to solve once they were right in front of them,” Krueger said.

And of course, Shardlow points out that it just gives neighbors a satisfying feeling.

“It's empowering to take back the streets,” she said.

Day 2 with Siah

Today we went to Target and Seward Coop.

But we also went to Minnehaha Park and the nearby Dairy Queen. Matt and Anne took many photos of the beautiful frozen waterfall - in front , above, behind, and below. It is amazing how blue frozen water can look like. I thoroughly enjoyed just seeing the outside - yet the photos they took are amazing. I plan to post some here once I get them from their camera. ;)

From 7 to 9 PM I also volunteered with the SSCO Block Patrol. I plan to at least spend 2 hours a month while Brandy is gone with them. I would like to spend even more this summer - but have no idea whether this will happen or not. I truly do not even know if I will continue living here or not. I would think that a wise thing to do until something better comes up - but we will see.

I did find it rather interesting those who wait for buses that come - and go and still are at the stop. Yet that is the only bus that goes by that stop. They see us then scatter. Drug dealers obviously. Other areas we just sit and watch for a while and they just scatter after a bit. I mean - we do not have to do a whole lot. The neighborhood knows who we are. They know we write down what we see , carry cell-phones, and work with the Minneapolis Police Department.

Right when we were about to go into the Police Substation ( the Block Patrol HQ ) we run into my acquaintance "Delan" or "Dealin." ( whichever the case may be) He not only said 'Hi' but informed us of some yellow house on the corner of 5th Avenue that is a Meth hot-spot. Kinda scary, and we wrote it in our report.

He also stated that this one short black guy was dealing a lot of meth in the area. This guy is one who we ran into previously at 19th Street and 3rd Avenue - by the corner store. He even told us to "clean up the crap in the area." This all while he is walking away with 3 others after a discussion about some people being "no shows."

All I know is that whatever loopholes are still available to those making Meth must be shut. Minnesota can't be the only state preventing sale of useless cough medicine ( used to make Meth). I agree with Senator Steve Kelley who said this morning on MPR that we need to focus more on Meth than illegal immigrants.

First day alone with Siah

These aren't exactly the first days I have been alone with Josiah. Brandy has gone off and spent many hours with friends and I have been able to watch him. But this Tuesday and Wednesday - my days off - I have been able to watch him with no assistance at all.

Tuesday we went to the Franklin Library for storytime. Josiah very much enjoys it. Though the library is going through some transitions with the new Central Library opening very soon. The librarian who usually is in charge of storytime was working on IT problems and moving equipment into the new library. SO we watched a video and Josiah enjoyed it along with the story we read. But I plan to take him each week as it is a good experience for him.

I feel awful that he cannnot go to preschool. Brandy says that we are qualified to go - though I doubt this. America puts little value on pre-school. The only ones who care seem to be Minnesotan Democrats, Independents, and Greens. Unfortunately, the Republicans are in charge. But let's not get political. ;)

And it seems that Brandy misjudged having to register Josiah by January 15th as the advertisements stated. I discussed this with her and she dismissed it. It is unfortunate for Josiah as he wants to be in pre-school.

As far as the psychological issues with going to the storytime - I think it is crucial. He was wetting hit pants more often before we started going. He was told by Brandy that if he was potty-trained that he could go to pre-school. Then when he did - he wasn't able to go yet. He became disenchanted with potty-training and started wetting his pants again.

I suppose this is only my theory as no one else has confirmed what I think - but I think it to be true. Josiah will not come out and say what his problem is - but I think this is it. SO I have told him that Story time is practice for pre-school and that he has to be good. So far so good - except at night. I will do some more things to prepare him for pre-school as time goes on. I just hope to keep him interested in learning things. He is already very earger to learn and to have a teacher.

Brandy enroute to Costa Rica

Today at 4AM Brandy will leave for Costa Rica. She will be there as part of a student-exchange program. She will live with a family and go to class each day. It is an amazing Spanish Immersion course - since it is held in a Spanish speaking nation.

Brandy , Lori Yakle, Tony, and myself all met up at Lori's place after I got off the work bus around 1 AM. We then went to Hard Times Cafe and had a quasi-breakfast. It was nice chatting with everyone and seeing Brandy for one last time before she had to leave.

I will be watching Josiah by myself for around 9-10 weeks. I also have to find someone to watch Josiah from March 11-18th, as our babysitter has other plans that week. Other weekends and days our babysitter cannot help, I have had to find replacements. SO far so good - except for that week. Been contacting Glen to see if he can help - even if only for a few days.

