Today is my first official day as a retired cop. Thirty two years and eight months as a San Diego police officer. I had some fun times, met some wonderful people, lost too many friends and co-workers to untimely and sometimes horrific incidents. I saw more stupidity and violence than imaginable. Met some characters you really had to see to believe.
All in all the job was a blast. The politics of the job was the number one factor for bad memories. I will save the bad for another time. I made it out alive and in one piece. I have my health and am looking forward to a long retirement. I have a number of items on my bucket list of things to do before i die and don't plan on laying around.
I plan on writing more often and speaking out as just that old retired guy who maybe has some insight others may not possess. Until then, have a safe and happy new year.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail 2012
After 32+ years I will be retiring from the San Diego Police Department on December 30, 2011. I will be 55 years of age and in OK shape with the exception of being a bit overweight (OK, so I carry around a pony keg and not a six pack). I often get asked what my plans are after I retire. I tell people my first adventure will be to hike the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and I get this look of; what?
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a 2,663.5 mile hiking trail that runs from the Mexican border at Campo to Manning Park which is located 8 miles into Canada from Washington State. The PCT is a national scenic trail that traverses three states (California, Oregon, and Washington). I will climb 60 some mountain passes; descend into 19 major canyons; pass more than 1000 lakes; 3 national monuments; 7 national parks (Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Yosemite, Lassen Volcanic, Crater Lake, Mt. Rainier and North Cascades National Park), 24 national forests; and 37 federally mandated wilderness areas.
The PCT starts out in a desert like area that is hot, dry and rugged. It passes through mountains that are tall, steep and snowy (Forrester Pass 13,153 feet). The trail will require crossing creeks, streams and rivers; climbing over rocks, logs and bridges. In the course of hiking the trail I will climb over 314,711 feet of up and down climbing of hills and mountains and then into valleys, canyons and meadows. The lowest point of the trail is the Cascade Locks of Oregon, at 140 feet above sea level. The highest point along the trail is Forester Pass, California, at 13,153 feet. I will hike 1,698.8 miles in California, 456.8 miles in Oregon and 499.8 miles in Washington. (More people have climbed Mt. Everest than have completed a thru hike of the PCT.)
Most hikers attempting to thru-hike the PCT will begin their journey in mid to late April. There is a kick off for hikers the last weekend of April called the “Annual Day Zero Pacific Crest Trail Kick Off” (ADZPCTKO) which is held at Lake Morena, near Campo. The idea is to begin the southern portion of the hike early enough to avoid the extreme high temperatures of the desert and arrive at the southern portion of the Sierra Nevada Mountains (Kennedy Meadows) when the snow pack has had time to melt (June 10-15). Once a hiker makes it to Kennedy Meadows the goal is to make Canada before the snow begins to fall in Washington (Late September – Early October). The hike should take roughly five months to complete.
I will encounter snakes, spiders, mosquitoes, bears and poison oak. I will carry everything I need on my back in a pack that will weigh in at about 20 pounds, less food and water. I will use a tent (Big Agnes Fly Creek / 2 pounds) and cook at least one hot meal a day. Granted the food will be freeze-dried or dehydrated, but hopefully good enough to eat every day for five months.
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a 2,663.5 mile hiking trail that runs from the Mexican border at Campo to Manning Park which is located 8 miles into Canada from Washington State. The PCT is a national scenic trail that traverses three states (California, Oregon, and Washington). I will climb 60 some mountain passes; descend into 19 major canyons; pass more than 1000 lakes; 3 national monuments; 7 national parks (Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Yosemite, Lassen Volcanic, Crater Lake, Mt. Rainier and North Cascades National Park), 24 national forests; and 37 federally mandated wilderness areas.
The PCT starts out in a desert like area that is hot, dry and rugged. It passes through mountains that are tall, steep and snowy (Forrester Pass 13,153 feet). The trail will require crossing creeks, streams and rivers; climbing over rocks, logs and bridges. In the course of hiking the trail I will climb over 314,711 feet of up and down climbing of hills and mountains and then into valleys, canyons and meadows. The lowest point of the trail is the Cascade Locks of Oregon, at 140 feet above sea level. The highest point along the trail is Forester Pass, California, at 13,153 feet. I will hike 1,698.8 miles in California, 456.8 miles in Oregon and 499.8 miles in Washington. (More people have climbed Mt. Everest than have completed a thru hike of the PCT.)
Most hikers attempting to thru-hike the PCT will begin their journey in mid to late April. There is a kick off for hikers the last weekend of April called the “Annual Day Zero Pacific Crest Trail Kick Off” (ADZPCTKO) which is held at Lake Morena, near Campo. The idea is to begin the southern portion of the hike early enough to avoid the extreme high temperatures of the desert and arrive at the southern portion of the Sierra Nevada Mountains (Kennedy Meadows) when the snow pack has had time to melt (June 10-15). Once a hiker makes it to Kennedy Meadows the goal is to make Canada before the snow begins to fall in Washington (Late September – Early October). The hike should take roughly five months to complete.
I will encounter snakes, spiders, mosquitoes, bears and poison oak. I will carry everything I need on my back in a pack that will weigh in at about 20 pounds, less food and water. I will use a tent (Big Agnes Fly Creek / 2 pounds) and cook at least one hot meal a day. Granted the food will be freeze-dried or dehydrated, but hopefully good enough to eat every day for five months.
There is a saying among hikers “Hike your own hike.” The premise is to hike according to one’s own dreams, goals, expectations, and not have your hike determined by someone else’s expectations or goals. I intend to hike continuously from the southern terminus at the Mexican Border to Manning Park in Canada. I plan on hiking at my own pace and enjoying the solitude and solace of being alone in thought as I walk the trail. I hope to purge the negative thoughts of a lifetime in law enforcement. I hope to also reflect on the fun times and accomplishments of a 32+ year career. I will take side trips to hike Whitney, Half Dome, Crater Lake and others as they present themselves. I will take hundreds of pictures, lots of videos and write daily of my experiences. I will share the good and bad in hopes those who wish to follow my adventure get a flavor of what I am experiencing.
The two most often asked questions I get; “Who are you going with?” and “Why?” The answer to the first question is, “No one. I will be heading off alone.” I will be considered a “solo” hiker. I won’t be alone on the trail. There are hundreds that begin the hike every year. So along the way I will come across people who are attempting a similar feat.
The answer to “why” is a little more complex. I began to dream of hiking the PCT several years ago. I have always enjoyed hiking, camping and exploring the great outdoors. My favorite place to unwind and explore is the Eastern Sierra’s. I read journals of those who have attempted or completed a thru hike of the PCT and began to contemplate following in their footsteps.
So why am I going to attempt to thru hike the PCT? I guess because I became fascinated with the challenge. I also was looking for something to help purge the negative effects of 32+ years in law enforcement. The more I read about and learned about the trail, the more I thought about doing it myself. There are two other trails people thru hike (Appalachian Trail and Continental Divide Trail) annually. I decided if I were going to make an attempt at thru hiking it would be the PCT and not one of the other two. I think hiking the PCT is very doable for me and a challenge I seek in retirement.
In my readings of other thru hikers journals and BLOGS, I came across a man named Jonathan Ley. He has hiked the PCT and Continental Divide Trail and written about the experiences. Ley writes of an encounter with a Border Patrol Agent a few miles from the border after starting his PCT adventure. The agent said, “You know, I’ve seen other people doing this walk. I just don’t get it… I mean, what do you get out of it?” Ley said it was the first direct, “why?”
Ley went on to write a list of why he thru hiked. Many of his reasons mirror mine;
- Life is made of experiences and I hope to have as many as possible.
- Unfulfilled dreams become regrets and I intend to have as few as possible.
- To share in something unique, that few have known or will ever know.
- To learn about my limitations.
- To learn about the world and to better understand my place in the natural order of things.
- To avoid living a life that has already been played out by countless others.
- To think, dream, imagine and to reflect, unencumbered by the distractions of life.
- To endure mental and physical hardships and perhaps become stronger as a result.
- To learn what is truly important in life.
I am heading into this adventure with eyes wide open. I am aware of the obstacles to completing a thru hike of 2663.5 miles. I am retiring six months ahead of when I had planned so I can begin the hike this year rather than wait another year. I began preparation a little over six months ago by buying a package of material from a hiker who had hiked the trail years ago and put together planning and hiking tips for those interested in attempting a similar feat.
I will detail my planning in future posts and re-tool this site to allow for those with interest to follow my hike when I start. I plan on beginning my hike sometime after April 15, 2012. In closing, I will use a quote I have seen on various journals and blogs;
“Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a well-preserved body but rather to skid sideways, totally worn out with a Yuengling in your hand and shouting “Holy Shit… what a ride!!!”
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
It's Time to Party
I secured the "Rock House" at the range today for my retirement party. With my last days ticking off and retirement 36 days away (16 work days) I agreed to an old fashioned, range, retirement party. Since I am leaving at the end of next month (December 30, 2011) I decided to hold my party after the holidays. I selected Friday, January 13, 2012.
Friday the 13th.
A flier will be out shortly. Mark the date and join me in saying "Farewell". Bring your ball ammo, practice rounds, hollow points, tracer rounds and wad cutters... but leave the brass at home... there is nothing more frustrating than having to deal with the brass after a great day lobbing rounds down range... we can all throw some shots back and tell a few tales and reminisce about what was...
