Authorpreneur Dashboard – Doug Baird
The Secret Cornell
Politics & Social Sciences
It’s not surprising that a world-class university like Cornell and the uber-powerful agricultural lobby can combine to thoroughly crush the most marginalized and unrepresented sector of New York State’s population. It’s also not surprising that no one is willing to stand up for us.
When Cornell’s rural policy planner publicly stated that no one but farmers “deserved to live there,” she helped lay the groundwork for Tompkins County’s most recent “vision of the future”: one in which the present rural community no longer exists.
With an elitist policymaking that has closer ties to the Khmer Rouge than the Constitution, Tompkins County is a college destination with the sort of moral compass that lands people a spot on American Greed.
What is The Secret Cornell?
It’s a betrayal of trust that makes the College Admissions Scandal seem like throat-clearing at a political rally.
Book Bubbles from The Secret Cornell
Tompkins County: Living the Lie
How many people are “too busy,” or claim that I “depress” them with my documentation of our millennium dark side – and thus seek avoid the need for any thought or action. The denial of reality has never worked to bar its arrival. It’s a storm so wide that trying to escape its path is futile — and it’s impossible to get a grip on the slippery slope. Paperback and eBooks available at: Amazon.com - BarnesandNoble.com and many other online booksellers
It’s the repression you don’t see . . .
All professionals and institutions are beginning to kneel in the presence of the Centrality.
Stick a fork in it
People don’t take the time to hear what you have to say – only to see if you have something they want.
Do the Right Thing
Just as a cell phone may be seen as the substitution of quantity at a distance; for the quality of a more direct engagement – so may the “busyness” of our citizens with the shallow mnemonic of conforming; replace the duty of a thoughtful and direct engagement with government policy making.
The Book is Published
All follow-up emails to our Town Board presentation requesting rural traffic control and enforcement have received no response or acknowledgement. A seven-page letter detailing the fraudulent aspects of the Agricultural District Disclosure Form and Notice was sent to numerous politicians and the NYS Agriculture and Markets Commissioner. One State Senator passed it on to another Senator, who passed it on to the Agriculture and Markets Commissioner. There has been no additional action. The Tompkins County Department of Assessment refuses to admit that there are negative impacts from any industrial farming activity. The book is published – but the story continues. •• The Secret Cornell is available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple, Kobo, and many other electronic storefronts. For a complete list, and links; go to books2read.com/secretcornell
The Secret Cornell 31
The book is finished – “basically.” Like building a house; all the details of arranging, editing, and finishing will take as long as the “built” structure that is first constructed. I am adding a final piece; recounting my progress in getting the Agricultural District disclosure notice revised and brought into line with modern farming practices and current agricultural policies. This “bubble” gives a snapshot of where things are today — you can’t get to first base if they won’t put you in the lineup.
The Secret Cornell 30
A few years ago: when a nearby home was being sold – I was curious about the sale. The listing claimed that it had been in one family for 50 years. I remember the times I passed by and seeing the front porch half-filled with firewood; and half family members. It was the kind of rural subsistence home that was not trashy; but everywhere in need of unaffordable maintenance. A home that was not at risk from bank payments; but from the one-two punch of the rising assessments/rising taxes tag team that has KO’d rural Lansing. The listing sat unsold for 6 months at its assessed value; and the assessors came around again and upped the assessment another twenty percent. It finally sold for a price that in no way reflected the official judgement. I was able present this situation to the County Assessment Director at a public meeting; and he replied: “We always find that when a house sells for less than the assessed value; the owner is hiding something from us.” It’s the sort of self-serving statement that populates every poorly attended, meaningless public meeting. Tompkins County Assessors claim they are not political; but then, neither is greed.
The Secret Cornell 29
How much of a difference will it take to make a difference? The most often used response to most anything today is: “I’m busy.” Since making a difference has devolved into blaming and complaining – what are you “busy” doing? It’s a “dogs in a pit” climate change society that never stops fighting long enough to ask: “Who made the pit . . . And why?”
The Secret Cornell 28
At a recent Town Board meeting; I was told by the new Supervisor: “It’s good to place a face with the name.” It’s clear that government has no problem placing my address with my name: as my recent 87% increase in taxable assessment attests to. I have already protested at an informal hearing — I had the facts: they have the authority. If only I could get them here when Helena Chemical is spraying Roundup. . .
The Secret Cornell 27
All the “Secret Cornell” excerpts have not been sensational enough. The deliberate nature of Tompkins County’s rural destruction has not been highlighted with enough contrast. The greedy selfishness of its leaders has not been illuminated with a critical enough light. The impact of rural policy making has been chiseled into the bedrock of the rural community — but it has not been related with sufficient clarity or crispness. Tompkins County has become a doctrinaire abscess; a year away from book burnings — I want to feel proud of what they’re throwing into the fire.
The Secret Cornell 26
Chesterton wrote: “One sees great things from the valley; only small things from the peak.” While the poor rural families of Tompkins County live in the shadow of an Ivy League colossus of power and influence – Cornell bends down to gather the little people at their feet; and fit them into a design that is pleasing in their sight. “A cat can look at a king” – but it had better not spit: I received my preliminary tax assessment two days ago – my “taxable assessment” went up 87%. Government departments operate seamlessly in rural Tompkins County – like a plastic bag over your head.
The Secret Cornell 25
Like the pretense of a “Tompkins County” – Cornell’s planners create the appearance of a “greater good” to benefit a larger community — in order to hide their targeted and discriminatory policies against the poor and marginalized rural residents.
The Secret Cornell 24
They used to say: “Who watches the watcher?” – but maybe they should ask: “Who’s plan are the planners carrying out?”
The Secret Cornell 23
Cornell’s elite have taken everything of value from Lansing’s rural community; even their future – but that’s not enough. We still exist. The Cornell Agricultural Planner’s statement that we “don’t deserve to live there” was not just an outburst of bigotry — it’s the expression of a belief that underlies all of Lansing’s rural policy making. The proclamation of a dictatorial and repressive government.
The Secret Cornell 22
Tompkins County Government has all the legitimacy of an election with only one slot for a candidate. Meaningful Public Participation is a pretense – and they don’t care if you know it. Tompkins County is run for the benefit of those who control the machinery. They don’t represent: they rule — and Cornell rules them all.
The Secret Cornell 21
Lansing has a growth: a suburban pastiche of country club aspirations and sit-com sensibilities. Its rural history is no longer a living trust; but a piece of old monument – lost in the perks and privileges of a self-serving government. Its future, no more than a husk.
The Secret Cornell 20
Rural policy makers, Corporate Agribusinesses, and Land Grant Agricultural Colleges, are knit so close together that not one right or recognition of worth reaches the poor rural communities they lord it over. Cornell’s College of Agriculture is the propaganda and rural policy arm of Urban Colonialism – presenting a vision of rural America as a place of farms and of recreation: and seeing the rural community as a threat to that vision.
The Secret Cornell 19
Why is it that; in an area, and a state, dominated by giant CAFOs with thousands of cows kept in endless metal sheds, serviced by fleets of tractor trailers: government websites always illustrate farming with red wooden barns, and cows in a pasture? To fool you, of course.
The Secret Cornell 18
Agriculture is the biggest contributor to climate changing Methane emissions; and the only sector that is still increasing these emissions. The 2021 White House U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Plan removes “Agriculture” from the featured Methane Emission by Source pie chart – and moves it down to number four in the Reduction Plan list: replacing regulations with “Incentive Based and Voluntary Partnership Efforts.” When you have that sort of power; and apply it to a powerless rural community — welcome to rural Lansing, NY.
The Secret Cornell 17
Herbicide is everywhere in rural New York. People see it drifting over their wash lines — if they’re lucky. How would you like to dress your children in Roundup? What does this have to do with Cornell? Ask their College of Agriculture.
The Secret Cornell 16
When I recount the abuse of rural people – I am frequently met with apathy. It’s hard to decide whether this miasma of low-level emotion is the result of being beaten with issues, or due to the non-appearance of rural America in the media. If the world is a spectator event – then the theater doors are locked. “Fire!”
The Secret Cornell 15
How do you fight a town government – that is defended by a lawyer that is paid with your taxes? When they are backed a County that is controlled by a world-class university with its own law school? And you don’t have the money to fight – and no one will stand up for you? I don’t know.
The Secret Cornell 14
I received a notice of some AI book writing opportunity — I showed it to my copy machine. Our future of combining AI and self-worth will result in a flood of books from people who can’t distinguish between self-expression and communication. AI is a “lossy” technology: and when you want to remove the clutter and conflict from AI-Human interaction – what [or who] will you remove? That’s not our future? Who told you that? The same people who told you climate change was a fable? What does this have to do with my Bubble? Conformity and authority are creeping into everything.
The Secret Cornell 13
The Tompkins County Comprehensive Plan is as carefully crafted as a legal loophole: and as neighborly as a home invasion. From beginning to end; there is no place for dissent or divergence — or rural independence. It’s Putin politics in Progressive clothing.
The Secret Cornell 12
So much misconduct – so little concern. Where’s an investigative journalist when you need one? Probably lunching in a trendy restaurant: concerned with profitable stories on worthwhile issues. Rural people are the “outliers” in the journalistic data set – never a part of the Summary or Conclusion.
The Secret Cornell 11
It’s been more than five years of effort to effect a meaningful solution: Following the required routes – that always lead us away from any possibility of a happy destination. It’s a Kafkaesque bureaucracy without a beginning or an end. An “Official Use Only” door at the foot of the Cornell monolith.
The Secret Cornell 10
If there’s an elephant in the room – and it’s dead: you have to keep the windows and doors closed. There would be a hell of a stink if Cornell’s policy making was ever exposed.
The Secret Cornell 9
Residents of the old rural community in Lansing have not all been driven out; but in the minds of its new rulers – they no longer exist. A recent message and plea for support of traffic control on a rural road that has become overrun with a high volume of reckless drivers; including weeks of speed/volume statistics, photo documentation, letters of support from two authorities, and federal guidelines showing it conformed to “best practices,” was sent to Lansing government. There was no response. No response at all. It’s a government that suppresses, a government that refuses, a government that denies. Like Scrooge; they measure everything in terms of gain – but there will never be an epiphany.
The Secret Cornell 8
Money clubs with money – and all money trails lead to Cornell: along with the corruption, cronyism, duplicity, greed . . . and arrogance that so often accompanies money. The rural poor know: “Cornell don’t care, Cornell don’t share.”
The Secret Cornell 7
If a fraud takes place and nobody does anything – is it still a fraud?
The Secret Cornell 6
I have often been told that I will get into trouble for what I write about Tompkins County – but I have never been told that I’m wrong. In a county where the overwhelming opinion is that the government is corrupt, and that there is no meaningful participation by the people; why do people put up with it? Because they have been convinced that they are in a lifeboat – with dangerous seas all around. An old-time farmer scoffed at the term “free range”: stating that; when chickens were raised packed in a giant shed under artificial lights; cutting a couple of small doors in the walls to allow outdoor access fulfilled the “free range” criteria – but the chickens were terrified to come out into this strange and different environment. 2024 is an environment locked in time, space, and thought: every Where, When, and How is portrayed as a dangerous choice. But what is more dangerous than having a corrupt and tyrannical government decide for you?
The Secret Cornell 5
People like to say “polarized” these days; for the same reason they label issues “controversial” – so they can file them away as finished business. “Polarized” is a blanket term that poorly covers the mound of intolerance and hate that this millennium keeps adding to. Were the Nazis and the Jews “polarized”? I think there are better words for the relationship.
The Secret Cornell 4
Cornell is a rich tax exempt corporation that decides the where public taxes should be spent – on themselves, of course. And Ithaca’s preening advocates and institutions think no more of the county’s rural population; than fair goers do of the day-workers behind its existence. The county’s rural areas are the perfect dumping grounds – and its residents are the perfect victims. And as climate change, immigration, and economic woes increasingly impact New York State — this policy will only become more widespread.
The Secret Cornell 3
I remember streaming a reality crime show where the prosecutor said that they had so much evidence: their biggest problem was how to present it all to the jury. This is my problem. I have so much documented evidence: and it all points in the same direction – a conspiracy. No journalist, politician, or authority at any level has acknowledged my request for help. But no one has dared to debate the evidence. Like Dorian Gray; Tompkins County’s Collegiate Progressives feel that their public persona is safe: as long as the results of their actions can remain hidden.
The Secret Cornell 2
This is a good place to recap the four step defense of politicians, bureaucrats and criminals: 1) Discredit the source, 2) Discredit the facts, 3) Discredit the situation, 4) “It’s legal.” Their quibbling is frequently not with any intent to correct or clarify – but to avoid the issue. If they make the questioning too difficult: they hope you will give up.
The Secret Cornell
It’s common for the lesser to be described in terms of the greater. We are the oppressed of Cornell. Like so many lands around a dictator’s domain; we are seen as a territory to annex and remake: a colonial outpost to settle, a resource to use, and a place to dump all the unwanted and unsupportable. And, like so often in history – an existing people to dispose of. It’s a story of arrogance and oppression that is both untold and unreported. Cornell is remolding Tompkins County: and some of us are just excess material.
“The World According to Doctrine” — Evil Recycles
Politics & Social Sciences
This book uses a mix of “activity book” games and puzzles, social awareness bumper stickers, advertisements, billboards, posters and re-imagined old school videogame screenshots that deconstruct the impenetrable façade of government policy making, and help promote critical thinking through interactive play.
A unique book for hungry minds.
Rough-Cut Book Bubbles from “The World According to Doctrine” — Evil Recycles
I’m not “non-Hispanic” – I’m Irish!
“Just as a tree without roots is dead, a people without history or cultural roots also becomes a dead people.” ~ Malcolm X
Native Americans bumper sticker
Our new society is built on a foundation of privilege and hate. It fosters a polarization through its insistence that society needs to be stratified by race, gender, and ethnicity: under an overarching Authority. Like all privileges supported by bigotry – its foundations are not open to debate: But they are ever-vulnerable to satire.
“COEXIST” political bumper sticker
Is nothing sacred?! Religion is one thing; but politics? – Now you’re getting serious. Today’s politicos like to downgrade and subordinate every belief – except their own. This bumper sticker satirizes the anything-but-tolerant political beliefs of those whose only tolerance is in the trivialization of others.
Second Hand Drugs” board game
There is no strategy: just be in the right place at the right time to avoid the consequences of second hand drugs. Good luck. Printable game board, player tokens and spinner. Print, cut assemble, and play. [Second Hand Drugs poster is included to satirize the government’s all-out attack on second hand tobacco smoke.] Go to the Downloads page of “ruraltompkins.com” [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials] for a free download.
“Escape from Tompkins County” board game
An all-too-real slice of rural life under the heel of Ivy League authorities. Be the prole. Printable game board, player tokens, cards, and more for this game are included [2 versions of card back images are also included.] Print, cut assemble, and play. Go to the Downloads page of “ruraltompkins.com” [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials] for a free download.
“The Great Divide” poster download
A human worth poster debating our government’s high-profile “greater good” people-as-a-commodity policies. Printable in two 8 ½” x 11” sections. Go to the Downloads page of “ruraltompkins.com” [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials] for a free download.
New Game Notes
Since the free game downloads on my WordPress site: “ruraltompkins.com” [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials] are still increasing in popularity — I’ve decided to plink outside the box [and make a few more ripples in the unruffled pool of self-satisfaction] by creating and adding some new games to the list. These are my first rough notes.
Most Popular
“Escape from Corruption” – “Proctors” – “Road Trip” While the books that first presented them were published years ago – the number of downloads of these games has been steadily growing in recent weeks. Go to the Downloads page of “ruraltompkins.com” [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials] download the games and see what led to their popularity.
The World According to Doctrine is Published
It’s been said that the greatest enemy of democracy is corruption. And when the very idea of democracy has been corrupted; we are without compass on a dangerous path. Once more we must win through what we thought was behind us. Evil recycles • Doug Baird, Cornithaca County, September 25, 2023 • Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJXGKDCF/
“The Great Divide”
This may be it – I’ve been thinking about stopping, putting the book together, and moving on to other projects. The quotes in “The Great Divide” not only expresses the main threads of my books much better than I can: they highlight the extent to which that thinking has been discarded in our journey to the New Dictatorship. This climate change winter; I hope to be sitting in a comfortable leather armchair, in front of a woodstove, with a glass of single-malt, a pitcher of water — and books that no dictatorship would ever approve of.
The Industrial Agriculture Anthem
The background is an aerial view of dirt pens in a factory farm. The black dots are cattle. This was taken before photos of factory farms became illegal. Imagine three views: overhead from a distance, up close on the ground, and when you put it into your mouth. That’s the name of that tune.
A CAFO Carol
When they already know what they’re doing – education isn’t enough. In rural America no one can hear you scream.
Ithaca Bookburning Festival Poster
Next month? Next year? It’s coming! You can feel it in the air. It’s not smoke from Canadian wildfires that’s fogging the air and keeping people indoors. It’s a Doctrine of privilege and hate.
How Urban Colonialism sees the World
A take-off on the famous New Yorker cover: Urban Colonialism doesn’t see the rural community – only vacant land – somewhere between Deliverance and the Dukes of Hazard.
Bumper Sticker layout H
More bumper stickers; less space. More of your thoughts – no text added. Does thinking increase or reduce stress? It adds some stress of course — but it helps to remove that “Oh, My God!” moment — and increases your lifespan.
Fast Food Justice Menu
Go with the flow and over the falls with our updated, Doctrine-rich, Victim’s fault, Judicial System. Getting picked for Jury Duty is more of a hardship than committing a Felony in today’s legal world – so use your cell phone to cut your cell time: turn the crank of Justice and throw some money in the cup.
GMO Groceries
Food tastes best – when you’ve never had anything better. If you’ve never had the taste of an old hen made into a soup or a fricassee; then the tasteless poundage of today’s juvenile fowl is the standard — and “Everything tastes like nothing” is the new paradigm. Like setback contactor homes: our food producers push right up to the legal limits to maximize their profits at the expense quality – and rely on additives for any pleasurable eating you think you’re getting. And what is that strange itch you’re getting down there? Maybe you’re changing with the times.
Lies, damn lies, and Scientific Theories
“Scientists have long warned what our fossil fuel addiction will unleash” lectured António Guterres, secretary-general of the United Nations. Oh, yes? For decades; scientists have not warned the people of the Climate Change precipice we were heading towards. Anyone without long-term memory problems will remember that scientists talked of “naturally occurring cycles” and continued to cite the lack of convincing data to legitimize their scientific silence. Career longevity and funding are the yin and yang of scientific life; and unwelcome theories are a poison in the body of the scientific community. Do scientists have a better understanding of the world than the rest of us? You could say that: Scientific theories have the authority of law — and the accountability of an election promise. The robes of a judge; and the soul of a politician.
The New Farm Statement
It’s easy to see the bad times are coming — we’re not doing anything to stop it. It’s the New Normal of death, disaster, and fear – and we’re being taught to accommodate it with a Total Daily Maximum Load of suffering and denial. First we’re taught to blame, then we’re taught to demand, then we realize the reality. With the New Normal of sticking our head in an anthill; we’re all expendable — Well, that’s what the people who aren’t expendable tell us.
Topsy Turvy Class E Felonies Solution
Temperature has degrees, right and wrong has degrees, lawyers have degrees, and criminality has degrees — but only a frying pan has de grease. Out of the fire; into the frying pan — probation.
Topsy Turvy Class E Felonies
Everything is illegal to some degree – and you need to pay up for the lawyer – and plead down for the DA’s office. These New York State Class E Felonies have been split into three parts and then jumbled up. Can you put the parts in correct order so they make legal sense? [The next bubble will have the solution – without even a postponement.]
Doctrine Hopscotch – 2-page spread
Finished 2-page spread. There’s nothing more to say. Doctrine is everything. The kids are our future.
Doctrine Hopscotch Layout
I wanted to get this out for the Labor Day weekend – before school starts up for the fall. It’s based on the “Obey! OK?” Cornithaca County warning sign – and played: 1, 2-3, 4, 5-6, 7, 8-9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14-15, 16, 17. The finished page will include a suitable doctrinal rhyme, of course. Maybe something like: “One is for the doctrine that protects you — Two is for you doubly to take care — Three is for the sign that you’re conspiring — Four is for the footsteps on the stair . . .”
Campaign Media: I sPY – A Conforming Game
The elections of the future are won in the public education of today. Many years ago; in classroom used for an adult education course – I saw a stack of new books about Affirmative Action. Their text wasn’t geared to thought or debate: just acceptance of the government’s decision. It was a text of indoctrination and even propaganda. If you think we have freedom and individual worth: just ask your kids – they’ve been taught how dangerous those things can be.
Undercover Election –tHE eVIL oNES
The games are over. Now begins the fight for human worth. The undercover electorate will speak out on the street corners.
Bumper Sticker layout G
Selected bumper stickers displayed without additional text.
Bumper Sticker layout F
Selected bumper stickers displayed without additional text.
Bumper Sticker layout E
Selected bumper stickers displayed without additional text.
Bumper Sticker layout D
Selected bumper stickers displayed without additional text.
“Progressives Progress” Poster
Which came first: The revolution or the oppression? Maybe the real question is: When was there time for enlightenment? Evil recycles. Everything made of evil recycles. And if you toss it in a landfill — never build there.
“Similes . . . as you please”
As guilty as . . . As fat as . . . As dead as . . . As right as . . . As white as . . . As strong as . . . Download and print the game board – flip a coin – and play. When you reach the Conforming Area: you are judged. Free download on the “Downloads” page at ruraltompkins.com [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials]
“Factory Farm Days”
“Old MacDollar had a Farm” – what very few people realize is that the non-farming population in New York State is living under Agricultural Law. What’s “Agricultural Law”? Think of the Sheriff of Nottingham in the Robin Hood movies. It’s the lock-step power and influence of rich Agricultural interests, along with the lack of money and political power of the poor non-farming rural residents; that have resulted in an overwhelming bi-partisan support for “farms.” Rural areas now have “Ag Ghettos” – with the same drugs, crime, and hopelessness as their urban counterparts — but nobody knows they exist. What do you know about what goes on in rural America? It’s a story that nobody has the courage to report.
“Fish Skimming”
Fish Skimming begins in the impaired waters where Noodling goes belly up. It a sport and a living [well, some of it is] laboratory in the same rural setting. Under Agricultural Law: what’s a “nutrient” when spread on a farmer’s field; and spreading into the waterways – is only “toxic waste” when it’s spilled on urban streets – so it’s safe for rural children if they stay clear of the meth labs. Fish Skimming is to the “Old Swimming Hole”; what Xbox is to Howdy Doody. “Kowabunga.”
“Rural Sorrow Hopscotch”
Hopscotch, like sorrow, is a repetitive action – part memory and part rhythm – fading into the background of life. Is anger urban; and sorrow rural? I don’t know.
Party Games – “Pass the Buck”
Children’s Learning Party Games are back! And maybe it’s time that adults took a refresher course in how these games are played. It’s all about money – “and what’s paid in the darkness, will be spent in the light.”
Scientists: They’re not Sorcerers
The Myth of Responsible Science: If scientists had taken the responsibility to speak out to the public about the dangers of climate change – something would have been done to prevent the hopeless situation that we’re in now. Science could have warned us; but scientists didn’t. The same is true of so many of the world-wide problems: from pandemics to the loss of clean water and arable land, to famine and overpopulation. Solving these problems would require regulations and oversight that would restrict the actions of politicians, corporations, and institutions: so scientists take the money, deplore the end uses, and claim a dedication to “pure science.” There is nothing pure about science — because there’s nothing pure about its funding and uses. Emerging technologies represent an unprecedented opportunity to oppress, remold, and destroy humanity . . . look for it to happen.
Undercover Party – The World We Live In
Never have so many been unable to do so much. The bigger government gets – the less willing they are to tackle their biggest problem: Government. It won’t surprise many readers to know that this quote was only the beginning of one-page shrug-off – shedding responsibility like a dog shaking water. If adjudicating government Conflicts of Interest is a “conflict of interest” – where does that leave us? Waiting for the next bus . . . “Sorry, were full up and we can’t offer assistance.”
“Everything They Do Is Capitalized”
“On this site will be constructed . . .” No matter how big the sign – it can’t hide the decades of unrealized progress. The only things our government has ever built are the mechanisms to increase their own power and prosperity. All their loud talk over the grumbling has achieved nothing but being heard. And all the convictions of their followers are based on a place in the lifeboat. “This Is The Future!” – the audience knows there are only two doors out of the lecture hall. Be Convinced or Be Gone.
U.S. Agriculture claims they “Feed the World”
The USDA may talk about three healthy meals a day; but that’s nothing compared the bite they’re putting on the public. First, we pay for the food. And then – since Agribusinesses are some of the biggest contributors to climate change [and the only ones that are still increasing their emissions] – we pay for the cost of that climate change in our lives. And on top of that: When that same climate change impacts their profits – we pay taxes to insure they are still profiting and expanding. We “Feed the Corporations.”
The second one off the back of the sleigh
They say: “Don’t look back!” when the evil is overtaking you – but what happens when it’s riding with you? If you jump; what are you jumping into? Our world is spinning like a top towards the edge of the table — and it’s a long way down to the floor.
Science only discovers what already exists
Of all the modern shibboleths; the belief in Science is perhaps the greatest. It can do anything – except make us happy, compassionate, giving, forgiving, and wise . . . all of those human things that make life worth living.
rISE OF THE eVil oNES – Averaging Extremes
One of the most annoying trends in government handouts is the way they minimize the situation; instead of acknowledging the extent of the problem. In previous books I have written about the four layers of bureaucratic defense: 1) Discredit the source, 2) Discredit the facts, 3) Discredit the situation, and 4) It’s legal anyway. Decades of evidence and natural disasters have broken through to the third layer of “Climate Change” defense: but they’re still fighting it. And if our government won’t acknowledge the seriousness of the problem — how far away are they from implementing an effective solution.
rISE OF THE eVil oNES – No Fire Escapes
Death is not the final word. Life alone is too absurd.
rISE OF THE eVil oNES – Drugs
You can never stop being addicted to drugs – you can only stop using them: and not using drugs any longer is still all about drugs. Whether you get out and stay out; or get sucked back in – drugs create a new center for your life — replacing all others.
What is the worth of public excuses?
Our leaders take a strong public stand to promote Social Policies that treat people as a commodity without individual human worth – while refusing to reveal the harm done to those that these policies target for discrimination. It’s like signing a blank check for evil. By their acting, and excusing those actions, in a way that directly contradicts the lives and beliefs of everyone we respect as fighters for human worth and equality: they have nonetheless reveled their agenda. You can’t follow someone by walking in the opposite direction. Full disclosure – Full exposure of all government policies and statistics. If there was nothing to hide; it wouldn’t be secret.
“Based on actual names”
So much is made up these days; that there is really nothing left but words and names: and the very useful images that they have acquired over time. When our government coins “new” terms to sell discredited social policies: they’re just following the same useful path that corporations have used for decades: buy trusted brands and use trusted catchwords to add legitimacy to their own inferior product. At the time when the USDA decided to take over organic certification; they marketed it to national agribusiness’s – not as being good for the environment, or healthy for the consumer – but as being a trusted brand in the public’s consciousness – and proceeded to certify industrial farming as “organic” – with the same lack of regulatory concern and oversight that has kept the Dead Zone unabated into its third decade: and the same suppression of evidence that has kept industrial farming communities unhealthy for generations. All that’s left is the public’s trust – in something that no longer exists.
“does not unlawfully discriminate”
The more things change: the more evil stays the same. Whether it’s “Equitable,” “Inclusive,” “Affirmative Action,” “Separate but equal,” or “No Irish need apply” – it’s an Evil that endlessly recycles: made with 100% bigoted materials.
Find the differences – Now what?
Leaders of the past like Lincoln. Martin Luther King Jr, Frederick Douglass, Mother Teresa, Mahatma Gandhi, Malcolm X; all found reasons why people were the same and should be treated the same. Leaders of today look to find reasons why people are different and should be treated differently. You can’t follow someone by walking in the opposite direction. Now what are YOU going to do about it?
First Nations videogame: Ethnic Conflict
“First Nations” weren’t the first to defend what they had; and take what they wanted – everybody did: and they were no less, and no more to blame for doing it. The debunked “Noble Savage” myth has been recycled in a “hate beats debate” New Millennium style of doctrine — teaching that “First” means “better” and “more deserving” in their mealy-mouthed and pussyfooting historical indoctrination.
“Under New Management”
Everything must be passed for suitability. The pretense of caring has never been more artificial than in the post-recent-Pandemic days. It’s almost as if what we used to consider humanity has been reimagined in its most Darwinian and mechanistic terms. Compassion is a tool for acquiring; and empathy is a fable for the reality impaired. Art, music, and literature are no longer a means of creation; but of replication – a mechanism covered with human skins. One Thought – One Taught – One Voice – One Choice. One — and then none. “Under New Management” and “Going Out of Business” in a single generation.
Their views – but not their viewpoint
Progressives are willing to accept the pain, suffering, and death of others in order to ensure their better world – but maybe there are better worlds than theirs; ones that same acceptance could bring about more realistically. Progressives share Mao’s views of people as a commodity – materials to use or discard according to their dictates of change. And yet how much less suffering and death would be required to have brought about a better China without Mao, without the bureaucratic tyranny and regimented repression, without those who see people as faceless numbers: denying them any individual worth. If your scales can weigh life and death: then why restrict those who can be weighed? It’s time for Progressives to realize that they’re not the solution for what’s wrong in our society: they’re a part of the problem – and they’re lucky that others don’t share their views on the kind of sacrifices that are acceptable to ensure a better world.
“To market, to market, to buy . . .”
When every word, phrase, and title that has any recognition is being used to sell something – how can we hold onto our cultural heritage? We can’t. [Sorry, “We can’t” is the name of an upcoming movie . . . Oops: “Upcoming” is the name of a personal finance app . . . Oh, no: “app” is . . . “Oh” is . . . “no” is . . .]
AI: Why?
As machines learn how to think; you must learn how to obey. It’s more than just following the rules at the self-check-out – it’s your behavior in the line before you get there – and analyzing how you reacted to the displays . . . and enhancing what you mumbled in your sleep.
Don’t ask a woman to do a man’s job . . .
In a society where discrimination IS the law; and “equitable” is a cover story – “non-sexist” laws and behaviors are a matrix of privilege and profit.
How many planners does it take?
An important fact about planners: their career longevity depends on how well they get along with the people that hire them – how well they get along with the people that hire them – how well they get along with the people that hire them.
The only “everyone” left in our Society . . .
In the “difference without distinction” government lens: we are all subordinates. It’s the hierarchy of usability that differentiates us in the eyes of the Elite – different tools from the same toolbox. And if that tool causes an injury? You don’t think it’s the Elite that use the tools, do you?
Cronyism? We call it “networking.”
“Groupisms” are blurring the line between public and private policies and policy making. The privilege concept of “importance” has been appearing more and more frequently; and the public is treated as buyers – rather than participatory stakeholders. It is as a member of a group that rights and protections are conferred: not as an individual. It’s a structure for the transference of power – moving it from the people – on up to higher and higher levels of authority. It’s both amusing and frightening to see the turmoil in Collegetown – as its residents maneuver to align with, and profit from, upwardly mobile power groups. It’s a rising tide that sinks those still anchored to ethics and a belief in individual human worth.
It’s a grammar that excludes certain phrases
It’s not just “wiggle room” – it’s enough room to maneuver a categorical position and a grant of any size. The concept of “pure” science is like the “made with” on a container of processed food – there’s some in there somewhere. Scientists love to ridicule the public’s perceptions and beliefs; but refrained from correcting the “no climate change” stance of politicians – and are now backed into a corner of “surprised,” “unexpected,” and “unprecedented,” statements about the very predictable aberrations of a seriously unbalanced system. “Science” has become the same as every other bureaucratic sector: a crutch the breaks when you lean on it – but covering it all up to maintain their level of funding.
The Greater Good is a goal; not an excuse
The “Greater Good” was only a rest stop on the way to total power. A spin-doctoring twist that wraps all the lies into a neat package: “We’re doing it for you.” As our limited access participation has turned into a one way street to a doctrine dictatorship – we realize that our road trip has taken a far darker path than any that could lead to a good destination.
Forbidden Proverbs
Like those gooey sweet sayings out of the mouths of calculating users – today’s “togetherness” is no more than a tool to get closer to their victims. Is there a school system that doesn’t rip the last penny from the elderly on fixed incomes – that doesn’t express concern for their hardship; and gratitude for their generosity. As in the scene where Woody Allen brings Marshall McLuhan to the movie line: wouldn’t we all enjoy seeing the insincere smiles of those “kid friendly” manipulators publicly wiped off their faces – exposing the shark teeth in hiding.
Education Flow Chart
Education has become a clerical job: and all the bureaucracy has come along with it. No more fellow students saying: “You got a hard teacher!” – everybody grades the same, everybody teaches the same, every student is taught to conform. Even “diversity” is limited to that which conforms to a strict definition and even more restrictive categorization. We’ve created a society of Skinner Box kids; where thinking “out of the box” is strictly “off the shelf.” How can you meet the challenges of the future when you can’t even meet the challenges of the present? In a pass/fail reality – we’ll just have to do the last millennium all over again. “Bring out your dead.”
They’re always right sometimes
From probabilities, to possibilities, to assertions – a ramshackle bridge of bigotry that can’t stand the weight of reality: is supported by an inflexible Doctrine. “He is this, she is this, they are this, this is this” is the whispered chant that underlies all education and policy making. One thought, One taught, One voice, One choice: When there is nothing to oppose it – it flows to fill everywhere. A great shallow of human activity; where institutions can grow to any size – supported by hunger and want . . . until the peace of oppression – becomes the silence of the grave.
County bus transit for rural residents?
In Tompkins County; when sacrifices have to be made: they don’t ask what? – They ask who? And the county’s rural residents are at the top of the list. We are the stumbling block to Cornell’s completely homogenized and conforming community vision – and their Legislature is always removing our services and increasing our taxes. How can they do this? Why don’t you ask the 30,000 students that give them that power – they’re our future.