I have been a rather surreal week. The more conscious I become, the more the world seems like a big dream - but still FEELS real.

[To the left is the Lake Street/Midtown Station along the Hiwatha Light-rail route]

1)

I just went to Rainbow with Josiah. Rainbow is right across the street from what we lovingly called "Ghetto Cub." I used to joke that I loved my Ghetoo Cub. Anyways, I have never been to Rainbow at that location - and Brandy telling me that it was WORSE than Cub scared me from doing so. But I checked the advertisments in the Star Tribune Sunday paper - and neither competing stores seemed to have good ads. So I figured it was a good time to check out what could have been called "Ghetto Rainbow" - except it doesn't have that ring to it like "Ghetto Cub" has. BOY was I wrong.

This Rainbow store had the exterior appearance of a newer store - and the interior of a possibly brand-new store - if not kept up very well! It was like Rainbow had tried to makeover their store to copy both The Wedge ( where I usually shop) and Wal-Mart ( where I NEVER shop). Upon entering the store there was a greeter - who was not very perky - but nonetheless gave the appearance that the store had a more helpful attitude. The store was clean, neat, well-stocked, and had quality food - apart from not being 100% organic. Before I left the store I had 4 employees ask if I needed help finding anything - obviously a new tactic by their management but still effective if used even occasionally per visit.

Anyways, this is no advertisement - it just astounded me the contrast between my expectations and reality. I have no qualms shopping at a poorly run store - as most products overall are still decent - though I would question buying fresh/unprocessed products there - which is why I go the Wedge. ( and supporting local organizations versus multinational)
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2)

But this is not the end of my trip. Here I was going back home with Josiah and 4 bags full of groceries. It was tough enough getting to the light-rail station - controlling Siah and managing the bags. But when I got there an African American came up to me with a blind woman who was a little older than myself. She looked like she had been weeping and was obviously upset. I was asked to help her got on the train - which I accepted being uncontested by others willing to ( including the man leaving her).

I never got her name - but she said she had not used the light-rail ever. She just needed to get to a place on Nicollet Avenue a block from the Hiawatha stop. Anyways, I had a hard time getting her on the train as it was a "short one" - being only a couple cars. We had a little walk once it arrived - and Josiah just runs ahead and gets onboard. And here I am trying to lead this lady on - though she is using her walking stick - she underestimates the distance a bit. I then drop my bags by the door and assist her up the steps. Speaking to a few of the other passengers I found someone who could help her once the train arrived at Nicollet as I had to leave with Siah at the next stop.

I have to admit we Minnesotans will try to help others as mush as we can. I would have helped her entirely had I had not had 4 bags of groceries and Josiah. I also needed to make Siah's lunch and get ready for work - leave at around 1 PM. So....time was short but not impossible. It WOULD have been impossible to do with Siah - so I am glad I found others to help.
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The other odd events of the week have been:

- helping a girl (Rachel or Ra-Ra) coming down from a crack high retrieve a car she "thought" was stopped in an intersection and out of gas. I didn't find out the story until I got her a cigerette from a neighbor and some food leftovers from our fridge ( not bad ones either - as they would have been my work-lunch). Turns out the car was parked and that refilling a vehicle with gas isn't always easy. I wouldn't have helped her but the car wasn't hers - it was a friend's and I am crazy in helping others.

I didn't know initially she was on crack - or some other drug. She didn't twitch or have a weird personality. She just seemed stressed and tired - and was WAY too trusting of me to go into my apartment even when I said she didn't have to. But when she drove me home and started smoking out of a glass pipe - yeah - kinda gives it away. I asked to be promptly dropped off at my place - which I was after a drive that seemed a bit out of whack. She started getting paranoid just as we pulled up to my place - glad I left as quick as I could. I hate drug users and did mention that they weren't going to help her - drugs OR alcohol ( which she wanted from me initially also).

- I also witnessed 2 individuals in my building having sex in our basement. Yeah, at first I was scared it was rape - you can't really tell a moan from a cry sometimes. But I guess they were neighbors who had just met at a party and decided they would just go for it - oddly enough - on the concrete floor of the lower level. Weird how alcohol can inhibit the cognitive abilities of the human brain when consumed in large quantities?

Anyways, I have no doubts that reality will become only more surreal each coming year. Just with everything odd thus far that I have run into - I hope I am not involved in anything too serious. ( gun shootings are not my forte)

Are parents as important as peers?