I have enjoyed (for the most part) my 32 1/2+ years of service. Times have changed and I am looking forward to the next chapter in life. Mark the date and let's have some fun.
Friday the 13th.
A flier will be out shortly. Mark the date and join me in saying "Farewell". Bring your ball ammo, practice rounds, hollow points, tracer rounds and wad cutters... but leave the brass at home... there is nothing more frustrating than having to deal with the brass after a great day lobbing rounds down range... we can all throw some shots back and tell a few tales and reminisce about what was...
I have enjoyed (for the most part) my 32 1/2+ years of service. Times have changed and I am looking forward to the next chapter in life. Mark the date and let's have some fun.
Monday, October 10, 2011
A New Beginning
I will be taking the next step in life very soon. I will be retiring on December 30, 2011. I have made an appointment with the Retirement Board to sign my papers on November 8, 2011. I made my decision while contemplating my next adventure. I have a dream of hiking solo from the Mexico/USA border (Campo) to Canada along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). I do not want to put off this adventure for another year and if I truly expect to complete the hike in one season, I need to hit the trail mid April to finish before the snows begin in the north (No later than the first of October).
I began reading everything I could find on thru hiking the PCT to get an idea of what I was getting myself into. I contacted several people who had completed the hike as well as several who made the attempt but fell short. I learned much from them and am excited to give this adventure a go. Hiking for five to six months straight; 2650 or so miles; alone; carrying everything I need on my back; will be challenging, difficult, rewarding and at the same time rejuvenating and a way to purge the negative memories of 32+ years in law enforcement.
Several people ask, "who are you going to hike with?" When I tell them no-one, I get the same, "you are an idiot" look. Many cannot fathom undertaking such a task willingly and alone. I get questions about being lonely. I explain my desire to enjoy the solitude of hiking mile after mile, lost in my own thoughts and dreams, doing what is often described as, "hiking your own hike." There are usually five to six hundred individuals who set out to hike the PCT every year. I will stumble across many during my hike and when the desire strikes will have people to talk and share stories with. I plan on writing daily and sharing my thoughts and experiences.
I will soon "re-tool" so to speak this BLOG and begin to write about the preparation for my hike and use this site to write about the adventures ahead. I will throw in a few shots at politicians and the goings on in San Diego as well as thoughts of a department that once was and what it has become.
I hope to entertain and at the same time allow you to share in my adventure; the pain, the joy, the sights and sounds, as well as the struggles of living in a tent for days on end and eating food that can be cooked by adding boiling water.
Life is good and I look forward to the next chapter.
A small example of where I will venture, living simply, enjoying the peace, quiet and solitude of what the PCT has to offer.
I began reading everything I could find on thru hiking the PCT to get an idea of what I was getting myself into. I contacted several people who had completed the hike as well as several who made the attempt but fell short. I learned much from them and am excited to give this adventure a go. Hiking for five to six months straight; 2650 or so miles; alone; carrying everything I need on my back; will be challenging, difficult, rewarding and at the same time rejuvenating and a way to purge the negative memories of 32+ years in law enforcement.
Several people ask, "who are you going to hike with?" When I tell them no-one, I get the same, "you are an idiot" look. Many cannot fathom undertaking such a task willingly and alone. I get questions about being lonely. I explain my desire to enjoy the solitude of hiking mile after mile, lost in my own thoughts and dreams, doing what is often described as, "hiking your own hike." There are usually five to six hundred individuals who set out to hike the PCT every year. I will stumble across many during my hike and when the desire strikes will have people to talk and share stories with. I plan on writing daily and sharing my thoughts and experiences.
I will soon "re-tool" so to speak this BLOG and begin to write about the preparation for my hike and use this site to write about the adventures ahead. I will throw in a few shots at politicians and the goings on in San Diego as well as thoughts of a department that once was and what it has become.
I hope to entertain and at the same time allow you to share in my adventure; the pain, the joy, the sights and sounds, as well as the struggles of living in a tent for days on end and eating food that can be cooked by adding boiling water.
Life is good and I look forward to the next chapter.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
What's REALLY Going On?
The little rube lives by the motto; "Do as I say, Not as I do." He wants everyone to believe he is above it all by not participating in the City's Retirement. Truth be told he has made millions of dollars, ALL taxpayer dollars, through government contracts he has sought out by stretching the truth and spinning reality. He will have everyone believe he is the guru of eliminating government waste and spending. Reality is he spends more money promoting his agenda and promulgating his many falsehoods. The City Beat did a story the other day titled, "Hey, big spender" outing the little rube and how he is spending taxpayer money. It would not surprise most of you that the rube spends more money than his council colleagues. He has spent almost as much as all of his colleagues combined in printing and postage. The rube spent $91,888 and his colleagues combined spent $123,087. The little rube has spent two to fifteen times as much as his council colleagues in discretionary spending on travel, conferences, office supplies and consulting ($50,000 for his Roadmap and addendum report regarding enrolling public safety new hires in a 401k retirement). He calls himself a "Watchdog?"
The little rube is using taxpayer dollars to further his goal of seeking higher office. His run for mayor in 2012 is being financed in part by tax dollars. Where is San Diego's Elliot Spitzer? It's high time someone start paying attention to the goings on in District 5's council office. How much groundwork is being laid during business hours for his quest for higher office on the taxpayer's dime? Is the expenditure of taxpayer dollars for the rental of various venues to promote his agenda and introduce himself to voters outside his district a legitimate use of public funds?
Who is paying attention?
When the government approved the use of 401K style plans to supplement retirements, they were never intended to be stand alone retirement benefits for workers in America. The plan being promoted in San Diego to move all city employees with the exception of Police Officers into a 401K retirement will have catastrophic consequences. When private employers moved away from the "Defined Benefit" retirement plans a drastic change in the workforce took place. Employees no longer felt loyalty toward a company. The days of working for the same company until retirement were gone. Where 20, 30, 40 year employees was the norm, now the average worker will change jobs 5 to 8 times in their lifetime; some spending on average only 18-24 months with the same company. Chasing the dollar has become the norm. The same will happen to those who come to San Diego. The citizens will suffer in ways they cannot imagine. When government employees cannot share in profits or receive bonuses and their pay is lower than the private sector, why would a high quality, highly educated and qualified person want to join their ranks? Technical jobs; fire fighters, paramedics, lifeguards, engineers, attorneys, DNA laboratory and water quality experts will be filled with those seeking experience and training and quickly move to city's offering better wages and benefits that include a secure defined benefit retirement.
The mayor's legacy is taking shape and it is not a good one. I called this one a long time ago. He will go down in history as one of the worst if not the worst on record. He had every opportunity to do the right thing and fix a broken city. He instead jumped on the political bandwagon being whipped by the Union Tribune. He said openly in his early days when running for mayor, he could not tell the truth about the retirement system because he would not get elected. He has continued this and refused to take the risky and bold stand to do the right thing and actually make the adjustments necessary to bring the retirement system back to its once acceptable funding level.
The old addage, "You get what you pay for" is soon to become reality. The groundwork has been laid and the house of cards is crumbling around us.
The little rube is using taxpayer dollars to further his goal of seeking higher office. His run for mayor in 2012 is being financed in part by tax dollars. Where is San Diego's Elliot Spitzer? It's high time someone start paying attention to the goings on in District 5's council office. How much groundwork is being laid during business hours for his quest for higher office on the taxpayer's dime? Is the expenditure of taxpayer dollars for the rental of various venues to promote his agenda and introduce himself to voters outside his district a legitimate use of public funds?
Who is paying attention?
When the government approved the use of 401K style plans to supplement retirements, they were never intended to be stand alone retirement benefits for workers in America. The plan being promoted in San Diego to move all city employees with the exception of Police Officers into a 401K retirement will have catastrophic consequences. When private employers moved away from the "Defined Benefit" retirement plans a drastic change in the workforce took place. Employees no longer felt loyalty toward a company. The days of working for the same company until retirement were gone. Where 20, 30, 40 year employees was the norm, now the average worker will change jobs 5 to 8 times in their lifetime; some spending on average only 18-24 months with the same company. Chasing the dollar has become the norm. The same will happen to those who come to San Diego. The citizens will suffer in ways they cannot imagine. When government employees cannot share in profits or receive bonuses and their pay is lower than the private sector, why would a high quality, highly educated and qualified person want to join their ranks? Technical jobs; fire fighters, paramedics, lifeguards, engineers, attorneys, DNA laboratory and water quality experts will be filled with those seeking experience and training and quickly move to city's offering better wages and benefits that include a secure defined benefit retirement.
The mayor's legacy is taking shape and it is not a good one. I called this one a long time ago. He will go down in history as one of the worst if not the worst on record. He had every opportunity to do the right thing and fix a broken city. He instead jumped on the political bandwagon being whipped by the Union Tribune. He said openly in his early days when running for mayor, he could not tell the truth about the retirement system because he would not get elected. He has continued this and refused to take the risky and bold stand to do the right thing and actually make the adjustments necessary to bring the retirement system back to its once acceptable funding level.
The old addage, "You get what you pay for" is soon to become reality. The groundwork has been laid and the house of cards is crumbling around us.