Women and Equality
Is nothing sacred? Modern shibboleths are working hard to enshrine themselves in custom and regulation. Everywhere you look; everything is sexist. From Selective Service to Maternity Leave: it’s a bio-centric universe where everything revolves around a woman’s body; and for a woman’s benefit. Men are now only glorified as sacrifice objects – whose role is to ensure that others more worthy enter a promised land that they will never see. Single mothers are praised as doers of everything – but single fathers aren’t; and are further disrespected by having their children characterized as “growing up without a mother.” The gender inequality of men in traditional women’s jobs and roles is dismissed as societal perceptions – but traditional men’s jobs and roles must be “equalized” and societal perceptions must be changed. Maybe the only reason feminists came down from the pedestal; is because you have to be put on a pedestal – and they wanted a throne as a birthright. You could debate that there is a deliberate molding of our society to promote this gender inequality; but there is no debate – there can’t be – only Doctrine — a Doctrine of privilege and hate.
New Bell-shaped Curves: “The Flatline”
Tompkins County’s Progressive government has progressed beyond democracy and representation — to a flat-out dictatorship. Citizens get to attend “Public Hearings” – where they get to hear what will happen; and submit comments – that are filed and stored and then discarded to make room for more comments. Take it or leave it; there’s nothing you can do about it. “Questions? . . . We’ve had trouble with you before. . .
More Urbites 11: “Traffic Jamming”
It’s all stonewalling and pushback when rural residents try to implement traffic control measures. The same County that enforces a maximum speed limit of 30 mph on all roads traveling through the City of Ithaca; refuses to post any limits in their County-controlled rural roads. And in spite of the accidents and entreaties of residents: they have refused to patrol these roads – encouraging an ever-increasing flood of reckless workers, students, and commercial vehicles who know they’ll never get a ticket. Even with documented evidence of the most blatant disregard of law and human life – the have never once acknowledged that there is a problem. They sit there like stone-faced judges in a wall of indifference. They covet our land — without us. Urban Colonialism.
Gain power by trickery – retain power by law
When you’re as mealy-mouthed and pussyfooting as today’s leaders; you slide into the room with a smile and shut the door with a policy.
Connecting all the DECs and DOTs
Officials love to move you on: to a higher and even less approachable level of bureaucracy – while giving advice that’s as useful as: “Why don’t you become famous and get on a national talk show to influence policy.” Rural people can only plod from department to department; connecting all the DECs and DOTs — It’s a picture of helplessness.
AI and Climate Change
There are many ways you could answer that question: 1.) The path is straightforward: it just goes through places they want to avoid – and they don’t want to encourage that sort of thinking. 2.) To get the people used to less of everything – and control them more. 3.) They could never get the funding from government and industry. 4.) AI is only good for totaling up things at the “check out” counter. 5.) Politicians are looking to emerging technologies for the magic bullet. Sure it’s risky – but if they can’t have the world: what good is it? 6.) “Doctor, it hurts when I do this.” “Then stop doing it.” — Of course; there are some superior people who will ask: “Who do you mean by ‘they’?” It’s the sort of superiority that couples “surprised” and “deceased” halfway through the movie.
First Nations videogame: Buffalo Falls
Even if we’re all created equal – we’re not treated that way. On our crooked way to a doctrinal future; every bend is a different lens – and every categorization: an excuse for a different treatment. Once everything has been taken from those who are unworthy; it will be the turn of those who are less worthy – into a dogs-in-a-pit future of a domed and doomed climate changed world.
I’m not Non-Hispanic!
Going . . . going . . . gone. The cultural heritage of people all over the country is being fed into the shredder by a doctrine of privilege and hate. Government, institutions, and profit-hungry merchandisers are all lock-stepping to the tune of ethnic genocide. Just look around: where has your ethnicity gone? While American Indians, Alaskan Natives, and Pacific Islanders” have become elevated to the status of races – many ethnicities, with thousands of years of cultural heritage, are being demeaningly discarded as “Non-Hispanic”: not even important enough to be mentioned or respected – and fancy-dancing bigots excuse, minimize, and obfuscate these actions with a disdainful attitude. Don’t take the palliative of “not stating” to be of any worth; “not stating” is not existing; and that serves their purposes just as well. Today’s socialist “New School Nazis” have all the hate and bigotry of their fascist predecessors – they’re just hiding the armbands – for now. If you doubt the seriousness of the situation [as you’re supposed to]: just try to get any of it changed and see what happens – you’ll learn a lesson — or they’ll teach you one.
Reflecting Pool
Some people think I want to do nothing but drink beer . . . and scotch — but I write poetry and stuff like that.
whir . . . “turn it off”
Like a circular saw with a sinus headache: you squeeze your eyes shut in reflex – but it makes no difference. Today’s aggressive insistence on doctrinal thinking is not just a buzz in the background – it’s a tool that can cut off your . . . lifestyle. So, if you can’t get to the switch — pull the plug!
A pubble in the blunder
We all make mistakes – and the biggest one is assuming you know what something is without taking a good look at it. As a well-known fictional character said: “I’ll play the odds on occasion; but I like to pick the occasion.” Trusting to luck; is trust misplaced – so take a good look at what people hand you before you take ownership — it just might be the murder weapon.
A pebble in the blender
“Uh-oh, that doesn’t sound good!” You know how you can just hear something and know without looking – and not want to look? That grinding, stuttering sound isn’t the wheels of progress: it’s the wheels of our ride – pulling off to the side of the road. Are you going to wait for repairs? Or walk? What if it’s too long a walk — what if it can’t be repaired?
Climate Change Remix 2
Climate Change is not an arena for solutions; it’s an arena for politics: “Climate Change disproportionately effects people of color” is more useful than “It’s going to destroy us all” – why do you think they don’t spend money on the infrastructure.
Climate Change Remix
I can’t say our extreme weather events of the past 12 months are the “New Normal” – because each of them is merely a nostalgic snapshot compared to what’s already been booked for us down the road. Our Climate Change predictions are like those billboards that continuously update our national debt or the world’s population: interesting, informative, and totally ineffective in halting our progress towards the final excess. In the meantime: at least a 3-month supply of food and water would be more prudent than the “3-days” that our government recommends — how many years are some of those blue tarps out there waiting for a roofer?
Fool’s Gold?
I wanted to put “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” on consignment in a College Town bookstore. I sent in the online form – twice; with no response. When I emailed the Inventory Manager; she contradicted the instructions, and said I should have dropped it off so they could “read through to make sure we think it will do well here and be worth your time” – so I did. Five weeks later; I inquired if they had reviewed it yet? She gave me the brush off: “I did give it a once over, and I'm not sure that we'd be the best place to host your book . . . and I'm just not sure it'll be worth your commitment to our terms.” Pushing the envelope – I assured her that I was committed; and still wanted to place the book on consignment. A few days later; I got the response: “your book reads more like a first draft than a finished manuscript. If you ever reprint your book - edited for grammar, punctuation, and clarity, with a list of works cited at the end - then I would encourage you to bring us that version to check out.” My book was not worthy. The Doctrine in College Town is just one step away from book burning: and maybe this year or the next — they’ll take that step. Tompkins County: Higher education at the lowest level.
Caught between a rock and the fool
We’re on a moving platform: a raft of excuses – riding on a deteriorating society – in a deteriorating world. When everything is going down the shitter at the same time – do you have a sense of movement? Is it really worthwhile to enumerate all the areas where profit, power, and politics have placed a glowing billboard of the future to block our vision of reality? In “Aguirre, the Wrath of God”; soldiers are trapped on a raft – circling a whirlpool – and beyond any means of saving – and without hope. Our government’s “socialist” policies aren’t about people – they’re about authority – the madness of Aguirre – and it they can’t have the world — no on can.
A pebble in the unruffled fool
It’s not like any of our problems are being solved – they’re just being regularized. Remember the “Dead Zone” in the Gulf of Mexico? It’s still there. The government’s 2001 Action Plan to “reduce, mitigate, and control hypoxia in the Northern Gulf of Mexico and improve water quality in the Mississippi River Basin” – was followed [after 4 years of reassessment] by the 2008 revised Action Plan – that called for a reassessment every 5 years – and the 2013 reassessment led to the 2015 Goal Framework that updated the time of attainment for the original goal – establishing an “interim target” for 2025. When does the unconscionable become the conventional?
Eldercare Card Deck
Download, print and cut out this card deck – card back images are included for double-sided printing. Can be used as a regular card deck: or use with printable “Early Harvest” organ cards for the Eldercare game. Instructions are included. Free download on “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
A pebble in the unruffled pool of self 2
Like in the “Princess and the Pea” – some thoughts are good for proving who you are — no matter how an uncomfortable process it may be. Or maybe not.
More Urbites 10: “Urban Planning”
Tompkins County planners don’t counsel – they conspire. We no longer create our communities by living in them – we just inhabit the communities our government creates. They do all the planning. They have all the planners. They have all the power. They have all the cards.
A pebble in the unruffled pool of self
Being alone with your Self can be an uncomfortable experience — so can thinking.
A pebble in the unruffled pool: How many?
Humor is a wellspring of humanity – I refuse to be around those who are afraid to be splashed.
A pebble in the unruffled pool: Abortion
That’s OK; they’re not human beings. That’s OK; they’re too old anyway. That’s OK; it’s a male’s duty to sacrifice themselves. That’s OK; they’re Jews. Historically: categorizing people as disposable; is the first step in disposing of them. And while it takes two to tango – it only takes one to dance. Or pull the plug.
A pebble in the unruffled pool: Prostitution
A pebble in the unruffled pool of self-satisfaction. More than the arrogance with which they pronounce their doctrine of privilege and hate – it’s the smug self-satisfaction of their “one thought – one taught – one voice – one choice” enthronement that makes a perfect target. Is nothing sacred?
Find the Differences from “Cornithaca County”
Download, print and mark the differences in these three two-page sets of images from the “Cornithaca County” book –solution pages are included. Free downloads on “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
Farm-cheesi: The Game of Flies
Download, print, and play this modern farming version of a centuries old game. Players win by moving their maggots from the “carcass” and guiding their journey to fly fulfillment. Instructions and tokens are included. Free download on “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
Urbites: “Where there’s smoke . . .”
Folks in rural areas don’t live under the same laws as other people – or have the same worth. But, what would you know about it. And why don’t you?
“When ethnicity is important . . .”
“Non-Hispanic white” is not only demeaning; because it categorizes people by what they are not – it’s a further step in the cultural “genocide” program of our current political Doctrine. Even while apologists are downplaying its origins in government policy making; and minimizing its effect – citing its use in census taking – they still refuse to change it – an intransigence that gives the lie to their claims of “discrimination is against the law.” Ethnicity, along with gender and race, are the sole determiners of worth in our Social Policies – and Inclusion, Equitability and Social Justice are restricted to named ethnicities. The poor and marginalized “non-Hispanic white” rural descendants of poor and marginalized “non-Hispanic white” immigrants have no existence in the minds or media of our city-centric millennium. Government policy makers have taken the broad brush of bigotry to slap a coat of evil onto those they oppress as “non-Hispanic whites” – Don’t be patsies for the New School Nazis – rescue your ethnicity from the melting-pot and display it publicly – and with pride — before it becomes illegal to do so. I’m Irish-American – not “non-Hispanic white” – Póg mo thóin!
Were the Canadian forest fires designed to?
Were the Canadian forest fires designed to promote electronic media? Sorry, just [starting?] another conspiracy theory.
“If you divert the stream . . .”
Changing the natural course of human interaction and community; and blaming the same as the cause of the resulting problems – is “go-to” shield of today’s progressive policy making. Did Mao’s restructuring; that caused the death of millions – lead to a global-warming-industrial-pollution that may cause the death of billions? Or does it just fall into a “make the trains run on time” grayed-out area?
“Ribbon cutting” to “Cut to ribbons”
Tompkins County is a “multi-collegiate” governance of experts and office-holders: who resent questioning and refuse debate – treating the residents like children, serfs, and slaves.
“Surprise” is no surprise
The announcement that scientists are once again “surprised” at the “unexpected” climate change progress; should come as no surprise – governments [and those relying on government, institutional and corporate funding] have been shuffling the bad news back into the discard pile for decades. All the in-house talk about Total Daily Maximum Loads, cyclical climate phenomenon, carbon offsets, quotas, and incentives can be summed up in one simple, non-technical statement: “Things are going to get worse – much worse.” There — equivocate that!
New Bell-shaped Curves: Ship of State
The rich and powerful make the rules; while the criminals and layabouts crack the whip – and the poor workers are “hood”winked into believing they can’t change things.
I don’t need social media to do my thinking
It’s not rhetorical – it’s categorical.
How many politicians does it take?
Isn’t it true that the annoyance of old-time bureaucratic form filling has been replaced by the repression of political control? Even the simplest acts are now subject to approval by authorities who nitpick trifles while the world is unraveling – the better to avoid blame.
How many scientists does it take?
In our current societal paradigm: survival equals importance – the more important something or someone is decided to be; the more likely the chance of surviving and thriving through government intervention. Our “science” is an example of a shamelessly self-promoting groupism – seeking an ever-increasing share of societal “importance” – translating quibbles into schisms, and meaningless discoveries into revelations. It was raining when I went outside yesterday; and it was forecast to be cloudy . . . maybe I can get a grant to study the problem.
Rural America: It’s not like anybody cares
Social Justice is all about using the pretense of “everyone” to cover up a systematic oppression of the rural community. Urban Colonialism is the planning paradigm that has been adopted to remold our rural communities – a combination of self-righteous hypocrisy; and dismissive superiority: bringing civilization to the natives. In the cold outer circle of our city-centric government – marginalization is inevitable — and unrecognized.
I have to get my ducks in an array
It used to be enough to get them in line – now, they need to be present and correct – each one a conforming element; in a planned position. One Thought – One Taught – One Voice – One Choice. One array — O.K.?
Men have responsibilities: Women have excuses
The Draft? It’s blatantly sexist; and a matter of life and death. Why aren’t they marching in the streets? It’s all “Cry for me – lie for me – die for me” demands: with a thin coating of “non-sexist” Doctrine. We are living in a time beyond rationality – of a pecking order based on plumage; a Doctrine of privilege and hate. How will we avoid a disastrous collision with the self-serving bigotry, arrogance, and greed that is breaking off from our polar attitudes? We are under control of a Doctrine that is wholly incapable of stopping the ship from sinking – merely deciding the manifests of lifeboats. “Die for me” is not a request.
“Making do” is Old School
“Why have less when – you can have the best?” New Schoolers have been told that they’re better than everyone who came before them; and that: “Doing for others is the duty that is owed you.” So when the drug/population/climate change/inflation/debt problem starts to cut into your lifestyle: reach deeper and take more. “You CAN always get what you want” – as long as you can find someone who has it. “It’s not fair that they should have something you don’t.”
How many Authorities does it take?
We’re screwed; and we’re still in the dark. The only problem Authorities have solved: is how they can become rich and powerful.
“Poetry Bonus – 39 Limericks”
Whether or not it’s a “bonus” – depends on the reader.
“Some creatures seem to have the knack”
Life doesn’t chase you – it just comes right on through — so trying to twist and dodge it isn’t a good choice.
Social policies: They’ve built a wall
We’ve come a long way since the liberal “absolutes” of the sixties, and “ethnic mixes” of the seventies — now, with blame game rules and inclusion to the exclusion policies: we’re characters in a puppet show of propagandizing power-trippers – trapped in a “Monsters on Maple Street” drama projected on the backdrop of our disintegrating world – like a dream of urinating; and waking to the fact you did.
Find the three identical cats
Is it easy? I don’t know. But it’s furry, and it’s fair; because there’s a solution — and that’s more than you can say about most of the challenges in front of you. Free download with solution on “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
We’ve passed the “nick of time”
In a way; I can relax. The stopping distance is greater than the distance to the cliff. It’s like one of those slow motion accidents on ice – where you can see what’s coming – if only there was time for a cigarette . . . maybe I’ll get out and buy one . . . you think?
Modern Doctrine Deconstructed
There’s nothing more to say. Do what you’re told.
“There is no more adamant a fool”
Authorities follow doctrine; and their doctrine gives them authority – manipulating symbols of symbols – and deciding which end of the egg to break open. Luckily; their decisions don’t require debate – lucky for them.
“All roads lead to the horizon”
“Surprising, unexpected, historic”: Honesty is what we expect – “anomaly” is what we get with today’s scientific reporting. The “If I can’t have the world; no one can” attitude of the power elite leads our taking pandemic — And the “naming and blaming” of our adolescent society is as likely to save us; as a toddler driving you to the hospital. If you can’t hear the waterfall: listen to the screams of those going over it — they’re getting louder.
What does being the poorest, most . . .
Exposing misconduct, corruption, and cronyism in Tompkins County is not just digging into the past – it’s yesterday, today, and tomorrow. “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” documented only small piece of the overarching policies and actions that dominate and control the lives of the county’s rural residents – and includes nothing that has occurred since its publication. An unfinished and unpublished companion piece to the “Truck Route” chapter [Road Weary] has even more jaw-dropping disclosures of the actions of local and County authorities; and their ongoing displacement and oppression of the rural community – actions that only those who feel beyond the reach of social justice and legal oversight would commit. I have sent copies of the book to many people who, I thought, would be open to change – without even getting an acknowledgement – and bringing readers up to date would do nothing to change the situation – it would only increase the “body count.” It’s hopeless – but I have a plan – as my cousin used to say: “Don’t force it; get a bigger hammer.”
More Urbites 8: “Redacted Policy Making”
Looking at the inner workings; without being able to see the inner workings – is a common occurrence with those trying to participate in Tompkins County government. Public policy is decided and ratified privately. Take it, or leave it: there’s nothing you can do about it.
“How to remain an agent for social change”
“How to remain an agent for social change without becoming an agent for social control” I came across this the other day – something to think about. It’s a question our government has been unable to answer.
The second one off the back of the sleigh
If you’re going to be thrown to the wolves – is it lucky not to be the first? Under the bus, off the back of the sleigh: you made it through last night – but it might be today.
“Right is of no sex, Truth is of no color”
The most grinding thoughts in our oily Social Policy machine; come from those we most respect — While apologists and toadies scour their writings: Gathering fragments of their broken dream – to reassemble an entirely different one.
“Insert excuse here ______”
When authorities are forced to give up silence: they give out excuses. And while stonewalling and ghosting are the bureaucratic “go-tos” of government regulators and policy makers – excuses provide a spectrum of fallback defenses for every occasion. There is the “ambushed” excuse: “The results were surprising and totally unexpected” – the “aggressive” excuse: “You don’t understand the complexities/technicalities/economics of the situation” to the “defensive”: “It’s a political/personal attack” and the “plaintive”: “I didn’t know anything about it” excuse. But no matter what their excuse: Today’s unchecked government bureaucracy is like a hydra of hyenas — ripping the carcass of our Constitution.
More Urbites 7
Who do they think they’re fooling? You, of course. Just as there is public participation and meaningful public participation – there is regulation and meaningful regulation. How can we affect a slowdown in Climate Change – when those most responsible are held the least accountable? When the reduction of our country’s greenhouse gas emissions is due to the production of our goods in other countries – and the shipping of electric vehicles creates more pollution than those electric vehicles actually save.
More Urbites 6
The word “hearing” conjures up clips of hard hitting, hard questioning Congressional Hearings — but nothing could be farther from today’s local and county hearings. Along with all he public participation of a royal proclamation, and the transparency of bullet-proof glass – government planning is sold with a carefree lack of accountability: Comments from the public are met with an indifference that underscores the absence of any meaningful public participation or oversight. The only hard hitting going on in public hearings is the way their planning hits the public.
“How do you know you’re Old School?” 2
It’s time to shed the “AARP-Ineffectual” image that’s been laid on old folks – it’s a long road to being old – and those New School yearbooks will be pulped long before you get there. Old School? It’s how the people who lived to be old; lived to be old.
More Urbites 5
It’s not what you do: it’s who you are – never more so than now. In a country that’s still covering up for their biggest polluters; how far away are we from doing anything about it? If they can’t have the world: no one can.
NYSDEC two-timing
At the same time regulators are in bed with corporate agribusiness: they’re fucking the rural community. It’s not a question of proof: it’s a question of how many times it has to be proved before New York does something about it.
Why is the Scientific Method like a net?
In our world of Doctrine: “This is this”; and everything becomes an absolute. Science; professing to be based on facts – is the perfect compartmentalizing decision tool for avoiding questions of compassion and human worth. Everything it catches is categorized — and everything it cannot: does not exist.
Form Based Code Cornell [formerly Lansing] NY
Form Based Codes are a simplified form; for a simplified government: themselves. Form Based Codes bring zoning into line with modern authoritative thinking: 100% public comments – 0% meaningful participation. Form Based Codes are the perfect tool for Urban Colonialism: the preservation of urban spaces – and the resettlement and destruction of the rural community. A “streamlined” tool for taking. "The real tragedy of these small enclaves of marginality and poverty is that people are playing a game of life that has been structured in such a way that they are required to play but prevented from winning.” — Janet Fitchen, “Poverty in Rural America” In rural New York; No one can hear you scream.
Cornell is remolding Tompkins County
Every day it seems: Cornell’s foot comes down harder on the necks of the county’s rural residents – Cornell’s resettlement of the surrounding rural towns and takeover of the town governments is aided by a lockstep media; and by a stream of planning experts: all presenting and promoting the plans that best suit Cornell’s corporate agenda of expansion and profit. Cornell’s “Agriculture Protection Plan”: “protects” a small group of influential millionaire farmers from the increasingly poor and marginalized “non-farming” 95% of the rural population – whom Cornell states: “don’t deserve to live there” – living in trailers and 3-and-4 generations in old wood-framed houses — that the County just assessed up another 5% this year. And, contrary to the American Planning Association’s teachings; to redevelop urban areas with existing infrastructure, mass transit, and walkability to jobs – Cornell has pushed through approval to bulldoze our rural greenspaces; and build a new infrastructure with municipal water and sewers for thousands of housing units for Ithaca’s unwanted poor, and its workers: young families with children; needing schools and many other services — while the Town’s [Cornell ghost written] Comprehensive Plan defends it by claiming that this will actually decrease taxes and maintain the rural character.
Is there a “Robbery gone good”?
With victims dismissively reduced to “complainants,” and murders spin-doctored down to “a robbery gone bad” – we should ask our increasingly distant government: “Is there a ‘robbery gone good’?” Would that be a robbery with just the threat of violence? Or is it any amount of injury short of death? Authorities seem able to rationalize, and minimize, our suffering – and while some people may admire their ability to make so measured a judgement: it brings little relief to the nightmares of victims – only the closure of a file drawer.
Does legality give legitimacy?
“Discrimination is against the Law.” That’s a lie. Discrimination IS the law – “lawful discrimination,” that is. You can walk both sides of a one-way street – If you’re certain that your talk and all your actions never meet. Full disclosure – Full exposure of all government policies and statistics. Goodness doesn’t need to hide.
They don’t go by rules – they go by rulership
Tompkins County is the template for the New Dictatorship – a Triumvirate of government, institutions, and corporations – policy making with all the transparency of a proclamation — and all the meaningful participation of serfdom.
“How do you know you’re Old School?”
What’s the difference? “Time will tell.” Just using this phrase is Old School – young people don’t need time to find out – they already know everything. It was amusing to read the conclusion of a thirty-year old; that “in his experience” – young people had better ideas than old people. Young people think old people are fools. Old people know young people are fools. In a humanity that only seems able to learn the hard way; maybe those decades of experience are more important than authorities admit — Old age may not bring wisdom: but you certainly get to know what bullshit is.
“A tool of Cultural Genocide”
No it’s not–Yes it is – The evidence is everywhere. Cultural Genocide is “the systematic destruction of traditions, values, language, and other elements that make one group of people” – and the best way to do that is by removing that culture from public observance and awareness. It’s demeaning to be categorized by what you’re not: and while apologists point out that the category; “Non-Hispanic white” was created by the Census Bureau – what is their excuse for our government refusing to change it? Our government’s institutional partners, like AARP revise their calendars to designate March as “Women’s History Month” – with no mention of Irish History at all — and the History Channel banners “Women’s History Month” continuously; to the exclusion of Irish contributions to our country’s history.
SILENCE: the lid on our Social Policy cesspit
Silence is the solution our government applies to the dangers of questioning, disclosure, and debate: Silence through power – silence through fear — a bureaucratic stonewalling to keep out public participation; and keep in all decision making power. Deciding Social Policies that have to power to discriminate against whoever they want, whenever they want, for as long as they want – in secret. Did we given them that power? Or did they take it? And will they ever renounce it?
“The Lincoln–Biden Debates”
It’s not satirical – and it’s not far-fetched: Biden, like Stephen Douglas, sees people as a commodity; whose lives and worth can be decided by others – through the power of government. I there a difference? Yes, Douglas was willing to publicly debate his position.
“Hardwired for dogma”
Whether you think of it as “The Revealed Church of Secular Self-Interest,” or programing – today’s Doctrine is all about the one answer: the only answer. If you disagree: you’re wrong – and if you can’t be converted — you must be punished — or killed. How far along that road are we? When there’s only one road — there is no exit.
“A tunnel vision of the future”
“One Thought – One Taught – One Voice – One Choice” • More than a tunnel vision – it’s a culvert of conformity – a wastewater conduit for the Elite – Don’t think you will profit: anything of value has been sieved out before it reaches your level.
“Nice work if you can get it . . .”
Everybody wants to be a messenger – and everybody wants to make money without getting their hands dirty. This may be the essence of today’s taking: standing outside and reaching in. Messengers only report – they don’t soil their hands with pity.
Global Warming: Science sees a thermometer
Even when Science is about people – it’s not for people: it’s a detached attitude that sees Global Warming as a matter of degrees – not disasters. It’s a perspective that elevates observation above compassion, or responsibility. We’re cooking a pot of unsustainable policies; while Science monitors the safe temperature guidelines. How hot is it? Hot as Hell.
The New Occam’s Razor: the only explanation
These days; the bell-shaped curve only rings true in the center – and the only explanation is the authoritative one. In the past; people thought – now they’re just taught
The New Normal: 200 miles on a 50-mile spare
Don’t look back; we haven’t escaped anything: the next time we break down — it’ll be on us before we know it. We should have taken the time to get things fixed — not just take a piss.
Governmental Ghosting Poster 1
In our current government; citizens have been relegated to an annoyance – and if they can’t be dissuaded: they’re “ghosted.” We don’t need a paranormal investigation to expose these “new normal” ghosts – but we may need a new government to get rid of them.
Society Survival Store 7: “Darkness calling”
Humor: it’s a Crime of Survival in the pompous victory parade over humanity and nonconformity. Our never-anything-but-superficial “diversity” is but another chapter in a Gulliver’s Travels authoritarian manuscript filled with Kafkaesque bureaucracy and Lord of the Flies social interaction. Coming next: The Big Event Horizon.
New Term: “Presumptive Statistics”
Along with a self-serving reasoning based on assertions and bigotry; presumptive statistics are used to give the appearance of legitimacy to the studies that support Social Policies.
Science News
There’s nothing like wars and other human enabled disasters for ensuring scientific progress; and employment. The same scientific community that was so closed-mouthed as we raced into an industrial-pollution death spiral — has become proactive in protecting their sources of funding and fame. Is this news story really so farfetched?
It takes more than saying
Like a revealed religion; today’s societal doctrine is an unalterable statement of what everything is – and how everyone must act. That is why there is no questioning or debate; and why those who attempt to do so are scorned and attacked. Although phrases like; “talk is cheap” and “it’s your actions that define you” show a long held concern with reality based social engineering – modern policy making streamlines the real-world decision making process into a non-participatory public proclamation. In Tompkins County, where doctrinal thinking is firmly in control; any questioning is met with a wall of silence – on the surface – because if that was all: why are people so afraid to speak out?
“90% of addicts” Drugs poster
This drug poster is so much like a CDC Teen Tobacco poster – it’s almost as if they care.
It’s their actions that define you
Let’s face it – the first and most important thing that you are judged on today is your race, gender, and ethnicity. It is the actions of government and institutions that categorize and codify how you should be perceived and treated. These entities are insistent to the point of intimidation that you accept their judgements – and terrified of disclosure and debate. Full disclosure – full exposure of all government policies and statistics — it’s time to out the Dorian Grays of Social Justice.
They weren’t created to end discrimination
The underlying message of every Social Policy is that it is acceptable behavior to discriminate against people because of their race, gender, and ethnicity. What does government get out of it? The power to subordinate human worth to their profit and control – the exact actions and attitudes that Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr and Frederick Douglass fought to end. Social Policies and Slavery: separated by time – joined by evil.
Behind the Curve
Even if the shoe doesn’t drop – they’ll be running out of them when they see the wave coming.
It’s an ill wind that fills their sails
Acquisition in adversity has become a bureaucratic basic for the expansion and empowering of government agencies. It’s not by chance; but by design: that we always seem to be on the brink of disaster – a disaster that only additional government powers can avert. Is it cynical to believe that our Government’s continual “surprise” at the reality and extent of Climate Change is part of a roadmap to Martial Law – and the planned acquisition of total power.
The New Normal: Averaging Extremes
Abnormal drought; followed by abnormal rains: equals the New Normal “average” rainfall. Authorities bring extremes into the mainstream by using a viewpoint that allows freedom and oppression, and life and death to be quantified, weighed, and adjudicated. Discrimination one way and discrimination the opposite way results in equality. But if someone kills; killing them is an injustice. And an equitable balance is a finger on the scales. So what is the guiding principle that authorities use in deconstructing and constructing our New Society? One Thought – One Taught – One Voice – One Choice: Theirs.
When you turn on the light
If there is anything that our Social Policies can’t handle: it’s anything that exposes them to inspection, questioning, or debate. They demand secrecy instead of transparency – and promote bigotry instead of equality. What is done in the dark; is undone by the light.
More Urbites 4
Agriculture is more than just a “cash cow” – it’s a regulatory carousel that goes around and around to the tune of money and votes. If you want to predict what the future holds for a reduction of Agricultural Pollution; just look at the past 50 years: gathering data, updating “Best management practices” [BMPs], voluntary programs, and incentives that have resulted in increased in levels of pollution – and a flood of tax money into farming pockets – over and over. Even as we enter the drain that we’ve been circling; Agriculture isn’t changing — if the climate disaster they’re helping bring about harms their profits – tax dollars will be found to fill the gap.
More Urbites 3
Rural policy making isn’t just about indifference – authorities use deception, misrepresentation, and misconduct to actively target rural communities for urban sprawl problems. When Lansingville Road residents complained of high-speed, reckless through-cutting traffic and no law enforcement; the County produced a 48-hour traffic summary that showed a decrease in the 85th percentile speed. When research uncovered that it was conducted in the fog – they had no comment. And provided no law enforcement.
“Secondhand Drugs” poster 1
In this reimagined government “Secondhand Smoke” poster – I’m pretending that the victims of drug users and dealers have the same level of importance. If only there were anti-drug non-profits with the same deep funded pockets and campaign clout as the American Cancer Society: it would change our country’s institutionalized, form based agenda.
“Girl Card” bumper stickers
Just tossing out a few bumper stickers – but with such a big [and smug] target; it’s easy to hit the mark. You can work all your life; but you’ll never be free; in the Single-Mom Society: where all white males are always wrong – and only Women can be strong.
Who can say anything against them?
Today’s Doctrine is anything but a beacon of love and diversity – it’s an ever-present threat of “conform or be punished” – intimidation by example. While so many claim to believe: how many are afraid to say they don’t?
If prostitutes are now “sex workers”
Modern doctrine’s selective vision is good enough for an attack – but it has no defense against questions of bias and hypocrisy – so it keeps attacking.
Pouring excuses from every orifice
Politicians don’t work up a sweat; just excuses. Our government always takes a position that helps their cronies and supporters – regardless of the potential dangers. As revelations of long building problems are forced to the surface: 2023 will be a year of unparalleled excuses — and disastrous quick-fixes.
Change the beat – grab a couple notes
It used to be said that the best way to make a million dollars was to write a book about it and sell a million copies – but today’s advice would be to jump on the “profits of change.” In our paradigm shift from “movers and shakers” to users and takers – “changing the rules; picks the pockets of fools” – and why should you spend a lifetime saving; when you can spend a lifetime of savings? So change the conditions, regulations, policies, methodologies, categories, or perceptions – and make a New Millennium pipeline from what’s theirs; to what’s yours — and go with the flow.
Destroying sustainable rural communities
Everywhere in rural Tompkins County; Cornell is stepping in – and stepping all over – the existing rural communities. There used to be a bumper sticker: “Ithaca – 10 square miles surrounded by reality” – but when reality began to intrude on and erode Cornell’s magical kingdom: Cornell created the myth of Tompkins County – an autocratic vision of Urban Colonialism: “allocating burdens” [their problems] to the surrounding rural communities – and marginalizing the rural population by “bringing civilization to the natives.” Tompkins County’s rural communities are disintegrating under the rulership of a collegiate elite who despise them – and covet their land.
What happens in First Nations
The evil is back – and once again parading as “good.” Not only are people definitively [and legally] categorized on the basis of their race, gender and ethnicity – the compartments are “waterproof.” Even though the “First Nations” perpetrated all the same outrageous actions of people all over the world; throughout history – the compartmentalized concept is propagandized with a 19th century “noble savage” myopic romanticism – and a full helping of 21st century entitlement. Unsurprisingly; hierarchical terms like “first” and “important” are smugly emblazoned on a viewpoint with as much the arrogance and bigotry as any the world has seen – and lubricated with the same hate and sense of privilege that has led to the death of millions.
Slave Merchants and Social Policy Makers
Social Policy Makers’ pretentions of temporary and reasonable discrimination have about as much reality as “being a little bit pregnant” – and are no more distancing then the nothing-personal acquisitiveness of Slave Merchants. Bigots are as bigots do – so if you do like a bigot – then the bigot be you.
They’re not Droids
“Every grain of sand is different – but they’re all grains of sand” describes the “distinction without a difference” of today’s diversity. Like Henry Ford’s “you can have any color you want; as long as it’s black” color choice: “diversity” is limited to a selection of conforming offerings: only those allowed by a revealed doctrine of undebatable givens. You may argue that conforming is not the same as believing; but from the viewpoint of the repressed, abused, marginalized and murdered victims of “diversity” and other historical discriminatory policies — it’s not a very convincing argument.