I just finished "The Nurture Assumption: Why Children turn out the way they do" By Judith Rich Harris. I have to say that our society puts a LOT of blame upon parents when their children turn out less-than satisfactory. She never state parents have NO influence - except to make a point that her socialization theory trumps the Nurture Assumption.

Obviously the WORST parents - ( like those who let their child cry in their crib and ignore them their entire first year and a half) - will have detrimental effects on their children. But after reading this novel it is apparent that children are less a product of their parents than adapting the society they are in. Basically children are just other people - unique and their own person. On Earth they have physical and emotional traits of their parents - but who they truly are can re-shape how they use these tools to their liking.

The following is a short essay on whether there is no parental influence by the same author:

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The idea of zero parental influence

Is it dangerous to claim that parents have no power at all (other than genetic) to shape their child's personality, intelligence, or the way he or she behaves outside the family home? More to the point, is this claim false? Was I wrong when I proposed that parents' power to do these things by environmental means is zero, nada, zilch?

A confession: When I first made this proposal ten years ago, I didn't fully believe it myself. I took an extreme position, the null hypothesis of zero parental influence, for the sake of scientific clarity. Making myself an easy target, I invited the establishment — research psychologists in the academic world — to shoot me down. I didn't think it would be all that difficult for them to do so. It was clear by then that there weren't any big effects of parenting, but I thought there must be modest effects that I would ultimately have to acknowledge.

The establishment's failure to shoot me down has been nothing short of astonishing. One developmental psychologist even admitted, one year ago on this very website, that researchers hadn't yet found proof that "parents do shape their children," but she was still convinced that they will eventually find it, if they just keep searching long enough.

Her comrades in arms have been less forthright. "There are dozens of studies that show the influence of parents on children!" they kept saying, but then they'd somehow forget to name them — perhaps because these studies were among the ones I had already demolished (by showing that they lacked the necessary controls or the proper statistical analyses). Or they'd claim to have newer research that provided an airtight case for parental influence, but again there was a catch: the work had never been published in a peer-reviewed journal. When I investigated, I could find no evidence that the research in question had actually been done or, if done, that it had produced the results that were claimed for it. At most, it appeared to consist of preliminary work, with too little data to be meaningful (or publishable).

Vaporware, I call it. Some of the vaporware has achieved mythic status. You may have heard of Stephen Suomi's experiment with nervous baby monkeys, supposedly showing that those reared by "nurturant" adoptive monkey mothers turn into calm, socially confident adults. Or of Jerome Kagan's research with nervous baby humans, supposedly showing that those reared by "overprotective" (that is, nurturant) human mothers are more likely to remain fearful.

Researchers like these might well see my ideas as dangerous. But is the notion of zero parental influence dangerous in any other sense? So it is alleged. Here's what Frank Farley, former president of the American Psychological Association, told a journalist in 1998:

[Harris's] thesis is absurd on its face, but consider what might happen if parents believe this stuff! Will it free some to mistreat their kids, since "it doesn't matter"? Will it tell parents who are tired after a long day that they needn't bother even paying any attention to their kid since "it doesn't matter"?

Farley seems to be saying that the only reason parents are nice to their children is because they think it will make the children turn out better! And that if parents believed that they had no influence at all on how their kids turn out, they are likely to abuse or neglect them.

Which, it seems to me, is absurd on its face. Most chimpanzee mothers are nice to their babies and take good care of them. Do chimpanzees think they're going to influence how their offspring turn out? Doesn't Frank Farley know anything at all about evolutionary biology and evolutionary psychology?

My idea is viewed as dangerous by the powers that be, but I don't think it's dangerous at all. On the contrary: if people accepted it, it would be a breath of fresh air. Family life, for parents and children alike, would improve. Look what's happening now as a result of the faith, obligatory in our culture, in the power of parents to mold their children's fragile psyches. Parents are exhausting themselves in their efforts to meet their children's every demand, not realizing that evolution designed offspring — nonhuman animals as well as humans — to demand more than they really need. Family life has become phony, because parents are convinced that children need constant reassurances of their love, so if they don't happen to feel very loving at a particular time or towards a particular child, they fake it. Praise is delivered by the bushel, which devalues its worth. Children have become the masters of the home.

And what has all this sacrifice and effort on the part of parents bought them? Zilch. There are no indications that children today are happier, more self-confident, less aggressive, or in better mental health than they were sixty years ago, when I was a child — when homes were run by and for adults, when physical punishment was used routinely, when fathers were generally unavailable, when praise was a rare and precious commodity, and when explicit expressions of parental love were reserved for the deathbed.