Monday, April 4, 2011
"Anonymous" Posters Beware
I am sure to tweak some noses with this rant. I have made my feelings known on prior occasions as it relates to the comments made by the "Anonymous" person. Usually these comments appear in a verbal joust with someone in the comments section of a specific post. So I am sure there are those who may have not gotten a true read of my feelings for those who hide behind the "Anonymous" label when taking shots at others, me or my rants.
As a disclaimer, I get why some feel fear of retribution for speaking their mind. I don't always agree with the reasons for being anonymous, but in this city and on this department, I get it. Having said that, I believe if you have something to say, own it, say it and stand tall. This means identifying yourself and not skulking behind a computer screen using the "Anonymous" tag.
I recently jousted with two "Anonymous" individuals who complained about their perceived lack of fairness for people like myself who rant on their BLOGS and in some way are not held accountable (See March Madness). In the first comment, "Anonymous" wrote;
"So how do you get to have a blog like this and not get in trouble? Are you aware of our departments dispatchers being fired for face book postings? From what I understand and heard in line up two of the dispatchers were being fired and they mentioned no names or department information. Just some immature post about clothing and being treated bad. They get fired and you get praised... Sheez very unfair is it because your in the drop? I don't think either of them are... But both have taken very good care of me in the field. They are Hero's every day. Such a loss to our department. Rant About that... You probably won't post this because it will put you in a bad light."I responded with the following: "I posted your comments "Anonymous" even though you do not have the courage to use your name. I fail to see how your comments put me "in a bad light."The problem with your comments is you speak of rumor and conjecture from a position of not having facts to support anything you write. I will not comment on anything you mentioned regarding a private, personnel issue. Your comments about their issues are out of line and not professional. In regard to my "not getting in trouble" due to my writing this BLOG; how ignorant and naive you are. I walk a tight rope every time I press the send button to post a new rant. I have few if any supporters among the command staff of the SDPD and could most likely NOT find a supporter among any of the elected politicians in San Diego. I have paid a high price for my willingness to write about the issues in San Diego politics.I use my name and do not hide behind my computer screen when I write my BLOG. I wish those who take the time to post comments could have the courage to do the same. I do understand why so many do not, but posting rumors, information regarding personnel issues or derogatory comments about individuals without taking ownership diminishes the credibility of the information. I won't rant about the issues you posed above. I would also suggest you not either."
Then the following was written by another "Anonymous" writer:"I have to agree with anonymous on this one. I have come to the realization that "freedom of speech" only applies to "blog writers" Ever notice that whenever anyone questions or comments about something that is written in blogs the blog writers get offended and some even throw tantrums that they are being questioned about it !! How is it that they are the only ones who can say anything about anybody and not be willing to answer to any of the crap they "blog" about?? Makes no sense to me and never will.....My motto is if you can dish it out you sure as hell better be able to take it !!!"I had to laugh at the comments by the last coward, I mean "Anonymous" writer. I thought to myself, "Really? Do you not get what a BLOG is and who controls its content?" Those of us who write a BLOG do so for many reasons. Mostly we enjoy the therapeutic aspects of writing about our thoughts, feeling and frustrations in life. We do enjoy a level of freedom related to our writings as it relates to the First Amendment. I pride myself in being as factually correct as possible and am not afraid to add my personal feelings and beliefs at the same time. I have demonstrated a willingness to allow others, even the "Anonymous" contributors to comment to my BLOG, even when their comments have no relevance to anything written. I responded with the following:
"Another "Anonymous" comment that attempts to take a shot but ends up becoming a self inflicted wound.
I have never thrown a "tantrum" nor been offended at a persons comments to my blog... that is for those who stand tall and take responsibility and ownership for their words. I have also not edited nor failed to post the comments of people writing about my rants with the exception of one poster who I know personally who does not write about my rants but issues she has. I respect anyone willing to show their face and take ownership of their words. I also have little respect for the "Anonymous" poster.
I am responsible for every word I write. This BLOG is mine. I do it for my pleasure, not yours. If you dis-like something you read here, get over it. If you can't get over it, move on and read something else. The purpose of the comment section of a BLOG is to comment on the posters rant. When someone hides behind "Anonymous" I can't get worked up or take serious anything they say.
Feel free to leave your comment anytime... you will neither offend me nor get me to throw a tantrum... but understand I will fire back and point out how wrong you are when it is obvious..."So I get home this evening and see the following:
As a disclaimer, I get why some feel fear of retribution for speaking their mind. I don't always agree with the reasons for being anonymous, but in this city and on this department, I get it. Having said that, I believe if you have something to say, own it, say it and stand tall. This means identifying yourself and not skulking behind a computer screen using the "Anonymous" tag.
I recently jousted with two "Anonymous" individuals who complained about their perceived lack of fairness for people like myself who rant on their BLOGS and in some way are not held accountable (See March Madness). In the first comment, "Anonymous" wrote;
"So how do you get to have a blog like this and not get in trouble? Are you aware of our departments dispatchers being fired for face book postings? From what I understand and heard in line up two of the dispatchers were being fired and they mentioned no names or department information. Just some immature post about clothing and being treated bad. They get fired and you get praised... Sheez very unfair is it because your in the drop? I don't think either of them are... But both have taken very good care of me in the field. They are Hero's every day. Such a loss to our department. Rant About that... You probably won't post this because it will put you in a bad light."I responded with the following: "I posted your comments "Anonymous" even though you do not have the courage to use your name. I fail to see how your comments put me "in a bad light."The problem with your comments is you speak of rumor and conjecture from a position of not having facts to support anything you write. I will not comment on anything you mentioned regarding a private, personnel issue. Your comments about their issues are out of line and not professional. In regard to my "not getting in trouble" due to my writing this BLOG; how ignorant and naive you are. I walk a tight rope every time I press the send button to post a new rant. I have few if any supporters among the command staff of the SDPD and could most likely NOT find a supporter among any of the elected politicians in San Diego. I have paid a high price for my willingness to write about the issues in San Diego politics.I use my name and do not hide behind my computer screen when I write my BLOG. I wish those who take the time to post comments could have the courage to do the same. I do understand why so many do not, but posting rumors, information regarding personnel issues or derogatory comments about individuals without taking ownership diminishes the credibility of the information. I won't rant about the issues you posed above. I would also suggest you not either."
Then the following was written by another "Anonymous" writer:"I have to agree with anonymous on this one. I have come to the realization that "freedom of speech" only applies to "blog writers" Ever notice that whenever anyone questions or comments about something that is written in blogs the blog writers get offended and some even throw tantrums that they are being questioned about it !! How is it that they are the only ones who can say anything about anybody and not be willing to answer to any of the crap they "blog" about?? Makes no sense to me and never will.....My motto is if you can dish it out you sure as hell better be able to take it !!!"I had to laugh at the comments by the last coward, I mean "Anonymous" writer. I thought to myself, "Really? Do you not get what a BLOG is and who controls its content?" Those of us who write a BLOG do so for many reasons. Mostly we enjoy the therapeutic aspects of writing about our thoughts, feeling and frustrations in life. We do enjoy a level of freedom related to our writings as it relates to the First Amendment. I pride myself in being as factually correct as possible and am not afraid to add my personal feelings and beliefs at the same time. I have demonstrated a willingness to allow others, even the "Anonymous" contributors to comment to my BLOG, even when their comments have no relevance to anything written. I responded with the following:
"Another "Anonymous" comment that attempts to take a shot but ends up becoming a self inflicted wound.
I have never thrown a "tantrum" nor been offended at a persons comments to my blog... that is for those who stand tall and take responsibility and ownership for their words. I have also not edited nor failed to post the comments of people writing about my rants with the exception of one poster who I know personally who does not write about my rants but issues she has. I respect anyone willing to show their face and take ownership of their words. I also have little respect for the "Anonymous" poster.
I am responsible for every word I write. This BLOG is mine. I do it for my pleasure, not yours. If you dis-like something you read here, get over it. If you can't get over it, move on and read something else. The purpose of the comment section of a BLOG is to comment on the posters rant. When someone hides behind "Anonymous" I can't get worked up or take serious anything they say.
Feel free to leave your comment anytime... you will neither offend me nor get me to throw a tantrum... but understand I will fire back and point out how wrong you are when it is obvious..."So I get home this evening and see the following:
"You need to go back and re-read what I posted.....Never once were YOU singled out, I said "some" blog writers throw tantrums when they are questioned about certain things said in there blogs. If you chose to take that personally that is on you. I simply was trying to make the point that in my personal experiences/opinions only the blog writer has the right to say whatever they feel and if they happenexpress their feelings on what was written "certain" blog writers cant handle it or the truth. Seeing how you have and I quote from your response "no respect for me or take anything I have to say seriously" because for certain reasons I choose to respond anonymously ?? how mature is that?? I rest my case. P.S. not all anonymous responders are bad people.....take care." "Because for certain reasons I choose to respond anonymously?"