Science only discovers what already exists
The next time you stream, or read a web science blurb; be aware of the superlatives that scientists heap upon their works; and upon themselves — If they used that same passion to stand up for people – instead of standing in line for a handout: they might actually earn some of it.
Shuffling the same marked deck of cards
Whatever the changes in our government: we never get to examine the deck.
“Science is what we expect . . .”
What is the “Scientific Method”? Get a grant. So it’s not surprising that our profit-driven – government-managed Climate Change playbook is useless in defending us against a reality-driven universe. Scientist’s cries of “astonishment” at the “incredible trend” of ocean-warming are about as convincing as a suspect recounting their fourth version of the event. Meteorological predictions describe this disastrous El Niño as a “natural phenomena” – but then, so is pandering – and murder – so what’s their point? Yes, things will get really, really bad – and Science will admit it — in a way that satisfies funding opportunities and career longevity.
Society Survival Store 6
Like a product development deconstruction on the eve of destruction – you can’t teach sense to a fool: but you can sell him almost anything. That’s why sellers have become shamelessly self-promoting: of themselves. Buy the image and feel good about yourself. Swallow the hype and buy the tripe.
Society Survival Store 5
As the old world passes – there’s a new world of opportunity for those who can ride the collapsing wave. Business and education can always profit from new policies: especially government mandated ones – so pull yourself up by your bootstraps, have a generous helping of free lunch, and ensure greater profits from the Greater Good.
Society Survival Store 4
“A finger on the scale – will prevail.” Living in an Ivy League ruled county – whose authorities and planners despise rural people and covet their land: takes away the legitimacy of any “outrageous” and “preposterous” comments on this more-scary-than-satirical piece of blatant oppression. The collegiate elite are molding the future of Tompkins County – and the rural population is just excess material.
Society Survival Store 3
It’s not wildly satirical – it’s not even moderately satirical – it’s a projection of today onto the near future. I don’t make any distant future satires; because our future ends before then. “Earth’s poor will be replaced – by billionaires in space.”
Undercover Party: “The Party’s Over”
The days of freedom are over. The piñata of public participation has only showered us with comment forms and bureaucratic feces. The thrill of eluding oppression has turned into a fear of the open sky: with no safe place to rest. Everything is gray – without difference or distance – “The party’s over.”
Doctrine Warning Page
Like those smiling drug commercials that cure your appearance; but whose side effects include dangerous conditions and death – the Doctrine that claims it will cure our unsightly society; can lead to equally negative outcomes from the application of their “one thought fits all” nostrums – and from the refusal to apply them. Attempts at public participation in government will only lead to a wall of negation – but publicly criticizing Doctrine can result in a much more participatory experience. And while there are no requirements to post a “Beware of” Doctrine warning sign; take care: it doesn’t always bark before it bites.
Social Policy Flow Chart II
When race is the basis; The whole place is racist. Don’t do the crime – if you can’t take the rhyme. Our Social Policies are like giving the power of attorney to a stranger – with delusions of grandeur.
What’s at the bottom of Policy making?
What’s at the bottom of government Policy making? Nothing – nothing that you can cling to for help – nothing that they can be held accountable for – and nothing that calls for commitment or integrity. No matter how long the pole: you can never find anything you can build a foundation on. Any unwelcome outcome is excused – and when the excuses prove to be lies – the lies are excused. There’s only one thing government policy makers prefer to excuses . . . silence.
“Socialism isn’t about people”
“A Socialist means a man who wants all the chimneys swept and the chimney-sweeps paid for it.” “But who won’t allow you to own your own soot.” — ran a conversation in Chesterton’s “The Flying Stars.” Socialists [and Progressives] have no more concern for the people; than gardener has for the twigs cut from a hedge – And while they declare they’ll pass laws to control and manage wealth: they would never pass a law against being poor.
“I’m Old, and you’re In the Way”
A second collage of selected bumper stickers from the “Cornithaca County” book – or could be used as wall art.
“Sustainability and the Greater Good”
A collage of selected bumper stickers from the “Cornithaca County” book — the other kind of road signs.
Bumper Stickers: “Less Space – More Fitting”
Revisiting bumper stickers in a more compact design – and hoping that people remember to read the fine print before signing off on anything.
“Cornithaca Billboards Multi-page”
A collage of billboards from the “Cornithaca County” book. Even in modern times; billboards still capture your attention and intrude on your thoughts – the perfect size and “volume” for doctrinal persuasion — and for the threat behind the persuasion.
“Profiling?”
Is it amusing or is it troubling; that in recent weeks I have had many more people view my author profile than have viewed my work? Since the profile is only meant to be an appetizer to whet your appetite – or a sideshow barker; to arouse your curiosity, and tempt you inside – this “turnaround” at the threshold reveals a kind of disconnect in today’s social etiquette: people don’t believe in it. Soviet rule enforced order; but did not bring about peace – as soon as their power was removed; all the hate, history, and bigotry returned. Our current Doctrine; likewise enforces a superficial social togetherness – while winking at all the harm being done to those it targets as enemies. In a world where the concept of individual human worth will only survive if we work together – our “people-as-a-commodity” government is pulling us apart. Everything is Doctrine – everything is profiling — and everything is unraveling. Only Authority is getting stronger. Profiling is human — it’s when you stop there; that inhumanity takes over.
“Plea Bargain This!”
Detectives may “speak for the victims”; but our Criminal Justice System speaks for expediency — and they always have the last word. With criminals waving guns and money all over social media – maybe it’s time for the victims to waive their social contract: “If you gotta do what you gotta do; then I gotta do something too.” [Banned in 50 states; but still available to the public.]
“hard-wired people”
Looking past the who, why, and what of our “hard-wired” society – past the “new and improved” merchandizing and high-pressure fear-driven sales techniques: how do we rate our satisfaction? These days; when trying to fix their mistakes is the best we can hope for from authorities – and our societal repair department is bigger than the showroom — “crossed wires” are the leading cause of injury; and death. And out-of-the-box problems are not covered by any social contract. But since our government has changed from a democracy to a monopoly; your choices are limited: “You can be anything you want to be: as long as it’s Doctrine.” [All other products have been discontinued.]
DRUGS: there’s no room for anything else
You can’t beat an addiction: you can only fight it — every day for the rest of your life.
Who is accountable for the failure?
Who’s accountable for the failure of our Criminal Justice System? The victims. Our societal authorities have become so bureaucratic that “fighting crime” is a sufficient answer to the grief and loss of the people. There’s no excuse for taking the law into your own hands; but there’s always an excuse for the law dropping you at the first opportunity. Authorities are ensconced behind a desk of immeasurable privilege — giving us forms to fill in our lives.
I stubbed my toe: maybe it’s a brain tumor?
Not only is it difficult to gauge the credibility of information from internet searches — it’s almost impossible to pin anything down. That white spot on your nail might mean or be anything – from house paint to “call the ambulance and have an MRI scheduled” or even the Pole Star in a bi-polar medication drama. Are you living with the Millennial chagrin of “differentness” or cringing in mortification during re-pigmentation to regain your racial purity? In our “garbage pizza” world of authoritative toppings – how do you decide which is truly Supreme? Doctrine: One Thought • One Taught • One Voice • One Choice. It’s special, it’s the most popular, and it’s the only thing on the menu.
What’s better than feeling . . .
Entitlement doesn’t stop with what is due to you – it expands to include what is due to others as well. Do you know anyone who believes they’re entitled to decide what they can or can’t do: and doesn’t decide for everyone? I thought not.
Cornithaca Doctrinal Billboard
Our emerging dictatorship follows an old path: in their quest for power; our representatives have become deciders, and now rulers. How could this happen? That’s old too: greed is the bait on corruption’s hook. Spoiler: The click of our shackles will come with the enactment of Climate Change Disaster Laws.
Climate Change revelations
What is the most believable part of government UFO cover-up stories? That our government would cover up things they don’t want the public to know – things that would cause public unrest or upset existing quid pro quo policies. So do you really believe that the “bad news, bad news, bad news” about Climate Change is news to government authorities? Climate Change weather is increasingly destructive and increasingly moving into previously unaffected areas of the country. Hazzard insurance costs are rising at an incredible rate – and insurance companies are worried about being able keep up with the tide of destruction. Those who are responsible for talking it up can tell you not to worry — but those who are responsible for paying up need to take a much more realistic view.
Dramatically lower the crime rate
Don’t change the situation – change the definition. Today’s government has more lenses than an old school planetarium: and the sky’s the limit for their fatuous policy-making. Tompkins County authorities have recently reassessed the value of rural properties up another 5% – in spite of still refusing to provide the County services of municipal water, sewers, mass transit, and Sheriff’s patrols – and while at the same time as enacting an Agricultural Zoning District that removes almost every “as of right” land use from the predominantly non-farming rural residents – and additionally promoting the construction of “satellite lagoons” on land next to non-farming residences: open cesspits of fermenting manure and heavy metal barn wastes, filled with antibiotics and antibiotic-resistant pathogens; and off-gassing hydrogen sulfide and methane gasses. This is what County authorities call the “allocation of burdens”: a euphemism for what was meted out to servants, slaves, and serfs in equally oppressive, but less hypocritical, times.
“Equality” is the new vaporware
Our government’s much heralded “Equality” is no more than political vaporware: announced to the public – but never actually produced. Like gold from seawater: the theory that their Social Polices can achieve equality is used to cover the much greater loss of equality needed to make them work. It’s not their actions that define them – it’s their excuses for these actions — and in the real world of dead-end jobs, overdue bills, and mortgages: their vaporware has a familiar odor — bullshit.
Group Names
Putting a bureaucratic touch to skepticism; is like a cautionary tale on April Fools’ Day – confusing: so here’s a way to match the group with the poop.
“Designated Disposable” Sampler
Do you know how to find out if you’re disposable? Listen . . . nothing. Question . . . nothing. Die . . . nothing. Tompkins County’s rural population is considered disposable by its Ivy League ruling class. They covet our land; to expand. In the County’s most recent comprehensive plan — we don’t even exist.
That’s why nobody’s doing anything about it
It’s an epitaph for our society: but it’s one that we can’t be bothered reading — and won’t be around to remember.
If you’re not special – you’re nothing at all
Today’s divisive government has many special categories – and a dumpster for those they leave out. Reimagined historical contexts like “First Nations” bestow a doctrine-gifted ascendancy that all peoples should aspire to – so why not self-gift our own? It’s a crime of survival.
New York Legislators have an answer
The future is no longer as dark as you feared – because you’ll be dead before it happens. Whether it’s unborn children, the elderly during the pandemic, or assisted suicide – New York State is in the forefront of eliminating the helpless and infirmed. New York State has a vision for the future . . . and if you’re unlucky; you’ll live long enough to see it.
“meaningful participation in government”
How much nicer if government had to ask our permission: “I’m away from the phone right now doing something interesting or fun: Please leave a message – and if the mailbox is full; try again later – we value your guidance.” I feel better already. “Can you get me a beer from the fridge – no, one of the 16 oz. ones.”
What do you call hypocrisy when. . ?
“Q: What do you call hypocrisy when it surpasses all rationalizing? Policy.” If you can have policies instead of individual judgement – then you can have policies instead of individual worth. At least that’s the reasoning that coats the self-serving hypocrisy of today’s societal authorities. Even though they consider themselves rulers and deciders [rather than representatives] – they use public policy as a means of cloaking the very personal gains that are a result of their decisions — even if it’s only the frisson of power.
Not because policy makers believe in freedom
“Social Policies: Not because policy makers believe in freedom and human worth – but because they seek to benefit from discrimination and oppression.” All our revered figures of freedom and equality were unalterably opposed to the concept of flexible principles – especially those that subjected anyone to oppression or discrimination. Our Social Policy makers are addicted to power: spending all that we have gained as a people in an effort to write themselves into history – risking everything on the gamble of a big payout. Whether through expediency or ignorance: the actions of our Social Policies are like throwing gasoline on a fire – like a fool at a barbeque — or policy makers in Congress.
What happened to Irish-American Heritage?
Now, it’s become Women’s History month; and Irish-American Heritage has been relegated to a secondary position; and in recent Institutional materials like the AARP 2023 calendar – only Women’s History Month is mentioned for March. In a sort of bureaucratic ethnic purge: Irish-Americans are now categorized as “Non-Hispanic whites” – and in spite of it being recognized as demeaning to be categorized by what you are not — institutions and government authorities refuse to change this act of bias. And if you offer the argument that this is a petty complaint: try doing the same with African-American Heritage Month. Or try categorizing Hispanics as “Non-Irish whites,” using “Men” and “Non-Men” as gender category descriptions, or designating “blacks” as “Non-whites” — and see what happens. You can begin to understand why we’re a society without questioning, and without debate: One Thought – One Taught – One Voice – One Choice.
Millennial Definitions: 24-hour Service
“24-hour Service: The amount of time your @#%*! works before it breaks down.” Sales & Service – when what they sell you is garbage; can its service life be far behind? 2023: Twenty-eight different brands – all selling the same cut-cost product from a bottom-level manufacturer.
Justice delivered to your door – for a price
“Ask and you shall receive – but don’t expect to receive what you asked for” – is a moral for government intervention: their only help is in taking control — of everything. Our post-representative society is plagued with problems – every problem that we gave government the power to stamp out. How is this possible? Like the gaming consoles that make their money from software, or the products that profit through selling refills: our government maintains its authoritative ascendency through fixing the problems it never fixes – and through its assertions that no one else can. Serving a public need that is never fulfilled; that becomes a hope; then a wish; and then a part of life’s burdens.
“Quitting Cigarettes . . .”
Drugs, drugs, drugs – in some communities: 95% of the crime is drug related – but the big splash is always for tobacco. Like the “don’t text and drive and run over people – you may get injured” spots: the drug epidemic is handled in a low key “don’t litter: because it’s bad” kind of way. Blaming tobacco has become a historically remunerative “boogey-man” campaign theme – but the drug epidemic, and the effect of second-hand drug use is treated as a “victim’s fault; wrong place at the wrong time” low-grade fever. In a way; it’s true that drug related deaths can be classed as tobacco related deaths – the marketed health mid-share of tobacco abuse overshadows that of drug abuse in the public’s awareness; and undercuts the efforts and funding to eradicate drugs in our communities. Maybe if the American Cancer Society would admit that drugs are the more dangerous cancer in our society; things would change — but what are the odds of that happening?
“Hell has no fire escapes”
It would be nice to think that when things get hot as hell – you could get the hell out: but our world is so enmeshed and entangled – that the only way out is a fantasy [light or dark – it’s your choice]. Now is the time to separate what works; from what sounds good – that’s why I subhead my blog: “The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials.”
“The reason they have parents”
Being biological productors is fine – but kids need parents. Bringing up your kid until the “streets” got him – is like caring for your baby until you left him in the car with the windows rolled up on a summer day: an inexcusable act for any parent. “An ounce of prevention is better than a postmortem.” Maybe you could own dogs trained in narcotics detection; so they could indicate who in the area, including your children, is involved. A well planned, publicly funded, community based camera system could leave predators with no place to hide – and document the comings and goings, and actions of those who do harm to your children – “Stay in school – jail the fool.” Why do this? For the same reason parents use baby monitors — so they can intervene on behalf of their children; instead of grieving — because they’re parents. Doing nothing and being blameless is not an option for parents. It’s your call; and it’s your calling.
Flow Chart Poetry – Social Policy Flow Chart
Go with the Flow? Or No?
Is it a sign of apathy?
Tompkins County government is unresponsive to the petitions of its residents – but sometimes they open the door a crack to shine you on. Here are a few apocryphal, but possible, bits of bureaucratic advice: Cure cancer and become a famous benefactor; and use your influence to obtain an appointment with an official. Start a national committee on your issue and get it all over the news – so local officials know you’re serious. Get elected to County government – and change its policies from a minority seat. Make a moving appeal in your voicemails – they could decide to call you back. Be persistent – try again: maybe the 28th time is lucky. The vast majority of Tompkins County residents believe that their government is corrupt; and that they have no meaningful participation. “Residents don’t decide . . . Petitions hold no merit.” — Anonymous County Superintendent Try, try, again.
Is Streaming an activity?
Is “spinning your wheels” an action? Streaming, like the water in a circulating fountain, goes around and around; making a pretty show. Always going somewhere – but never getting anywhere. So stream on and dream on – and leave the world the same . . . the same . . . the same . . . as if you never existed. **Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this commentary do not reflect those of the writer – and the streaming of UFO Conspiracy and Reality Crime Shows has not yet been proven to be an indication of criminal tendencies – or mental instability.
“When the law says you can’t . . .”
Being corrupt doesn’t mean that you’ve done something – frequently corruption is about not doing anything at all. You don’t investigate complaints, you don’t see issues or conflicts of interest, you don’t respond to the needs or respect the rights of the people. In our post-representative government – “a vision for the future based on a set of principles that reflect the values of the community as expressed by the County Legislature” – there is no room left for meaningful public participation or decision making. It’s a corruption that refuses to recognize our individual human worth and reduces us to a commodity – like slavery: it’s a corruption of the soul.
“Bad Science” is more than just being wrong
As destructive and polluting moneymakers are finding less room to maneuver in an unraveling environment – politicians are faced with the paradigm of sustainable cronyism: how do you fix the problem without addressing it? This is where “bad science” becomes the good option – weighting the factors of cost and convenience; and building our houses of straw – or opting for miniature umbrellas; because they’re cheaper and easier to carry. With so many people living in low-lying coastal cities – you would think that rising oceans and strengthening hurricanes would effect a massive awakening – but instead; our planning is for sea barriers, elevating buildings, and evacuation scenarios. One sorcerer’s apprentice idea actually has us laying compressed air pipes under the ocean; to bubble up cold water and cool the waters that fuel hurricanes – but what about the ocean’s ecology? And what will we do as the oceans continue to heat up? – “from sea to bubbling sea.” And after all; worrying gives you wrinkles – and why fix the climate when our science claims they can build us domed cities? “Bad Science. Bad Science. Heel!”
Realizing their worst fears — Responsibility
Our “adolescent” society no longer requires responsibility from those given the privileges of adult actions and decisions – and accountability has devolved into a badge of guilt. In the “Simple Solutions” series; I spoke up for the enactment of universal DNA testing: bringing together parents – and making them Both responsible for the support and upbringing of their children – for the good of their children, and a better society. I can hear the howls of protest – and attack. In back of all their objections, doctrinal rationalizations, and vituperations lies a thing they fear even more than responsibility: equality — an inflexible recognition of the individual worth of every human being, even those not yet born — a simple and glorious concept that will send the walls of their “inclusion to the exclusion” policies tumbling down.
Does playing Xbox count as a disability?
The ADA defines a person with a disability as “a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity.” So the answer is: Yes. On the flip side; and since “disability” is a legal term rather than a medical one – could having a full-time job be categorized as a disability? How about acting in a responsible and compassionate manner? Or thinking? There seems to be only one path through the quicksand of this defining bureaucracy: “If you’ve got an itch; scratch it. If you’ve got an appetite; feed it.” Life without limits.
Laws are what we expect
You may think that you’re getting protection under the Law – but your protection under Policy is so much less. Victims have become downgraded to “complainants”; and Law Enforcement should be renamed Policy Enforcement – clearing out the jails has become more important for authorities than cleaning up the streets. In truth: our government has so little regard for our individual worth and safety; that we are all probably categorized as “complainers” – it’s all a matter of Policy.
Why make the hard choice?
What’s an example of a hard choice? Electric trains – they can easily travel at twice the speed of our highways; and can move people and goods much more efficiently at more comfort, and at lower cost. Train systems can be powered and fitted more cheaply to make use of any current or emerging means of generating electricity. Moving people and goods to and from stations and depots would also benefit in cost and efficiency; by the design and production cost saving of not having to allow for long-distance/highway speed parameters in their construction. So what’s the hard choice? Changing the status quo – quid pro quo of policy making – displeasing powerful interests, the manufactures, the unions. It’s our future; but it’s their comfort and profit – so keep believing the phase-out reduced-emissions carbon-zero rhetoric: driving electric cars is like snuffing out a candle in a house fire. We’ll keep making the easy choices – until there’s only one choice left on the table – a choice that will make all the hard choices look easy — dying.
OK, that’s your excuse for why you did it
“Non-Hispanic white” is a demeaning term that disrespects and suppresses ethnic and cultural heritage and classifies people by what they are not. Apologists point out that it was a category created by the Census Bureau – so why don’t they change it? Because they don’t want to. “The gun went off by accident” carries little weight when the victim has five bullet holes.
2023: Everything depends on who you are
Sure, protections are for everybody – but unless you’re somebody, and a somebody of politically recognized worth – good luck with getting any. Social Justice is a house with many doors – all of them locked — and only some of us have the key. Not only are Martin Luther King, Jr, Abraham Lincoln, and Frederick Douglass dead — everything they believed in has died along with them.
“Don’t look at the regulation . . .”
There’s a simpler way of understanding government policy making than scocio-economical-enviromental-multi-cultural-wide-spectrum-doctrine-ajudicated analysis: Does it work? With today’s shameless self-promotion, and the public’s inability to examine untainted statistics and reporting – there is still a simple and reliable test: What do you feel? The feeling in the air in Tompkins County is one of unease – an unlocatable miasma of fear. County government and the county elite can never stop praising their policies and their beliefs; but the people keep squirming in their seats — like there’s a predator in the room.
Government Officials
Just as there are 4 layers of defense to protect government misconduct: 1. Discredit the source, 2. Discredit the facts, 3. Discredit the situation, 4. It’s legal anyway – there is a defense in depth for their bad decision making. I once worked in a corporation where the top managers banded together to profess that they weren’t responsible bad decisions – it was always the fault of those below them. The receipt of bad information, and the acting on understandable ignorance are as convincing excuses as: “The dog snuck into my house and ate my homework to get me into trouble.” I haven’t made a “bad decision exculpatory hierarchy” – but it would add a touch of bureaucratic dark humor to our descent into dissolution.
Old Folks – it’s what’s on the menu
Today’s society is not just about using and taking – it’s about consuming — and old folks are just the wrapper for decades of earned savings and goods. The seniors they feature in AARP are people of position and security – but those who are unprotected are for the chop — and the knife – just slice them open and dig in. Lambs to the slaughter; without quibble or quarter.
Government is telling the same lie . . .
In attempting to enlist the support of New York government to protect the poorest, most underserved, and unrepresented group in rural Lansing from the machinations of the town’s rich and influential agribusiness owners – I appealed to the state’s Environmental Justice staff through its “Environmental Justice Hotline” and was told to leave a voice mail message and they would get back to me. Three times I left a message; and never received a reply. Next, I emailed the DEC Commissioner: using the supplied form: “The Commissioner and staff would like to hear from you” it stated – but I haven’t heard back from them yet either. Not only did the Lansing Town Board’s “AG Zoning District” plan deny the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of those living within the new District – it openly announces its intention to override the state’s new Environmental Rights Amendment. The lie that New York government is committed to “the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people” and “the right of each person to clean air and water and a healthful environment” is a lie that is cloaked with an unnatural silence – punctuated by the cries of its rural victims.
Lansing’s rural policy is simple . . .
Town of Lansing officials are molding the future – and some people are just excess material.
New Definition: “Keyword”
Is there anything today that is untainted by the use for profit: or not broken through that use? When the search for meaning is declared to be fulfilled – that day; our freedom will end.
“Find the Differences 5”
Fifty-six framed pictures are hung on the wall: but the decorator isn’t happy with the way they look . . . After the frames have been rehung – eleven of the pictures have changed. Can you spot them? Download, print and mark the differences between these two pages of images – a solution page is included – Free download at “ruraltompkins.com” [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials]
New Millennium Sampler
Suitable for quilts and shrouds – this New Millennium sampler design brings a 19th century hominess to our 21st century callousness. Make a “State of the Union” statement today.
“You Are Here” DNA Locating Service
If you can’t beat them – get behind them. How many Nazis disapproved of – and hated – Nazism? Is it a crime to want to survive? Tens of millions today are hiding behind an unquestioning silence — hoping they’ll never hear that knock on their door.
Proud to decide – scared to debate
When did our government change from representation to rulership? Progressives have set themselves above the people by enrobing themselves in the power to decide – a sense of importance that derives from their beliefs; and empowers their decisions — And is there any word they enjoy to roll around their mouths more than “important”? This is “important” – that is “important” – and especially: they are “important.” Slaves were treated; both by those who enslaved and sold them – and those who bought them – as a commodity; without individual human worth: The same attitude of “people as objects to use” – and judgements based on race, gender, and ethnicity – infuses today’s social policies. Through their own actions and beliefs: today’s progressives are no different than yesterday’s tyrants and slave masters — would they dare to expose themselves and debate that?
Disparity of treatment
There is a greater disparity between the treatment of rural and urban poor – than there is between black and white. Suppression of evidence is a large part of the media’s responsibility these days. If you don’t believe it: take 830,000 elderly deaths, the overwhelming sense of entitlement in our society, and COVID-19 – and try to squeeze out a story about the murder of an aged relative to speed up inheritance. The same is true about the plight of our county’s predominantly “white” rural poor: it contradicts the profitable “city-centric” doctrine of race, gender, and ethnicity that relies on a narrow viewpoint to prove its case. Like our country’s elderly: the rural poor are disposable – and when you’re disposable — you can’t be a victim.
Displaying the facts – but hiding the truth
Separating the facts from the truth is one of the most important duties of bureaucrats in our society. A local before-school breakfast program announced that they served thousands of complete, nutritious breakfasts to school children – publicly praising their own actions. The truth is that the children threw almost all of their breakfast into the garbage. It was more important that the program was fulfilled, than its aims. In the same way; our social programs are being fulfilled – while a society of compassion and individual human worth is starving to death.
“In the wrong climate at the wrong time”
“In the wrong climate at the wrong time” – or “A climate change gone wrong” is how authorities will be describing the circumstances of the victims in our eco-unraveling civilization. The 2002 BBC series “The Weather” – gave a glimpse of our 2050 future; if we didn’t change our path — and twenty years later; the predictions for that date are even grimmer. Like a drunken driver telling you that everything is under control –government officials are “driving impaired” – under the influence of powerful lobbyists – and topped up with fossil fuels and eco-excuses — we’re racing with a “pedal to the rectal” to have all our asses killed.
“What is Tompkins County’s rural policy?”
Constructive eviction is a situation where the tenant’s use of the property is so severely hindered by something under the landlord’s control that a reasonable tenant has no choice but to leave. Rich and influential farming interests have taken such control of the rural community that, like Ireland under British rule, Lansing’s rural residents have become tenants on their own land – heavily taxed, without rights or representation – with all law and regulation in the hands of their corporate agribusiness “landlords.”
Find the Three Identical Windmills
The same old, same old, same old: Download, print and mark the three identical windmills – a solution page is included – Free download at “ruraltompkins.com” [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials]
Science’s “Garbage Pizza” explanation
Whether they call it a “Perfect Storm” or a freak combination of events – Science is increasingly relying on the shotgun approach to replace the magic bullet. Just as any possible solution that fits their needs becomes “the” solution – shotgun science riddles the problem with possibilities that somehow become an aggregate probability — and are presented as a theoretical certainty; an explanation that has become the go-to scenario of authorities: It’s an approach that removes accountability from the table – our societal problems are due to “environment, heredity, profiling, opportunity, lack of funding, compromised policy making, bias, and every other ingredient they can toss onto the problem [no anchovies, please]. Ordinary people say; “I don’t know, it could be anything” – but scientists say: “I do know; it’s everything” — one small step for science: one big leap for equivocation.
The “toothpaste tube” paradigm
“You can’t get blood from a turnip” – and who would try? But you can get money from people who have worked and saved for a lifetime – and our government has enacted new policies to extract as much as possible. In our disintegrating society; the new millennium has become a time of relentless acquisitiveness. The bottom of the barrel has risen to the top – and they’ll suck us dry to the very last drop.
“Your Lossy is my loss”
“Lossy” technology strips out data regarded as either unnecessary or redundant to reduce data size for storing, handling, and transmitting content. The process is irreversible. This modern method of identifying and handling “disposable” material; has been eagerly adopted by New York’s policy makers: Unborn children, the elderly, and the rural population have been “stripped out” by a political doctrine of use and profit – and left defenseless in our New Normal frenzy of taking.
“Blocking justice for the rural poor”
When it comes to rural Lansing – Census Blocks are used to implement a gerrymandering of Social Justice: the lower density of rural the population allows Census Blocks to be drawn so that they include both the multi-million-dollar lakefront residences of the Cornell elite; and poorest trailers in the rural hinterlands – in a methodology that “blends” them together to deny access to Social and Environmental Justice programs for the town’s marginalized and unrepresented rural poor.
“Spinning Climate Change Disasters”
Meteorologists are eager to predict the paths of destructive hurricanes – but when it comes to predicting the path that our climate driven world is taking — their utterances are strictly by the numbers. People have a right to be concerned by the ongoing announcements of findings that are many times bigger, quicker, and more serious than expected — history has shown that the more desperate the weather situation: the more likely our technological protections are to break down completely. So what plan do I think our government has prepared for its citizens during a climate change crisis? Martial Law.
Lovely Lansing Videogame: “No Services”
Urban Colonialism, like many colonial forms of government, has no place for the native population. Once their initial usefulness is ended – their troublesome existence is eliminated through a series of repressive and marginalizing policies. Tompkins County’s rural communities are being rapidly destroyed by high taxes, no services, an unhealthy environment, and no representation – and in the County’s recent “vision for the future” — they don’t exist at all.
“TDML: Influence tops effluence”
As the pollution levels rise higher and higher – influential polluters grab an ever greater share of the regulatory process. TDML is what these interests do when they don’t want to stop polluting. It gives them the legitimacy of regulations – without any of the bothersome restrictions. TDML: Totally Deceptive Meaningless Legislation
Plea Bargaining “Double-play”
It’s a “two-fer” or in Criminal Justice vernacular: “running concurrently” – Plea bargaining is the catalyst to our burgeoning petty career criminal life-style: so much so that criminals are now characterized as “doing what they need to do” – and victims have been relabeled as “complainants.” Only the most violent of offences seem worth putting any effort into controlling; and plea bargaining follows the arrest – like sunshine follows the rain.
“Reducing the number of poorly paid workers”
A financial expert once used this example: Two men; both working the same job, at the same pay, each buy a house. One man pays the only minimum monthly mortgage payment and puts the rest in the bank – the other uses all his additional money to pay off the principle. They both lose their jobs. The first man uses the money in the bank to continue paying his mortgage – the other loses his house: he thought the equity was in his house; it was in him. We live in a country where the government believes that spending money will fix everything: but when we run out of money — we’ll lose everything. Our country’s equity is in its people – not its policies — and there’s a pink slip coming in our pay packet.
“One world: One beach”
Feeding scraps to beggars at the kitchen door; won’t make a dent on poverty – and cleaning up a few bits of plastic on one beach; does nothing to stop the avalanche of plastic on another. If you’re doing something for the planet; then feeling good about yourself should be far down the list. Spaceship earth is leaking like a sieve — and patching one hole won’t stop the whistle of our air into a cold and indifferent universe.
Future Predictions: “In the year 2220 . . .”
Whether we’re an accident of physics with biochemical trimmings; or spiritual beings – is there any basis for assuming we will still inhabit the earth in the distant future? Maybe that’s saying something.
“Hardwired for use”
The term “hardwired” is frequently used these days to deny accountability and responsibility – but hardwiring opens the possibility of re-wiring and programing. What is there to support this theory? Just look around: intolerance, violence, disregard of individual human worth – the opposite of everything that naturally makes us a community. It’s rewiring for a purpose. It’s programing; not by “nature,” or by “nurture” – but by another.
“The Un-Scientific Method”
Science. Science. Science: If you say it over and over it gains a sense of importance. But say it a thousand times: and it still won’t make you happy.
“Politicians always take the easy way”
When you don’t lead by example: it’s those whom you designate that clear the minefield. And when your power base is “quid pro quo” – your biggest risk is stopping the flow. That’s why politicians see our welfare in a special way: Business as usual – instead of taking care of business.
Undercover Party II: “Flip the Switch”
You can smell the fear. It’s not just the fear of reprisals – it’s the fear of not getting a place in the life boat. It’s a Doctrine so far above the law; that there is no law anymore. “Unaccountable, unapproachable, and unconcerned” describes the policy makers of our disposable society. In a world that’s unraveling on all fronts: the pandemic, climate change, drugs, overpopulation, adolescent violence, emerging technologies – only those worthy will find a place in the “ark” — shortly before it’s sucked into a black hole near Geneva.
Bigoted Billboard: “There is no ‘us’”
They might as well put it on a billboard: Every policy is an affirmation of divisive and discriminatory power brokering – autocracy and acquisitiveness; cloaked in an “emperor’s new clothes” of fearful acquiescence. Like most of today’s fraudulent policies: they’re sold on their mechanisms; not their results – convincing an uneasy public that they need to give over all their freedoms to protect themselves from oppression. Then one day the policies disappear — and their freedoms along with them.
“Find the Differences 4”
Scribbles and symbols and icons, Oh My. Download, print and mark the differences between these two pages of images – a solution page is included – Free download at “ruraltompkins.com” [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials]
“If we can’t get together to combat it . . .”
Looking past the carefully quantitative scenarios of our weathered future – we can glimpse the plummeting quality of life it will bring. When whole sections of the earth become too hot, too draught afflicted, and too far under water for human habitation: how will we share what’s left. Post-apocalyptic movies depict a family doing anything to survive — what happens when it becomes a billion families? Our hot, greasy pan will be sizzling — just sprinkle the water and watch it dance!
“Find the Differences 3”
Stone Monuments and all. Download, print and mark the differences between these two pages of images – a solution page is included – Free download at “ruraltompkins.com” [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials]
“It’s the second washing . . .”
We live in a profit-driven-policy world; where Doctrine has replaced cause and effect in political and social decision making. In order to validate and legitimize unequitable and unrealistic “using and taking” – Academics and bureaucrats are creating categories for each of us — scouring away our individual worth; and then erasing our memories by “washing” them with doctrinal studies and reimagined facts. The ferment of their greed has wrecked our navigable society – and a fearful population crowds the shores in search of any salvageable fragments — until the unthinkable tsunami washes away everything.