Is my idea dangerous? I've never condoned child abuse or neglect; I've never believed that parents don't matter. The relationship between a parent and a child is an important one, but it's important in the same way as the relationship between married partners. A good relationship is one in which each party cares about the other and derives happiness from making the other happy. A good relationship is not one in which one party's central goal is to modify the other's personality.

I think what's really dangerous — perhaps a better word is tragic — is the establishment's idea of the all-powerful, and hence all-blamable, parent.

America Joins the rest of the English speaking world.....at least on cable

Yep, Doctor Who is officially going to air on the Sci-Fi Channel this year! Quite exciting!

I think the reason they got someone to air the series was because the BBC was so upset in not finding a USA distributor - they would just release it on DVD in February. The release has now been postponed until July 4th - Independence Day for Who fans in America this year!

Well now all those who have thought me crazy for being a fan will find out why I am! Especially with the series being so wonderfully done! Yeah, I wish it were more adult in some ways - but I appreciate it being family-friendly and yet not feel it has to dumb itself down too much.

Either way- Americans are in for a treat! :)

Visit from Delan ( or is it Dealin' ? )

In South Minneapolis there are many recurring characters one may see every so often. Many of them are recurring because they are always on the street for *ahem* not so legal reasons. And then there are some that are just out a lot - or like to walk a lot and are nice and don't get into trouble people. Delan fits somewhere in-between.

Don't get me wrong - he's a nice guy - always friendly. But take the first time I met him. I thought he was "Dealin' " as in drug dealing. Then he sold me a bike he "found" for $20. Of course he'd always ask for more money or food. Being a vegetarian I had no meat products for him to eat and it always seemed to disappoint him. Delan being Native preferrs his meat patties with each meal.

When I moved from my older place to my new one - I needed a bit of help moving a few items. Delan helped me out - he was such a lifesaver! Of course I believe I gave him some cash for it - but he would've done it for free at the time since I had helped him out many times previously.

I found it interesting to have met him at Dean Zimmerman's party in December. Delan was a Dean supporter and even volunteered time house-knocking for his campaign! So Delan is one of those unseen individuals at work in Minneapolis to make changes - regardless whether he is given any acknowledgement for it.

Tonight I saw him walking home from being dropped off at Chicago and Franklin from the AIC shuttle. This is actually how I met him the first time - and how I typically run into him. He's always on Franklin Avenue - 9 times out of 10 on a bike.

But it seems that he consistently is rotating the bikes he uses. I commented on this and he stated he's gone through over a dozen bikes - as so many get stolen. He doesn't bother locking them anymore and stores them indoors. I must agree that in Minneapolis - you really must watch your bike. Between Brandy and myself - we have lost 4 bikes thus far. All were locked - 3 with chain-locks and one with a U-lock. It is quite a discouraging trend in Minneapolis - a city with many bike users and just as many thieves.

Today Delan informed me of his new job. This is yet another quality he has - he's always getting a new job or 2. Thas fine with me - but he never seems to stay anywhere - yet finds out about many different businesses while job-hopping. He asked for a couple dollars until - to help him out until Friday ( payday). I find it a perfect opportunity for a photo - so I offer to get him 3 Sacagaweas and get a couple photos in of him and his bike. ( he disliked the flash - and blinked EVERY TIME ! Part night-owl?) :)

Anyone else in South Minneapolis ever run into Delan? I've seen him in Uptown, All over Franklin Avenue, Seward, and on Riverside by Hard Times Cafe. He definitely gets around! And I see him at all times of day! It's like he's always out! Yet if he's a drug-user I don't suspect anything but pot. He's no crackhead (or methead) !

If you chance to see him - say hi! He's a super friendly guy and quite harmless - in fact he tells me how he strives to prevent local crime. He has stated to have stopped thieves (in this case Somali gang-bangers ) from robbing college girls in Uptown. Sounds more dangerous than he lets on.

Homeowners Workshop 1 - - ANGEL VISITS!!

I started the morning watching Siah - until I had to go to a Homeowners workshop. The workshop was sponsored by the African Development Center - Minnesota chapter.

There are many who are confused about organizations based on race - but I for one am not afraid to work with them. Their main purpose is to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life of ALL PEOPLE. And yeah - they provide extra attention to African immigrants, but the Homeowner's Workshop is a state asset.

Anyways, this is part of my first steps in getting a Community Land Trust home in Minneapolis. And if I do not get a CLT then I will learn of all my other options as well - traditional as they may be.