Yes, you hit it on the head. First, the comments about BLOG writers is written on MY BLOG and implied, by agreeing with the first contributor, who is hiding behind his/her computer screen, that my response to his/her initial comment was in some way throwing a tantrum. Try and fend off responsibility for comments, but it does not pass the smell test. It's easy staying anonymous and skulking behind a computer screen to make comments unchecked because ones identity is not known. The comments were clearly directed at me and my response to the first "Anonymous". Taking responsibility and ownership for words and actions requires an individual to stand tall and upfront. That means showing his/her face and providing their identity. To do anything less shows a lack of integrity, honesty and courage.ANYONE can cast stones in a pitch black room without fear of reprisal. Turn the lights on and this same person will sit silently with their hands in their lap. Some would call them a coward. Others may call them spineless. Few will take them seriously. The "Anonymous" writer is often the same person who sits in the back of a room bitching about everything under the sun, under his/her breath of course and keeps quiet when a supervisor or other individual asks for input. He/she is the first to agree with the person who spoke up, but will do so AFTER the supervisor or other leaves. Like I said at the beginning of this rant; I get why some refuse to identify themselves. That does not mean I agree nor respect what they have to say. I believe that is one of the contributing factors of what is wrong with things today. Too many are unwilling to accept responsibility for their words and actions. There are too few willing to stand up and be counted when it counts. Yet we are all suppose to believe these same people will join in when the chips are down and things get dicey. I know from experience too many expect others to do for them and want others to say what needs to be said. I believe the "Anonymous" poster would be better served to sit silent in thought, than post as "Anonymous" hiding behind a computer screen.I will continue to post comments from those who lack the courage and testicular courage to use their identity. That does not mean I will respect them or what they have to say. If this proves in some way what the coward "Anonymous" wrote, I'm guilty as charged. Lastly, not all anonymous posters are bad people. They just lack courage in my eyes.who hide behind the "Anonymous" label when taking shots at others, me or my rants.
As a disclaimer, I get why some feel fear of retribution for speaking their mind. I don't always agree with the reasons for being anonymous, but in this city and on this department, I get it. Having said that, I believe if you have something to say, own it, say it and stand tall. This means identifying yourself and not skulking behind a computer screen using the "Anonymous" tag.
I recently jousted with two "Anonymous" individuals who complained about their perceived lack of fairness for people like myself who rant on their BLOGS and in some way are not held accountable (See March Madness). In the first comment, "Anonymous" wrote;
"Because for certain reasons I choose to respond anonymously?" Yes, you hit it on the head. First, the comments about BLOG writers is written on MY BLOG and implied, by agreeing with the first contributor, who is hiding behind his/her computer screen, that my response to his/her initial comment was in some way throwing a tantrum. Try and fend off responsibility for comments, but it does not pass the smell test. It's easy staying anonymous and skulking behind a computer screen to make comments unchecked because ones identity is not known. The comments were clearly directed at me and my response to the first "Anonymous" commenter.
Yes, you hit it on the head. First, the comments about BLOG writers is written on MY BLOG and implied, by agreeing with the first contributor, who is hiding behind his/her computer screen, that my response to his/her initial comment was in some way throwing a tantrum. Try and fend off responsibility for comments, but it does not pass the smell test. It's easy staying anonymous and skulking behind a computer screen to make comments unchecked because ones identity is not known. The comments were clearly directed at me and my response to the first "Anonymous". Taking responsibility and ownership for words and actions requires an individual to stand tall and upfront. That means showing his/her face and providing their identity. To do anything less shows a lack of integrity, honesty and courage.ANYONE can cast stones in a pitch black room without fear of reprisal. Turn the lights on and this same person will sit silently with their hands in their lap. Some would call them a coward. Others may call them spineless. Few will take them seriously. The "Anonymous" writer is often the same person who sits in the back of a room bitching about everything under the sun, under his/her breath of course and keeps quiet when a supervisor or other individual asks for input. He/she is the first to agree with the person who spoke up, but will do so AFTER the supervisor or other leaves. Like I said at the beginning of this rant; I get why some refuse to identify themselves. That does not mean I agree nor respect what they have to say. I believe that is one of the contributing factors of what is wrong with things today. Too many are unwilling to accept responsibility for their words and actions. There are too few willing to stand up and be counted when it counts. Yet we are all suppose to believe these same people will join in when the chips are down and things get dicey. I know from experience too many expect others to do for them and want others to say what needs to be said. I believe the "Anonymous" poster would be better served to sit silent in thought, than post as "Anonymous" hiding behind a computer screen.I will continue to post comments from those who lack the courage and testicular courage to use their identity. That does not mean I will respect them or what they have to say. If this proves in some way what the coward "Anonymous" wrote, I'm guilty as charged. Lastly, not all anonymous posters are bad people. They just lack courage in my eyes.who hide behind the "Anonymous" label when taking shots at others, me or my rants.
As a disclaimer, I get why some feel fear of retribution for speaking their mind. I don't always agree with the reasons for being anonymous, but in this city and on this department, I get it. Having said that, I believe if you have something to say, own it, say it and stand tall. This means identifying yourself and not skulking behind a computer screen using the "Anonymous" tag.
I recently jousted with two "Anonymous" individuals who complained about their perceived lack of fairness for people like myself who rant on their BLOGS and in some way are not held accountable (See March Madness). In the first comment, "Anonymous" wrote;
"So how do you get to have a blog like this and not get in trouble? Are you aware of our departments dispatchers being fired for face book postings? From what I understand and heard in line up two of the dispatchers were being fired and they mentioned no names or department information. Just some immature post about clothing and being treated bad. They get fired and you get praised... Sheez very unfair is it because your in the drop? I don't think either of them are... But both have taken very good care of me in the field. They are Heros every day. Such a loss to our department. Rant About that... You probably won't post this because it will put you in a bad light."
I responded with the following:
"I posted your comments "Anonymous" even though you do not have the courage to use your name. I fail to see how your comments put me "in a bad light."
The problem with your comments is you speak of rumor and conjecture from a position of not having facts to support anything you write. I will not comment on anything you mentioned regarding a private, personnel issue. Your comments about their issues are out of line and not professional.
In regard to my "not getting in trouble" due to my writing this BLOG; how ignorant and naive you are. I walk a tight rope every time I press the send button to post a new rant. I have few if any supporters among the command staff of the SDPD and could most likely NOT find a supporter among any of the elected politicians in San Diego. I have paid a high price for my willingness to write about the issues in San Diego politics.
I use my name and do not hide behind my computer screen when I write my BLOG. I wish those who take the time to post comments could have the courage to do the same. I do understand why so many do not, but posting rumors, information regarding personnel issues or derogatory comments about individuals without taking ownership diminishes the credibility of the information.
I won't rant about the issues you posed above. I would also suggest you not either."
I won't rant about the issues you posed above. I would also suggest you not either."
Then the following was written by another "Anonymous" writer:
"I have to agree with anonymous on this one. I have come to the realization that "freedom of speech" only applies to "blog writers" Ever notice that whenever anyone questions or comments about something that is written in blogs the blog writers get offended and some even throw tantrums that they are being questioned about it !! How is it that they are the only ones who can say anything about anybody and not be willing to answer to any of the crap they "blog" about?? Makes no sense to me and never will.....My motto is if you can dish it out you sure as hell better be able to take it !!!"
I had to laugh at the comments by the last coward, I mean "Anonymous" writer. I thought to myself, "Really? Do you not get what a BLOG is and who controls its content?" Those of us who write a BLOG do so for many reasons. Mostly we enjoy the therapeutic aspects of writing about our thoughts, feeling and frustrations in life. We do enjoy a level of freedom related to our writings as it relates to the First Amendment. I pride myself in being as factually correct as possible and am not afraid to add my personal feelings and beliefs at the same time. I have demonstrated a willingness to allow others, even the "Anonymous" contributors to comment to my BLOG, even when their comments have no relevance to anything written.
I responded with the following:
"Another "Anonymous" comment that attempts to take a shot but ends up becoming a self inflicted wound.
I have never thrown a "tantrum" nor been offended at a persons comments to my blog... that is for those who stand tall and take responsibility and ownership for their words. I have also not edited nor failed to post the comments of people writing about my rants with the exception of one poster who I know personally who does not write about my rants but issues she has. I respect anyone willing to show their face and take ownership of their words. I also have little respect for the "Anonymous" poster.
I am responsible for every word I write. This BLOG is mine. I do it for my pleasure, not yours. If you dis-like something you read here, get over it. If you can't get over it, move on and read something else. The purpose of the commed people.....take care."
I have never thrown a "tantrum" nor been offended at a persons comments to my blog... that is for those who stand tall and take responsibility and ownership for their words. I have also not edited nor failed to post the comments of people writing about my rants with the exception of one poster who I know personally who does not write about my rants but issues she has. I respect anyone willing to show their face and take ownership of their words. I also have little respect for the "Anonymous" poster.
I am responsible for every word I write. This BLOG is mine. I do it for my pleasure, not yours. If you dis-like something you read here, get over it. If you can't get over it, move on and read something else. The purpose of the commed people.....take care."
"Because for certain reasons I choose to respond anonymously?" Yes, you hit it on the head. First, the comments about BLOG writers is written on MY BLOG and implied, by agreeing with the first contributor, who is hiding behind his/her computer screen, that my response to his/her initial comment was in some way throwing a tantrum. Try and fend off responsibility for comments, but it does not pass the smell test. It's easy staying anonymous and skulking behind a computer screen to make comments unchecked because ones identity is not known. The comments were clearly directed at me and my response to the first "Anonymous" commenter.