“Find the Differences 2”
That the leopard can’t change its spots is one reason why its hide is tacked up on walls. In a society where our differences define our treatment in government policies: spotting differences is a survival skill worth cultivating. Download, print and mark the differences between these two pages of images – a solution page is included – Free download at “ruraltompkins.com” [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials]
“Find the Differences 1”
Download, print and mark the differences between these two pages of images – a solution page is included – Free download at “ruraltompkins.com” [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials]
“An extinction without a difference”
So what if we’re supposed to be intelligent – when we become as extinct as any dinosaur. Maybe our technology will allow us to chronicle our demise; and preserve it and codify it so future extraterrestrials can learn about our civilization and its achievements – and how stupid we [are] were.
Martin Luther King Jr Mask
It’s always easiest to claim what people believe when they are no longer around to refute you. “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that. That old law about ‘an eye for an eye’ leaves everybody blind. Forgiveness is not an occasional act: it is an attitude.” — Martin Luther King Jr If you would honor his life; then honor his beliefs – not the policies of those who make a mockery of his beliefs. Being much more of a sinner; I sometimes imagine him coming back and not just speaking out – but “bitch-slapping” those who claim that goodness can only be achieved through doing evil. “The time is always right to do what is right.”
Lovely Lansing Videogame: “Public Hearing”
It’s a “takers” society – and as the events, policies, and media hype swirl around us: there’s an erosion of individual worth and the “work ethic” – and all ethical conduct. Rewards come; not from the persistence of hard work – but from the persistence of a fox circling the henhouse. Life is not the opportunity to achieve – but the opportunity to take. The legitimacy of our government is no longer based on ethics; but on the profitability of its policies. Politicians and experts have swelled their egos to become the deciders: They are reshaping the world — and some people are just excess population. If you want to experience the futility of our future: attend a Public Hearing.
New Definition: “Public Hearing”
What fools we are! Our taxes pay for the lawyers that advise our local governments on how to legally minimize or eliminate public participation in the decision making process – and all the new regulatory programs enacted – like Form Based Codes and Nine-Point Plans – remove the public from any authority or oversight; even in the most radical and far reaching policy decisions. It’s hard to blame the public for being apathetic; when the sole result of attending public hearings is the legitimizing of decisions that are anything but public mandates. Publicly presenting your thought out and well-documented criticisms; to a Town Board that approves the policy within seconds of your speaking — is like voting in an election with only one candidate. The sound of one hand clapping? It’s meaningful public participation.
Lovely Lansing Videogame: “Lakeshore”
Radical re-zoning, ruthless reassessments, and rapacious taxes – clear a path for the luxury homes of Cornell’s patrician oligarchy. From their boats on the lake; the rural community can no longer see their summer memories – all they can see is money.
“Everything They Do Is Capitalized”
It was never unusual for billboard egos to hide tiny souls – but these days; it has become the usual. The exploding of the “New World Of Compassion” myth through the treatment of the elderly during the pandemic; did nothing to slow the flow of taking and using that these billboards camouflage — their owner’s sole contribution towards making a better world being: singing and dancing and presenting a “colorful” appearance. There’s a current media promotion of “Doing Anything To Protect My Family” – and while the actions include robbing, killing, drug dealing, and fraud — respecting the individual worth of others is not on the checklist. In extrapolating a “dogs in a pit” future: I can dimly glimpse the billboards of those who are pulling the strings of our puppet world – “Evil Recycles; But Stupidity Ends Up In The Garbage.” It’s Our Epitaph.
New Definition: “Particularly”
Today’s tyranny is so mealy mouthed and pussyfooting that you need to clarify what is actually being said in every policy statement they make. “Particularly” is not used to give emphasis – it’s used to give special status – to create a separate, exclusive category in the hierarchy of righteousness – while at the same time pretending that it is merely expressing a preference.
New Definition: “Political Science”
Science has increasingly viewed the universe from a human perspective – greed, vanity, and arrogance – and “fact-based” science has become the silent partner in a congress of regulatory fraud. Codifying profitable viewpoints to exclude debate and oversight is an important part of mainstream science in our disintegrating New Millennium world. But the slow dissolution of our lives isn’t my greatest fear – what happens when the shape a disastrous reality begins to appear through the scientific smokescreen? If what’s happening now is the result of their palliatives — what will their desperate solutions be like?
Plea Bargaining is “Professional Courtesy”
While the victims of murder have no opportunity or ability to lessen their condition – those who kill them can cut a deal to reduce, or even eliminate the consequences of their actions – and the victim’s family is not a party to the plea bargain and has no standing to prevent it. Giving the victims “the right to offer written input into whether a plea bargaining agreement is proper,” and “making a reasonable effort to provide them the opportunity to comment on the agreement terms”; is as meaningful an action as putting up your hand to stop a lethal bullet. Professional courtesy generally refers to the etiquette extended between members of the same profession. It’s a situation that places career criminals and career law enforcement on an equal footing. And the victims? You’re a victim: get over it!
The New Normal: Obliviousness
There comes a time when you have to do something – even if you don’t know it. “Due diligence” is more than just a legal satisfaction: it’s the price of survival. Whether it’s “eternal vigilance is the price of liberty” or “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” – people speak of a hard won wisdom: that we need to take care of business – before the business gets out of hand. Preparing for the future used to part of the responsibility of adulthood; but in our adolescent society – the importance of immediacy is wrapped up in the testing of boundaries; not whether there’s food for tomorrow. There is a tsunami of problems that will inundate every shore – and no self-righteous obliviousness can ride that wave. If we are morphing into a society [and a world] that blames everything on the past; and won’t take responsibility for the future – the time we have left is slipping away.
Bigoted Billboards: “Don’t do what they say”
The makers of modern social policies want you to associate them with beloved figures of equality and human worth – but not too close an association – not one that allows you to make a comparison. Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr, Mahatma Gandhi, and Mother Teresa all believed that the only way to a future of human worth and equality was by never discriminating against others – modern social policy makers claim that discriminating against others is the only path to that future. You can’t follow someone by marching in the opposite direction — but you can carry their likenesses — in the secure knowledge that they can’t speak out.
When race determines policy . . .
Truisms have become subordinated to doctrine in our society. It was a truism that repeatedly telling people not to think of “elephants” – would invariably cause them to think of elephants. But we are now told that “race, gender, and ethnicity” are the touchstone for every policy – and the mantra for every conversation – and by always made being aware of our differences — we will cease to think of them or count them of any importance. Like the old joke about the businessman who; “lost money on every sale; but made it up in volume” – our social policies graft together these two incompatible thoughts — and create a sideshow barker of salesmanship to appeal to our fears and prejudices. While the legitimacy of these policies is certainly questionable: The more basic question is: “Was slavery any less wrong when it was made legal?” Then ask yourself: “When individual human worth is denied; and people are treated as a commodity for use or disposal — is there any difference in the people who perpetrate the injustice: or in the source of their arguments?”
There’s no workaround for human worth
Human worth cannot be set aside, or postponed, or subordinated. Human worth is not a commodity to be packaged and portioned. It is indivisible by race, gender, and ethnicity. It cannot be regulated in a way that does not diminish it. It cannot be fenced by policy, or deconstructed by law. And those who seek to do so – are the enemies of all that make us human.
More Urbites 2
Agricultural farming practices are the biggest contributor of the Methane emissions that are “turbocharging” our planet’s Climate Change – but when the weather that these modern farming practices help create cuts into agricultural profits — we’re taxed to make up the difference. Agriculture is also the greatest polluter of our water and our waterways; and their use of fossil fuels is actually still increasing. Our government is trying to curb agricultural pollution by “voluntary programs” and “incentives” – decades of voluntary programs that have proved completely ineffective; and the incentives are limited to just pouring more tax dollars into Industrial Agriculture’s pockets. Could there be anything worse? Yes, there could – for those living in our country’s rural areas: where Industrial Agriculture is steamrollering a carpet of poverty, crime, toxic fumes, and impaired water over their communities – and nobody cares. It’s Urban Colonialism; bringing a self-serving “modern agriculture” to the backwards rural natives — profiting at any cost.
Society Survival Store 2
Another year to survive. Can you make it to the next Pandemic? Survival begins in your mind – so protect your behind and think ahead. Remember: only the tough will survive to live in a world that nobody wants to live in.
Society Survival: A Piece of the Action
“Justice” is codified by those who make the laws – not those who are the victims — and they’re frequently a community apart. That’s why victims are tossed “closure” – like a barking dog a bone — to shut them up. Sheep with the teeth of a shark will stop the depredation of wolves better than a shepherd — especially an uncaring one.
New Term: “Ongoing Nowhere”
Government has made great strides – in pretending it’s actually doing something. All of their “On this spot we will build” glowing rhetoric is good for selling; but the results confirm that selling and profiting are the sole concerns of their policy making. “Transparency,” “participation,” and “ethics” are stickers pasted on the sides of an impenetrable monolith – and our involvement is reduced to reading the proclamations of their “black box” decisions. While our politicians are “ongoing nowhere” — we’re “going nowhere” — and it’s nowhere we want to go.
“What are Biden’s policy guidelines?”
Since when did our government get so predatory? Politicians and their conies are swollen with privilege and pillaging – deceptive and manipulative policies reach deep into the life savings of the hard-working poor – proclaiming it’s equitable to give to those who distain low-paying, dead-end jobs — by taking from those who worked them.
How do Progressives Balance Justice?
Tompkins County government brags about being Progressive – but when you question their decisions – they go silent – and feel no need to answer. They see themselves as rulers; not as representatives. This excerpt from the county’s Comp Plan is revealing: “The Tompkins County Comprehensive Plan presents a vision for the future of the community. It is based on a set of principles that reflect the values of the community as expressed by the County Legislature they have elected.” It’s a fancy-dancing way of say that they will make all the decisions – an interpretation that is supported in every page of their plan for how others should live. There’s no need to cook the books when you can’t be called to account. Theirs is the burden of rulership; ours is to carry their sedan chairs.
Millennial Definition: Affirmative Action
Our government doesn’t share – so everything they give you; they’ve taken from someone else; and plan on taking back. It’s a basic divide-and-conquer technique to manipulate one group of people by targeting another for hate – and then “cleaning up” whatever opposition is left. Do you really think that giving our government the power to discriminate against whoever they want, however they want, for as long as they want, in secret: is a wise thing?
When you expose the truth . . .
Did I hear someone say; “What is truth?” It’s a pity to live in a time when people so often quibble at details to avoid dealing with the larger issue. I believe in the simple case that overrides the boundary conditions – so I believe that we can discuss “truth” and “lies” as human actions that directly affect people – without prejudice to the finer shades of their character. Why expose the truth; instead of just the lies, or the liars? For the same reason that people use constructive criticism: to build a path to something better.
They always run home to Doctrine
Doctrine is like your mother – you are forgiven and protected within her embrace – no matter what you have done: so it’s not surprising that doctrine holders run from unpleasant historical facts and ethical prohibitions; to hide in a political doctrine whose teachings are unconditional and unjudgeable.
Their ethics are so flexible . . .
There’s corruption – and then, there’s collegiate corruption: the sort that’s wrapped in so many layers of studies, credentials, and pretty mission statements – that the essential ugliness is hidden from all but the most determined of searchers. And most people don’t want to search. The prevailing atmosphere of our “college-destination county” is fear. When a County Highway Director made public claims that were proven to be blatantly untrue – no one in the County’s Ethics Committee, the Ithaca Tompkins County Transportation Committee, the County Legislature, and no Lansing Town Board member, or any other Town or County official approached would comment on it, or even mention its occurrence. How’s that for an Ivy League University town that pretends to be a beacon of free thinking and equitable illumination? How’s that for a conspiracy of silence?
Turning “have-nots” into the have-nothings
When the rich, Cornell-sponsored agribusinesses decided to take over north Lansing, NY for their sole benefit and profit: Cornell’s planner stated that the existing rural residents “didn’t deserve to live there” – and rather than this being denied – all of the Town of Lansing, Tompkins County, and Cornell officials continued to use this bias statement as the foundation for their every policy decision and regulatory agenda of the last 15 years. Tompkins County’s rural people are disposable; and in the County’s “vision of the future” Comprehensive Plan: they no longer exist — they’ve been disposed of.
“An ounce of prevention”
Isn’t it better not to be robbed, beaten, raped, and killed? This is not an option available to those in the victim pool of our criminal justice system. Like today’s one-click companies; that can’t seem to deliver the right product to the right address to remain unbroken to do the job they claim it can do – the criminal justice system relies on a “customer service” approach to fix things that never should have happened in the first place. The victim’s only option is for them to try to apprehend the assailant to build a case to plea bargain down to a shortened jail term with early release on parole that is broken and obtain a ho-hum warrant while the assailant commits another crime or two before being apprehended and the whole futile process starts all over again. The criminal justice system has changed over the years: murders used to get the death penalty; then life in prison; then a few years in prison; then no prison because they are not accountable for their actions — but the outcome for the victims has remained the same: they’re dead, dead, dead, dead, dead.
Their favorite cover crop is bullshit
The Town of Lansing is about to turn the rural community into an AG Zoning District for the sole benefit of a handful of rich farmers. Non-farming residents [the poor 95%] have had all their land uses removed except for having a house – this will force them to sell all other land to famers; or face the regressive tax burdens of AG structured assessments. The rural community have had no meaningful participation, representation, or respect from the unilateral planning authorities. This is how Progressive government works: the rich get richer – and the poor get stepped on . . . and demeaned . . . and disposed of
My facts can beat your assertions
No wonder debate is dead – Doctrine is a revealed belief: there is no need for debate or thought. The insistence on facts brings denial, anger, and then . . . Facts may beat assertions — but fists can beat you senseless.
“They were in the wrong place . . .”
Everybody in the Criminal Justice System knows: it’s the victims that cause all the trouble – they’re the grit that fouls up the smooth running cycle of plea bargains and paroles, cause unnecessary paperwork, and drive up departmental statistics. So the victims are now “complainants” – and the criminals? They’re victims of complainants.
Recipe for Disaster: Emerging Technologies
The dangers of Emerging Technologies are like the iceberg the Titanic hit – best avoided by foresight; only officially accounted for in hindsight — but the protocols are so good that we don’t need to carry lifeboats.
More Urbites
The farther from the bright urban center – the less your worth. In rural New York no one can hear you scream . . . it’s not important, anyway.
Thinkin’ like Lincoln
When did we change from believing that people were so important; we should form policies around them – to believing that policies are so important; we should form society around them? When did “important” change from the raison d'être for rights – to the raison d'être for restrictions? Lincoln believed that; “Important principles may, and must, be inflexible.” When did we begin to bend them to fit our desires?
They keep changing lenses
Tompkins County policies are all about following the money – and their policy making is all about finding a usable lens that excuses it. The Town of Lansing’s AG Zoning District re-zones agricultural activities along the lake to Lakeshore residences: because those areas “are environmentally sensitive” and “potential problems related to steep slopes” [and because rich people want lakeshore houses] – but ignores mile after mile of equally steep slopes of unbuffered agricultural activity along nearby Salmon Creek: one of the major sources of agricultural pollution and impairment of the lake. Preservation of agriculture is so important that the AG Zoning District radically changes the zoning and allowed activities of a 200 year old rural community: leaving poor non-farming landowners no choice; but to sell out to the rich farming interests – or go under through a regressive tax structure. And behind it all is Cornell: making lenses for their friends. Tompkins County: where the rich get richer – and the poor get stepped on — all according to plan.
Agricultural Law is a Hate Crime
Non-farming rural residents in New York straddle a line between unborn children: who are not human beings by law – and farmers: who are preferred by law — they are a forced-to-admit-they-are-human classification that is demonized and disposable – the grit in the smoothly oiled Agricultural lobby. “A hate crime is a crime that is motivated in whole or substantial part by bias against certain personal characteristics.” Agricultural bias is documented in every policy statement they make, and every regressive zoning law they support – But according to New York State law, there must be an underlying crime in order for an incident to be classified as a hate crime — and if you are disposable: you can’t be a victim – so there can’t be a crime. In our uncaring society: the line between good and bad is licensable — and Agricultural Law is bought and paid for.
Slavery isn’t based on hate
Slavery isn’t based on hate – it’s based on a denial of individual worth. A belief that people can be used as commodities. The same belief that fosters slavery – is the same belief that populates today’s legislation. Beware.
Rebranding Bigotry
Rebranding isn’t just for changing the corporate image of an organization – it’s become a marketing strategy for every evil that has oppressed people throughout history. The idea behind this rebranding is to create a different identity for evil in the minds of the public: evil as a force for good. Rebranding may relabel evil by pasting “equitable” or “affirmative” on the same acts and attitudes that have destroyed everything they touched; or claim these acts are made from 100% “Greater Good” – as if the steps of evil will eventually lead us to a higher plane of existence. Rebranding is the tyrant’s tool: Denying the individual worth of human beings – and focusing on profit as the goal of all social interactions. Evil: Ride for the brand – and be the hide with the brand.
Agricultural Regulations?
Agricultural interests always talk about regulations; because they never want to talk about the results. Agricultural regulations legitimize polluting by creating worthless standards that legally shield the polluters. The TDML [Total Daily Maximum Load] paradigm sets the maximum level of pollution possible before environmental disaster – and then requires polluters to “try” to meet it. Decades of Voluntary Guidelines and Nutrient Plans have proven worthless to curb Agriculture’s destruction of the environment – and the health of the rural communities they politically dominate. The Agricultural sector is the only sector in the US that is still increasing its polluting; and increasing it across the board – from use of fossil fuels, to methane emissions, to nutrient pollution of our water: they are the fuse for global destruction. The next time you see one of those “green” farm promotions; realize — it’s the polluting that you don’t see that will kill you.
Feet of manure
The foundation of modern animal agriculture is a lot of manure: in both the literal and metaphorical sense. Industrial farming practices have same relation to traditional manure spreading as the BP oil spill to a grease spot. Modern farming is a destructive and greedy giant: leaving a toxic print on the rural landscape – a bully trying to sell the image of a much abused victim while getting more perks and privileges than any other interest group. Take a good look at the feet that our agricultural “progress” is standing on — a shitload of money.
“It is the duty of children . . .”
The problem with Proverbs of Wisdom is that they are “broad spectrum” – and those who want to use one are in danger of being undone by another; or by many others. Today’s Doctrine forsakes the breadth of wisdom – and extracts and codifies the most useful parts of proverbs from around the world as societal regulations: a way of leveraging taxes and obligations – always taking instead of giving. There is nothing more foreign to the Doctrine of Entitlement; than the concept of “duty” to anyone but yourself — unless it’s “waiting on elders.” It may take a village to have a village idiot — but you can’t teach sense to a fool.
modifying ABSOLUTES
In the 60s: Liberals would judge everything by an Absolute measuring stick – “Absolutely this” and “Absolutely that” – until I began calling it the “Litany of Absolutes.” Today’s Progressives however; never met an absolute that couldn’t be trimmed, shaped, or forced into accommodating anything they wanted. Channeling Stalin, Pol Pot, Hitler, Mao — becoming Stalin, Pol Pot, Hitler, Mao. A power that forces our ends — Absolutely.
Tompkins County: Corruption isn’t denounced
When the County Highway Director proclaimed a blatant untruth to block a through-truck regulation – and it was proven to be untrue – he never changed or retracted his statement — and not one member of the County Ethics Committee, the County Transportation Committee, or any Town or County official at any level would even mention it. There was just a wall of silence. And not one of them would speak on the reason for their silence. Why won’t any of them respond? Sometimes not saying – is the same as lying.
Making connections
There’s nothing easier than making connections – and the closer to our being; the easier they are to make – that’s why we can make faces out of so many random elements. But with so many connections: what are the connections that ring the truest – that have practicality at their core? Yes, there is tremendous amount of gold in sea water: but Gold + Sea water + Investment is not a connection I would recommend to anybody. Our politicians want to choose what connections we make: and People + Laws = Political Power is the connection they see in every issue. What if chose our own connections? What a frightening and glorious thought: People + People = Community – how’s that for a connection.
Salmon Creek Drug Sanctuary
Like the “Landfill Park” in The Mask – the public is always the recipient of that which is unsuitable for “people of influence and obligation” – a bureaucratic wrapping up of garbage for those “gift giving” publicity photos. So what does local government do with a dark and polluted bit of rural woods at the bottom of a steep valley? Make a gesture. It’s a gesture that rural people are familiar with.
Agricultural Law
A picture may be worth a thousand words – but there are some pictures that the public doesn’t see. Farmers are sometimes just referred to as the “rich people” in the poor rural communities. One dental technician told me that she knew the farmer crying for subsidies on television: he has a 40-ft yacht. “Farm Friendly” doesn’t begin to describe the deliberately biased and un-equitable treatment that exists in the rich farmer – poor unrepresented and disposable “non-farmer” rural communities. Agricultural Law protects farming; like beheadings protect a tyrant.
You won’t save the Titanic by bailing
A few years ago: it would have made me cry – but now, I just shake my head and laugh: electric cars. Electric cars will make no meaningful difference. Electric cars are what you do along with meaningful changes — not instead of. Did you know that the Agricultural Sector in New York State and elsewhere is allowed any amount of open burning, and the unlimited use of smudge pots? And not only is Agriculture a significant user of fossil fuels – in states like New York: they are Fuel Tax Exempt – undercutting any regulatory attempts to curb their fossil fuel usage. Methane emissions are driving Climate Change – and the Agricultural Sector is the largest producer of methane in the US – and the only sector where emissions are still increasing. And the farming methods being promoted by the USDA and Land Grant Colleges are the largest emitters of methane of all farming methods. All the biggest producers are transitioning – from claiming Climate Change doesn’t exist: to claiming they’re doing something about it. Climate Change is here to stay – and it’s already too big to get out the door. Drive happy!
Ithaca: where everybody wants to live
Ithaca is the place where everybody wants to live: because it’s the only place in the county where people have individual worth. While Ithaca rules the county – it never leads by example. Their plan to blanket rural Lansing with CAFOs is balanced by their own petition to the New York State Supreme Court: enumerating serious concerns about lack of CAFO and Agricultural regulation and oversight, lack of disclosure, and the possible effects of modern farming practices on their own residents and their own town’s environment. Lansing’s puppet government has expressed no concerns at all. Ithaca is Camelot: A castle community where people dump their slop on the unprotected commoners outside the walls – without a second thought. Where would you want to live?
Policy making in Tompkins County is a purely
Policy making in Tompkins County is a purely mechanical process: every outcome is decided before the issue is revealed. The round of comments, and meetings and surveys is only a meaningless backfill for an edifice whose foundations have already been laid. The “meeting” for a radical zoning change for the rural Lansing community is called an “Open House” – a PR phrase for an exclusionary paradigm shift that denied that same rural community any participation in its planning. When you connect all the dots — it’s a picture of money.
Tompkins County Definition: Homeless
Politics is all about convenience – and there’s nothing more convenient than a vague and nebulous classification: Especially one with emotional leverage. How many communities have allowed housing complexes that will serve elderly residents – that turned out to be high-crime, felon and sex offender dumping grounds — with a scattering of elderly as perennial victims. The “Homeless” designation is the perfect heart-tugging catch-all to disguise the problems of drug addiction, violent crime, and under-the-radar serial killers passing through. Dumping your problems on someone else is more convenient than trying to solve them yourself – and more practical. It changes: “I’m no good for not solving them” to “you’re selfish if you don’t accept them.” The Cornell-Ithaca machine “allocates burdens” to the other towns in the county – while keeping all the benefits to themselves. It’s not that residents don’t understand what’s going on – it’s just that Tompkins County is not a representative government – and these days: it doesn’t even bother to hide it. When corruption reaches a level of blatant display and whispered stories — it’s past remediation.
The bad news is – The good news is
When you’re only a passenger – there’s no guilt in throwing up your hands and shouting: “we’re all going to die!” — and having your arms broken by the airbag.
In our entitled world:
Too many cooks may spoil the broth – but too few rowers becalms the boat – in the middle of the channel – approaching the falls. Can you hear it? Puffing won’t fill the sails.
Their only care is for patching their purse
In Tompkins County: the colleges, corporations, politicians, and institutions work closely together to ensure that they catch every penny before it can trickle through their fingers. And a policy of denying mass transit and law enforcement to the poor rural communities puts that much more coin in their coffers.
What’s good for the gander –
“What’s good for the goose is good for the gander” – refers to a concept of gender equality that is no longer permissible in modern Doctrinal Society. Acceptable behavior is set forth in law at a higher level: by people who refuse to reveal what they are giving, what they are taking, and how they are weighting the scales – or to have their decisions questioned.
“Using doesn’t define you: It empowers you.”
“Doing unto others . . .” is just an out of date homily in this time of naked greed. People who distain menial jobs; have no problem taking from those who work them. And “compassion” is just a tool to shame those who have it; into giving to those who use it. The only crimes left are not getting what you want — or someone not giving it to you.
Only men admit to being sexist
Women always defend or excuse their sexist behavior. “Always sexist – always an excuse” is an amazingly accurate paradigm — but then, there’s no more room for truth in modern Doctrine than there is for gender equality.
Why do people who disbelieve in religion –
You can knife five people to death at a party – and you’re not accountable. But if you have non-conforming beliefs – you’ve committed an unforgivable crime. We’ve moved from “saints and sinners” to “users and losers” – and the self-serving Doctrine that facilitates an endless taking has no place for ethical or religious restrictions. A greed-driven media goes out of its way to link religious beliefs with everything bad – and promote a guillotine-crowd of targeting haters. Welcome to a time where victims have been downgraded to complainants – and are just one politician away from a “not human beings” status. Embrace the feel-good conformity — and drive your electric car in climate change weather.
“If psychiatrists were accountable . . .”
It’s a world of power – without accountability. Of authority – without oversight. Whether it’s the Girl Card, the Race Card, or the Official Card – it’s a game of bureaucracy that allows some players to play by a different set of rules. It’s a corruption that balances the books – and won’t allow any auditing. “If you want to know the end, look at the beginning.” – African Proverb It’s not going to end well.
“Ring in the changes – ring up the cash”
It’s no longer change for change sake – it’s change for their sake. Every change in our changeable world is leveraged with behind-the-scenes levers: Your stocks go down – they profit. Your stocks go up – they profit. Every life, every death, every education, every disability, and every natural, unnatural, and financial disaster — is another opportunity to siphon off the cash. We’re living in a time of change: cha-ching.
Tompkins County Definitions: “Coincidence”
Tompkins County is all about coincidences – but those days are about over: the strata of the New Society is clearly defined by Doctrine. There is no longer any reason to obscure the facts – just be more “important,” be “owed,” or “identified as a need” – and your ascension is a matter of public proclamation. As for Tompkins County’s poor, marginalized, and underserved rural people – Well, there can’t be a higher; unless there’s a lower — and those “Good-old boy, hillbilly, redneck, lily-whites” don’t deserve to live there, anyway.
“What’s more destructive than. . ?”
Forget about the flooding of cities – and think about the floods of refugees. It’s Nano-bombs, not rising seas that will change the face of the planet. How ironic that emerging technologies; instead of saving us from the mistakes of old technologies, will deliver the coup de grâce. One world to grab in the tumult – and if they can’t have it: no one can.
“Politicians: subordinating our ecosystem”
I was speaking with someone who was blaming the attendees at the Climate Change Conference for the state of inaction. What will that person do? Nothing. In 2022: blaming someone else is enough. The doctrinal world is more “real” than the real world. While those “blameless” ones have been assured of their place in line – politicians know it take’s money and connections to get past the rope. Our childish population won’t need to hold their breath until they turn blue — it will be a naturally occurring phenomenon. So many lenses – so little lens cleaning.
“They’re so self-centered . . .”
What does analogy this add to the canon of “self-centeredness”? Possibly the notion that self-centeredness is never sufficient unto itself – it must reach out to take more. What happens when two “self-centers” collide? Will they become “we-centered”? If two black holes – emptying into other spaces – collide — will they be consumed with each other – and leave us alone? One mouth with two stomachs? The BOGO origin of parallel universes?
“What can’t be cured . . .”
Sometimes it seems that the only problems politicians insist on curing are the result of the human condition – and they plan to cure them by removing our humanity and human worth. They remove argument and opinion by banning debate and defining only one correct viewpoint. They remove inefficiency in government by removing the people from every decision making process. They remove the pain of human interaction and human progress by putting barriers to every action and interaction: that only they can lift. If human beings can be “cured” from their humanity — wouldn’t that cure be worse than the disease?
“The NEW Constitution”
I’ve tried to move things along – bring about a change in the treatment of the rural community documented in Tompkins County and Tammany Hall. I’ve sent emails, letters, and books – to authorities in government, college programs, newspapers, even to investigative media – with one result: nothing. No encouragement, no dismissiveness, no acknowledgement — no response of any kind. It’s rejection beyond rejection: it’s non-existence. Our whole structure of authority and oversight is not one of a functioning government – but of a gang. And all those who might be able to help: are involved, unwilling, or afraid. Maybe it’s a good thing that I’m not considered a threat – or I might end up as the victim of a “robbery gone bad.” You don’t think that could happen? Our lives are of no importance to our government – just ask them — and wait for their answer.
“How does government balance Social Justice?”
If there’s anything we know about “Social Justice” – it’s that we don’t know anything. It’s carried out in secret and justified on the basis of restricted information and selective disclosures. Even the simplest inquiries are hindered by a forest of FOIL forms – breaking any straight forward request into a maze of bureaucratic roadblocks. There’s only one fact that our government can’t conceal – every program and policy they enact gives them more power and more control — and that’s what government is all about these days, isn’t it.
The superstitions of our time
Politics and Science are supposed to make everything good in the real world — They haven’t. We are sheltering in a poisoned and deteriorating ecosystem – divided and isolated from each other – with the wolf clawing at the door — and all they can say is: “Disasters and predation are naturally occurring phenomena.” Science and Politics are the idealization of human practicality – and if they don’t work: they don’t work. Period. Following leaders like that gives you a place in history — written by those who didn’t.
“It takes a village” . . .
The arc of using. Traditions are fields where the fruits of generations can be harvested. When one crop is consumed – they move to another field. “When the music changes, so does the dance.” – African Proverb
Free Download: “Burglertime Card Game”
Free Download on my WordPress Blog: [ruraltompkins.com] “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials” You’re immersed in the Criminal Justice System — Good Luck! Each player builds a case with the Evidence on their cards. Once everyone is out of cards, the player with the most points in their Case File wins in this “bureaucratic closure” card game. Download the instructions and artwork for 24 Evidence cards and 32 Adjudication cards. Print, cut out, and play – card back images are included for double-sided printing.
“Burglertime Preview – Evidence Cards”
You’re immersed in the Criminal Justice System. In Burglertime: each player must build a winning case with the elements on their cards — Good Luck! Free printable download coming soon.
“It’s not tradition – it’s survival”
It’s time to put traditional values and cautions into their proper sphere – the voice of experience. We learn by doing: and recount what works. It’s practical, and reasonable, to consider that tradition is the survival blueprint for society. Traditions are no more confining than the clothes that we wear to survive winter’s cold — and those who refuse to do so: merely prove their own foolishness. The only lasting effect of 50 years of government bias programs: is an all-powerful government – that can’t get the job done: First because there was not money enough; then because they were not powerful enough; and now because we are not worthy enough — enough is enough! Sawing the board that you’re sitting on is funny in cartoons – but disastrous in life. It’s time to stop our cartoon government before “That’s all folks!” is our epitaph.
“Just go with the Prole”
“Proles” in George Orwell's "1984": are a social class that forms the lowest level of society. That’s us – conforming, categorized, and caught in the flow of an authoritarian restructuring of government. Long before we get there — comments like this will no longer be allowed. Nor the people that make them.
Millennial Definition: “Necessity”
Persistence may overcome resistance – but why bother; when Big Brother can step in with a club. Having a mandate; is only second to having a child or a recognized disability for leveraging a better life. Does that sound unfeeling and unfair? As unfair as making people who worked a lifetime – still keep working into their 80s to survive? To paraphrase: “Work a lifetime in their shoes.”
“Being less in the Equitable Society”
Putting the finger on the scales means that you’re buying things on their terms. And when you’re paying with everything you own: how can that be ethical? Competing on an unlevel field is a common situation for rural people – but being excluded from our government’s “Equitable” policies; is like locking the gates. “The real tragedy of these small enclaves of marginality and poverty is that people are playing a game of life that has been structured in such a way that they are required to play but prevented from winning” – Janet Fitchen, “Poverty in Rural America”
“Life is simpler these days”
It’s easy to be “diverse” – it’s all written out for you. Expressing your individuality is just following the script. You can choose anything you want – as long as it’s on the menu. It’s following the House Rules of the Adolescent Society. Life is simpler these days – but being yourself is more difficult — and more dangerous.
“The Agenda is no longer hidden”
The Agenda is no longer hidden – the hate is no longer sugar coated. It’s in every “editorial decision” – in every script – it’s in the profiling used to cast every commercial and every drama – the basis of every “reality” based show and documentary – the underpinning of every social policy. It’s in your face with a shouting crowd that fills your doorway. Don’t question “what will it lead to” — just look at what it led to in the past.
“A Commonality of Corruption”
It’s a corruption that can’t be talked about — a corruption that’s spread around – a corruption that always puts something in the pocket of those who could, and should, do something about it. How often these days; is the attitude of “there’s nothing I can do about it” – a cover for the quid pro quo corrupting of our Society? There’s no need to answer — we all know it.
“The protruding nail gets demonized”
The force that reduces us to automatons is no longer impersonal – it’s a gibbering, hate-filled monster. Doctrine is Everything: and those who do not conform must be punished; and used as an example. People and beliefs that are non-conforming are not subject to debate, dismissiveness, or even to exclusion: but have become the objects of mob injustice and violence — while those who incite the mob merely whisper in the background.
Poison Apples Playing Cards
“With some deals – it’s best to throw in your hand.” • FREE Download at: RuralTompkins.com – “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials.” • Print and cut out this card deck – card back images are included for double-sided printing.