I do not believe I will get a home this year - but I look to the future. The rental market couldn't be better - but it still doesn't bode well for me when home prices have increased so dramatically. Yeah I am getting raises faster than the average American and Minnesotan - but it isn't keeping pace with home prices. It's like I am chasing a home rather than working towards one. Had I started working where I do now even 3 years earlier - I KNOW I would own a home right now - or could afford one. That is why it is so crazy! :)

----

ANGEL DuCHARME was able to visit us all! It was quite fun! I was able to give her her Holiday card I sent to her OLD ADDRESS! Yeah, she forgot to inform me of her moving from one place in Mankato to another one..... Anyways, she has it now.

Josiah had a lot of fun - jumping on her and wrestling! And I know she enjoyed Siah's silliness and crazy imagination! I am glad that I have been able to see her!

AND - great news here - she and Dave plan to move to Brooklyn Park! Yeah crazy! Thas even closer than Burnsville is! ANd she has lived in Mankato and Scott County for SO LONG. It'll be awesome. Am looking forward to running into Dave and her more often - of course after their marriage this summer! :)

The marriage should be fun - though I haven't gone shopping for my attire as of yet. But I knowI will find something to fit me. Or if it doesn't fit me - it will disguise me well. ;)

Mom visits - first time since being back

It has snowed several inches today!

Josiah and I went outside for a bit until he got cold. ( lasted a little over half an hour ) He made some snow angels and used a scoop to fill a pail with snow - no real reason. Apart from pretending he was "Bob the Builder."

My Mother and her partner Sue visited today with my niece Elizabeth. Elizebeth and Josiah get along extremely well - so well that they are rather chaotic and loud together. It's like wild children times two!

In the photo you can tell Brandy is a bit burnt on her nose and cheeks. She just went tanning yesterday and it shows. She's preparing for her Costa Rica trip. Elizabeth is shown holding her new Fairytopia Barbie Doll - which she got from us for Christmas. It seems everyone got her a Barbie doll - she has 12 so far.

For Christmas I got my Mom and her Partner a photobook and a George W. Bush medal from the US Mint. ( I am no fan of Bush - but they are literally fanatics! Were wearing a different Bush shirt almost every day up until Election Day! But I didn't support Kerry but Nader - whom they actually admire )

Anywho - it was fun. I made pita pizzas for dinner and they brought burgers( which Brandy also enjoyed ).

I'm not sure how Sue is - she wasn't the same at all. She was lost in thought and concentration. Her conversation consistently moved onto subjects for no known reason. My Mom stated that Sue hadn't slept for over 24 hours and was getting delusional. Brandy thinks that Sue's drugs may be leading to a form of psychosis. Either way I hope she gets better - but Sue does have unique circumstances to deal with.

I was supposed to go out with Toni tonight - just like I was this Thursday. But she has better things to do. I was gonna go to Galactic Pizza for the first time - but not yet I guess. No biggie - plan to just chill tonight. :)

Red Bull - The Official Drink of the 34th Infantry Division

The most popular drink in Iraq is Red Bull. Why? Simply because it has a massive amount of caffeine.

One other element always on the main label of each can is "with taurine." That way when people go to buy it at the store , they say - "hey, it has Taurine! It must be something good !" Of course the consumer has no clue as to what it is - unless they are like me and Google it.

There were several addicts to Red Bull on Fob Red Lion - Spartan - Grizzly. We had medics drinking like 6 cans a day. There were contests to see who could drink the most in a day ( last I remember someone drank 14 on their day off. )

So, unlike previous wars where veterans returned addicted to opium , hashish, or marijuana (is pot addictive?) - Operation Iraqi Freedom vets will be stocking up on Red Bull! Believe this fact or not - but I foresee this product having more sensational results as time goes one.

Now why would it be the official drink of the 34th Infantry Division? Because our patch is the Red Bull seen in the background. Yep - so I ensured for posterity that the first and most popular energy drink was named after us. :)


One interesting note about Red Bull is that it is banned in France. If you have concerns about Red Bull - check this out.

Other good sites about the 34th ID are: Global Security and their Official Site - based in Minnesota.

Dean Zimmerman's Party

I was fortunate enough to be able to attend Dean Zimmerman's party tonight! ( even brought some rice crispy bars that Brandy made) He will no longer be a city council member in 2006 - but his mission remains. He wants to get Minneapolis off of hydrocarbons and towards renewables. He wants a better future for the next generation and life to be improved for the poorest citizens. (And also lucky for me is he only lives a block away!)

It was a fun and political-filled night!