Taking responsibility and ownership for words and actions requires an individual to stand tall and upfront. That means showing his/her face and providing their identity. To do anything less shows a lack of integrity, honesty and courage. ANYONE can cast stones in a pitch black room without fear of reprisal. Turn the lights on and this same person will sit silently with their hands in their lap. Some would call them a coward. Others may call them spineless. Few will take them seriously. The "Anonymous" writer is often the same person who sits in the back of a room bitching about everything under the sun, under his/her breath of course and keeps quiet when a supervisor or other individual asks for input. He/she is the first to agree with the person who spoke up, but will do so AFTER the supervisor or other leaves.
Like I said at the beginning of this rant; I get why some refuse to identify themselves. That does not mean I agree nor respect what they have to say. I believe that is one of the contributing factors of what is wrong with things today. Too many are unwilling to accept responsibility for their words and actions. There are too few willing to stand up and be counted when it coun
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Negotiated Settlement
Remember back in January when the City Attorney wrote a letter to all of the labor groups in San Diego and asked to meet so he could, "engage in mediated settlement negotiations regarding pending lawsuits and disputed issues." He went on to say, "This should not be confused with annual labor negotiations under the Myers-Milias-Brown Act."
The other day it was revealed a meeting took place with a mediator, the City Attorney and the Labor Groups and after discussions and a private meeting with the City Attorney, the mediator said the two sides were so far apart there was NO hope of reaching agreement and his services would not be useful. This leaves us to speculate to the reasons the two sides were so far apart.
My belief is the suggestion to "engage in mediated settlement negotiations" was simply a political play by a City Attorney who is no different than the one he beat out for the job. Remember when shortly after being elected, Aguirre called a meeting of all labor groups and said if all the groups agreed to his changes to the retirement benefits there would be 600 million dollars on the table for negotiations? There WAS NO REAL intent on reaching an agreement then or now. The initial letter signaled the intent of the so called negotiations. First there were items of a high priority for ALL of the Labor Groups that were "OFF LIMITS." There would be no discussion or negotiations regarding Retiree Medical. Who is he kidding?
Now that the so called "Mediated Negotiations" are in the toilet where they belong, what is next? Will those responsible for setting policy in this city step up to the plate and enter into legitimate, good faith negotiations with these same Labor Groups? Will the City Council members sit back while one of their own furthers his own agenda by paying for signatures to secure a place on the ballot for HIS "reforms" for everything he views as wrong with employee wages and benefits? Who will make the first move?
Additional changes loom to Retiree Medical. Hiring continues to be frozen and attrition continues to shrink the ranks. Tomorrow begins the SDCERS vote for proposed changes to DROP. I would strongly encourage EVERY City Employee to take the few minutes it will take to vote. I am voting NO and would ask each of you to do the same. The proposed changes are not necessary and will do nothing to solve any of the perceived problems with the retirement system. PLEASE VOTE NO on the proposed changes.
Be safe and do the right thing out there.
The other day it was revealed a meeting took place with a mediator, the City Attorney and the Labor Groups and after discussions and a private meeting with the City Attorney, the mediator said the two sides were so far apart there was NO hope of reaching agreement and his services would not be useful. This leaves us to speculate to the reasons the two sides were so far apart.
My belief is the suggestion to "engage in mediated settlement negotiations" was simply a political play by a City Attorney who is no different than the one he beat out for the job. Remember when shortly after being elected, Aguirre called a meeting of all labor groups and said if all the groups agreed to his changes to the retirement benefits there would be 600 million dollars on the table for negotiations? There WAS NO REAL intent on reaching an agreement then or now. The initial letter signaled the intent of the so called negotiations. First there were items of a high priority for ALL of the Labor Groups that were "OFF LIMITS." There would be no discussion or negotiations regarding Retiree Medical. Who is he kidding?
Now that the so called "Mediated Negotiations" are in the toilet where they belong, what is next? Will those responsible for setting policy in this city step up to the plate and enter into legitimate, good faith negotiations with these same Labor Groups? Will the City Council members sit back while one of their own furthers his own agenda by paying for signatures to secure a place on the ballot for HIS "reforms" for everything he views as wrong with employee wages and benefits? Who will make the first move?
Additional changes loom to Retiree Medical. Hiring continues to be frozen and attrition continues to shrink the ranks. Tomorrow begins the SDCERS vote for proposed changes to DROP. I would strongly encourage EVERY City Employee to take the few minutes it will take to vote. I am voting NO and would ask each of you to do the same. The proposed changes are not necessary and will do nothing to solve any of the perceived problems with the retirement system. PLEASE VOTE NO on the proposed changes.
Be safe and do the right thing out there.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
March Maddness
Many of you know the title as that time when college basketball playoffs hit a frenzied peak. I steal the title to describe the politics of the day. I have sat back watching the idiot Governor of Wisconsin, the goof in the city attorneys office and the little rube on the city council, as well as the others and could find no other way to describe their words and actions. The age we live in, with information technology the was it is employed, the truth is no longer required. The press and politicians have deployed a relentless and unchecked assault of government workers and their wages and benefits for over five years.
When the "Governmental Accounting Standards Board" (GASB) changed the standards of reporting in 1994 for financial disclosures related to Defined Benefit Retirement Plans (GASB Statement 25), it opened the door for those with an agenda to begin the attacks. This new "rule" required cities who had defined benefit retirement plans to list as debts the "projected" retirement benefit each and every employee would receive if they were to work to maximum retirement age and live to the "life expectancy" age. The GASB added an additional "rule" in GASB Statement 26, that required similar reporting of "Post Employment Healthcare."
When GASB changed the rules and required cities to list on their financial disclosures these "Debts" they opened the door for the likes of the little rube, Scott Walker, Jan Goldsmith and Mike Aguirre before him, to spin the meaning of this information and use it to further political agendas. Some will ask why now, when the law went fully into effect in 1996. One reason is most people did not understand the rule and many cities, counties and states carried the information in the notes section of the financial reports or as a separate report all together. As information technology began to emerge and reporters looking to make a name for themselves began to cull information from reports and financial disclosures looking for a story, they latched onto this information and the spin began.
Not one of the reporters to use this information cared to educate themselves about the realities of what the numbers meant nor to print the truth when they were given it. The numbers appeared to be so large, they knew they hit on something they could use to win a prized Pulitzer. Win they did, the truth be damned. Enter politicians with a bent to destroy unions and an economy that fell flat on its face and we find ourselves in March Madness.
A simplistic way of explaining the "unfunded liability" as it relates to GASB 25 & 26 is simple enough. Yet when the press and politicians control the time allowed to provide an explanation and the truth, the rhetoric and spin becomes truth and reality. If you have a mortgage on your home, you most likely know what you owe if you want to pay it off or sell it. Do you know what you would "pay" for the home at the end of say a 30 year mortgage with compounding interest and principle payments? When you list your "debts" do you list what is owed on your mortgage or what you would ultimately pay with interest and principle at the end of 30 years? This is what GASB 25 and 26 is all about. Listing what will be owed (payed to the employee) at the very end of a persons benefit. Logical? Realistic? Accurate? Meaningful? The answer to all of these is NO.
The reason the "Unfunded Liability" has become such an issue, is it is a huge number that most people do not understand. The same would hold true if you listed your mortgage in the same way when applying for any other loan. Try getting a car loan on a police officer salary and having to list your mortgage as a one million dollar plus debt. The fact your monthly payment is within your means, you owe $300,000, the home is valued at $425,000, matters not if you apply the same rule and logic used by the press and politicians.
The rhetoric spun as truth and reality have created such a hate storm toward government workers and their wages and benefits, there is no defending them. In today's "Dialog" the little rube and Jeff Jordan faced off debating the question, "Spare Public Safety Officers From Reforms?" The little rube in his opinion, "Yes, It should include everyone" says the defined benefit retirement plan should be eliminated and ALL employees should be given a 401K style retirement plan, including public safety members. Jordan in his opinion, "No, It pays to exempt Public Safety" says the elimination of the defined benefit retirement is poor public policy and legally and fiscally flawed.
The truth is we as public employees can no longer defend our wages and benefits to the masses. That includes public safety employees. The DOT.COM bubble burst, the economy tanked and millions have lost their jobs. People everywhere have taken a hit to their 401K retirements, their investment savings plans and the equity in their homes. The average taxpayer reads every day that government is having to cut services and eliminate resources to pay for bloated benefits and wages for employees. We are all painted with a dirty brush and labeled greedy. Our wages and benefits are characterized as excessive, bloated, not sustainable and a relic of the past. No opinion piece, letter to the editor or 60 second interview on KUSI will change the perception or reality of the taxpayer to the contrary. Forget the money made by those DOT.COM baby's and the millions upon millions made by workers in private industry. None of that matters today.
What Scott Walker is doing to Wisconsin is just the beginning of what is to come for government workers across America. The assault on government workers in San Diego began a long ago and shows no sign of ending. The little rube's, Craig Gustafson's and Jan Goldsmith's of the world will continue the onslaught of lies and spin to reach their intended goal of eviscerating the wages and benefits of government workers, including public safety members. We continue to have little recourse and no leverage to stop the bleeding. We do not help ourselves when one of our own betrays the public trust. We cannot continue to defend our current benefits and simply say by reducing or eliminating them we will lose experienced officers and struggle to compete for qualified candidates. As the war against government employee wages and benefits spreads from Wisconsin, we need to offer up reasonable changes to our current benefits. The "status quo" is not acceptable.