“When studies can’t be replicated”
The actions that authorities take to maintain and to regain their authority is always interesting. When the “replication crisis” uncovered the wide-spread existence of studies that could not be replicated [Replication is the peer-review basis of validation for studies and study results] – it was a serious blow to the mantle of authoritative power that psychology and social science studies have enrobed their results in – and to the politicians and special interests that manipulate that power. How can this authority be regained? First: control the situation – “deliberate misrepresentation and fraud are rare.” Second: control the public perception – “there is a ‘naturally occurring’ variation due to sampling size and content; that can produce widely differing study results.” Third: spin-doctor the mix – the “replication crisis” is not a scandal; it’s a good thing — it enhances our knowledge by showing that you need to take study results with “a grain of salt.” Results of studies can “widely differ” – but at the same time: any one of those results can be selected and cited by politicians and special interests as authoritative. And if you think they’ll tell you to “take them with a grain of salt” — you’re the sort of buyer they’re looking to sell to.
“You may beat down the questioner”
There are so many unanswered questions these days; because questioning is not welcomed. Not only does questioning slow up the legislative process – it raises doubts in the minds of citizens: doubts about the legislative agenda, doubts about the need for more government powers and prerogatives, doubts about the infallibility of experts. And those unanswered questions are likely to remain unanswered — because we are questioning a government that is no longer answerable to the people.
The only thing more damning than their lies
In “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall”: I documented the County Highway Director claiming to a Legislator: “I have researched the area and talked to highway officials in Lansing and they report there are no large through haul trucks utilizing Lansingville Road. What is using the road is as I thought, Agriculture Vehicles.” And in spite of many photographs that were submitted; showing tractor-trailers, cement mixers, gravel dump trucks, and semi-flatbeds carrying industrial equipment using that same road – he never changed that claim. When this conduct was brought to the attention of the County Ethics Advisory Board – their response never acknowledged it. When it was brought to the attention of the Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council – they never acknowledged it. When I sent the book to Town, County, and State authorities – none of them would acknowledge his conduct [or even acknowledge receipt of the book.] No one would address it, and no one would talk about it — and as a consequence: they said everything we needed to know.
Equal treatment for all, always
Martin Luther King, Jr. is under attack, Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln and Malcom X are under attack. Anyone who believes that equality and individual human worth are absolutes – and cannot be recast, revised, or revoked – is under attack. Everyone who believes that others are no less than themselves, and no less deserving than themselves – is being disrespected and dismissed by those who see a better world as the reflection of their own gain and satisfaction. Let’s debate it – and better than that — let’s see who wants to change it, what they want to do, and who they want to do it to: Full Disclosure – Full Exposure — whether they want it or not! If you feel conflicted by contemporary Social Programs – that’s the big step – now take the little step and come back to where we all belong — where everyone matters.
U.S. Agriculture: Paid to pollute
It’s not surprising that most Americans don’t know what’s going on in the Agricultural Sector – they’re not supposed to. You may know that methane emissions have the greatest short term effect on Climate Change: greater than the CO2 gasses produced by cars, trucks, and industry. What you may not know; is that Agriculture is the greatest contributor to methane emissions – and that the Agricultural Sector is the only sector where methane emissions are continuing to increase. And that the farming methods being promoted by the USDA and Agricultural Colleges are the biggest producers of methane of all farming methods. Or that our government is only using voluntary programs and incentives [paying them our tax money] to fight this pollution. To cut straight to the punch line: When all their activities that contribute to Climate Change affect their crops —government subsidies and funding pay out our tax money to ensure that our country’s corporate agribusinesses get every penny of profit they’re destroying our climate for. Are they fools for what they’re doing? Or are we fools for letting them do it?
“Life is what they make it”
Life is not “what you make it” – we’ve lost all control over what our life is; and what it will be. The circumstances of our existence are what the government decides – by gender, race, ethnicity, age, and any other useful handle. Don’t think of it as the loss of your freedom – think of it as practice for the unfolding dictatorship.
New Normal Corruption – “Herbicide Spraying”
This hits home – because I was sprayed with a cloud of Roundup from an agricultural boom sprayer while mowing my lawn – and ended up dazed and vomiting all over myself and the bathroom in the early morning hours. The investigation of my complaint by the NYSDEC [documented in “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall”] did nothing to help their reputation for corruption in the rural community. Most rural families are too poor to move and powerless to use politicians; and when the mega-million dollar factory farms took over rural Lansing, NY – they owned us and everything in it. The only thing worse than the environmental racism of the rural blacks – is the environmental erasism of the rural whites — we have no help, no hope — and no worth.
Tompkins County’s “Separate but Equal” Policy
Important corporations in Tompkins County: like Cargill and Cornell, receive tax cuts — while the rural areas receive cuts in services. Having basic services in rural areas, like Sheriff’s patrols, cut entirely; because they’re “too expensive” – is the definition of “unimportant” in Tompkins County’s Ivy-league-corporate planning – and it helps the bottom line – while the County’s rural tax assessments are the closest thing to Prince John since Robin Hood’s time.
“Discriminating over and over”
Progressive thinking is always based on their own superiority – not the recognition of the worth of other people: and the foundation of their policy making is not having that superiority questioned – ever. The lie of Biden’s Social Policies is their claim to be the instrument of equitable treatment for all those who are poor, marginalized, and underserved. Tompkins County’s rural population, like rural communities throughout America, is the poorest, most marginalized, and underserved segment of the population — and is beaten, robbed, and disrespected in every trumpeted policy of its overwhelmingly Progressive government. When a lie is the basis – like the Emperor’s New Clothes: anyone who claims to see through it is labeled “unworthy.”
“Murder is a naturally occurring phenomenon”
Some doctors claim that all human deaths can be ascribed to “heart failure” – and yet its causes are as varied as our interactions with each other and the world around us. If human emotions, drives and beliefs are naturally occurring aspects of the human condition – does that make murder “naturally occurring” as well? “Naturally occurring” has been the ethical loophole through which government authorities and their cronies has squeezed environmental wrongdoing for decades. The saltwater that is slowly creeping up the Mississippi River is just the latest disaster that our government labels as “naturally occurring” – Naturally occurring if your greed and arrogance count the results as less important than your profits. Unceasing human driven climate change has morphed into an alibi where anything that happens in nature is “natural” – leaving no culprit for adjudication. I won’t say the future is dark: because the disastrous outcome of our inaction is clearly illuminated in every choice we make. There may not be time to fix things — but there’s plenty of time left to blame. “Fiddling while Rome burns” is a naturally occurring phenomenon.
“Include this!”
Blacks and women don’t include anyone else. The idea of single fathers, although there are many, as a pioneers breaking gender barriers is suppressed – and their children are characterized as growing up without a mother. The lack of men in gender skewed professions; like nursing – is dismissed with talk of public perceptions: the same perceptions; that when applied to women — are unconscionable and must be changed. And have you ever seen “white males” portrayed in traditional black cultural and neighborhood roles as the equal or even better or more skilled than those around them? Women and blacks are overwhelmingly portrayed as excelling in professional and authority roles — unable by race and gender to commit hate crimes, or discriminatory behavior – but always discriminated against — While “European-white-males” are profiled into every negative role: the fool or the scammer in TV commercials and the “bad guy” in every doctrinal-morality story – an original sin that can only be atoned for by sacrificing themselves. This is the ugly Nazism behind their new-world-change millennial rhetoric. Inclusion; like so many other finger-on-the-scales social policies – is merely a tool for self-serving and bigoted pressure groups. You have an excuse? But if you really believed in inclusion – why would you ever want to have one?
“Patrician, heal thyself”
Progressives always set themselves above other people – assuming their right to question and judge everyone else on the basis of their own beliefs. This Holier-than-God attitude relies on themselves being unquestionably and unjudgably right. My investigations show Tompkins County’s braggingly Progressive government to be self-serving, bigoted, and oppressive; and riddled with misconduct and cronyism – but they refuse to disclose or debate anything: The hubris of their pride is only outweighed by their instinct for self-preservation.
“Pit Bulls get a bad rap . . .”
In 2019: 69% of the human dog bite fatalities were from Pit Bulls, with an additional 7% from “mixed-breed” Pit Bulls. It’s not surprising that Pit Bulls are the most popular dog for criminals – they attack, rend, and even kill people – and usually with no jail time for the owners. When the Pit Bulls are destroyed; the owner gets new Pit Bulls. It’s like putting the blame on the murder weapon. The rise of Pit Bulls is a defining statistic in our Victim’s Fault society — as we move inexorably towards Colosseums, guillotining, and our final dissolution.
New Normal Corruption – “Lines of Defense”
In our government’s protective reflex to swat away any annoyance, its first response is to “Discredit the Complainant” who is causing the trouble. When it comes to discrediting the facts that conflict with and undermine government policy making decisions; authorities can choose from a number of passive and proactive methods. A bureaucratic favorite is to present the public with background information that deliberately misrepresents, and even omits key facts; in order to validate their chosen course of action. If getting government authorities to admit the facts is difficult; getting them to accurately report a situation and make appropriate policy decisions is almost impossible. Not only do they occupy a “high ground” that allows them to cite everything from jobs to jurisprudence as an excuse; they can change the ground rules to suit their objectives. An important part of today’s regulatory process is how well it works to protect the interests of those who are regulated. Our government continually legislates ineffectual regulations; that effectively protect the wrongdoers.
“The shortest running musical on Broadway”
“It is what it is” young thugs say dismissively – not worrying about what’s coming round the corner. It’s not that experts don’t know the disaster rolling towards us – they’re keeping quiet – and bidding for a place in the lifeboat.
“If representative government isn’t dead . .
What’s the biggest stumbling block to representative government? Silence. The first choice of politicians to address any unwelcome problem is silence. The second is to pass you on. The third it to blame someone else. The fourth is silence. The fifth is silence . . . Tompkins County politicians’ “vision of the future” is “based on a set of principles that reflect the values of the community as expressed by the County Legislature they have elected” – does that sound like representative government to you? Since Tompkins County residents overwhelming believe that their government is corrupt and there is no meaningful participation – they don’t either. The response of Tompkins County officials to their decisions is: Take it or leave it – there’s nothing you can do about it. And if you want to question, debate, disclose, or document issues — silence.
New Normal Corruption – “Gown and Crown”
When a Tompkins County Department Director blatantly lied about existing conditions to avoid regulating influential corporations — nobody did anything. When the County Ethics Advisory Board was informed of this — they would not even acknowledge the incident. When I told residents that I was writing a book documenting the circumstantial case for widespread misconduct and corruption in Tompkins County — they frequently said: “It’s going to be a big book!” When I sent copies of the book to County officials — they would not even acknowledge they received it. When I sent copies of the book to University and College authorities and professors — none of them would acknowledge they received it. The County Code of Ethics declares: “Public officers and employees must observe a high degree of moral conduct to maintain public confidence” — while the overwhelming opinion of the public is that the County is corrupt. Everybody know which is correct.
“Policies are just adding locomotives”
We’re living in a time when every bigotry, hate, and cronyism that is turned away at the front door; is welcomed at the back door – and inequity is the only means our government will use to achieve “equality.” Politicians pretend that treating the needs and worth of some people as being more important; is somehow different from treating the needs and worth of other people as being less important. It’s not surprising that these “back door bigots” want to cloak everything in secrecy — they know that once they’re exposed: the train ride is over.
“When there’s no one left to blame”
Uneasy are the minds of tyrants – and today’s Hate Gangs are the froth of that dark churning. When it’s your nature to destroy everything and everyone you hate and fear – it’s not in your nature to care. If you can’t have the world — no one can.
“Meaningful Participation Flow Chart”
It’s almost comical how annoyed our public servants are with the public. The last fifty years has seen a steady erosion of public participation in government at every level. Each new policy and program enacted – streamlines the government process by eliminating the greatest obstacle to their smoothly running rulership — the people. An informed public are those who read the whole proclamation – and our electorate are more interested in voting self-interest; rather than self-rule. Clinging to the robes of the powerful won’t save you; and more surprisingly — it won’t save them.
“Sayings: New and Remixed”
Thirty-two sayings that I’m saying again. It’s up to the reader to decide if it’s worth it — duty is in the lie of the beholden.
“Pandemic-proof HOA”
How sure is sure? If one person doesn’t follow instructions – or only pretends to follow them — what can happen? With pandemics – with emerging technologies – with invasive species – with terrorists . . . How can you prevent everything from collapsing? That was a question. How can you prevent everything from collapsing? “No plan is an island.”
“Anxiety that Won’t Go Away – Won’t Go Away”
It’s a world that is driven by fear – even if it’s only the fear of not getting your share. Anxiety coats everything like volcanic dust – slogging and pushing through the day to reach yet another day. If only you could sit down and rest — but then the dust would cover you up – another lump in the dust — another dream undone.
“Mono-Droids”
It’s a Vision of the Future that’s already here. On every topic; they have an opinion – the same opinion – the same phrases – it’s what they’ve been taught. And if you contradict them – they get angry. OCD: Obsessive-Compulsive Doctrine – scrubbing over and over — till it’s down to the bone.
“New Normal Government”
The Pandemic not only gave government greater powers – it let them shut out the public in many ways. And unless we force those doors back open: they will remain shut. It’s a government that continues to disrespect us in the coming elections – running hot button campaigns; and stirring in the hate and fear to a mindless frenzy. In the sunset of our society – all thoughts of human worth are submerged in a mad scramble to grab everything we can. We are dogs in a pit; who never stop to wonder who built it — or why.
“An explanation is as good as a solution”
Don’t worry – there’s no cause for anxiety. No matter what’s wrong; there are experts to tell you exactly what it is. Our modern Social-Political Society knows everything about its every problem — but doesn’t have a clue how to solve them.
“First Nations” is a term created to excuse
A favorite technique that Doctrine holders use to support their beliefs is to create categories that fit those beliefs. The fact the first peoples to come to the Americas committed the same evil acts and atrocities as every subsequent group is suppressed by a “groupism” that denies historical fact – in favor of propagandizing. “First Nations” is a term that sets people apart and above other people — the perfect “Nazism” for the New School Nazis.
“Tompkins County’s Best Planning Practices”
Contrary to the American Planning Association's Policy Guide on Smart Growth’s guideline of “refocusing a larger share of regional growth within central cities, urbanized areas” – Tompkins County planners are destroying the rural town of Lansing, NY by bulldozing it’s woods and meadows; and building thousands of new houses for Cornell’s workers along with affordable housing units for Ithaca’s unwanted poor, criminal, and substance addicted. The City of Ithaca is frequently listed as the best college town in America and is characterized by wood-frame houses and small shops. This artificially maintained “small town feel” city is also one of the most expensive cities in the country to live in – and is surrounded on three sides by the Town of Ithaca’s parks, preserves and many tree lined winding roads with small houses that only the rich can afford. Lansing’s rural/agricultural community has been fragmented and destroyed by an Ithaca urban sprawl bedroom community “mini-city” — with sewers, water, utilities, and Form Based Codes being added to insure its continued growth. Tompkins County’s “Best Planning Practices” are based on career longevity and cronyism — and Cornell calls all the shots.
“Equity is not for the disadvantaged”
To be worthy of “equitable” treatment; one must have the advantage of political recognition. Those people and groups who do not have this recognition are done down twice: rural people are done down because they are poor, marginalized, underserved, and unrepresented — and done down again because they are excluded from the government programs that would change this. In spite of documented need for a Rural Social Justice – not one step has been taken to politically recognize and address this need. It’s a black urban overclass that receives the advantages of Equity – and a white rural underclass that is dying from crime, drugs, and a policy of neglect – victims of Urban Colonialism and political cronyism. Categorizing and treating people differently is a defining feature of Progressive policy making — and kicking people when they’re down — an unreported abuse.
“Successful behavior pattern”
Poor honest workers can’t make ends meet – while those who won’t work always have enough to eat.
“What sort of people . . ?”
Just as their actions allow you to know what people are; even without knowing who they are – some actions are enough for an indictment of anyone who is willing to commit them — regardless of who they are. “Discrimination by race, gender, and ethnicity – denial of cultural heritage – negative stereotyping and profiling by race, gender, and ethnicity – denial of human worth through government policy” These are actions that are condemned by every revered figure of human worth and equality: and embraced by every member of Biden’s administration. What sort of people would do something like that?
“When the shit hits the fan”
Disasters and accountability are like oil and water in government circles – and it’s this same immiscibility that comes into play whenever we hear breakage in the next isle. “Unexpected,” “unforeseen,” and “unprecedented” are the much-used drop cloths that protect government’s oh-so-exposed ass from the results of their blunders. So the next time you’re blinded by the disastrous backsplash of government policies – realize that the bland, spotless façade of Big Brother is due to taking precautions at the crime scene — as they quickly assert their right to lead any investigation.
“The American Dream: Welfare”
Let’s get real – The American Dream was about the opportunity to achieve a better life through your own efforts – but when you tell people that others are responsible for taking care of all their needs — where’s the incentive? “Welfare,” of course, means much more than just that segment of actions that our government labels as Welfare — I expect that our “Student Loans” financed more cars, apartments, and parties than educations — and only a fool or a knave would claim to have believed they would ever be paid back. If we had the same attitudes and policies in previous generations; there’d be nothing left for this generation to live off — instead; it’s a problem they’re leaving to their children . . . along with the debt.
“Same old, same old – with more trumpets”
Announcing the ordinary with extraordinary fanfare – Yesterday’s mediocrity; made over for a naïve generation: because the older generation would be yawning by now. Today’s battle of images has no more effect on the descending reality than closing your eyes — the same old disastrous response to approaching disaster.
“Opening Social Security to entitlement”
The elderly are just the wrapper on Social Security’s package of benefits.
“Three strikes and you’re out”
In today’s secular Doctrine of privilege and hate: Original Sin is a decided with categorized list – where the checked boxes are totaled up to decide your fate.
“Stop talking your talk”
Goodness lives in actions – not excuses; that’s why our government is so desperate to hide the actions of their social policies; but so quick to claim the correctness of those same policies. All this hot air quickly floats government decisions out of the reach of the people. It’s time to bring them back to earth — where we are. Full Disclosure – Full Exposure of all government policies and statistics.
Not with a bang but a “duh?”
There’s the horror film’s: “Let’s split up so we can die separately” – and there’s believing the rhetoric of leaders who have everything to gain by lying to us. Watching both scripts unroll; you have the powerless feeling of knowing that something bad is going to happen – and being unable to alter the outcome. What is the most unpopular behavior in today’s political script? Questioning. Asking “Why?” And worse: to keep asking. “Why should we believe you?” “Why should we follow your leadership; when everything keeps getting worse?” “Why should we split up; when there’s strength in numbers?” It’s time stop the horror show; and think about our survival. It’s time to change the script.
Cutting Transportation Pollution
We gave Nature the problem – Nature gave us the solution. If you look at it with an uncolored lens – the Pandemic, the recent natural disasters, the global rising of the oceans: are all making it a better, more sustainable world – by removing us.
The New Normal – “The Next Pandemic”
Was the 2019 COVID-19 bad for you? What about future Pandemics that don’t discriminate by age? Pandemics that strike to the heart of a millennial age-driven smugness? Viruses like MVD’s hemorrhagic fever: that dare to not care who is there. Our runaway science – stirred into an already overcrowded and disintegrating world has had the World Health Organization uttering pandemic warnings for decades. In the aftermaths of increasingly common and globally disastrous Climate Change “events” – prevention of pandemics may be impossible – and the cure: “anyone’s guess.” Time to Google those kid-size hazmat suits.
MORE “Drug-dumb”
They’re everywhere – their stupidity has changed the way we live – if they want to drive off a cliff — they could at least give us time to jump out.
“Drug-dumb”
Dumb and dumber isn’t two people – it’s the natural progression of drug taking. In honor of those brains cooking like a rotisserie chicken: here are a few jokes to help you keep in mind that those dumb-asses can get anyone killed.
“Pets?”
“I don’t have any animal slaves.” Would this response surprise you and take you aback? Putting people on the defensive is a common Doctrinal trick to put Doctrine-holders in the position of “questioner” and authoritative judge. This is a very effective technique in most situations. Our current Social Policies segregate and combine people into groups – so people can unilaterally be treated differently and put into a guilty position that requires they prove their worthiness or admit fault. The most important point in Doctrinal policy making; is not to allow any unwelcome facts or disruptive interpretations – that’s why the need for secrecy is imperative. Black Box policy making. One Thought – One Taught – One Voice – One Choice. Tip: When Doctrine-holders begin to question you – turn the tables and question them instead.
“What percentage of unborn children . . ?”
What percentage of unborn children support abortion? If you could take a poll: I suspect the answer would be 0%. Politicians have created an election time poll to show that 78% of New Yorkers approve of abortions. If 78% of New Yorkers polled thought that their politicians were corrupt: would those politicians still run for office? What if a poll showed they thought those politicians should be executed? What if 78% of those polled thought that you should be executed? Evil is a road that goes down and never comes back up — and we’ve already lost sight of home.
“The Future of Rural New York”
I was talking to a neighbor today about the weather and the state of things – and he announced that his family had made plans for leaving New York State. Since the County removed rural sheriff’s patrols as being “too expensive” – He won’t even let his kids ride their bikes on Lansingville Road. “I’m planning on leaving” is a phrase that crops up in almost every conversation with younger families – while “I can’t afford to leave” is the sad statement of the elderly just trying to survive. The millionaire farmers who have taken over give criminals free rein; as long as they don’t cut into their profits – and our once neighborly and hard-working rural community has become a dumping ground of rentals for the county’s unwanted: an Ag Ghetto of drugs, poverty, and crime. New York policy makers are like someone who refuses to learn to swim — but when they start to drown — they pull down everyone around them while trying to keep their heads above water.
“Debate with facts – Not assertions”
When New York Gov. Kathy Hochul bragged about a 140% increase in illegal gun seizures - she meant that if it was expressed it as a percentage of the illegal guns that are still out there: you would laugh in her face. And Hochul’s election timed announcement of a 12% decrease in gun violence does nothing to help the thousands of victims and their families. Politicians talk a lot of shit — It’s time to rub their faces in it. Full disclosure – Full exposure.
“All the colors of Bigotry”
When Pride supporters; support race, gender, and ethnic bias programs – where does their righteousness come from?
“With eager feeding . . .”
“With eager feeding food doth choke the feeder.” We’re choking on evil – and our reimagined “race consciousness” Social Policy – is a Heinrich Himmler maneuver that will certainly kill us.
“Smug as a thug on a drug”
Humility is a no-show in today’s self-inflated society: where greed, ambition, and arrogance combine to make a name for people who would have had a very different name in the past. When the only crime is not getting what you want – victims are just collateral at the waterhole.
“Let’s share what we’ve got of yours . . .”
“We can share what we got of yours, 'cause we done shared all of mine” — Grateful Dead. “Jack Straw” While much is made of sharing out Social Security and the benefits of a lifetime of toil – we are living in a time that is notably lacking in togetherness and empathy. Once we pass the threshold of our giving; we reach a deserted plateau indifference – where even the cries of our COVID “die off” are sucked into non-existence. Our sharing is a Millennial Judgement – the expiation of some kind of Doctrinal “Original Sin” – a giving of tribute: a recognition of superiority. Maybe their sharing would reduce their perfection by some small amount – or acknowledgement of us would make them unclean. They won’t even share the time to try to understand.
“Dear Politicians”
The froth of unhappiness and discord that rises to the top of every issue is a product of the divisive politics of our time. Politicians use hate, fear, and envy to pry apart communities into voting blocks – more concerned with getting themselves elected; than the welfare of the electorate. Ruling over a society in turmoil only increases their chances acquiring more power and control. Divide and conquer is as old as ambition. The new millennium is so naïve: they believe they’re different. We’re making a history that will serve as a cautionary tale — if we live that long.
“State of the Union 2023”
Unlike the 60’s – today’s social upheaval is not fueled by the recognition that everybody is deserving of human respect and worth — but by a self-serving denial of that truth. Our social policies are 180 degrees away from the beliefs of people like Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr — and are excused with the rhetoric that doing evil to some; will bring about good for all. It’s not a belief that builds and nurtures -– it’s a rioting mob that destroys; and uses the violence of that destruction to protect the looters and intimidate their victims. These New School Nazis have adopted all the old Nazi paradigms of “place by race” and reinterpreted historical postulates. The biggest irony could be – that all this mindless looting and hate filled taking is in the shadow of our extinction. There are no U-Hauls to Heaven – or to Hell . . . or to the event horizon. Welcome to the Future — this way to the Exit . . . for everybody.
“Sustainability: Meeting the needs of . . .”
What does “sustainability” mean? It’s too useful and too usable a word not to have been stretched out and fancied-up to cover everything possible. “Sustainable” sounds like a solution – even if it’s not. “Sustainable” is keeping to the same story – as long as the facts don’t come out. “Sustainable” is taking less fish – in a massive dying off. “Sustainable” is doing too little – until it’s too late.
“Scientists: They’re not the Sorcerers”
Like children puzzling out words in a book and pretending they wrote it – today’s scientists seem unable to grasp the scope of what they are unleashing – or admit their inability to control or stop the process. Emerging technologies more dangerous that any nuclear proliferation are being put into the self-serving hands of politicians and corporations – and proclaimed to a rhetoric-reassured public. Scientists are betting the end of our existence against the achievement of fame, fortune, and the realization of their dreams – knowing that no matter how the cards fall — only they will ever collect. Alarmist? Scientists have discovered everything from microplastics in our blood to accelerating Climate Change. Are these recent discoveries? Or are they unable-to-keep-the-secret-any-longer admissions?
“If you can flip a switch . . .”
Why were unborn children declared to not to be human beings in New York State? Because it was a convenient way to bypass their legal protection. New York has become a place where every right; even your right to exist – has become conditional. Conditional upon the profit of those in power. Human use, not human worth, is their grounding ethic. It’s not surprising that in the instant of birth: these same children who are not human beings – become the most important human beings of all – follow the money. New York’s political gang-in-charge is washing their corrupt and conniving image clean with money, money, and money— but after Election Day; when the money stops flowing, and their media frenzy abates – they’ll be just as corrupt, and just as conniving. You can’t wash dirty politics clean with dirty money — you can only muddy the waters. And you can’t stop a victim from being a victim; by declaring them disposable. That’s true for unborn children, the elderly, and the growing list of victims in the New York State of disposables.
“Reproductive Rights for men”
To give one party all the rights; and the other party only the responsibilities is not equitable – it’s not a partnership: it’s a fraud.
“There’s a method in their badness”
The back of the bus – the end of the string – by putting rural people last; they’re able to oppress by exclusion – we get less, or nothing: because there’s nothing left - someone measured wrong – it’s unexpected – there isn’t enough money – enough workers – enough government interest. They always run out of everything; by giving plenty to everyone else first. There are exceptions: the tax assessors are never too busy to give us the highest possible assessments. Tompkins County’s policies are forcing the same rural families that its roads were named after out of their homes. Does that mean that policies will be changed? Of course not — it means they’re working.
New Word: “Acadumbic”
There are none so dumb; as those who will not think. No questioning, no debate, no critical thinking, NO dissent — today’s “acadumbic” institutions are not beacons of light: they’re towers of surveillance. If any unconforming concept, study, or proposal appears anywhere in our Society: its originators are shouted down to quiet them – and beaten down to punish them.
“Politicians are locking the hatches”
We all won’t survive – and those in the know; know it’s time to start throwing people off the back of the sleigh. Is there a moral in the troika and wolves story? It’s hard to tell. Maybe it’s that the people on the top are willing to sacrifice anybody. Or maybe it’s that in certain situations; no matter what you do — you can’t escape your fate. Unborn children, the elderly, and rural people are all disposable: and when you’re disposable – you can’t be a victim. Maybe we’re all disposable. Maybe we’re all victims. Maybe none of us will survive.
When the ‘house of cards’ is your neighbor’s
Security built on taking; is built on there being something to take. The shakiness of the post-COVID economy – that makes it easy to take – is a shakiness that taking will bring to collapse. It’s so easy to see the many ways that policy and behavior will lead to our destruction – but not to our survival. We embrace the mantra of the Adolescent Society: “Somebody had better do something” and “It’s your responsibility.” Please listen to the menu; because our options have changed.
New Word: “Irrationalizing”
Politicians are always finding new words for their actions – it’s only fair that we help them.
“When everything you do is evil . . .”
When everything you do is evil – how can you claim good will come from it? Our Social Policies are acts of discrimination, profiling, censorship, oppression, and secrecy — in the good sense: because the end justifies the means – for the Greater Good. Fifty years of Affirmative Action; and there’s still no end in sight for this policy of secrecy, bias – and no disclosure — a policy that has spawned a thousand evil iterations – and a million evil acts — for the Greater Good. You’re not killing people – you’re throwing them overboard to lighten the lifeboat – you’re doing it for the survival of everyone in an overloaded lifeboat. The Greater Good. “Shall we draw lots?” “It’s not THAT kind of Greater Good!”
“Great fleas have little fleas”
“Great fleas have little fleas upon their backs to bite 'em, and little fleas have lesser fleas, and so ad infinitum.” The lines of this poem; derived from an earlier work of the Anglo-Irish satirist Jonathan Swift – so aptly describes the hierarchy of taking that delineates our Society. In a science fiction story; there is a descriptive passage of a planet with wildlife so mindlessly voracious: that one creature; while being eaten by a larger predator – still reached out to grab and begin eating a smaller prey itself. In the maelstrom of our Climate Change fueled apocalypse to come – “if you’ve got an itch scratch it; and if you’ve got an appetite feed it” has become the societal mantra — as we ride the dog-eat-dog wave to the shores of our destruction.
“Proud to be non-hispanic”
There is no “us” – and every difference carries a benefit – or a stigma. Try this little test: “Proud to be Black” – “Good.” “Proud to be Hispanic” – “Good.” “Proud to be a Woman” – “Good.” “Proud to be Gay” – “Good.” “Proud to be White” . . . “Proud to be Heterosexual” . . . “Proud to be a Man” . . .
“Putting your finger on the scale is fraud”
Every time you ask; “what are you doing?” – they answer why they are doing it. Their Doctrine is like a maze in a fog that always leads you to one place: their decision. Ask once – and you’ll get an excuse – Ask twice – and you’ll get silence – Ask three times – and you’re a trouble-maker – Ask four times – and they’ll need to do something about you . . . “What?” “To make things Equitable.”
The definition “non-hispanic” . . .
Being categorized by what you are not is widely agreed upon as being demeaning – so why does our government continue to use this ethnically biased term? Because they want to erase some cultural identities; while supporting and creating others. Recently, they’ve been trying to trick us with a palliative: pretending that not being required to check race, gender and ethnicity boxes – is the same as not having those boxes. We hear many arguments from people for preferential race, gender and ethnic policies – but no arguments for disclosing how often, how much, who, or how they’re decided. If there was nothing to hide; it wouldn’t be secret. And people who really believe in equality and human worth; would never compromise those beliefs.
“Be the worm.”
Like a computer worm – today’s malware social policies replicate themselves in order to spread to every part of the country. Politicians use policy infected communities as a host to scan and infect other communities. When these new “worm-invaded” communities are controlled, the worm will continue to scan and infect other communities using these communities as hosts, and this behavior will continue — a malicious government program that replicates itself, automatically spreading throughout society. Political malware policies use recursive laws to copy themselves without host communities and distribute themselves by exponential growth, thus controlling and infecting more and more communities in a short time.
“Reverse Discrimination” – A bigot’s lens
There is no “us” anymore – so it’s useful to see how we’ve been divided and treated differently. Raising some up to a higher level of respect and politeness – one that reflects a higher level of esteem – while demonizing others. [This issue will receive in-depth treatment in the book – including documented examples from the Media, a Check List and an all-too-revealing Sampling Questionnaire] In our hypocritical society of mealy-mouthed “equity” – the new social conventions embrace all the old patterns of bigotry and relative worth. A new “slavery”? Of course – we’re already indentured servants to an all-powerful autocracy – but they’ll call it something else — how about “Equitable Freedoms”?
“New Normal – Fly Me to the Moon”
When the going gets tough – the rich get going. Whether it’s war, taxes, or Climate Change: those who have the most – and the most to lose – know when it’s time to check out. Giving “there’s money in space exploration” a whole new meaning.
“What is the price for ascendency?”
Being on top – means there’s a place for you at the bottom. And being placed on top – means you don’t have the power to decide. Giving up all safeguards for a promise – is the essence of a confidence trick. Your children? They won’t even know what they’ve lost — because you’ve given them up as well.
“Imagine the world in ten years . . .”
Before we started making such big footprints in the world – How we lived didn’t make such a big difference to the future — it does now. Old Man River doesn’t “just keep rolling along” – it can not only flood all along its nutrient polluted length — it can dry up. Not one of the governments or groups in the world is doing anything that will meaningfully change our path to disaster. It’s easy to look into the future at a changed world: but our own future is far more problematical. We’re in an overcrowded life-boat – with no hope of rescue — and no place to land.
“What’s the similarity between . . .?”
It’s Doctrine that’s important – not people. In its church of revealed materialism: human use replaces not human worth – and all things can be solved by the application of elitist policy making. Psychiatrists are among the elite – and the welfare of their patients is more important to them than a few dead people. Today’s social policies display the same mad logic as General Buck Turgidson — and reflects the same madness in its makers.
“New Normal Screenshots – Climate Change”
“It’s a small world after all.” Climate Change is showing how small our world is – and how little regard we have for it. When you’re accelerating into a stone wall — letting up on the gas isn’t much of a solution. COVID was just the splatter: Wait till we get dumped in the fryer.
If they called ‘oppression’: ‘kindness’ . . .
It’s your actions that define you – it’s the “acts of kindness” – not the talk of kindness excusing acts of cruelty. The modern insistence that an excuse can re-define the act: leaves us all the victims of those who oppress, lie, or discriminate for their own profit. If you call “negative”: “affirmative” – is an act any less repudiating?