I met many of his supporters. I first met Cadillac Kolstad - a local musician/artist. He plays every thursday 5-7PM at the Varsity Theater in Dinkytown and Loring Pasta on Fridays 9:45 to 12:00. He will be playing at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN in January of 2006.

I was pleasantly surprised to meet Danene Provencher - I helped her on the Nader campaign in 2004. I got around 50 signatures to get him on the Minnesota ballot. I actually don't remember how many signatures I got - I just know that I filled out all 3 sheets she sent me. I then got 10 more from her and got half of them taken care of. I could have been assisting her longer and done more - as she completed her goal ahead of schedule.

Danene has been considering a run in her district against Jim Ramstad in the 3rd Congressional District. If she runs, it will be an opportunity to communicate Green values in a non-traditional Green area. I also think she will do better than expected.

In 2008 I will support Nader again. He's amazing - and apart from all his stances - he lives the life he wants to see lived. He owns no car - nor does he plan to.

Towards the end of the night I met Paul Busch , Campaign Manager for Emily Dickinson and now Jesse Mortenson. He seemed full of energy about these campaigns and is proud of his participation on the local political scene. I have been astounded at how the Green Party has grown lately in both cities - and hope the momentum is not lost anytime soon.

And before I left I met Dave Bicking - who ran for city council in the 9th Ward under the Green Party. He and hsi girlfriend had made it to the Reverend Billy event I attended earlier that day. But he went to the Mall of America and participated in caroling. :)

I spoke briefly with Farheen Hakeem who ran for Mayor under the Greens. She is one of the few people I have met who actually know where Iraqi cities are - though I can understand why she did not want to chat about the subject. Though since I was there it is brought up quite often.

Annie Young is a very likable person. She made me feel quite welcome - not that others didn't - but she had a very welcoming aura about her. She seems a quite natural person to be involved in politics - and yet also contradict the "evil politician" stereotype. She's an amazing leader for the Greens to have - and hopefully inspires others to follow her lead.

I met the owner of the Northern Sun store , Scott Cramer , who invited me to meet some other veterans he knew at his store. I was unable to do so - and plan to contact him again and let him know I am still interested just have been busy. I honestly do not know when I will NOT be busy again but I can try. :)



The night was not an entirely Green Party affair - as Republican challenger to Martin Sabo, Frank Taylor was in attendance. I explained Bush's stance as well as Thomas P. Barnett's theory on world stability in regards to the Iraq war. I am by know means a believer in the use of violence - but I have like to know why people choose to use it. Mr. Taylor was adamant about how we were squandering resources there that could be put to better use in America. I do not disagree at all - but the Pentagon sees things differently.

Phil Wilklkie - the "associate publisher" of the Pulse was also there. I honestly cannot remember whether it was he or someone he was speaking to who was against a smoking ban. Either way - there were definetely some more moderate Independence Party leaning individuals at Dean's party.

Either way - I love political discussions - and it is rare to find a setting where it is so appropriate to go all out. ;) But again - I truly hate just opinion talk and politician bashing unless it is backed up. I tend to find pros and cons in just about every belief. But I tend to stick with what makes sense long-term. ( i.e. the environment and health matters win in the end )

But I do know that I stayed out WAY LATE. Left at like 2 A.M. !! Things had died down but still going!

(the photo is of a snowman. I saw him on the way to and from Dean's party on Clinton Avenue. )

Reverend Billy and the Stop Shopping Gospel Choir

I got an e-mail that Reverend Billy was going to be in town - so naturally I had to go! It was at the Sabathani Community Center just a short bus trip south of where I live!

Anywho - it was awesome! The whole point of their existence is their message: shop consciously. Don't just buy things because they are cheap. Do you really NEED to buy as much as you do? Do you unknowingly support child labor and sweatshops? Are your actions hurting the environment and women's rights either in America or abroad?

We live in a world of Globalization. That means we must take responsibility for our actions on a GLOBAL scale. This is not always easy - but it must happen if we as humanity are to "evolve."


I found it a very fun sermon. The choir was very lively - and the performance seemed quite professional.

One part I especially enjoyed was when he exorcised our credit cards!! :)

He also stated that our actions have to go beyond fair trade. He stated that the Mall of America denied peaceful Peta protesters their freedom of speech. So....