I don't know what those changes need to be, but I know they need to be made. We need to explore modifying even those benefits for existing employees to begin to garner some support from taxpayers. We have to preserve the core defined benefits of our retirement as well as retiree medical. To do this will require sacrifice and changes, even to existing benefits for current employees.
In the interim we must act professional and take care of each other.
When the "Governmental Accounting Standards Board" (GASB) changed the standards of reporting in 1994 for financial disclosures related to Defined Benefit Retirement Plans (GASB Statement 25), it opened the door for those with an agenda to begin the attacks. This new "rule" required cities who had defined benefit retirement plans to list as debts the "projected" retirement benefit each and every employee would receive if they were to work to maximum retirement age and live to the "life expectancy" age. The GASB added an additional "rule" in GASB Statement 26, that required similar reporting of "Post Employment Healthcare."
When GASB changed the rules and required cities to list on their financial disclosures these "Debts" they opened the door for the likes of the little rube, Scott Walker, Jan Goldsmith and Mike Aguirre before him, to spin the meaning of this information and use it to further political agendas. Some will ask why now, when the law went fully into effect in 1996. One reason is most people did not understand the rule and many cities, counties and states carried the information in the notes section of the financial reports or as a separate report all together. As information technology began to emerge and reporters looking to make a name for themselves began to cull information from reports and financial disclosures looking for a story, they latched onto this information and the spin began.
Not one of the reporters to use this information cared to educate themselves about the realities of what the numbers meant nor to print the truth when they were given it. The numbers appeared to be so large, they knew they hit on something they could use to win a prized Pulitzer. Win they did, the truth be damned. Enter politicians with a bent to destroy unions and an economy that fell flat on its face and we find ourselves in March Madness.
A simplistic way of explaining the "unfunded liability" as it relates to GASB 25 & 26 is simple enough. Yet when the press and politicians control the time allowed to provide an explanation and the truth, the rhetoric and spin becomes truth and reality. If you have a mortgage on your home, you most likely know what you owe if you want to pay it off or sell it. Do you know what you would "pay" for the home at the end of say a 30 year mortgage with compounding interest and principle payments? When you list your "debts" do you list what is owed on your mortgage or what you would ultimately pay with interest and principle at the end of 30 years? This is what GASB 25 and 26 is all about. Listing what will be owed (payed to the employee) at the very end of a persons benefit. Logical? Realistic? Accurate? Meaningful? The answer to all of these is NO.
The reason the "Unfunded Liability" has become such an issue, is it is a huge number that most people do not understand. The same would hold true if you listed your mortgage in the same way when applying for any other loan. Try getting a car loan on a police officer salary and having to list your mortgage as a one million dollar plus debt. The fact your monthly payment is within your means, you owe $300,000, the home is valued at $425,000, matters not if you apply the same rule and logic used by the press and politicians.
The rhetoric spun as truth and reality have created such a hate storm toward government workers and their wages and benefits, there is no defending them. In today's "Dialog" the little rube and Jeff Jordan faced off debating the question, "Spare Public Safety Officers From Reforms?" The little rube in his opinion, "Yes, It should include everyone" says the defined benefit retirement plan should be eliminated and ALL employees should be given a 401K style retirement plan, including public safety members. Jordan in his opinion, "No, It pays to exempt Public Safety" says the elimination of the defined benefit retirement is poor public policy and legally and fiscally flawed.
The truth is we as public employees can no longer defend our wages and benefits to the masses. That includes public safety employees. The DOT.COM bubble burst, the economy tanked and millions have lost their jobs. People everywhere have taken a hit to their 401K retirements, their investment savings plans and the equity in their homes. The average taxpayer reads every day that government is having to cut services and eliminate resources to pay for bloated benefits and wages for employees. We are all painted with a dirty brush and labeled greedy. Our wages and benefits are characterized as excessive, bloated, not sustainable and a relic of the past. No opinion piece, letter to the editor or 60 second interview on KUSI will change the perception or reality of the taxpayer to the contrary. Forget the money made by those DOT.COM baby's and the millions upon millions made by workers in private industry. None of that matters today.
What Scott Walker is doing to Wisconsin is just the beginning of what is to come for government workers across America. The assault on government workers in San Diego began a long ago and shows no sign of ending. The little rube's, Craig Gustafson's and Jan Goldsmith's of the world will continue the onslaught of lies and spin to reach their intended goal of eviscerating the wages and benefits of government workers, including public safety members. We continue to have little recourse and no leverage to stop the bleeding. We do not help ourselves when one of our own betrays the public trust. We cannot continue to defend our current benefits and simply say by reducing or eliminating them we will lose experienced officers and struggle to compete for qualified candidates. As the war against government employee wages and benefits spreads from Wisconsin, we need to offer up reasonable changes to our current benefits. The "status quo" is not acceptable.
I don't know what those changes need to be, but I know they need to be made. We need to explore modifying even those benefits for existing employees to begin to garner some support from taxpayers. We have to preserve the core defined benefits of our retirement as well as retiree medical. To do this will require sacrifice and changes, even to existing benefits for current employees.
In the interim we must act professional and take care of each other.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Detroit Police Shooting
This video needs no lead in or comment.
http://www.freep.com/videonetwork/767998473001/Detroit-police-video-of-precinct-shoot-out
It has been a violent start to 2011 for Law Enforcement nation wide. Be safe out there and watch each others backs.
http://www.freep.com/videonetwork/767998473001/Detroit-police-video-of-precinct-shoot-out
It has been a violent start to 2011 for Law Enforcement nation wide. Be safe out there and watch each others backs.
Friday, January 28, 2011
The Mayor; The Hypocrite
Did you happen to read the article January 18, 2011, on the Voice of San Diego, written by Liam Dillon, titled “Mayor: I Like My Pension Just Fine” ? Before you read further into this post you might want to take the time to read what the mayor had to say about his pension from the police department. When you finish, tell me if the word “HYPOCRITE” comes to mind.
The arrogance and hypocritical actions taken by this mayor are unconscionable. In the mayor’s State of the City address he said, “It’s clear that public employee pensions, which once brought order to government, are now a destabilizing force. They undermine public confidence, put assets at risk, and disrupt our ability to forecast costs. They are a vestige of a time when life spans were shorter, people stuck with one job, and city workers accepted less pay for greater security.” When asked by Dillon if he was still going to take his pension, the mayor said, “I am. I earned it over 26 years. I don’t feel guilty about that at all.” Hypocrite.
The mayor told Dillon pensions made sense when he retired as chief in 1999. His was legitimate he said, because he didn’t take any of the city’s controversial benefits, such as purchasing extra service time or entering into the DROP. Funny, since his taking a salary for his job as mayor and at the same time taking his retirement from the city is JUST LIKE participating in DROP. The only difference; he gets to spend BOTH of his at the same time where we all have to wait til we leave service. Hypocrite.
The arrogance of his comments is pathetic. He “earned” his retirement over 26 years. So tell me what the hell I have done for the past 32 years? I entered DROP, so I guess in some way I didn’t earn my retirement and am being given a gift? How pathetic he has become. Hypocrite.
Before the mayor was elected he knew the truth about city employee wages and benefits. He knew the truth about DROP; Retiree medical and how it came to exist; purchase of service credits; the retirement payment “pick-up” the city agreed to pay in-lieu of pay raises, and yet he jumped on the band wagon attacking these the moment he entered into the arena of politics. He openly said he would not get elected by telling the truth about these hot topic items. Hypocrite.
Fast forward to today and he continues the assault and refuses to tell the truth. The analysis of DROP has yet to be made public. Care to venture a guess why? Because, it did not come back in support of the many lies and half truths he and others have been spewing for the last seven years. If the study was made public, it would dispel all of the lies and arguments for eviscerating public employee wages and benefits. Hypocrite.
The saddest part of this is the toll on human lives and the complete disregard of this toll, by the mayor. His planned attack on retiree medical, next on his agenda, will again cause the exodus of hundreds of senior, experienced employees from the ranks of the department and other positions within the city’s employees. The unwillingness of the mayor to honor decades old promises and in the same breath say he earned his and is not apologetic for receiving them is criminal. Hypocrite.
Stand by folks, there is more to come from all of this. Contracts between the City of San Diego and its Employees are not worth the paper they are written on. The city attorney will find a loop hole or violation of the city’s charter to void anything agreed to and promised, in an attempt to excise the city from its promises to employees. The “pre-1986” employees who stand to lose the most in this next round will be the first to flee when the mayor eliminates retiree medical from their benefits. Stand by.
The arrogance and hypocritical actions taken by this mayor are unconscionable. In the mayor’s State of the City address he said, “It’s clear that public employee pensions, which once brought order to government, are now a destabilizing force. They undermine public confidence, put assets at risk, and disrupt our ability to forecast costs. They are a vestige of a time when life spans were shorter, people stuck with one job, and city workers accepted less pay for greater security.” When asked by Dillon if he was still going to take his pension, the mayor said, “I am. I earned it over 26 years. I don’t feel guilty about that at all.” Hypocrite.