“Survey questions they won’t ask”
When people ask you; “How are you doing?” – just say “Good” or “I’m doing OK” – because most people don’t want to hear your problems — the same thing is true of surveys. Our Town survey, like everything to do with policy and politics, comes from Cornell. The cold-call telephone questions were loaded, open for interpretation, and asked well in advance of public awareness of the issues they would be used for. When the agenda of the survey emerged – its authors quickly backpedaled in an angry Town meeting: claiming it was only a preliminary indication; and of no great importance — this same survey was later used as the sole determining mandate from the residents for the Town’s Comprehensive Plan and all future development. Surveys are used to provide an appearance of public legitimacy to the unilateral decision making of Cornell County planners. When residents claim that they are inadequate, biased, or deceptive – county officials merely defend the results; and make no changes, People may not make the right decisions — and surveys are an important step to prevent that.
“Equity: Where does it leave those . . ?”
“Equity: Where does it leave those who are left out?” There is no rural social justice – there is no such thing as Rural Social Justice in any government policy making. Rural communities are excluded from our national consciousness: a vacant space in everything from “Cost of Living” calculations to cultural identity. They are subordinated to political agendas, corporate profits, and agricultural pollution — bullied and deprived unseen in the shadow of a Black urban overclass. “The real tragedy of these small enclaves of marginality and poverty is that people are playing a game of life that has been structured in such a way that they are required to play but prevented from winning” wrote Janet Fitchen in her groundbreaking “Poverty in Rural America” – four decades later: nothing has been built on that ground — and the poverty, neglect and drugs have long since taken it back over.
“Where’s the Equity in competition?”
Equity is portrayed as “some people needing a bigger ladder to pick apples from the tree” – but what happens when there is only one apple? Should they be given a cherry-picker? Equitable policies are always presented within the framework of a Peaceable Kingdom: where there is enough for all – but from a Government that covets all power — this paradigm of sharing is only a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
“– Jumping through the hoop”
“The trick is to make even the stupidest dog jump through the hoop.” Our government uses every kind of psychological and emotional artifice of repetition and indoctrination to make us perform – and jump through the mists of uncertainty to a future worldly paradise. And if you’re unable or unwilling to do that — they’ll give you a little shove.
“Two-Timing: Equitable-Discrimination”
Even if you have the ethical “flexibility” to twist the principle of Equality into “unequally” – you still have to get around the continued existence of groups who are systematically denied this help. In Tompkins County: there are so many mass transit busses in the Cornell campus that it’s hard to drive a car around – and there are bus stops every few hundred feet in urban and suburban areas – but there are no buses serving rural county residents. Rural people are given the ‘separate-but-equal’ policy of requesting volunteer drivers [if available] in advance [and paying more] – for every trip. Rural areas have no sheriff’s patrols – you call in incidents; and they’ll come out and write a report. I’ve twice has medevac helicopters land in my front yard to airlift road accident victims – and we’re still unable to get law enforcement or speed limits on our lawless road. These are just two of the “equitable” policy solutions of Ivy League Progressives to the needs of the county’s poorest, most underserved and disadvantaged [and unrepresented] population. Progressives that can toss off these inequitable policies with a “difficult” or “no money” in a single sentence. They pretend that our rural communities, and our problems don’t exist – and create “equitable” policies to speed up the process. Equitabullshit!
“Be the Overclass”
The overclass is not the top – the overclass is only the top of what you can aspire to — the top is already taken. The scrambling for perks and power by those below keeps those on top where they are — and us where we are. Be the overclass – be the tool – be the fool.
“The equitable Cinderella story”
Who decides what’s equitable? And how? And why? — Or more precisely: Who decides on who decides? And how? And why? Back when Science valued wisdom over technology – they used the analogy of a gorilla congress deciding to make the perfect gorilla: the congress would always decide on having greater specialization; to better do what gorillas had always done — they would never envision an unspecialized human being. The wisdom and compassion needed for “equitable” decision making is the same as would be needed for an enlightened and beneficent dictatorship. History has shown us the foolishness of installing such a “benign” rulership — and that even in the small chance of it happening: it was certain to be followed by a succession of tyrants.
“New York government is consistent”
You could say the NYSDOT response to our Town’s request for a speed reduction on Lansingville Road is the same as every other response we’ve received to our pleas for rural health, welfare, and inclusion: No. Why would the NYSDOT refuse to reduce the speed limit on Lansingville Road? The answer, I suspect, is the same as why the County Highway Director claims – in the face of overwhelming evidence to the contrary – that all the truck traffic on Lansingville Road is agricultural. The Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council concluded: “the petition signed by residents and the letter of support of a speed reduction signed by the sheriff, and add our Traffic Count Report, which shows a marked increase in traffic along Lansingville Road in the past two years, as well as our Vehicle Crash Data Report, which includes the road segment of Lansingville Road from Rt.34B to Jerry Smith Road on its list of top 10 highest crash severity road segments between 2015 – 2019. These documents together seem to make a clear and simple case for the request.” The NYSDOT refusal was “Based on the existing roadside development, crash analysis, and test drives.” A bland and uninformative stone wall — the same stone wall that surrounds every rural community in New York State.
“You are owed a special place”
It’s an old evil that has worn many faces — Mao and Stalin were unsurpassed in butchering the innocent. Evil has no ideology: The seeds to do evil are in all of us – but most people don’t want to cultivate them. Watch out for those who do.
“Slavery: People are a commodity”
Is there really any difference? Denial of individual human worth is the platform that oppression, bigotry, slavery – and our Social Policies are built on. It’s a present to the People – wrapped up real fancy – with the note: “Do not open until I say so.” — the confidence game.
“How can you trust anybody who . . .”
The essence of today’s social policies isn’t equality – it’s secrecy. You have no alternative to their story. “The dog snuck into the house and ate their homework; to get them in trouble.” Take it; or leave it – there’s nothing you can do about it.
“New Normal – Anxiety that won’t go away”
Like the proverbial Summer Cold – it just hangs on and on; until you realize it’s not going away. It’s not the fear of COVID – it’s the knowledge that we’ve traded people who care and can’t help; for people who don’t care and won’t help. It’s the anxiety of being alone.
“New Normal Videogame – Circling the Drain”
Is it the opening to another dimension? Or just a garbage disposal? Society is changing. Like a worm virus; always traveling; and always taking; always looking for more – until there’s nothing left to take – Then; the reasonable disposal of the useless husks. If they believed in an afterlife – they’d attach a string to pull us back for another taking — if there’s more to be had than in this life: They want that too. It’s the New Normal.
“New Normal Videogame Screenshots”
Victims from the Form Based Evil board game will reappear in the “New Normal” videogame. Also returning are a supporting cast of familiar faces – as Evil Recycles to collect a new harvest of users and losers. Play through to the End of Days level and collect a bonus — or not.
“They scream their hate; to shut out debate”
Fearful silence never stopped evil yet – and compliance never stopped the ax. If you believe that today’s oppressive policies will lead to a future of equality and human worth: why don’t you try a virtual debate with Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr, and Frederick Douglass. • Piling evil on top of evil won’t lead you to the gates of Heaven — only back to its source.
“Climate Change: A rising tide”
It’s so much more than weather disasters – it’s changing life on earth. From adding one more breeding cycle for rats in New York City; to reducing phytoplankton in the world’s oceans – the effects of Climate Change are everywhere — a multitude of changes; like the noise of a giant waterfall that blocks our hearing their cries of danger.
“Flow Chart Poetry 4”
Evil not only recycles – it has traditions and ceremonies. Oppressors needs the oppressed to acknowledge their position – even an attempted “uprising” is an acknowledgement of a subservient position – and resistance reason to grind the heel with ever greater force. The kernel of their satisfaction is an emotional one: they get off on what they are doing — enthroned in that place that Evil likes best.
“Mono-droids”
Mono-droids – no matter how relevant and pressing the issue in front of them – they refuse to focus on anything that does not support Doctrine [or undercut everything else] – it’s what they’ve been taught: If you step out of line; the big, bad world of non-conforming will get you. • Freedom starts in the mind – not at the gate.
“Global Warming: We’re all in the same boat”
Our policy makers have gotten us so used to treating problems in isolation – that we can’t see the bigger picture to save our lives. • The feeling of being without sin and blaming others won’t make our society whole – or promote meaningful solutions — but it’s an addiction we can’t seem to kick.
“Always looking for the next trough”
Pigs are good for finding truffles because they contain pig sex hormones – it incentivizes them. The same analogy holds true for our government and money – they eagerly sniff out the profit buried at the bottom of every issue and policy; and if there’s none there – they move on. • There’s no profit in helping the rural people in this country; and a great deal to be made by helping the people who exploit them. And there’s no profit in writing articles about rural issues; it would anger the people [advertisers] who exploit them. • Our government follows a policy of Urban Colonialism: Rural people are a disposable population – and when you’re disposable — you can’t be a victim.
“Can you hear the dogs barking?”
It used to be that a barking dog signaled that something was wrong – these days: a barking dog is just the accompaniment to the jitter-bugging staccato of cellphone texts and white-noise background of television streaming. There’s no need for an attention span; because nothing receives your full attention. • Maybe it’s barking to be let in — maybe it’s barking because . . .
“The New Normal: Pandemic-proof HOAs”
You could imagine – but there are probably some out there already. It makes some sense: HOAs profit the commonality – while government profits the elite.
“Letting things slide on the slippery slope”
As we slide down the un-leveled field towards the abattoir in our future – glimmers of the truth shine through the coarse mesh of deception we’re enveloped in. We don’t decide the path; we just obey the rider . . . and the spurs. • When you’re consumed with surviving — today is enough.
“The New Normal: You’re not jumping for joy”
It’s not over – it’s just beginning. But who are the victims? The elderly are disposables; so they can’t be considered as victims. The unreported victims of the Pandemic are our freedoms – the freedom to choose – the freedom to decide – the freedom to be different. • Hearing lawyers talking about tossing out contracts due to COVID [we used to be told that contract law was the basis of our law] – they used the phrase: “somebody has to take the hit” — how far is this from our beliefs of human worth and freedom? • Somebody takes the hit so you can benefit – then you take the hit so they can benefit – and in the end; we all take the hit so those on top can benefit — because they can. • While we were on the COVID Carousel; they moved the exit – and we got off a few doors closer to Dictatorship. It’s said that the trick is to make even the stupidest dogs jump through the hoop — that’s why they use whips.
“an anxiety that won’t go away”
You feel it, don’t you? The need to do something against a coming catastrophe – something you should already have done. Like a wild animal sensing danger; but not knowing what it is – or which direction it’s coming from — high alert: tiring over time – so tired. . .
“Today is less than yesterday”
It’s as if the world is dribbling out between your fingers – and you can’t hold on to your dreams of building – of achieving. Maybe you’re not using the right measure of success – and maybe that’s not an accident. • In the 1960s: people were taking action to achieve a society of human worth – until the scaffolding began to be kicked apart underneath us; and we grabbed ahold of anything to survive. • Maybe everything that we’re now being told is important; is important to the profit of those who do the telling. • If you could live in a community where you did not fear your neighbor, where you could do things that you thought were worthwhile and at the same time realize who you could be, were people would band together to help those in need of help, and nobody would need to be alone — what more would you want? What accumulation of “things” would you need? • For the people who want to control us — that’s the scariest future of all.
“Rural America: Party boys and baby mommas”
As rural America dies – a strange new society emerges from the carcass: Government Modified Organizations [GMOs] have ushered in a cycle of drugs and dissolution to replace the old neighborliness and caring that existed – Creating a community with all the death and despair of the urban poor — but with none of the hope. In rural America no one can hear you scream.
“The new centers of rural society”
The rural paradigm is no longer centered around places that help others – it’s centered around places that help you — just like everywhere else.
“Recipes for Disaster 1”
Talk about a “fusion” – and if not a popular creation; these unhealthy servings will be ladled out world-wide in the coming decades. The high ground of today will be the beach front of the future; but what will the property tax be like? — and the insurance!
“A town too poor to afford a lawyer. . .”
There is no place too small and no one too poor to escape today’s frenzy of taking and using. In fact: the downtrodden and defenseless are the first targets of corrupt officials and their cronies – taking without restraint, and using their clout to skim the cream off any remediation or development. • One of the takers referred to my book: “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” as a “lamentation” with a mocking smile. It’s an indictment — and the day of Rural Justice will bring a smile to the oppressed.
“What goes around; comes around. . .”
Evil recycles – and the same evil can take many forms: but evil cannot just exist – it must act. The small evil is the key that unlocks the door to a bigger evil. • The “lens” of evil is a lens of distortion. If you have three children; and always praise and recount the goodness of two of them – and use the third one as an example of everything bad: the evil would claim that this is to promote recognition of the worth of those two – disguising that evil with a coating of self-serving gain, and cloaking the action with secrecy. Another day: one of the remaining two children would be found unworthy – and then; the last child will fall. Evil does not share. • If you give a government the power to discriminate against whoever they want, whenever they want, for as long as they want, in secret — there is nothing that you receive in exchange that will not be taken from you.
“Everybody wants to be the Overclass”
Today’s social conscience has all the impact of a forgotten greeting card. While people complain about the evils of privilege and wealth; everything they do is calculated to put them there. TV commercials are all about the ascendency of prestige and material goods; and giving is done to validate the giver.
“People are famous for being famous”
In a time when being a cult has itself earned cult status – and public images are used to manipulate public images: our Society orbits the real world; without ever coming into contact with it. • What’s in our future? People are famous for being people who were famous for being famous? Now that’s what I call a Legacy!
“Their actions and policies”
Discrimination, secrecy, censorship, profiling, stereotyping, and demonizing are not the actions of people or governments that believe in human worth and equality — and the more you question it; the more they possessively hug it to themselves. Disclosure and debate? Never. One thought – One taught – One voice – One choice — and enough mob mentality to fuel any action.
“How would I describe the world in 2050?”
A day without rain is just a day without rain; but three months without rain is a drought. A historic storm is a disaster we can recover from – but put enough of them together. . . It’s a big world with only a small margin for our survival – and we’ve filled it up. With Climate Change eating the edges — what will people do to cling to what’s left?
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“Smack dab in the superficial”
With all the adolescent horror of a newly discovered pimple – popular culture works to create a façade of conformity; and avoid any ridicule or criticism. Teeth, hair, skin, clothes, odors, attitudes and opinions, kids and dogs, must all mirror the merchandising they consume – and that consumes them. • In our Great Shallow world of “lots and lots of not very much”: celebrities grow to a size impossible without the support of their teaming acolytes; eating and defecating in the same wallow — like Fantasia dinosaurs on the eve of extinction.
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“Today. . .”
What are people actually doing about real-world problems? Nothing. We have reached a stage where the value of actions has been subordinated to excuses, and it’s more satisfying to blame others than to set an example yourself. If we continue to do nothing; things will still correct themselves – the way a car stops without brakes.
“Planting and watering in a desert. . .”
You could look at this as an indictment of the people who see more efficient autos as an excuse to drive more and leave the engine running. • Or of Agricultural policies that pay farmers for the damages done to their crops by the same climate change weather that they are major contributors to. • There are many other examples. It’s not surprising in a time when millennial families are constantly advertised as driving long distances, to out of the way places, in large-engine SUVs. Sustainability isn’t an electric car or a farm subsidy – it’s a way of surviving. • That’s not a living room on wheels you’re driving – it’s a mausoleum on wheels — and you seem to be in a big rush to find a parking spot.
“An ounce of prevention. . .”
Not all problems can be cured – so doesn’t it make sense to prevent the problem and avoid the use of dangerous poisons? Not to our government. • Politicians and Policy Makers are clearing the fields of our Society of all unwanted growth with wide-spectrum poisons – destroying the families, institutions, and religions that compete with the varieties they wish to grow. • Decades of experimentation and reformulation have led to the creation of GMOs [Government Modified Organizations] designed to be resistant to these poisons – and replace our non-conforming heritage society. To carry the analogy further; these “GMOs” do not have the ability to reproduce and survive on their own – but must be seeded, grown and harvested; generation after generation: in the forms and varieties chosen by those in charge. • “Sow the wind, reap the whirlwind” — and our government plans to profit from them both.
“The New Normal: If you want something. . .”
The New Normal is an Adolescent Society wallowing in entitlement. And those with the greatest sense of entitlement are its predators. That goes without saying; and these days – without much to hinder them either.
“There’s no difference between. . .”
Morality is oppressive, and compassion is conditional upon the recipient: today’s doctrine is stripped down to the basics – privilege and hate – what’s in it for you; and who do you have it in for. • “It’s only a temporary condition – and it will all blow over” – I bet there were many Jews who counseled the same viewpoint.
“When you’re waving on the roof. . .”
We live in a world where an authoritative explanation is considered the same as a solution. We’re told that the recent “1,000-year floods” are due to climate change, and “what would normally be a small and consistent trickle of water over the course of the year, becomes a large bucket dumped all at once” – concluding that “we need to rethink everything about how we build where we build.” • Ya think? Don’t fix the climate change; fix the building codes? Maybe we should rethink everything again.
“When Progressives have it all their own way”
When Progressives have it all their own way – They have it all. • Tompkins County, NY has the highest percentage of student population of any county in the country – and while the students are partying: their “representatives” are using Party-partisan policies to crush the surrounding rural communities; and install a ruling collegiate overclass for the greater glory [and profit] of Cornell. The rural communities have nowhere to turn – when every authority turns to Cornell for their decision. All we can do is show the world how the poorest, most underserved, and marginalized segment of the population is being treated by a vainglorious Progressive government — but when you call Presidents by their first name; who would dare report it?
“Stages of Disclosure”
It’s not true that “the People are always the last to know” – sometimes the People never know.
“Science has created new ways for us to die”
“This is the way the world ends Not with a bang but a black hole”
“Science isn’t Science anymore”
Shamelessly self-promoting: science has become a platform for the destruction of humanity – a tool of the rich and powerful; selling a vaporware future to an anxious population. • In our unhappy world: Science keeps piling block on top of block; to make a bigger pile of blocks – with the singlemindedness of a Scrooge – never admitting the need for responsibility and accountability – and with no epiphany in sight. • Science has traded the adult wisdom of fallibility; for the adolescent; “Look what I can do!” Now what can they do to fix it?
“Six of one; half a moment of the other”
These days: there is no such thing as a balanced argument. No time given to opposing views . . . and no mercy is given to those who hold them.
Everything is “check the boxes”
In our Standardized world: You no longer need to decide anything – the answers are placed right in front of you. Who would dare to demur? .They’re watching.
“Will you be ready for the next pandemic?”
The biggest cause of death in fires is not panic – it’s lack of panic.
“What’s good for the goose. . .”
Our government is on hair-trigger alert to add to their power with every possible excuse – but no excuse is sufficient for them relinquish any of it. • We no longer have a dialog with our government; it’s a monolog of policies and precepts – with no meaningful participation or oversight by the people. Congress is not filled with our representatives – but our rulers. • The time left to change all that is running out: Congress is deftly juggling the disastrous fallout from their Climate Change Cronyism; and when they let the pieces drop – they’ll find out that they need to control everything.
“Why is our government like cheap insurance?”
Like the cheap insurance policy that refuses to pay out when you have an accident; the mirage of our government’s caring persona blinds us to a desert of bureaucracy and self-interest. You can distance yourself from the real-world consequences of a policy — until you need to use it.
“When you’re disposable. . .” Bumper sticker
How does our government deal with the victims of their policy making? The same way the Nazis did: by demonizing and dehumanizing them. They can only be one of two things: trash waiting for pickup – or litter.
“They take by means of law” Bumper sticker
If only they took ownership of the blame; the way they take ownership of our future.
“Leave no idea behind” Bumper sticker
Politicians talk about “leaving no one behind”; but if you don’t allow for individuality and human worth – you’re just moving boxes
“OPPORTUNITY by Edward Rowland Sill”
It’s how people were taught to succeed – before they were taught that they couldn’t.
“Politicians are following the path. . .”
When your path is in the opposite direction from the one you know you should be on – maybe it’s time wonder if it leads to the same place — while there’s still time to go back.
“Forever adolescent” Bumper sticker
Children are being taught life in processed, blended, easy-to-understand, and easy-to-swallow portions. But life isn’t easy to understand – and frequently not so easy to swallow. • Adults are responsible – and that responsibility brings a thoughtful acceptance of the need for freedom of thought and of action – real diversity. • At the same time as science has been moving from a classification by form; to a classification by behavior – government has been moving from a democracy of behavior; to a dictatorship of form — Form Based Evil.
“Hard-wired for privilege”
It’s a privilege that comes at a price: paid for by others now – and by themselves later. What’s in it for those who do the “wiring”? Everything. • Mechanistic concepts of humanity are proliferating; especially those that promote human use over human worth. • Mechanistic science involves breaking down the universe into its component processes and parts – without knowing or ensuring that you have all the parts or understand the processes. It’s a “lossy” technique that throws out everything that is too complex or superficially unclear; in order to prove its thesis. • In our disintegrating world; swirling with ignorance, poverty, and famine – the trumpetings of science seem more like the unveiling of a golden throne, than a compassionate hand to the fallen.
“Tompkins County: everybody at the top. . .”
Everyone praises those in authority in Tompkins County – if they want to keep their job. It’s a networking, quid pro quo hotbed; where the elite skim their lifestyle off the top. BMWs speed through our rural communities; looking around with the attitude of sightseers at an Animal Park — if we don’t wither away soon; they’ll have to use a stronger poison.
“Did you ever think. . ?” Bumper sticker
When you check government policies and regulations; you will find that everything they do seems aimed at gathering more power and control — but did you ever think; that everything they don’t do may have the same aim?
“Government: They never have the money. . .”
In the course of my activism; there were many instances where I appealed to State and Federal representatives for help on local rural issues — they invariably did nothing; claiming they had no jurisdiction or authority in the matter. • Only a fool or a knave would claim this: In today’s partisan-political world; they have considerable influence on the local and county deciders of their Party. • They did nothing to help because they didn’t want to.
“Modern Progress as shown by screws”
Not only is this an analog for today’s un-usable government policy solutions – any history of how things could and did work in the past is suppressed. One Thought – One Taught – One Voice – One Choice.
“Come out, come out, wherever you are!”
The government push-back to transparency is as old as authority – Bureaucracy. It’s buried in transcripts, broken into sections, indexed esoterically, in part everywhere; and in whole nowhere — it’s a FOIL request for each document – a Black Box policy process where only the results are viewable. • When I enquired at the Town office about the status of our hamlet’s petition to NY State for a speed limit – I was told it would take six months to a year; and we would only know if they put up signs. • It’s government by the book; by Kafka.
“Sweetkins and Light” Bumper sticker
“Sweetkins and Light” It conjures up images of cuteness, simplified pastel shapes, and kid-friendly xylophone melodies – images that hide the Lord of the Flies “kill the pig” underpinnings of today’s social doctrine. • Children are educated to conform to this doctrine; and they are all the more eager to do so – to avoid the fate of those who do not. • Their candy-colored future is no more than building sand castles against the rising tide.
What will a ‘100-year flood’ look like. . ?
As flooding gets worse – our government’s “hundred year flood” criteria bobs on the surface; constantly being revised to meet ever-higher levels of water – a damage control that substitutes reassurance for regulation. It’s as if the definition of “serious illness” had been changed from “bed-ridden” to “riding in a hearse.” • The USGS explanation doesn’t even mention Climate Change as a cause. And if you won’t even admit the problem – how far away are you from doing something to solve it? • Like those science fiction movies where authorities have only so many days to act before the public is aware of the oncoming cataclysm – the true magnitude of climate change and its fallout is racing towards us from the future.
“Victim’s Vault: ATV DOA”
People tend to distance themselves from victims – maybe they’re afraid it’s catching. Even those who are charged with the responsibility of protecting them; take a distant and clinical view. Let’s face it; victims have a pathetic image – and they’re the result of a problem that authorities don’t want to address. • Maybe that’s why those vigilante victim movies are so popular: because they’re victims — like so many of us.
“The greedy are destroying our planet”
“Domino Effect” Climate Change ripples are giving employment to those who help the moneyed move to higher ground in an ever-rising flood. Our politicians are still covering up for, and subsidizing, Climate Change polluters. And the Science that helped get us into this hole – is busying themselves with measuring just how deep the hole is; instead of finding a way to get us out. • How bad is it? “Astounding,” “Historic,” “Surprising,” “Unexpected.” [It would be smart to always be prepared for at least a week without power, water, heat, food, shelter, and medical attention.] • Those Climate Change ripples are from a Scientific viewpoint — they look like tsunamis to me.
“769,656 Elderly COVID deaths”
When you’re disposable; there’s always a reason for not doing anything to help. It’s just another untold story – that is telling in its absence. • Authorities could have warned seniors that if they felt threatened; they should temporarily change their will and inform the beneficiaries – but that might cause problems: when you’re disposable; you’re not a victim. Shhhhhh . . .
“Theirs is the burden of rulership”
It’s an observation I’ve made before; but every year seems to bring their intolerant autocracy more blatantly into the forefront of policy making – and their display of dismissive elitism cloaked with a greater snobbery. • In Tompkins County, New York; they actually proclaim their right to decide and “balance” “the burdens placed on individuals and businesses” as part of their “vision for the future of the community.” All rights of individuals are subordinated to the “greater community” – which in turn is subordinated to their “Plan.” • Can there be anything more dictatorial and oppressive than their vision? Yes, their actions. • • Read “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” – free eBook download at Smashwords.com
“Everything they do is important”
In a time when people say; “I’d do anything for my kids,” and really mean; “I can use my kids to justify any act” – importance is a label that justifies overriding public participation and riding over the barriers that protect us from tyranny and technological abuse. Peel off the “important” label – and see what’s underneath.
“Government: One excuse leads to another”
They excuse it – and keep on doing whatever it is they want to do. Today’s dictatorship is more mealy mouthed; but no less immovable than any in history. Take it or leave it — there’s nothing you can do about it.
“Everybody wants to be an authority figure”
So many people want to be Authority Figures these days – flashing honors and credentials like patents of nobility. Or Messengers: racing from place to place – filled the importance of delivering the News; without the danger and drudgery of involvement. A society of elite people holding themselves above or outside of the oppression and evil of our times — with an eye on the lifeboat.
“The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree”
Outreach is important. The “If they want our help; they can come to us” attitude of our institutions leaves people to rot in place – or suffer until they are willing to take that big first step. Instead of making people ask: “Can you help me?” — We should be asking; “How can we help you?”
“When your gardening encourages weeds”
We work harder and harder to put aside crops that we cannot eat – for the glory of those who only count warehouses.
“Congress: The little picture finds wall spac
There is no room for the Big Picture – for us; it’s all filled with Doctrine.
“Discrimination will bring about equality?”
Like the joke about losing money on every item sold; but making it up in volume – today's Social Justice policies have little connection to practicality – or reality. • I’m still waiting for an explanation of why it’s a good idea to give our government the power to discriminate against whoever they choose. It will probably be something like: “We lose rights for every citizen – but we make it up in . . . .”? I can’t imagine.
“Crimestoppers?” Bumper sticker
Crimestoppers? Case-solvers might be a better name for it – with everyone doing their part to solve the case – But stopping crime is not about process: it’s about results. • I remember being told by a coworker that when she replaced the carpet in her condo unit: the floor underneath was found to be covered with cigarette butts and unswept construction debris – the original carpet layers just rolled the carpet and pad over whatever was on the floor: just doing their part. • Maybe the problem is not a case of “falling through the cracks” but of being hidden under the Criminal Justice System carpet.
“Don’t fix the problem – enshrine it”
The squeaky wheel gets the disability payments.
“Millennial Manipulations” Bumper sticker
It evades the issue; and puts you into a defensive position of having to explain yourself.
“The New Naiveté” Bumper sticker
Of course they tell you to eat all you want – to fatten you up for the Feast.
“Truck Run!” Screenshot
“In rural NY no one can hear you scream.” • When we tried to stop the invasion of large gravel trucks and industrial tractor trailers racing through our rural backroads; by requesting a 4-ton weight limit for through-truck traffic – the County Highway Director claimed they didn’t even exist. And when we documented it with photographic proof – he suddenly put up 20-ton weight limit signs. • But that’s only the beginning of the conduct of officials and their legislative oversight: read “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” – free eBook download on Smashwords.com and paperback on Amazon. • As they say: “You can’t make this shit up” — and in Tompkins County, NY; you don’t have to.
“Society Survival Store” Graphic Version
This is the graphic print version of “Society Survival Store” – the text version is on the previous posting.
“Society Survival Store” Text Version
It’s tough to communicate without feedback — and even tougher when you can’t know what is being received. I gain a considerable amount of quality time by not having a cellphone or viewing material on social media platforms – but I’m unsure about the quality of presentation – even of the low quality graphics I post. This page will be posted in two versions: This is the text version.
“Discrimination: Any excuse is no excuse”
Like a distinction without a difference – there is no such thing as reasonable bigotry. The feeling of being “owed” is something that no one on earth is fit to adjudicate — it’s a feeling that has opened the door to much of the evil in history.
“Affirmative Action is a victimless crime”
How can there be “us” when no brother or sister would treat you that way? How can there be “us” when it contradicts the beliefs of everyone who fought for equality and human worth for all? • Affirmative Action was not the door to a new beginning — it was the door to a new dictatorship. • Now that human worth is off the table; it’s time for the lovers of evil to feast.
“Shark Park” Screenshot
“Made so conditional – as to void the volitional.” While staying healthy these days takes so much time that there’s no time left to enjoy it — and litigation ass-covering has reached the point of warning you measure the cooked temperature of each part of your frozen entre — Your only guarantee from the government is an unaccountable “doing the best they can.” • “A walk in the park” used to mean something that was very easy to accomplish — it still can be . . . but only if you follow the instructions.
“Non-Conforming Thoughts”
I give you thoughts • That’s all I do • Their ending place • Is up to you
“Global Warning” Screenshot
Don’t shoot the messenger: bribe, intimidate, or muzzle him [if he can’t be stopped from reaching his destination.] The scientific investigations currently underway are about as useful as a postmortem is to the victim — and as academic. There is no “shock value” left: 150,000 views and it’s just old news.
“Evil is no longer deplored” Bumper sticker
“Important principles may, and must, be inflexible.” — Abraham Lincoln. • Once again: It’s time to shine a light on those actions that hide in the shadows of shouted assertions. It’s time to stand up to the intimidation of unchecked bigotry, hate and greed – and rip down the mask that they hold up between themselves and those they lecture and oppress. • In direct contradiction of Lincoln: Everything today is conditional – and the condition is that it must benefit those who set the conditions. In New York State; unborn children are no longer human beings – it’s an attitude towards the principle of Human Worth that matches that of the most evil people in history. If unborn children are no longer human beings — who will they pick next? • Evil thrives in our shadow government. Full Disclosure and Full Exposure of all policies and statistics — and the evil they represent. • “Important principles may, and must, be inflexible.” – It’s the only barrier that can protect us from a growing evil.
“Doctrine: because. . .” Bumper sticker
Let’s not “quibble” the point away by claiming that “truth” is a philosophical concept; and accept the everyday usage: “Tell the truth.” • Doctrine is a useful tool for avoiding debate – because its “truths” are so frequently revealed and not built upon everyday experience and consistency. • The prevalence of the word “lens” is an avoidance of the word “viewpoint”– and the admission of a subjective judgement — “lens” implies a detached and scientific “truth” [although Science itself has subjective underpinnings.] • • The “Lie of Wikipedia” if you will; is the “doctrinal” structure that allows every article to use a different lens and present a different “truth.” The “Potato Famine” is presented in such a way as to minimize and deflect ethnic and religious oppression; and portray those “truths” as whining and irrational – Whereas the Wikipedia article on “Atlantic slave trade” uses a “lens” that selectively maximizes the role and guilt of “Europeans” in every possible way. • Both these “truths” are presented separately – each lens creating a different universe: with different elements and different laws, and even a different logic. • • The “truth” is that your beliefs don’t have to be proven or debated – but when you insist on making them Our beliefs, and Our truths — you damn well better.
“New Word: Atmosfear” Bumper sticker
The fear and apprehension is palpable these days – it’s not the world; because people have always faced disasters, and even wars, with heightened commitment and determination to act — it’s the tones of a new Nazism that reverberates back and forth across the nation – social policies fueled by privilege and hate — and eager to use rioting and targeted violence to intimidate. Biden’s Brownshirts: One Thought, One Taught, One Voice, One Choice — or else!
“Night Stalkers” Screenshot
I remember Intellivison Burgertime creating a level of anxiety – the longer you survived; the more difficult the game and the more persistently you were chased — and when you lost; you had to start at the beginning and relive it all over again. • Arcade-style games were based on an emotional paradigm that emptied you of quarters as quickly and efficiently as possible. • A similar paradigm in our Criminal Justice System disposes of the victims and their families with the same speed and efficiency. The criminals themselves, however, have almost risen to a management position in that System – with “frequent felon” insider plea bargains sliding them out jail in the time it takes to inscribe a gravestone. • Victims are the grit in the mechanism of Justice. They are now called “complainants” – Why do we make so much trouble?
“Advanced Dummies and Drag-ons” Screenshot
When government has no contact with the people – the noise of critical legislation is just the spinning of tires. Government’s “tell a pleasing story” messaging does nothing to change our course of inevitable death and disaster. • Government will need to step in to manage things like water distribution, economics, food, health, and housing. This means that the big players will get their cut — and the little people will get managed.
“5K Run for Racism” T-Shirt
Which came first: the chicken or the egg? – Is that anything like “violence begets violence”? How about; “Fix the problem, not the blame.”
“The foundation of government policy making”
“What constitutes Fraud”: A material false statement, Victim reliance, and Damages. • In November, 2021; The White House Office of Domestic Climate Policy released the U.S Methane Emission Reduction report – “Critical and commonsense steps to cut pollution. It describes Methane as “a particularly destructive greenhouse gas” and that “one ton of methane in the atmosphere has about 80 times the warming impact of a ton of CO2.” • “A material false statement” – Agriculture is largest contributor to methane emissions at 38% of the total; but it’s not listed by name in the Emissions by Source “pie chart” and it’s pushed down to the bottom of the list [after oil and gas, landfills, and abandoned coal mines], and while Gas, Oil, and Landfills include their percentage of the total; Agriculture is just called “a major source.” Even though every other sector has reduced methane emissions – and only Agriculture continues to increase methane emissions –the Biden-Harris Administration is relying on “voluntary partnership efforts” and refusing to regulate agricultural pollution. This same report still claims that the Administration is using “all available tools” including “commonsense regulations” and “transparency and disclosure of actionable data.” • “Victim reliance” – We have nowhere else to turn. • “Damages” – We’re just warming up.