They then went to the Mall of America to stage a protest of the unfair trade going on there. This is from their blog:
This is truly one of the most bizarre, incongruous and triumphant experiences of my life. We enter the seemingly endless corridors of chain stores and shiny, reflective chrome in a flood of red, white and blue choir robes (joined by a busload of amped-up members of our Sabathani audience.) We’ve discovered that our robes are our secret weapon — our foil. People just aren’t threatened by a choir! I have been working on my casual air of confidence, authority and mall-grade spacey pleasantness. We make our way to an empty stage in an atrium that has been staked out in advance. Julio jumps on an upright piano and suddenly we’re singing "Stop Shopping," complete with choreography, looking out on a vista of 3 tiers of chain stores and unsuspecting, confused shoppers. The minutes tick by and we launch into "Starbucks and Disney." Billy is now onstage wielding his gigantic, white acoustic megaphone. I am blown away that there has been no frantic rush of security guards, no stern and humorless demands that we must exit the mall immediately. We finish the song and shuffle forth to sermonize in other corners of the monstrosity, hijacking a bank of escalators for another performance. We sing jubilantly, "Stop Shopping!" as we loop continuously up, then down and then up again. The patriotic color scheme and anti-shopping words seem a huge contradiction to some befuddled onlookers, while others’ interest is piqued. It’s a full 45 minutes before we are asked to leave the premises and takes actually going into an Abercrombie and Fitch store and kneeling before the counter with it’s taxidermied moose presiding above center, staring blankly out over our bowed heads into the great unknown.

Return to Minnesota!

Yes - I did finally get to escape Ft. Dix at last!

I had a few library books checked out - and it seems that in New Jersey they lock their book drop off box at night. SO - I left it at their entrancer underneath a long canopy. Hopefully the books did not get wet with all the snow coming down. I suppose I could have dropped them off in a mail box and assumed a postal carrier would do the right thing.

Now back in Minnesota - what do we do? Well - we get off the Northwest plane at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport - right next to the light rail station known as the Humphrey Terminal station. In all but 3 states - this would have been the end of the road for us all. I would have taken the light rail home. But we hopped on our buses appropriate to the cities we deployed from: Brainerd, Saint Cloud, Wadena and Sauk Center. I got on the Brainerd bus.

I was then welcomed into the city of Brainerd by people all waving down the streets. It was quite a unique event. At the Brainerd High School we all were given the star treatment - with a band there, and bleachers packed full of people to the point people had to stand. The Mayors of Brainerd and its unknown suburb Baxter were at the event to welcome us home. Also present was Brainerd's gay Republican Senator - Paul Koering. It was all rather too long - though all of us soldiers knew we were not their for ourselves - but for this community. They were all glad we were home.

All I know is that none of my family was waiting for me there. I have no car and my partner Brandy had finals the next day. She couldn't take a bus up and then take it right back down in time - nor would she have had time to study with all the traveling. Therefore - she was not their. My Mother has no license and my Grandmother was just diagnosed with Glaucoma and had her licensed revoked. Therefore I pretty much waited around until Lietenant Sangano inquired as to the whereabouts of family/friends.

He gave me a ride to the Days Inn Hotel. The Minnesota National Guard offered hotels free to those who lived more than 50 miles from Camp Ripley. The next 2 days we would have to endure briefings and were encouraged to bring our family. Thanks to Lietenant Sangano , Brandy was able to come up to Camp Ripley that Thursday( 8 Dec ) - the final day of briefings .

That Thursday we were out by noon - and Sgt. Neuhaus was my ride back to Minneapolis and his wife was suffering from slight "twitching" due to her seizures. SO I unfortunately was unable to attend the welcome back ceremony from our Governor. I feel awful that I was unable to meet personally with an individual who doesn't believe in inflation.

Home soon!

I should be home soon! I will be dropped off at the Whitney Center in Saint Cloud at about 3P.M. Then I have a hotel room in Brainerd but have to be at Camp Ripley the next 2 mornings at 9am and then 10am. THEN I am done! Finally done! Until the next drill in January.

Yep - we are STILL not done. No months off anymore! AND if I were to stay in the Guard - we have THREE weeks a year now instead of TWO!! Yeah - I am glad I am getting out in May. The ARMY life is really not all that fun - though it was never truly meant to be. I just wish that our civilian leaders presented a coherent policies in regards to our overseas endeavors.

Minneapolis tops the lists - but not all

Minneapolis is one of the least stressed cities , best place to raise a family , most literate city , Green city , fitness , wired , educated , sleeping , LGBT friendly in America.



Stress

Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN The Twin Cities have a low unemployment rate and a low violent crime rate. Despite many cloudy days, the suicide rate is low and the stress scores are generally favorable across the board.
Family



Literate
But among cities topping the list, Minneapolis stands out as exemplary, he says. Several of these cities "are becoming colonies of the highly educated, with almost everyone else being forced out," he adds. But Minneapolis, together with 16th-ranked St. Paul, "is evolving in a way that is including more and more of the population."