The mayor told Dillon pensions made sense when he retired as chief in 1999. His was legitimate he said, because he didn’t take any of the city’s controversial benefits, such as purchasing extra service time or entering into the DROP. Funny, since his taking a salary for his job as mayor and at the same time taking his retirement from the city is JUST LIKE participating in DROP. The only difference; he gets to spend BOTH of his at the same time where we all have to wait til we leave service. Hypocrite.
The arrogance of his comments is pathetic. He “earned” his retirement over 26 years. So tell me what the hell I have done for the past 32 years? I entered DROP, so I guess in some way I didn’t earn my retirement and am being given a gift? How pathetic he has become. Hypocrite.
Before the mayor was elected he knew the truth about city employee wages and benefits. He knew the truth about DROP; Retiree medical and how it came to exist; purchase of service credits; the retirement payment “pick-up” the city agreed to pay in-lieu of pay raises, and yet he jumped on the band wagon attacking these the moment he entered into the arena of politics. He openly said he would not get elected by telling the truth about these hot topic items. Hypocrite.
Fast forward to today and he continues the assault and refuses to tell the truth. The analysis of DROP has yet to be made public. Care to venture a guess why? Because, it did not come back in support of the many lies and half truths he and others have been spewing for the last seven years. If the study was made public, it would dispel all of the lies and arguments for eviscerating public employee wages and benefits. Hypocrite.
The saddest part of this is the toll on human lives and the complete disregard of this toll, by the mayor. His planned attack on retiree medical, next on his agenda, will again cause the exodus of hundreds of senior, experienced employees from the ranks of the department and other positions within the city’s employees. The unwillingness of the mayor to honor decades old promises and in the same breath say he earned his and is not apologetic for receiving them is criminal. Hypocrite.
Stand by folks, there is more to come from all of this. Contracts between the City of San Diego and its Employees are not worth the paper they are written on. The city attorney will find a loop hole or violation of the city’s charter to void anything agreed to and promised, in an attempt to excise the city from its promises to employees. The “pre-1986” employees who stand to lose the most in this next round will be the first to flee when the mayor eliminates retiree medical from their benefits. Stand by.
Friday, January 21, 2011
The Beginning
I know I have been away for far too long from writing what is on my mind. Maybe not long enough for some. June 4, 2010, was the last post I actually wrote myself and I struggled for several months as I transitioned from one assignment to another within the department. As time wore on, I tried many times to begin writing again in this BLOG, but found my writings to be more caustic than ever and clearly filled with anger and much hate. I would write for hours, read, re-read, edit and then save a particular piece. I would walk away and come back to the computer and open the piece I had last finished and realize I could not post what I had written.
I received many e-mails, phone calls and had numerous conversations with friends, co-workers, members of the media and others, all wanting to know when I would begin writing again. I have been watching silently from the cheap seats as the mayor, city attorney, little rube and the rest of the city council continued their attack on city employees, our wages, benefits and integrity. I have watched the city I was born and raised in become the most anti employee location in America. I have watched the department I have given almost 31 years of my blood, sweat and tears, evaporate and turn into something I no longer recognize. I got three e-mails that sparked me to write today.
The Little Rube
This year has started off with a bang. The Little Rube has filed papers with the City Clerk announcing his intent to run for mayor. This is not a surprise to anyone paying attention to this individual’s actions. He has taken credit for the decimation of employee pay and benefits and continues to push his outright lies as gospel truth to the gullible press and public.
The Little Rube seems to have gained a supporter in his assault on employee pay and benefits and the number one hot button item, retirement. Jan Goldsmith, the city attorney, has released his latest legal opinion (Opinion 2011-1) where Goldsmith opines the city can legally freeze wages and at the same time eliminate any “performance-based” pay (shift pay, FTO, SWAT, K-9, Motor, Bi-Lingual and all the others) from your highest one your computation for retirement. The thought process is this will reduce the pension debt and lower the retirement benefit for employees “legally.” The law and a court settlement known as Corbett, do not support the LEGAL OPINION profered by the city attorney.
The Little Rube has taken this show on the road. Yesterday I posted the link to YouTube where the Rube was a guest on a Fox Business segment touting his plan and encouraging cities and states across the nation to come see how San Diego is screwing its employees (OK, so the Rube said "reform pensions"). If you missed it you really need to take a few minutes and watch it. If this does not spark you into wanting to get involved in making sure this clown is not the next mayor of San Diego, I’m not sure what will.
The Mayor
Did you catch the “State of the City” address by the mayor? “Lasting Prosperity must be our top priority” was the theme of his diatribe. I sat listening to this political double speak and could not help but think, “Who is this guy kidding?” More attacks on employee wages and benefits and yet a justification and push to spent $700+ million dollars on an expansion of the Convention Center and finding a way to fund a new stadium for the Charges.
“We must take a fresh look at past decisions and be willing to ask more of our employees and more of our citizens.” My ears started to burn as I listened to the political garbage in this speech.. “The city is already a recognized leader in pension reform. And now, I am proposing a bold step to complete our work. By creating a 401 (k) style plan for future employees, including elected officials, we’ll contain pension costs and restore sanity to a situation confronting every big city.” Is anyone going to point out to the republicans, 401 (k) plans were designed to be a supplement to a regular retirement plan and NOT a stand-alone plan to carry a person in their retirement years?
I want to scream at the top of my lungs and drown out the words that are burning my ears. I’m watching the audience as they nod their heads in agreement and want to run through the room slapping these people. They have all bought into this political rhetoric and spin. Hell, I think I would too if I didn’t know the truth. I can’t wait to retire and get out of this pathetic city.
City Attorney
Have you all been keeping up with the latest revelations from our opinionated city attorney? Goldsmith opines (Opinion 2011-1) the city can unilaterally freeze base salary and change the manner in which retirement compensation is calculated. I have read this latest jaundice opinion several times and it makes me want to cry. To think this person went to school, passed the bar, served as Mayor of Poway, in the State Assembly, as a judge and now city attorney. The lines of reality seem to have become blurred for this man.
In a January 13, 2011, letter to all city employee groups (Letter) Goldsmith writes, “This letter is sent with unanimous support of the San Diego City Council and Mayor. It is an offer to engage in mediated settlement negotiations regarding pending lawsuits and disputed legal issues. This should not be confused with annual labor negotiations under the Myers-Milias-Brown Act.” I could not believe what I was reading.
Goldsmith jumps right in explaining how his reasoning on the “substantially equal” provision under Charter section 143, is “legally correct.” I could not contain my laughter as I read this garbage. Hey Goldsmith, I know I am not a legal scholar but can you share with all of us stupid people, when this case was settled and share with us the judge’s ruling? I’ve been following this since you floated this illogical idea/opinion. I didn’t know the judge ruled in your favor.
The letter goes on detailing his view of litigation and necessary changes to employee wages and benefits. Goldsmith has clearly moved into a policy making role. He has inserted himself into a role outside of his duties. Goldsmith is playing politics when his role should be A-Political. His advice and council should be simply that and based on legal reasoning not political agenda or his normal whacky, left field pontificating.
Ann Smith, the labor attorney for MEA, responded to the Goldsmith letter. She outlines the flaws in the city attorney’s reasoning and his challenge to engage in a “mediated settlement.” Ms. Smith hit on a point I also noted and that was the refusal to engage in conversation regarding retiree medical. I wonder where the other labor groups are with their response to Goldsmith. I know the SDPOA has a contract that carries us through June 2012. Many of the items the city attorney laid out to discuss are covered in this contract. Clearly this is yet another attempt to politicize and criminalize city employees, their wages and benefits.
The city attorney views himself as a “player.” When I first read that I could not believe what I was reading. It makes sense now though after reading his letter to the labor groups and his analogy from his time in the assembly. Somebody needs to educate this guy about his role in government and what his responsibilities are in the role he was elected to fill. His continual intrusion into policy making and goal setting is a hindrance to his ability to advise on legal issues or mediate disputes. Can we encourage John Witt to mentor this guy?
The Department
I am winding down in my career and getting closer to pulling the pin on retirement. I have less than 300 work days remaining as a sworn policeman. I have had, for the most part, a very good time in my chosen career. But as I wind down I am finally realizing why so many of our retired brothers and sisters leave the job disgruntled. Learning you are owed nothing for your 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 or 35 years of service to the city and its citizens is a real eye opener. To be told this and have it followed up with, “the sooner you realize this the quicker you can get on with your life” left me reeling when I realized this was the sentiment from the top down in this city. This is an opinion fostered by the mayor and relayed down through management. My initial, guttural response cannot be written here. I don’t know what an employee is owed when he or she retires after giving so much, but I know it is something. "Respect" is the first thought that comes to mind, but again I don't know what it is but I know it is something. It was not until I heard this same statement directed at another senior member of the department that I realized it was a sentiment shared in management, forstered by the cities leadership. What a sad commentary on where we are today.