“Climate Spin Doctoring” Bumper sticker
It’s not the light at the end of the “Climate change” tunnel – it’s the light that blinds us to where that tunnel is heading. It’s interesting and revealing that our disintegrating world is serving as the means to make exciting discoveries about those peoples and animals that have died in the past. • It’s a century that has given us the technology to be able to record and preserve the details of our own extinction — but not the wisdom to prevent it.
“Biden’s Social Policies. . .” Bumper sticker
Today’s leaders aren’t “Movers and Shakers” – they’re Users and Takers — and those who spent a lifetime in honest labor and crime free innocence are their biggest targets. • What a contrast between our government’s “COVID Shrug” as the elderly die in their hundreds of thousands – and the week after week of night-and-day efforts by Congress to take all they can from those remaining. • There’s no love lost in their Social Doctrine of privilege and hate — because there was never any love to begin with.
“A spoonful of profit” Bumper sticker
“A spoonful of profit helps the genocide go down.” • You can sweeten the pot with other things than sugar – and some people will gobble it up. • It doesn’t have to be money; it can be power and position, wish fulfillment, legitimizing acts of hate and harm to others, or just a target for the belief that everything bad in your life is someone else’s fault. In other words: the opposite of everything that Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr., Frederick Douglass, Mother Teresa, Mahatma Gandhi, and Malcolm X believed in, and fought for. • • A spoonful of profit helps the Holocaust go down.
“Biden’s ‘Social Justice’” Bumper sticker
I used to joke about “the next Nazis claiming to hate Nazis” — and then it happened. Biden’s New School Nazis are a pussyfooting, mealy-mouthed iteration of the same evil — from their demonizing targeting; to their reimagined history of racial and ethnic purity. If they won’t come into the light; we’ll bring the light to them. Goodness doesn’t need to hide. Full Disclosure – Full Exposure of all government policies and actions.
“Black Market Profiteering” Bumper sticker
“Black Market Profiteering” has a new meaning: the act or activity of using race and preferential racial policies to make an unreasonable profit on the sale of essential goods and services especially during times of social and economic upheaval. • • So far all these little pieces are just outlining the program – prep work for the operation: a dissection. Does Evil have a heart?
“Zebra Mussels to the rescue” Bumper sticker
Many modern Studies aren’t intended clarify or educate – they’re intended to obfuscate. Today’s academic “replication crisis” investigations show that the results cited in many recent studies cannot be relied on; and many are just made up. • All of a sudden; “you can’t say for sure” – and every supporter and beneficiary blasts out this new report to the exclusion of reason or debate. • It can’t be a coincidence that so many studies have appeared to patch the holes in Doctrinal assertions – maybe they could do a study on that — or a Monty Python sketch. . .
“Government Policies are like. . .”
“Cui bono: 1 : a principle that probable responsibility for an act or event lies with one having something to gain” • Government Policies are enacted to help particular entities and institutions – to the exclusion of everyone else. It’s not a government of the People — it’s a gang.
“Buy the lie ™” Bumper sticker
The Lie is that “it’s a little thing” – while in reality: it’s Everything. Today’s Social Policies are not a “correction”; they’re an oppression – a cage of unquestionable assumptions; a privileged bigotry raised to the level of Manifest Destiny. • Dare them to debate – and they will be afraid to. Demand full disclosure – and they will refuse to. So how can you make an informed decision? • This book will include printable “checklists” that can be used to gather reliable information for your own conclusions: A list of the acts that constitute Fraud under the law; with spaces to write comments – use one for each policy and pronouncement. A list of the most important beliefs and acts of historical leaders in the fight for human worth and equality; with spaces to write down those of today’s leaders, who claim to be carrying on that fight. [Will they coincide? Or contradict?] Lists of Questions to ask; that will reveal so much more than the responders intend to. • Don’t buy the lie: “Everything is a matter of opinion – except Doctrine” — expose it.
“Form Based Evil” board game – Free Download
“A Clue-type game for a clueless Society” • • Download at: ruraltompkins.com [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials] • • Welcome to Form Based Evil. Your hope for the future, Public Participation, has met an untimely end – the victim of a foul Doctrine. To win back freedom; you must answer three questions: Where did it happen? How did it happen? And who should be held accountable? • Each player represents an iconic motive in a society gone wrong. Players need to move their tokens around the board and gather clues by entering different rooms. Every time they enter a new room; it’s another chance to get closer to the truth by using the process of elimination. • Printable game board, player tokens, cards, and more for this game are included [a page of card back images is also included.]
“You’ve made your bed. . .” Bumper sticker
“You made your bed; now die in it.” This updated expression more truly defines the unpleasant results of government policies world-wide; than all the official hand-outs people are scared not to believe — believe it. The recent heat wave in Europe is nothing compared the severity and frequency of climate change disasters coming in the next few years – tumbling into migration, starvation, poverty, global unrest – and “conflict.” • Our government is possessed of a megalomania that allows them to think that they can solve life-and-death problems by just repressing the little people, while still keeping their “business as usual” cronies flush and plush. Extinction-risking emerging technologies are the “magic bullets” offered by their scientific counterparts to make this happen. They’re gambling the world — but if they can’t have it; no one can.
“The New Normal: if you’ve got an itch. . .”
Delayed gratification is wrong – ethics are repressive – empathy is Old School – don’t think about the future — it would take away your appetite. Best not to think at all; and get an expert to do it for you.
Simple Solutions: “Styrofoam Coffins”
The possibilities are endless – mold them in the shape of your favorite anime characters – go sarcophagus; have your face replace the Pharos’s – your favorite car; to speed you on the way [maybe that’s how you got there in the first place] – Stackable and interlocking to create a whole family tree – and the franchise potential . . .
Form Based Evil board game
“A Clue type game for a clueless Society” Is it a “beat down at the puppet show?” or an “adjudication by stone the unbeliever” the “wrong-place-at-the-wrong-time in the green space” – or even an “organ harvest in the school room”? Ms. Green, Halfaman Yellow, Megalomania Magenta, Racial Red, Patrician Plum, and White-boy Blue are the characters – the game board is done – I’ll just finish the cards – and free download for fun.
“Using isn’t about who you are”
“Reasonable,” “acceptable,” “equitable,” “necessary” — there are many descriptions for the acceptance of corruption, discrimination, cronyism and misconduct into our modern society. Everything moral is a gray area – and if someone else is doing it; you can too. Be a user; or be a loser. There’s no shame when you can shrug off the blame.
The elderly are no longer a source of wisdom
Elderly COVID deaths for inheritance – unreported and un-prevented. With 750,000 people over the age of 65 dying from the COVID virus, and the current entitlement mind-set in the country — do you really believe it’s not happening? Government and the media [and AARP] don’t want to upset them — isn’t that the same as animals in a slaughter house? The elderly have been targeted for use; until they’re all used up. Then it will be someone else’s turn . . .
“Who’s Janet Fitchen?” Bumper sticker
Caring about people because they’re poor, disadvantaged, and underserved is no longer an acceptable reason – they must pass a demographic hurdle as well. Rural people are too “white,” too different, and too . . . well, rural – to be the objects of anything but urban ridicule, bigotry, and racist profiling. Rural communities across the country are being destroyed to fulfill the expansionist dreams of the New Urbanism: Urban Colonialism. Who’s Janet Fitchen? The answer to that; is the answer to many questions.
“Discrimination IS the law” Bumper sticker
Discrimination: “the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people or things, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex.” If you publicly proclaim you don’t do something – and you do it in secret — it’s still lying – it’s still deception – it’s still fraud. If someone did that to you – you would know they can’t be trusted. When your government does that to you – you know they can’t be trusted either.
“Adolescent Society” Bumper sticker
“In an Adolescent Society: Who do you pick for leaders?” It’s long been a question of responsibility vs self-interest in citizen voting – and when voters believe that responsibility is the duty other people have to take care of them – and accountability is the burden others must accept – what sort of leaders will they pick? Scammers, schemers, users, fat-cat corruptors, wannabe dictators . . . well, just look around.
“Science investigates” Bumper sticker
Science glories in theories – that are more changeable than a Global Warming weather forecast. “That was then; this is now” certainty that comes without any accountability; it’s the perfect platform for political pronouncements. Modern Science is permanently tethered to money — follow the money/follow the Science.
“Appearances are . . .” Bumper sticker
It’s a world that’s run on appearances – a reflective surface that is bonded to a changeable, but inflexible, Doctrine – reinforced by a limited-access information highway – a straight line path to bookmarked/favorite/followed social media distribution points. Maybe appearances are all that matter; because anything deeper requires thought —
“Three-card Monetary”
It all started in the 60’s – the people got above themselves and started to demand a quality of life; an existence of humanity and human worth – a validation of their life. Fast forward to the present: The people are clawing on the precipice of destruction. Life, art, culture, religion, and humanity, are no more than letters in an alphabet soup of bland distinctions. There is only one true and unique thing left for us to cling to: Doctrine. Did we get here by accident? – Duh!
“Be the change – chump change”
There’s a thought that comes from experience; when things are going easy – it’s “too easy.” The millennial “be the change” is so prevalent; because it’s so ineffectual. I can’t think of a single actual change in the business-as-usual paradigm that all the singing, dancing, colorful costumes and cosmetics has made. The feeling of being on the verge of great things is the perfect environment for scam artists and manipulators of all sorts – from “get your song on the charts” promoters – to “lead you to a better world” politicians. If there is a change – It needs to be a change you can measure – more than that — it needs to be a change that fills the world around you.
“Non-Hispanic white” Bumper sticker
Supporters and sycophants quickly distance themselves; and attribute this policy to “government” – as if a government that commits acts of bigotry, discrimination, and suppression, has legitimacy. And while it’s widely agreed that classifying people by what they are not, is demeaning – our government adamantly continues to retain this discriminatory policy. Irish immigrants [both voluntary and involuntary] have a history and culture that deserves to be respected; not suppressed and erased. They are lumped together, with a dismissive indifference, with those who long oppressed them for their ethnicity and religious beliefs — while having a much cleaner “pedigree” than those who hold themselves separate and special. It was Black Africans who enslaved the people; and Black Africans who sold them as a commodity – and Hispanics are the descendants of those who enslaved and oppressed the indigenous people of the Americas. “Social Justice” is a policy of discrimination; seen through a “lens” that denies our individual worth as human beings — a mirror of the “people are commodities” attitude of the slave masters of the past — and the future. Terms like “Non-Hispanic white” are a deliberate step in this realization.
“Dictatorship isn’t the next step”
“It’s for your benefit”; but not for your approval. That’s the way the New Dictatorship works. If you have read my book “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” [free download on Smashwords.com]; you will know that in more than 10 years of attempts, at local, county, and state government levels – I was never able to open a crack in the decision-making door — or get a meaningful response to my documentation of misconduct by government officials. With every new policy or regulation; demand that your government officials clearly state what decision-making authority the public has – and where the power of the final decision resides. If they put you off, assure you of their intentions, or shut down — you have your answer.
“They don’t use logic – they only use words”
Today’s policies are all about words, about labels, and especially about intimidation. Logic is useful in debate – but there’s no debate: questions are met with silence – leaving the questioner as an isolated target. In an Adolescent Society; nothing is more important than conforming – and no one wants to risk the consequences of adulthood. I’ll take care of the dog, I’ll fix global warming . . . “Somebody had better do something!”
“When you suppress history” Bumper sticker
Some people claim that the only use of history; is to learn from it — and if you suppress it, even a part of it: you are liable to make the same mistakes over and over. This is why there is so much scurrying in the background of academia – history is being erased and rewritten to conform to an overarching Doctrine — in every history book; and everywhere. This is why old people no longer portrayed as a source of history: If they told what they have experienced — young people might believe them. One Thought – One Taught – One Voice – One Choice — at any cost.
“If the world of compassion was a stage”
Looking at compassion quotes; they all have one thing in common; they are not conditional: they use words like “all,” “everyone,” “our,” “together.” Compassion does not see race, gender, or perceived worth. All our government and institutional policies have one thing in common — they lack compassion.
“The ‘New Normal’” Bumper sticker
What’s “new” about it? The Pandemic brought out all the profiteering and prevaricating of every other war, famine and natural disaster. Business as usual. Spinning old sins around under a COVID shell is a game for taking in fools.
“It’s the lens they use” Bumper sticker
Lenses limit our field of view and magnify what we choose to look at. [No quibbling about types and properties of lenses to avoid dealing with the merits of the issue.] In the Edgar Alan Poe story “The Sphinx” – a distant “monster” seen through the window; turns out to be an insect crawling upon a spider thread, along the window-sash. The “lens” in this case; is the Cholera epidemic that pervades the author’s thoughts. “Lenses” built of fear and ignorance; can make a monster of anyone.
“They can’t see the mountains” Bumper sticker
Whether it’s drugs or Doctrine or race – impairment is obscuring a reasonable and rational appreciation of how people need to live together. Impairment not only blinds us to others; it blinds us to the dangers of our actions. We may wake up to our regret – or we may not wake up at all.
Simple Solutions: “Collect DNA profiles”
Since government abuses and abrogates our rights already; maybe they can ratify something useful for a change. Current DNA collection laws disproportionately target the societal challenged — it’s time for a more equitable solution. Support “DNA is the way ™” – it’s Scientific: Believe It!
“It’s not a government – it’s a gang”
From the Federal definition of a gang: An association of three or more individuals whose members collectively identify themselves by adopting a group identity, and whose purpose in part is to engage in criminal activity. The association may also possess some of the following characteristics: 1. The members may employ rules for joining and operating within the association. 2. The members may meet on a recurring basis. 3. The association may seek to exercise control over a particular geographic location or region. 4. The association may have an identifiable structure.
“Emerging Technologies” Bumper sticker
What’s not clear about the phrase: “Out of control” — and how long will it be before politicians take the easy way out?
“No time like the pretext” Bumper sticker
Our government uses every opportunity to grasp more power – and pretexts are their most effective tool for achieving that goal. At the center of every solution is the opportunity acquire greater power: the power to decide and control everything and everyone. Do you think this power will be used to help you? — Power does not work like that.
“When people have no reason to respect”
Our government has no ethics; and no legitimacy. It persuades by its arguments; not by its acts. There was a vacant lot in the neighborhood. One day a pile of discarded trash was noticed by the people living around it. Soon, it began to be filled with trash. You could say that’s human nature — or you could say that’s our government.
“You can never be” Bumper sticker
It’s a new world: you shouldn’t have to earn money or respect – just take it: you deserve it. There are only users and losers — so who do you want to be? Take everything you can – eat everything you can.
“Some people are first” Bumper sticker
“You’re nobody ‘til somebody loves you . . .” and you’re nobody until you are designated as worthy of regard. The best part of Social Justice Policies; is the overarching power they give government to classify and treat people differently – very differently. Giving government power is the kernel of every new policy and regulation — and it’s the gold they wash our human worth away to find.
“When the cat’s dead” Bumper sticker
Tompkins County is in the forefront of our New Dictatorship autocracy – they insist that there is meaningful public participation; and in the face of pointed criticisms – merely continue to insist – never changing anything – never feeling the need to change anything – insisting and insisting — When the cat’s dead; stop stroking it – you’re not fooling anyone.
Bigoted Billboards: “Proud to support”
LGBTQIA+ support of bigoted government policies undermines any legitimacy to their claims of fighting for individual worth and choice. When you make a deal with the devil; you have the devil to pay — good luck with getting a discount.
“The World According to Doctrine”
As my older brother lay dying of terminal cancer/COPD; he told his daughters: “I will not go gentle into that good night – I will fight,” and proceeded to live that statement day after day when doctors predicted he would be dead. If there can only be one end; then it matters all the more how you face it – so I’m returning to the battlefield of human worth with a renewed commitment. And . . . Oh, yes; I’ve been pulling my punches with the previous books – it’s time to go toe-to-toe with our evil times. This book is an in-your-face challenge to those people who refuse to show their face: And if they won’t come into the light – I’ll bring the light to them.
All Roads Lead to Cornithaca
Politics & Social Sciences
This book has grown; not as a sequel; but from the same roots. It embodies my decision to be more confrontational – and my beliefs of human worth, and worth of creativity and independent thought. In some ways; this book gives graphical life to the documentary evidence set down in “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall”; but it also is more open to solution and love than a recounting of the past, even an impassioned one, can be. To those who say; “How dare you claim that we are doing evil” – I reply: “How dare you do what you are doing; and claim otherwise.” “All Roads Lead to Cornithaca”: another Satirical – Teaching – Thinking – Investigative – Activity – Game – Puzzle – Poem – Essay – Troublesome – Inspiring – Non-Conforming – Ranting – Embarrassing – Inexcusable – book.
Book Bubbles from All Roads Lead to Cornithaca
“Disposability has replaced deniability”
Things are much simpler these days. Politicians used to have to pretend they didn’t know the harm they did to people — now they only have to pretend it’s unimportant.
“The side-effects of ignorance”
What are the side-effects of ignorance? Bigotry, poverty, abuse, neglect; and like the disclosures in all those smile-filled drug commercials — it includes death.
“How do you get . . ?” Bumper sticker
Old age may not bring wisdom – but you certainly get to know what bullshit is. Nuff said.
“Slaves & Drugs” Bumper sticker
The descendants of African slavers and slave sellers defend their ancestors as seeing people as legitimate “commodities” to be sold for profit. Likewise; they were also seen as commodities by the buyers - Legitimately bought and paid for. So it’s not surprising that “social justice” policies that directly contradict the beliefs of every fighter for equality; from Abraham Lincoln to Malcolm X – also deny any individual human worth; and act to segregate people as commodities for personal gain. Their supporters aren’t denouncing the precepts of slavery — they’re buying into them.
“Precautions vs Protocols” Bumper sticker
“Protocols” are just one more example of a proactive shield that protects government policy from accountability. One of the first stages in the Doctrinal absorption of society; is to protect all those who work for that Doctrine: “professionals,” hangers-on, bureaucrats, and especially those rich and powerful private “partners” and supporting Institutions. You cannot find a sector of people’s lives where “shit happens” is not an acceptable government response for the pain, poverty, and hopeless fear that so many in our country experience. I’ve heard murders described by authorities as “an armed robbery gone wrong” — and if they don’t kill anyone, or the wounds are just debilitating: is that “an armed robbery gone right”? If “Career Criminals” are given the dignity of a “career” – what are those who work a lifetime at low-paying, dead-end jobs given? “The wrong place at the wrong time.” Doctrine does not recognize human worth — just human use.
“New Book” – “Flow Chart Poetry 3”
Like the Sorcerer’s Apprentice; modern science takes great pride in its knowledge of how to make things happen — without wisdom of learning how to make them stop. Our world is like a giant Jeopardy show; with scientists guessing at the answers – in a competition for fame, fortune, and the realization of a dream. And if they guess wrong, and it’s Game Over for all of us — at least they got their time in the spotlight.
“New Book” – “Flow Chart Poetry 2”
It may be pointless bureaucratic chatter to you, but for them; it’s money in the bank – and traditional “Quid Pro Quo” politics. It may be wasting your time – but they’re being paid to waste your time: and the tip they’ll receive is to insure their career longevity. The real power of public meetings is in the ability of those in charge to delay and deflect important matters with unimportant questions, quibbles, and investigations – and postpone the vital issues that you came to hear and comment on for a month, or two, or six . . . until they can be short-circuited, reimagined, or reformulated. Unimportant matters are the grit in the wheels of public participation — a grit that’s never allowed in the smooth running machine of power.
“New Book” – “Flow Chart Poetry 1”
It’s all about the process. Whether it’s “Flow charted” or “Templated” – if your ends are relegated to the completion of assigned tasks; you lose half your humanity. And if those tasks can only be undertaken by following pre-designed paths, and through pre-designed forms; you lose the other half. Work and play is what people do — Art is what people are.
“It’s the wind that prevails” Bumper sticker
In our authoritarian society; it’s all about force – whether it’s doctrinaire or regulatory, social or emotional: everything and everyone must be made to conform — or be destroyed.
“Releasing predators” Bumper sticker
Whether it’s wolves and sharks; or drug dealers and murders – the elite are ensuring right of predators to roam the communities of poor and undefended prey. Protected by privilege and law; they see human lives and suffering as only one part of a bigger picture — their bigger picture.
“Emerging Technologies: in a race”
Is it a coincidence that we now have world destroying technologies at the same time we have technologists eager to play with them? And it gets worse . . . we have authorities willing to overlook any consequence — as long as they can solve desperate problems; while keeping business as usual. Black holes, Nano-technology, Gene splicing – “why not.” The human race has become a plaything for those in power; and as for the world — if they can’t have it; no one can.
“There are only two categories of people”
Which category are you? Since that decision is made at a higher level – we’re all disposable; aren’t we?
“Knowing what they’re not; Is enough”
In a time when actions are disguised with doctrine – and profiling stereotypes, and discriminatory policies are defended as tools of change – knowing what people are not doing and how they are not acting; is a way to pierce the smoke screen of self-righteous arrogance that hides their intent. If their actions directly contradict the lives and beliefs of everyone we respect as leaders in the fight for human worth and equality — knowing what they’re not; Is enough.
“Climate Change is what you expect . . .”
Even when admitting to the existence of Climate Change; politicians present the big picture — one that doesn’t include the people. • Global temperature changes are what they debate — death and destruction is what we get. • The climate in Congress is definitely chilly.
“Inactivism – Global Warming” Bumper sticker
Just being self-righteous and blaming other people has never been enough to make a meaningful change in the world. As is exampled in the 2021 “White House Office of Domestic Climate Policy” report — a government that is still covering up for the polluters; is a long, long way from addressing an already desperate situation. An efficient electric train network for moving people and merchandise is a solution that can be achieved by upgrading and adding to the existing infrastructure. Don’t accept the “we will make a difference tomorrow” foot-dragging of powerful truck-car-union-fuel interests; there may still be a crack in the door: Today. Tomorrow: it will be shut.
“Everything is Doctrine” Bumper sticker
Have you ever examined a government policy and found out that it doesn’t make sense? That’s because it doesn’t need to: the ‘reasons,’ ‘causes,’ ‘fact finding studies,’ ‘statistical tables,’ and ‘sociology’ are just backfill – a sales campaign that undercuts any legitimacy or benign intent. • Doctrine is Everything — and everything else is made up to support it.
“When everything is great” Bumper sticker
When VCRs first crested popular entertainment; I used to wander through Blockbuster looking for a movie I wanted to watch. It might seem incredible, but movies that I made time for to watch on TV; were unappealing when I could choose my own time. It was the change in context – or maybe just having the power to choose. I have no interest in fame – but maybe that’s because the context has changed: it’s no longer based on accomplishment; just social media and marketing — just talking the talk. In a world with no answers and so many explanations; where COVID-19 was the only thing viral that made a lasting impact, what does this bumper sticker mean? You can choose — or move on to the next rack.
“They’re so vain” Bumper sticker
Is too much ever enough? – “that depends” is a reasonable answer; but since when have people been reasonable. In our rococo society; shameless self-promotion has turned into an in-your-face demand for appreciation – and like power; it’s an insatiable appetite. Vanity, vanity, vanity, vanity, vanity.
“Voluntary Guidelines” Bumper sticker
Like the receding rumble of a thunderstorm before the bolt that strikes your house; or the coffee that spills all over you because you tried to stop it from spilling — bumper stickers are back! Although the White House Office of Domestic Climate Policy [November 2021] report states; “one ton of methane in the atmosphere has about 80 times the warming impact of a ton of CO,” it removes Agriculture [the biggest contributor of methane] from its pie chart of “2019 U.S. Methane Emissions, By Source” – and breaks its contribution down into non-attributed pie sections — naming all the other sources; and leaving “Natural Gas and Petroleum Systems” as the largest and graphically enhanced culprit. Agriculture is moved down to Section D, after Coal Mining; even though it releases 5 ½ times the methane – and while stating: “methane is a super-pollutant that disproportionately impacts climate change in the near term” – agricultural regulations are replaced with a request for “Voluntary Partnership” and with “Incentive-based” government funding that is on the same level as stopping your automobile pollution by buying you a new electric car. Biden’s Global Warming remediation is business as usual with a smokescreen of race and ethnicity: When statistics and corruption come together — it’s a match made in Hell.
“All Roads Lead to Cornithaca” Published
This book creates bumper stickers, road signs, advertisements, billboards, posters and re-imagined console and old school videogame screenshots that deconstruct the impenetrable façade of government and government policy making. Card and board games help promote thinking through interactive play. A unique activity book for hungry minds. 240 pages - Color Available at Amazon.com
“Form Based Codes with Tardigrades”
Nothing so exemplifies the modern “greater good” fiction as Form Based Codes. It expresses the “community’s vision” – as decided upon by authorities. It replaces neighborly conversations with authoritarian regulations. And it imposes an all-controlling “New Urbanism” Colonialism on the ignorant and unthankful rural communities. New Urbanism Planners replace debate with declarations and people with projections – turning communities into cages for an ordered future. Their overarching principles are Efficiency, Authority, and Legality — Humanity has no place in their New Millennium mix. Form Based Codes channel Stalin and Mao in creating an invasive doctrine of order and force. It’s a planning so detailed — not even a Tardigrade could survive Transection.
“The Last Tardigrade” Poster
Playing the odds is never a sure thing. When my high school alumni posted a 50th reunion – I was surprised that so many of my classmates were dead: that’s the reality behind the statistical façade. Human beings can only be fit into statistics as numbers, as units – but their reality is as human beings. The reality of life expectancy is that every last minute is important to someone; and no one is disposable on the altar of averages. For a government that has eschewed the teachings of every respected figure of human worth and equality – numbers don’t just represent people; numbers have replaced people. What’s the best way to beat the odds? Change the rules of the game: and bring back Humanity. What are the odds of that happening? Ask the last Tardigrade.
“Cell Phone Deprivation Therapy” Poster
You can prove anything; provided your outlook is narrow enough. You can exclude anything provided your outlook is narrow enough. A limited access information highway leads only to extinction — that narrows down your choices.
“Bread and Circuses” Bumper Sticker
“Equitability – the ‘bread and circuses’ of the New Millennium.” • When the cat’s dead – stop feeding it. When your car’s stolen – don’t detail it. When you’ve burned your bridges – don’t worry about the water rising. When you’ve given up all power – stop giving orders. • When you’ve helped the government usurp the power to discriminate against whoever they want, whenever they want, for as long as they want; in secret – what’s in it for you? Nothing but shame. If there’s not another term for “street stupid”; that will do.
“Agricultural Pollution” Bumper Sticker
“Agricultural Pollution: Since Voluntary Guidelines caused it – how can more Voluntary Guidelines cure it?” • Q: If Voluntary Guidelines have always proven worthless in preventing Agribusinesses from polluting to increase profits – why do we keep on affirming them? A: Because they’ve proven worthless in preventing Agribusinesses from polluting to increase profits. • Like a felon with five warrants – Agricultural polluters used the uproar and confusion of COVID to fade from the environmental scene — leaving their cronies to clean up the evidence. • Now that Algal blooms, the Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone, depletion of the aquafers, and the impairment of our lakes, and waterways have sunk below the level of public awareness – it will take great effort to raise them out of the political muck. • Think Global Warming should be the priority? Phasing out animal agriculture represents “our best and most immediate chance to reverse the trajectory of climate change,” according to a new model developed by scientists from Stanford and the University of California, Berkeley. • Would you like to bet that the increase in global warming from your fast-food burgers is greater than the decrease from using your electric car?
“No time like the press-gang” Bumper Sticker
Force has always been the persuasion that works best for autocracies. Our government doesn’t create an environment that inspires a better society; it takes, it forces, it intimidates – our “Stalinized” government.
“Public Participation” Bumper Sticker
“Public participation is to government planning; like sawdust is to a cabinet maker – a byproduct of the process; having no place in the final design.” • Government policy is pre-decided behind closed doors; without any meaningful public participation — everybody knows that. The only question is: will we demand entry – or wait outside for a handout?
Future History Bumper Sticker
“The billionaires escape to space – We’re dead: all genders, age, and race.” • It’s a question of priorities – all the fancy dancin’ equitability won’t stop the downward spiral of our living earth. • We’re all concerned about getting a place at the Captain’s Table — while the Captain is concerned about getting a place in the lifeboat. • [And our current government policies that directly contradict those of the Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr., Frederick Douglass, Mother Teresa, Mahatma Gandhi, and Malcolm X; are unlikely to result in human worth and equality – no matter what happens.]
“Studies-to-Go” Advertisement
It’s an ill wind that doesn’t fill somebody’s sail – and boost the sales of those who take advantage of it. Today’s “replication crisis” landscape is just crying out for enterprising “landscapers” – Studies-to-Go isn’t the first — just the first to go public. It’s all happening in Cornithaca County.
“Cornithaca Shop-mart Advertisement”
Buy in; Buy local – advertise it so it sounds good, and looks good, and people will pretend it’s true so they don’t have to do anything. If you can be convinced that cleaning trash off a beach makes any meaningful difference – in the shadow of a tsunami of ecological disaster – then you can buy hard soda and party on. • Our deteriorating earth is stripping away the thin layers of our ‘good intentions’ – like house paint under a sandblaster — and this 5G social media cleaning-the-beach awareness makes sticking your head in the sand seem in-depth.
“Write a story” Pages #3
One writer’s garbage is another writer’s inspiration — and one picture can generate a landfill of language . . . or a single memory you can share.
“Write a story” Pages #2 Who-done-it or what
Who-done-it or what-is-it? – This write a story image means as much as you want it to.
“Circle of Lies” Road signs
Excerpted from the satirical “Rabid Lemmings: The Musical” – these road signs evoke a state of mind that is not consistent with road safety; but is all too consistent with “I’m not taking my meds” drivers. • You’re not a victim; you’re a “complainant” – and if you persist: a “troublemaker.” Government has much more important things to worry about than people: policies.
“Write a story” Pages
This book will also have “Write a story” pages: this page is one example where the reader is urged to “Write a story using as many of the elements on this page as you wish.” And how many time have we wished coming up with a story was this easy?
“Emerging Technologies” Bumper sticker
“Building the future of human existence on the vagaries of human nature.” With emerging technologies; there is no safety margin – because we don’t know what is safe. There is no remediation – because we may all be extinct. And there is no responsibility – because holding a scientific theory accountable is like enforcing an unsigned contract. • The safety of Emerging Technologies is not “an exact science” – it’s a gamble — and we’re putting more and more of our chips on the table.
“ZapJack” Card Game – Free Download
ZapJack combines the autocratic power of instant decision making with the human fallibility of being wrong. • The deck contains 44 cards: four “ZapJack” cards and forty mistakes. Print and cut out the playing cards – a page of card back images is included for double-sided printing. • Free Download at www.ruraltompkins.com – “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials.”
“Disposable Old Folks” Icons
“Everyone’s disposable” – except those who decide. It’s a motto that openly hides the truth: If it’s not you – you may be next. There are no lives greater than the Greater Good – except those who decide. Like all predators: they go for the old, weak, and infirmed . . . first. The distant howling is getting closer.
“When Words Collide” Movie poster
It’s Social Science! It’s Documentary! It’s Socumentary!! Movie goers everywhere may remain unmoved by the incidents described in this wide-screen screamer – but watch out! With all the creeping COVID corruption you’ve swallowed — your next stimulus check may need to be with a defibrillator.
“Equitable – Bigotry has a new name”
Saying Equitable and Equality are the same; is like saying robbery with violence and honest labor are the same because they’re both seeking money to support their families. It’s your actions that define you — not your excuses for those actions. The prevalence of excuses without any responsibility or accountability is a hallmark of our Adolescent Society.
“must watch TV” #3
Pricking more balloons than are at a memorials for victims who should never have been killed — a scenic overlook on the sick state of our society.
“must watch TV” #2
“Everything is doctrinaire in its own way . . .” Especially the commercials, and also the scripts, the casting, the direction . . .
“must watch TV” #1
Ramping up the satire from smiles; to “Is nothing sacred!” – these blurbs will cut deeper and deeper into the soft underbelly of today’s hypocritical doctrinaire media. Be warned.
“COVID” Road signs
We’re not out of the woods yet — but we’re on the highway. It’s a good time to remember where we’ve been.
“Zero population by 2050” Bumper sticker
Zero Population by 2050? You say; “No way!” So what. “It’s unthinkable!” Maybe we ought to think about it. • The Big New Idea: It’s the magic bullet scientific solution to clean up decades of missed opportunities and misconduct – what could be more appealing to politicians. • When will we find out? When it’s too late for scientists to fix their mistake; and too late for politicians to cover it up. Just enough time to wonder why you gave up cigarettes. [Thanks to the Bunny Rabbits font from GemFonts]
“Reasonable Rhymes XXIII” Road signs Human n
Human nature doesn’t change; and good advice is good advice.
“Reasonable Rhymes XXII” Road signs
It’s a sour satisfaction to wipe the smile off of bigotry and see the layers of evil beneath. The real satisfaction of calling it to account and ending that repression and cronyism will take the power of many. • As documented in “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall”; truth, reason, and the good of the people can gain no traction for change. It will take the power of public opinion and a responsible electorate to make a difference. • While it’s not too late; it’s already too late for some.
2022: “The Post Ethical Society” Bumper stick
2022: The Post Ethical Society – It’s just a mechanism covered with human skins.
2022: “The elderly demographic”
“2022: The elderly are no longer a deserving demographic.” — they’re hardly even a statistic. • Just as unborn children are no longer human beings under New York’s Progressive lawmaking; the state’s elderly have been shunted into a position of voiceless helplessness . . . and hopelessness — a caricature of fragility; under the synthetic smile of an indifferent bureaucracy. • While colleges clamor ever more loudly for aging alumni to give and bequeath: how many have reached out to help those alumni in their isolation and disconnection? • The Silence of the Virus – the voice of compassion stilled.
2022: “We’re running around and around”
“2022: We’re running around and around an abattoir . . . with only one exit.” One thought – One taught – One voice – One choice — and only one exit. Conforming is no guarantee of survival – just a mindless blur of compliance. If you stop to look around; you may see them coming with the prods. • How have we gotten into this situation? Not by accident.