Green

Minneapolis (382,618 pop), the larger of the twin cities, devotes 15 percent of its city land to parks and preserves, not counting the thousands of nearby lakes. Those lakes help account for Minneapolis's comparatively high water quality ranking—sixth out of 25 U.S. cities examined—in a 2004 drinking water survey by Organic Style Magazine. Minneapolis ranks in the top third of affordable cities, and its integrated public transit system and bike-friendly-status allow 23 percent of its population to commute without a car. A successful solar-electric rebate program offered by Minnesota State's Department of Commerce encourages businesses and residents to hook solar systems up to the city's grid. Lakes within and around Minneapolis make canoeing popular and a trip into the Iron Range up north offers excellent bird- and wolf-watching as well as ice-fishing, skating and cross-country skiing.

Fitness ( okay it dropped after being #1 for 3 consecutive years but still )

Minneapolis moved down the fitness ladder seven slots despite three #1 ranked health-related criteria, a feat unduplicated by any other city on our survey. Residents rank first in the nation for overall participation in sports, they watch less TV than anywhere else, and they have the highest number of sporting-goods stores per capita. Furthermore, Minneapolis earned the second highest score for number of health food stores, and the fourth-highest rank for number of golf courses per every 10,000 people.
So why the drop? Well, there's the issue of some very cold weather for much of the year, but Twin Cities residents seem to have some sort of immunity to the hostile climate, if you believe the local lore. The real culprits? A dramatic drop in air quality, buttressed by worsening scores in alcohol and junk food consumption, and increasing commute times.
BRAGGING RIGHTS AND SOBERING FACTS:
There's one drinking establishment for every 3,360 residents - among the highest ratios of any city in our survey.
Minneapolis has one of the highest ratios of basketball courts to population. There are nearly five courts per 10,000 people, three times more than the U.S. average.
If the supply is there, so, apparently, is the demand: With the huge number of golf courses available, there's no surprise golf was picked as the number one favorite sport (the weather makes getting out on the greens possible only have a few months out of the year, though).
Naturally, Minneapolis ranks first nationwide for participating in ice hockey, ice skating and skiing.
Indoor swimming is popular, ranking second-highest in participation nationwide.

Wired city

Education

Minneapolis has one of the best educated urban populations in America. This is assisted by our state being #1 in education. Minneapolis also is a brain magnet for the entire upper midwest :

In ranking the top and bottom states, Minnesota, followed closely by Montana and Iowa had the highest performing schools. While Mississippi, the District of Columbia and Louisiana ranked at the bottom of the scale. In the 1997-98 school year, the District of Columbia spent $8,670 in per pupil expenditures while Minnesota spent $6,245

Sleeping
Minneapolis was identified as the city where residents may have the easiest time getting a restful night’s sleep. Residents reported having nearly 23 nights of good sleep during an average month. Other factors that helped Minneapolis clinch the title of best city for sleep were a high score on the overall happiness index, a short commute time, and low unemployment.

Vegetarian

The star of America's Midwest is adored by veggie food companies for gobbling up meat free products like Tofurkys and Celebration Roasts. It should come as no surprise that the home of vegan rock star Prince ranks high for health food stores and organic co-ops, and is known for its vegetarian-friendly restaurants that happily cater to veggies and vegans. So of course it's no coincidence that Minneapolis has the lowest heart disease rate in the country. The most outstanding thing about the veg scene here is that it is the "mock duck" (actually seitan, but so-named locally by the many Vietnamese restaurants) capital of the world! From mock duck curries and stir fries at Asian eateries like Kinh Do to spicy mock duck pizza at Pizza Lucé (with special vegan cheese no less!), you'll find it all over town in dozens of delicious incarnations.Also noteworthy are the upscale downtown Café Brenda (whose veggie food products are available nationally), the down-home Seward Café cooperative (vegan pancakes and amazing veggie breakfasts), the hipster bar atmosphere of Triple Rock with its many vegan comfort food options, and a whole host of veg-friendly ethnic establishments that include Indian, Mid-Eastern, Thai, Ethiopian, and Cambodian.


Minneapolis was named the “Most Fun City in America” by game maker Cranium

To top it all off go here.


Where do we need work? Safety:

25th least safe in the nation. And I volunteer on a block club that walks the streets and reports criminal activities and other such deliquent behavior. It is a start - but we need more participation.