The department will see more sworn personnel leaving as their DROP runs out in the coming six to eighteen months. With hiring frozen, no SDPD Recruits in the latest academy, nor any slated in the near future, we will continue to fall deeper in the hole as far as staffing goes. This is the lunacy of this city and the management of resources. The DROP was designed to plan for the exit of our most senior people, eliminating the drain and hardship of retirements. Instead the cities politicians, managers and press use smoke and mirrors to mis-lead citizens about the level of public safety. They all boast of “No Lay-offs” yet in the last three budget cycles, almost 350 vacant sworn positions have been eliminated and hundreds of others left unfilled.
I’m counting the days and have no intention of leaving before the end of my DROP. I have earned that right and will continue to do my job until the last day. I am enjoying my latest assignment and the people I am working with. Life is good and I am content to finish out my time, right where I am.
Let’s watch each other’s backs and be safe.
I received many e-mails, phone calls and had numerous conversations with friends, co-workers, members of the media and others, all wanting to know when I would begin writing again. I have been watching silently from the cheap seats as the mayor, city attorney, little rube and the rest of the city council continued their attack on city employees, our wages, benefits and integrity. I have watched the city I was born and raised in become the most anti employee location in America. I have watched the department I have given almost 31 years of my blood, sweat and tears, evaporate and turn into something I no longer recognize. I got three e-mails that sparked me to write today.
The Little Rube
This year has started off with a bang. The Little Rube has filed papers with the City Clerk announcing his intent to run for mayor. This is not a surprise to anyone paying attention to this individual’s actions. He has taken credit for the decimation of employee pay and benefits and continues to push his outright lies as gospel truth to the gullible press and public.
The Little Rube seems to have gained a supporter in his assault on employee pay and benefits and the number one hot button item, retirement. Jan Goldsmith, the city attorney, has released his latest legal opinion (Opinion 2011-1) where Goldsmith opines the city can legally freeze wages and at the same time eliminate any “performance-based” pay (shift pay, FTO, SWAT, K-9, Motor, Bi-Lingual and all the others) from your highest one your computation for retirement. The thought process is this will reduce the pension debt and lower the retirement benefit for employees “legally.” The law and a court settlement known as Corbett, do not support the LEGAL OPINION profered by the city attorney.
The Little Rube has taken this show on the road. Yesterday I posted the link to YouTube where the Rube was a guest on a Fox Business segment touting his plan and encouraging cities and states across the nation to come see how San Diego is screwing its employees (OK, so the Rube said "reform pensions"). If you missed it you really need to take a few minutes and watch it. If this does not spark you into wanting to get involved in making sure this clown is not the next mayor of San Diego, I’m not sure what will.
The Mayor
Did you catch the “State of the City” address by the mayor? “Lasting Prosperity must be our top priority” was the theme of his diatribe. I sat listening to this political double speak and could not help but think, “Who is this guy kidding?” More attacks on employee wages and benefits and yet a justification and push to spent $700+ million dollars on an expansion of the Convention Center and finding a way to fund a new stadium for the Charges.
“We must take a fresh look at past decisions and be willing to ask more of our employees and more of our citizens.” My ears started to burn as I listened to the political garbage in this speech.. “The city is already a recognized leader in pension reform. And now, I am proposing a bold step to complete our work. By creating a 401 (k) style plan for future employees, including elected officials, we’ll contain pension costs and restore sanity to a situation confronting every big city.” Is anyone going to point out to the republicans, 401 (k) plans were designed to be a supplement to a regular retirement plan and NOT a stand-alone plan to carry a person in their retirement years?
I want to scream at the top of my lungs and drown out the words that are burning my ears. I’m watching the audience as they nod their heads in agreement and want to run through the room slapping these people. They have all bought into this political rhetoric and spin. Hell, I think I would too if I didn’t know the truth. I can’t wait to retire and get out of this pathetic city.
City Attorney
Have you all been keeping up with the latest revelations from our opinionated city attorney? Goldsmith opines (Opinion 2011-1) the city can unilaterally freeze base salary and change the manner in which retirement compensation is calculated. I have read this latest jaundice opinion several times and it makes me want to cry. To think this person went to school, passed the bar, served as Mayor of Poway, in the State Assembly, as a judge and now city attorney. The lines of reality seem to have become blurred for this man.
In a January 13, 2011, letter to all city employee groups (Letter) Goldsmith writes, “This letter is sent with unanimous support of the San Diego City Council and Mayor. It is an offer to engage in mediated settlement negotiations regarding pending lawsuits and disputed legal issues. This should not be confused with annual labor negotiations under the Myers-Milias-Brown Act.” I could not believe what I was reading.
Goldsmith jumps right in explaining how his reasoning on the “substantially equal” provision under Charter section 143, is “legally correct.” I could not contain my laughter as I read this garbage. Hey Goldsmith, I know I am not a legal scholar but can you share with all of us stupid people, when this case was settled and share with us the judge’s ruling? I’ve been following this since you floated this illogical idea/opinion. I didn’t know the judge ruled in your favor.
The letter goes on detailing his view of litigation and necessary changes to employee wages and benefits. Goldsmith has clearly moved into a policy making role. He has inserted himself into a role outside of his duties. Goldsmith is playing politics when his role should be A-Political. His advice and council should be simply that and based on legal reasoning not political agenda or his normal whacky, left field pontificating.
Ann Smith, the labor attorney for MEA, responded to the Goldsmith letter. She outlines the flaws in the city attorney’s reasoning and his challenge to engage in a “mediated settlement.” Ms. Smith hit on a point I also noted and that was the refusal to engage in conversation regarding retiree medical. I wonder where the other labor groups are with their response to Goldsmith. I know the SDPOA has a contract that carries us through June 2012. Many of the items the city attorney laid out to discuss are covered in this contract. Clearly this is yet another attempt to politicize and criminalize city employees, their wages and benefits.
The city attorney views himself as a “player.” When I first read that I could not believe what I was reading. It makes sense now though after reading his letter to the labor groups and his analogy from his time in the assembly. Somebody needs to educate this guy about his role in government and what his responsibilities are in the role he was elected to fill. His continual intrusion into policy making and goal setting is a hindrance to his ability to advise on legal issues or mediate disputes. Can we encourage John Witt to mentor this guy?
The Department
I am winding down in my career and getting closer to pulling the pin on retirement. I have less than 300 work days remaining as a sworn policeman. I have had, for the most part, a very good time in my chosen career. But as I wind down I am finally realizing why so many of our retired brothers and sisters leave the job disgruntled. Learning you are owed nothing for your 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 or 35 years of service to the city and its citizens is a real eye opener. To be told this and have it followed up with, “the sooner you realize this the quicker you can get on with your life” left me reeling when I realized this was the sentiment from the top down in this city. This is an opinion fostered by the mayor and relayed down through management. My initial, guttural response cannot be written here. I don’t know what an employee is owed when he or she retires after giving so much, but I know it is something. "Respect" is the first thought that comes to mind, but again I don't know what it is but I know it is something. It was not until I heard this same statement directed at another senior member of the department that I realized it was a sentiment shared in management, forstered by the cities leadership. What a sad commentary on where we are today.
The department will see more sworn personnel leaving as their DROP runs out in the coming six to eighteen months. With hiring frozen, no SDPD Recruits in the latest academy, nor any slated in the near future, we will continue to fall deeper in the hole as far as staffing goes. This is the lunacy of this city and the management of resources. The DROP was designed to plan for the exit of our most senior people, eliminating the drain and hardship of retirements. Instead the cities politicians, managers and press use smoke and mirrors to mis-lead citizens about the level of public safety. They all boast of “No Lay-offs” yet in the last three budget cycles, almost 350 vacant sworn positions have been eliminated and hundreds of others left unfilled.
I’m counting the days and have no intention of leaving before the end of my DROP. I have earned that right and will continue to do my job until the last day. I am enjoying my latest assignment and the people I am working with. Life is good and I am content to finish out my time, right where I am.
Let’s watch each other’s backs and be safe.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
The Fire is Lit
I have been away for some time now and after a number of attempts to write about my rants and musings, I have found me desire to begin anew. In the coming days I will begin posting again and rant about the myriad of topics so prevalent in the public eye. I am going to also bring light to some of those things not so public and seldom seen or heard by the public's eyes and ears.
Prior to taking leave of my rants, I maintained a hands off when it came to department politics and goings on. I have spent an enormous amount of time researching this area and no longer view this area as I once did when it comes to providing opinion or comment on those hot topic issues boiling in so many minds.
I spent four hours tonight writing my first piece, only to have it fade into infinity for some unknown reason, other than a program or computer glitch. I will take time in the morning to re-create the rant and post it during the day on Friday, January 21, 2011. As a preview, take a look at this, "YouTube."
Be safe and feel free to chime in on topics of interest or political goings on you wish to be vetted in the arena of public opinion. Whose line is that anyway?
Prior to taking leave of my rants, I maintained a hands off when it came to department politics and goings on. I have spent an enormous amount of time researching this area and no longer view this area as I once did when it comes to providing opinion or comment on those hot topic issues boiling in so many minds.
I spent four hours tonight writing my first piece, only to have it fade into infinity for some unknown reason, other than a program or computer glitch. I will take time in the morning to re-create the rant and post it during the day on Friday, January 21, 2011. As a preview, take a look at this, "YouTube."
Be safe and feel free to chime in on topics of interest or political goings on you wish to be vetted in the arena of public opinion. Whose line is that anyway?
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