2022: “The end justifies the means”
The strikethrough of “It’s your actions that define you” is indicative of recent changes in the moral climate in our country. With much scurrying in the background of our academic and intellectual landscape: moral precepts have been erased; and replaced. ANYTHING that conforms or furthers Doctrine is the new normal. • Scary times. Scary people.
“Quote Remix” Bumper sticker
Quote Remix: “With evil feeding food doth choke the feeder.” Evil is the ultimate User. You can’t grow fat by feeding on evil: evil grows fat by feeding on you. It will swallow you whole. From the outside — or from the inside.
“New Millennium Science” Bumper sticker
“New Millennium Science: There’s bad news and there’s good news. The bad news is; we may all become extinct. The good news is; it will end discrimination.” • Our government has its priorities straight: inflexible Doctrine. Reality takes a back seat to Centrality — until it’s time for the reality check-out.
“The cost of doing business” Bumper sticker
“Victims are NOT ‘the cost of doing business’ in society.” Once again; people are no more than the detritus of real world government planning — the “real world” of expediency; and the byproduct of an uncaring doctrine. • Our government will take away our most cherished rights for the “greater good” — and then toss that “greater good” away in favor of cost accounting. • In modern Society: There is nothing more than Government; and nothing less than the people.
“So those who distain . . .” Bumper sticker
“Entitlement: So those who distain low paying, dead-end jobs – can live off those who worked them.” I wish I could supply the respect due those who have worked a lifetime for little: because they don’t get any from Congress. • “People are meant to be used,” is the motto and guiding star of today’s government policy making.
“Their tornado of taking” Bumper sticker
“Congress: Their tornado of taking has reached F5 status.” The same attributions of “incredible damage” and “monsters” used to describe the effect of F5 tornados; could just as well apply to the frenzy of taking and using embodied in current government policies: “homes, and small businesses are swept away” could hardly be more apt.
“The truth is out” Bumper sticker
“Entitlement: The truth is out – and Congress is locking the doors.” Bumper stickers are back! And what better way to raise the level of confrontation with those secretive deal-makers. • You don’t need to know who they are; to know what they are — and what they’re doing. If they won’t come into the light; we’ll bring it to them!
Rise of the Evil Ones – Expediency: “Lying”
Lying is just another way to get what you want — and it’s a way that has seen a phenomenal growth in recent decades. With a government that cannot be questioned or held accountable — lying is the only form of public involvement left. • If you question their lies; they shut down. If you question anything; they shut down. If they feel like it; they shut down. What are you able to do about it? • In Tompkins County; the people just say that their government is corrupt and there is no meaningful participation — and go back to doing whatever they’re doing. • There may be a little cause and effect in this situation. • • • “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” has been published and is available as a free ePub download on Smashwords.com; and as Kindle and in paperback on Amazon.com.
Lossy Biosphere: “Affordable Housing Unit”
A friend of mine once picked up an ecosphere in a doctor’s waiting room, and thinking it was a snow globe; shook it vigorously — only to see the disaster that external forces can wreak on an isolated and internally balanced system. • It’s equally true that an isolated and balanced system can wreak havoc on anything external to that system – and particularly true of our “quid pro quo” government bureaucracy. Affordable housing programs are not acts of compassion and humanity; they’re acts of regulation and bureaucracy. • The weighty spinning of government is in a balance that is threatened by the willful externality of the public. Affordable housing is not about making a place for people: it’s about putting the people in their place — and keeping them there.
Expediency: “Planning Flow”
With “black box” Planning Flow; there’s nothing to trip you up – a few quick steps and “fait accompli” you’re done. • For a more detailed examination of how planning is approved in “Cornithaca” County: “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” has been published as a free ePub download on Smashwords.com; and as Kindle and soon a paperback on Amazon.com.
Expediency: “Compartmentalization”
There is no feature of expediency that is so marked as convenience. A box, or a bin; named or coded for ease of use – is more important than what it contains. Compartmentalization. It’s the bureaucratic lens that autocratic governments use. “One sees great things from the valley; only small things from the peak.” • We are a factory farm cow with number “17052” on an ear tag – we are “16D hot-dipped galvanized common nails”: milked or hammered as the case may be — but always coded for use.
“Expediency: Secrecy/Suppression”
A wide-screen, well lit, high-resolution view; of everything you can see with your face pressed against the window. • Nothing behind the scenes – nothing behind the camera – nothing behind their reasons for restricting your view — Your view ends there; but the world goes on, beyond.
Rise of the Evil Ones – “Expediency”
Expediency is all about finding the easy way to get what you want – and that’s why today’s government is all about expediency: The expediency of not having public participation – the expediency of bypassing regulatory oversight – the expediency of shutting up troublemakers. • Removing everything, in fact, that makes us a democracy — but it’s expedient for them to keep calling it so.
“Addiction” Bumper sticker
“Addiction: It’s not the size of the waves – it’s the distance to the shore.” You can’t beat an addiction: you can only fight it — every day. And you have to win — every day. • No matter how hard it is not to start; it’s easier than stopping. That’s why anyone that goes in that door; never come out whole – and most never come out at all.
“Rich, dark evil” Bumper sticker
“Tompkins County: Rich, dark, evil – covered with a thin candy excuse.” Vibrant, reimagined, progressive – Yes. Compassionate, caring, giving – No. Tompkins County evinces all the New School next-gen networking and brand sloganizing savvy that moves people ahead today — while eschewing all the Old School ethics that caused people to stop by those who had fallen. • The silence of the COVID exploded the “caring” myth and exposed them for what they are: elite of the New Dictatorship.
“Their disclosure statements are blank pages”
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt: Their disclosure statements are blank pages.” Government corruption is prevalent in New York — so much so that just saying “government” is enough for most residents. And the ethics codes are so detailed in what they cover – so that they can be made to exclude everything they don’t detail. • But one place where details are notoriously lacking is in the state’s disclosure statements. The Ag Disclosure statement for prospective buyers in Agricultural Districts merely states “farming activities may include, but not be limited to, activities that cause noise, dust and odors” — failing to mention that these activities have locally necessitated the removal of eyelids and caused brain damage among their neighbors. Tompkins County Legislators called the County Board of Realtors and the Agriculture Committee the “stakeholders.” If they’re the stakeholders: what are the prospective buyers? Patsies. Victims. Fools.
“They can’t see the forest for the fentanyl”
It’s not that government policies to legalize marihuana won’t increase the chance that you or a loved one will be killed – it’s that drug impaired drivers will now face the same laws and penalties that alcohol impaired drivers have ignored for decades.
“We haven’t decided” Bumper sticker
“Tompkins County speak: ‘We haven’t decided’ means they don’t want to give time for opposition.” It’s a given that when authorities list several options in their planning – it’s always the least popular/most repressive one they eventually choose. Is this a coincidence? No. The appearance of choice [and in particular: public choice] is an old dodge to make people feel less pressured – less at risk. And by keeping planning decisions up in the air; they undercut public opinion.
“They don’t see people – only pawns”
“Tompkins County: They don’t see people – only pawns.” Your importance is of the smallest size and least value – a thing to be used by others. In a seamless society of sameness – only the Elite have value. Only the Elite get a seat in the game.
Mind Games – “Users” Car Game
Use it or Lose it. “Using” is like a computer worm; replicating and spreading itself through our society. Selfishness has become the “self-help” career jump-starter. • "Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness." — Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Tompkins County is a planned community”
“Tompkins County is a planned community: Their plan – your community.” Government is taking control to make the “best communities”: but even if it’s not for the best of your community; and they never intended it to be — they’re still taking control. Their planners and planning decisions are completely outside the approval and oversight of the people. • “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” will detail and document the jaw-dropping truth behind this emerging dictatorship. • They refuse to be questioned, they refuse to be accountable, and they refuse to allow meaningful public participation in any government process — that’s Tompkins County today; and everywhere tomorrow.
“It was an unlevel playing field”
“It was an unlevel playing field; but it was the same playing field – Now you can’t even get through the fence.” • The “unlevel” playing field presents a problem: you can still win. So level the playing field – into many levels — and they decide the outcome. What level did they put you on?
“The New Urbanism” Bumper sticker
“The New Urbanism is entitlement for planners.” If you want to gather money and power – enable those richer and more powerful than you. That’s the main ingredient for success in today’s stratified bureaucracy. The New Urbanism and Form Based Codes are elitist mapmaking of a new territory — all that we had left of us. • Our communities; always growing and changing to meet the needs of those who lived in them — were “inefficient” – or more accurately; did not conform. Form Based Codes give planners the chance to create building block neighborhoods; and officials the power to control everything within them. • It’s a ground up paradigm of the new society: People are encouraged to make comments – and officials do whatever they please.
“Don’t need to believe” Bumper sticker
There comes a time in a scam, when the scam is revealed; a time in politics when the Dictator is announced — a time in every manipulative deception when the perpetrators know they are beyond justice; beyond questioning — this is that time in Tompkins County. • Most people in Tompkins County don’t believe – so why don’t they speak out? • It’s a time when that is not wise.
“It’s not local government” Bumper sticker
“Tompkins County: It’s not local government – it’s a franchise.” • Just like a business franchise – In Government Format Franchising; the franchisor provides to the franchisee not just its political rhetoric, policies and services, but an entire system for operating government. The franchisee generally receives customized surveys and planning development support, operating manuals, training, conforming standards, media control, a marketing strategy and expert advisory support from the franchisor. • It’s not about thinking — it’s about “branding”: brand visibility, brand loyalty, brand conformity — an ever-changing menu of reimagined sameness; from the same source.
Mind Games – “The dot.gov game”
A simple game for “brainstorming” government strategy. The schisms and arguments between players mimic the daily bureaucratic and political infighting of our would-be and be leaders. • The addition of alcohol quickly brings out the characters of those who will rule – and those who die in hotel rooms.
“COEXIST with Crime” Bumper sticker
COEXIST with Crime? Not a good idea. You think you’re getting along with criminals — and they just haven’t gotten around to you yet.
“Obliviousness = Oblivion” Bumper sticker
It’s bad enough to become extinct when you have no chance to avoid it. But when the roof is falling on your head and you blame gravity — you’re too clueless for a clue-filled universe. • Things are bad and they are getting worse. And if we don’t wake up; they’re going to get much, much worse. And much, much, much, much, much, much worse. • Somewhere; there’s a “much” with our extinction written on it. And it can’t get much worse than that.
“Not doing” Bumper sticker
“Not doing will be our undoing.” So you’re committed to sustainability. That’s nice. And then? Gold stars won’t get you anywhere with fixing the environment. The target is that dot in the distance — and you have to catch up to it before you can slow it down. Strip down to meaningful actions; and leave the mirror behind. “A stern chase is a long chase.”
“Underserved” Bumper sticker
2022 – Using the word “underserved” can be a trademark infringement. Everybody’s in the race to merchandize righteousness — and what better tool for personal gain — it’s the “virtual reality” that obscures a conflicting reality: wisdom.
“CO-Void” – NEW Word
Like the Monty Python sketch where the insured’s “no pay” insurance was a great deal – if he never had to use it — our new world, “be the change” advertisement was a smug Peaceable Kingdom paradigm – until the Pandemic – until the predators sensed an injured prey. • It wasn’t just the media noise of the pandemic that should have caught our attention — it was the silence and emptiness where our humanity used to be. How far have we moved from the “caring and sharing” 1960s to a “using and abusing” 2020s? And if we keep traveling around our spinning world – will we meet up with that time again?
“Freedom” Bumper sticker
“Freedom – It’s not ‘rent-to-own’ – it’s only rented.” It’s been endlessly repeated in stories and in life — if you give up your responsibilities; you’ll give up your rights. Government was a burden – now it’s a Boss. • Will they tell us how we can change that? Or just tell us not to worry. • When one door closes; another door opens – it’s a good description of an abattoir.
“2022 – Bigots as usual.”
“2022 – Bigots as usual.” Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr., Frederick Douglass, Mother Teresa, Mahatma Gandhi — The farther away we get – the smaller their voices become: “Following in their footsteps” – “working for the same thing” – “working for a change” – “getting what we’re owed” – “they deserve to be punished”. . . “In the future, there will be fewer but better Russians.” — Joseph Stalin
“The road to hell” Bumper sticker
“The road to hell is paved with good intentions – but the slide to hell is greased with bad ones.” It’s not just about the destination; it’s about being able to stop and check out the view . . . and take another look at your map.
“Devil take the hindmost” Bumper sticker
“Devil take the hindmost: don’t look back.” It’s a good survival policy for today’s society. “Whew! That was close . . . I better stop daydreaming and pick up the pace.”
“The only transparency . . .” Bumper sticker
“Tompkins County: The only transparency is the thinness of their excuses.” It’s filling in the form without accountability for what you write. It’s giving an answer . . . without answering the question. It’s the throng that cheers the dictator; because someone might report that you weren’t there – or didn’t cheer. The reasons for their policy decisions carry the weight of no alternative. Who cares what you believe.
“Stop pretending you care” Bumper sticker
“Stop pretending you care.” Some bumper stickers have more right to be on bumpers than others. Wouldn’t you like those behind you to see what you so often would like to say? In this world of shameless preening and self-promotion; the pretense of caring is one of the most insulting poses.
“The Shroud of Policy” Bumper sticker
“The Shroud of Policy” Religious beliefs must be open to examination and proof – but secular beliefs are too sacred for dispute. • Aren’t you tired of people just “saying” – and demanding unquestioning acceptance of their policy decisions? Materialistic beliefs are amenable to materialistic examination. • When they put lead into one end of their black box; and take out gold from the other end: it’s called fraud. When they put lead into one end of their black box and take out nothing from the other end: it’s called “policy.” • O.K. That didn’t work. So then they bring out another black box . . .
“Bobble-head Bigots” Bumper sticker
“Bobble-head Bigots: Nodding at nothing.” It could be that they’re nodding in empty agreement; but I believe it’s in agreement to keep something hidden — and not for our sakes. • Now is a time of assertions, of attitude, of arrogance, of bigotry; but it’s not a time of questioning . . . they could be nodding in agreement not to publish what happened to you.
“Public Government Meetings” Bumper sticker
Public Government Meetings: “Closed due to COVID – and something else later.” There is nothing that so defines bureaucratic flexibility as the ability to use anything as an excuse – except possibly their ability to get away with it — let’s see you try to use “I’m understaffed,” for not paying your property taxes on time. • And nothing that so defines politicians as their desire to embrace more power. • That’s why COVID was a windfall event in the Darwinian playing field of politics – every disruption is a chance for corruption. • The COVID ban on public meetings streamlined the whole acquisition and approval process – and it’s a perk they don’t intend to give up.
“Destroying rural communities” Bumper sticker
“Tompkins County: Destroying everything that enables rural communities – enabling everything that destroys rural communities.” Rural residents don’t need to see written confirmation from authorities — they see it everywhere around them. County policy of denying representation, remediation, and even basic law enforcement to rural communities [Tompkins County refuses to provide more than one deputy sheriff to police two rural towns] – and their constant tax and assessment increases on poor rural property owners is driving out those who were the community’s foundation – and leaving a vacuum to suck in the drug dealers, law breakers and unwanted. • A recent “Adult Entertainment Ordinance” was enacted to limit all sexual businesses to the town’s rural and agricultural zones [where the families are unprotected and more isolated] “to promote the health, safety, morals and general welfare of the citizens of the Town.” • There’s much more . . . but you get the picture.
“Petitioning” Road signs
Petitions are a democratic tool for meaningful participation in policy making; but in Tompkins County; there is no meaningful participation – because it’s not a democracy. • “Petitions hold no merit.” — Unnamed county superintendent • Like those lesser-born of the past; laboring under royalty and at the mercy of repressive autocracies — the validity of residents’ requests is entirely dependent upon the approval of those in charge; those at the top. • Tompkins County’s Elite have it all their own way — they’re used to having it all their own way. And with the “representative” power of 40,000 uninvolved student transients, and Legislative districting out of Gerrymandering 101: it’s not likely to change. • They decide. For you . . . and for themselves. Everything. Always. It’s a drug.
“Nano Nano” Road signs
Trusting the judgement of someone who has Fame, Fortune, and the realization of a dream in the balance can come at a price. • “Nanotechnology” proponents refute the doomsday scenario of The Extinction of All Life On Earth with: “the danger of gray goo is far less likely than originally thought” – and “such dangers lie too far in the future to be of concern to regulators” – or the “more realistic threats associated with knowledge-enabled nanoterrorism” — none of which sounds like, “it can’t happen” or “impossible.” • While the loss of human life from the “unexpected consequences” of emerging technologies falls under the “shit happens” umbrella of scientific progress – scientists do labor under one constant fear — loss of funding. • In an ever degrading and irremediable biosphere; Our technological morality play reads like the script of a horror movie: And no matter how much you shout at the screen — they never learn.
“Grand entry egos” Bumper sticker
“Grand entry egos – and back door ethics.” This pretty well sums up the attitude going around today. • Their “equitable” façade hides the entrance to a back room of bigotry and bias. A secret that everybody knows; but no one speaks of. If you want to be vilified at the Celebration of Themselves; just quote Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., or Frederick Douglass.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “Lossy Abattoir”
The New Urbanism is Urban Colonialism; and their “vibrant” urban centers require that rural lands be used for food production, recreation, and the unwanted. • They’re bringing civilization to the rural natives by destroying their cultural matrix and setting them adrift in an elitist society that has no use for them; except as consumables. • In Tompkins County’s Cornell led planning “vision” of the future — the county’s rural communities will no longer exist.
“Playing a game of taking and giving”
“Government: They’re playing a game of taking and giving – that will end by their taking it all.” • While our government won’t take ownership of their mistakes or their responsibilities — they want to take ownership of everything else. All roads lead to Cornithaca — and to the new Reich.
“Simple Solution 1”
Simple Solution 1: “Randomly sterilize 50% of the world’s population.” In a world filled with simple solutions born of illogical precepts — any logical solution that undercuts the foundations of self-interest and gain is unacceptable. After all, what reason could be great enough to enact equitable, across-the-board policies that would end so much of the pain, suffering, and death in the world? It’s ridiculous; don’t you realize what a negative effect this would have on corporations, and non-profits – and on governments whose power and privilege are based on manipulating want and need.
“Farm Harm” Gameboard
“Farm Harm” is a game where you are constantly moving forward, and moving backward; but never getting anywhere — like the mothers in “Ikiru”: passing from one section to another and ending up back where you started. That’s if you use the Bureaucrat’s Rules – if you change the rules; you can change the outcome.
“No one left behind.” Except . . .
“No one left behind.” Except the elderly, those living in rural areas, and anyone of the wrong race, gender, or ethnicity. Like the “people beloved” titles of dictators; the titles of our government’s policies, and policy actions, are a mockery of human freedom and worth — a lie that remains unexposed out of fear. • The most blatant discriminatory actions are carried out while claiming that “discrimination is against the law” – and with a “diversity” that speaks, not to ethnic mix; but to ethnic purity. • It used to be said that an elephant was a mouse “built to government specifications” — it can now be said that our government’s social policies are: “discrimination in pursuit of a goal – that would have already been reached if they had not enacted those policies.”
“You’re not playing the System . . .”
“You’re not playing the System; the System is playing you.” Like all good hustlers – politicians coax their marks into wagering it all – and then they run the table. • You’ve given them the power: so they can give you what they promised – or not. It’s their choice. Is there a term for “street stupid”?
“Form Based Codes are for Authority”
“Form Based Codes are for Authority. Behavior Based Codes are for Humanity. Which one will Politicians choose?” Do you need to ask? They’ve already shown us their choice. • We are living in a society that is at odds with our knowledge of humanity and dignity. Everything that is natural in human interaction and community can only be achieved through the permission and intervention of Authority. • Those who support the power to discriminate against any of us; are those remove the freedom from all of us.
“Honesty may be the best policy”
“Honesty may be the best policy – But it was never enacted by Congress.” With all the transparency of a transparent liar – our government leaders say whatever it takes to get their plans approved. • While every court show warns of the dangers of cosigning a loan – Congressional leaders forge our names on every credit acquisition scheme they can think of — and lead us by throwing the first stone. . . and getting in the first lifeboat.
“You live and you learn” Bumper sticker
“You live and you learn. You learn and you live.” There’s more than a symmetry to this pair – there’s a utility: Learning means survival. So it’s important to learn from your living; and not just from what you are taught. Although, “A little learning is a dangerous thing.” Learning that a flame can burn; may stop you from learning that a flame can give warmth and illumination. • What does this mean? No matter what you’re given, and no matter what you’ve learned – you can still fuck things up. That’s us.
“Discrimination is the infection”
“You can’t heal the wound until you stop the infection. Discrimination is the infection.” You might as well pull yourself up by your bootstraps; as end discrimination by a policy of discrimination — so what’s in it for government? Unstoppable power and privilege. • The evilly sharp wedge of the “greater good” excuse has prized open the door – leaving society unprotected to this New Millennium Predation. Gender, Race, and Ethnicity has become the all-important reason and aim of everything – a doctrine of profit, privilege and hate. • The end may not justify the means: but the means, more often than not, preordains the end.
“Slaves & Drugs” Bumper sticker
“Slaves & Drugs: It’s not just those who buy them; it’s those who supply them.” Many of today’s policy decisions are presented with isolated “facts” to obfuscate the actual historical situation. Full Disclosure - Full Exposure of all government policies and statistics is the only “level field” that will ensure our freedom.
“Lossy Government”
Lossy Government strips out whatever it regards as either unnecessary or redundant – it is capable of reaching decisions without help. People have become the objects of government; not the participants.
“2022: ‘Equality’ isn’t bona fide”
“2022: ‘Equality’ isn’t bona fide – it’s stratified.” One proof that we are living in an adolescent society is the prevalence of excuses. • They are “reasons” without the backing of facts; or the clarity of debate. • They are adjudications that suppress one side of the argument. • And more simply: they are actions and ideas that directly contradict the lives and beliefs of every respected figure of human worth and equality. • If you don’t believe me; believe them — and not the evil that is done in their name.
“1982: ‘Can’t find work.’” Bumper sticker
2022: “Can’t find workers” — When the early eighties want ads read: “Machinist wanted – 5 years experience” – my skills as an artist only qualified me for temporary, entry level employment; and it was up to me to make something of the opportunity. These days; politicians discourage the “work ethic” – so they can make something of the opportunity.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “Lossy Problems”
“Don’t fix the problem – embrace the opportunity” is a fitting motto for today’s autocratic government: every problem is used as an excuse to take money, power, everything – and spin-doctor it all clean afterward. • Debate is a thing of the past — we are living in a time of edicts, pronouncements, and authorities — of silent conforming to an unquestionable threat. We’re like rabbits: frozen to immobility in the sights of a rifle. What are the odds of surviving?
“Lossy People”
We’re all disposable — and the more conforming we are; the more easily disposed of. Doctrine does not recognize people as of primary importance: There is no longer an inflexible standard of human worth to protect us from oppression. • Of course we’re disposable: There is not one new policy or regulation that does not add to the power and control of those who crave power and control. • We are a society of adolescents: we want; but we don’t know what — we demand respect; but we don’t care to earn it — we give up power; to avoid responsibility — and we embrace an inflexible group doctrine; to avoid thinking or acting alone. • We are running in an abattoir of our own making — we are the guards of our own prison. • We’ve told them something is wrong — now someone had better fix it. Someone had better.
“How bad are things?” Bumper sticker
“You think you get no respect . . .” How bad are things? The comparisons are always with the worst happenings; never the best. The People have been whipsawed between Power and Policy until they are ground into a “gray goo” of nutrients. “No it’s not” has become the universal response to our suffering. And like a pantomime comedy: every time our leaders come and bend down to pick us up; they kick us out of reach with their clumsy locomotion. • “How bad are things?” There may be no one left to be told how much better off they are.
“Reimagining Integrity” Bumper sticker
“Reimagining Integrity – Don’t give up your principles: reimagine them!” • There’s a workaround for everything. Just as there is a greater good than good – there is an integrity that is more than a mere adherence to basic principles: a greater integrity. • The History Channel is premiering a new series on Abraham Lincoln: Would anybody like to bet that Lincoln won’t be “reimagined” into supporting things that he never would have agreed to if he were still alive? • How about you, Nietzsche?
“Who is the slave owner?” Bumper sticker
“Who is the slave owner?” Africa: the Old World birthplace of slavery? Hispanics: descendants of New World slave-masters? • Certainly; the Irish immigrants have less ties to slavery than the people who continue to benefit from it. Start the debate. • Today’s dictatorial doctrine is the product of hate and gain; not history. Their arguments rely on the assumption that their premise is the only possible one – and that their conclusions Must be accepted. • The fragile underpinnings of their “Pseudo-sense” fake logic can’t stand the light of public inspection. Everything is kept in the dark; so we can’t find the threads that will cause it all to unravel. • If they won’t come into the light — we’ll bring it to them.
“♥ - ♥ = Tompkins County” Bumper sticker
They’re cunning as weasels And slicker’n snot But compassionate humans Is one thing they’re not. • Tompkins County – the grayness is built in – there is no right or wrong; just a flat gray — and the flat refusal to see any other solution; but the one that is most profitable to the policy makers. • It’s emblematic that the gray fog of their excuses and justifications – hides the cold and unyielding gray of their immovable Doctrine. • A heartless gray – a gray of the change; the new chapter – and the closer one gets to the source; the greater the influence of its corruption.
“An equation has two sides . . .”
“An equation has two sides . . . Our Social Policies have one” – the dangers of mathematics and the dangers of government – both systems only need to be self-consistent to maximize their utility – and what’s more self-consistent than a dictatorship? • Mathematically speaking; the only “equals” left is: “conforming = survival.”
“Liberty and Justice for . . .”
We live in a time when Justice is so important; we put a finger on the scales – when Equality is so important; we dispense it selectively – and when Accountability is so important; we act in secret and refuse to keep record of those actions. • Can there be any greater Justice than justice for all – always? And can there be any “greater good” – than not giving our government the power to make that decision for us?
“Love my race; love my racism.”
“Love my race; love my racism.” [A bumper sticker for our times] • You had better bring more than an over-the-top arrogance to the table; if you want to overturn the wisdom of human history, the safeguards of our freedom, and the stability of common ground.
“The people aren’t listened to. . .”
Tompkins County appears so often in this book; because it is so often what affects my life – and because its causes and effects are both ubiquitous and accessible – although “in your face” would probably be a better description. • Tompkins County is important because of its overwhelmingly Progressive government and policy agenda – in a Liberal dominated county – in a Liberal dominated state — it’s the perfect laboratory to study the reality behind their “Vision” – a dictatorship for the benefit of the Elite. • It is uniformly agreed upon by Tompkins County residents – regardless of political affiliation – that their government is corrupt and that here is no meaningful public participation: everything and everyone who does not conform is at risk to be eliminated. • As I quoted last February: “The real tragedy of these small enclaves of marginality and poverty is that people are playing a game of life that has been structured in such a way that they are required to play but prevented from winning.” — Janet Fitchen, Poverty in Rural America • It’s the only playing field left open to rural residents in Tompkins County.
“The ‘Tompkins County’ defense”
Their story isn’t “the dog ate my homework” – it’s “the dog snuck into the house and ate my homework to get me into trouble.” • Tompkins County authorities defend themselves from criticism with the most outrageous concoctions – heavily laced with Doctrine – and dismissively tossed to the public on a “take it or leave it – but you can’t do anything about it” basis.
“What is the definition of the Greater Good?”
“What is the definition of the ‘Greater Good’? You rob one person and split with a friend? You kill one person and split with a friend? Your act needs to benefit at least three people?” • Once you move something from an area of prohibited acts; into an area of justifiable acts – you need to establish why and how they are justifiable – and that’s where the fancy dancing begins. While the policies are starkly outlined – their justifications are a blurry smokescreen of evasions and equivocations – with a shifting ground of “case-by-case” value judgements thrown in. • It’s a ‘greater good’ that for all oversight purposes; does not exist – it’s carried out in secret, the names of the perpetrators are secret, the names of the victims are secret, and access to the statistical social context is withheld. It’s an act of ‘good’ that is verified by self-interest and ratified in self-promotion. • Our social policies are a fairy tale with the weight of a ration book — a shipwrecked survivor on an unknown island in a state of complete denial.
“Science Megalomania”
You wouldn’t let stockbrokers, just because they knew more about stocks than you: decide what level of risk you should take – especially if their gain played a major role in the decision. So why do we let scientists and politicians who have everything to gain from the risk; gamble with our lives – and all life on earth? • What sort of guarantees do they provide? That if we become extinct – we’ll get our money back? • One 50’s science fiction movie offered $50,000 to the first person who could prove that the monster “IT” was not on Mars – that’s the sort of bet that corporations and technologists like to rely on: For many decades; the difficulties in proving that profitable new scientific developments and applications were actually harmful to people and the environment has taken a mountain of facts – and years of fighting regulatory backpedaling. • The biggest contributor to the Chernobyl disaster was not human error – it was human nature. [Here’s a sure bet] If emerging technologies create an earth-threatening event; what is the first thing scientists will do? Try to cover it up. • Isn’t it time to demand that the burden of proof be reversed — before Science makes their final mistake – our final mistake?
“The Lossy Society – Families”
When everybody is the same; no one is indispensable – except those who do the dispensing. • Like the bricks in a wall: the “people units” of a Family are Conforming building parts of a Conforming society – surrounded and held together by Doctrine. Designed by Policy. And indistinguishable in any way more personal than a demographic. • Form Based communities; with Form Based education and recreation; are the “box ticking” goals assigned to all local authorities. • The designs are perfect – the fault lies with the bricks. • Be careful.
“The Lossy Society – Education”
It’s been said; “You can prove anything; provided your viewpoint is narrow enough” – and today’s educational “lens” rivals that of a microscope for displaying particular minutiae – at the expense of everything else. • Standardized testing – standardized curriculums – standardized opinions – standardized thinking. Everything and everyone must be made to conform . . . or be destroyed. • Every grain of sand on the beach may be different – but not one of them is a popsicle stick. Or even an artist.
“They talk the talk . . .” Bumper sticker
“Social Policy 2022: They talk the talk; and walk in the opposite direction.” • If there is any area of impenetrability in our “transparent” government; it’s the area of government authored social policy and policy making. This “black box” of machinations hides every real-world action and consequence — even the degree of their success is no more than a “hand out” – with no contextual or statistical means of public oversight. • Race, gender and ethnicity have risen on a tide of political “patty-cake” to the level of nobility – a right of birth – a treason to contradict or question. • Today’s “liberal” Progressives are everything that Liberals of the 60’s claimed to hate and despise – turning the absolute rights of the People; to “absolutely not.” Killing for peace. Purging for the Peaceable Kingdom. • Like Global Warming and Agricultural Pollution; the true state of our country’s social fabric is covered up through direct government intervention and “black box” activities. • Washington fiddles while the ship of state sinks. We’re told to keep calm and ride out the storm and everything will turn out for the best – for everyone. • It’s all part of the plan; that’s kept in the “black box.”
“You don’t feel it in your heart”
“Social Policy 2022: You don’t feel it in your heart – you feel it in their hate.” Like the “practical jokes” that are not jokes; but are evidence of a desire to hurt – there is a dark undercurrent in popular culture today. • Behind what has become polemic of discriminatory bias and accusatory arrogance; intolerance and bigotry preen and strut – fatuously declaiming what they are “owed.” • The brittle construct of judgmental “equality” has shattered; revealing an ugly landscape of greed, self-indulgence, and hate. • In “The Lossy Society – Old Folks” graphic; you can see the shadowy word; “shoes” – over the physicality of Nazi hate. • “Are these the shadows of the things that Will be, or are they shadows of things that May be, only?" • Scrooge had an epiphany — there is little evidence that we will.
“The Lossy Society – Old Folks”
In the “Lossy Society” – all regulatory tools and policy making profit those who are in charge – and those who desperately cling to them. • People Units are sorted into compartments and processed as needed – with the Elite as the end beneficiaries. The bigger the problem or perceived need; the more compartments are processed. No one is indispensable; except those who do the dispensing. • 2022 will be a time of great need . . . What’s your compartment?
“It’s a “greater good” . . .” Bumper sticker
“Social Policy 2022: It’s a ‘greater good’ – that fails every test of goodness.” There is no love. There is no compassion. There is no human worth. That is why they hide their actions and their victims – and are only willing to talk about their good “intentions.” • And if the “road to Hell is paved with good intentions” – maybe we should take the time to look; and see how far along we are. • Where is the “greater good” in a government that assumes the power to discriminate against whoever they want; whenever they want; for as long as they want; in secrecy? • Is there a single area of society where the ‘greater good’ puppet show has not become script for propagandizing oppression? • We have come down the road so far – that evidence of the most blatant bias is met with a dismissive unconcern. Evil is a tireless driver; and our leaders have taken a back seat — eagerly anticipating the final destination.
“It fell through the crooks.” Bumper sticker
“Rural Social Justice? It fell through the crooks.” In a time when so many people see others as objects to use – those left undefended in our society are at the mercy of all. • In fifteen years of efforts to bring Rural Social Justice to Tompkins County: I was unable to get one person in authority at the local, county, or state level to represent, support, or help the rural community – or to make even the slightest change in the existing policy-making bias and misconduct. • Who is worse off than our marginalized urban poor? People who aren’t even worth helping.
“Meaningful Public Participation”
Public Meetings are closed – and will they ever open? If you were an autocratic Doctrine holder; who coupled “public participation” with “troublemakers” – what would you do? • You would enter a “new era” of government — coupled with old era totalitarianism.
“Find the three identical balloons”
There is similar, much alike, and identical. “Lenses” can be used to select a set of things that are “similar” and “much alike” – but “identical” transcends these subjective judgements. • “Made with” and “made from” on a product may seem similar in the eyes of to a consumer; but are quite dissimilar through the legal “lens” of regulators. • It’s tough to keep your bearings on the “slippery slope” of words, meaning, and intent that comprise [and compromise] today’s social policies — so the best procedure is to compare their words and actions with those figures of equality, compassion, and human worth we most respect. • When you hear phrases like; “fighting for the same thing” – watch out – it means that those beliefs and actions have been adulterated — and there is no telling with what; and how much of it is inert . . . or toxic.
“Follow the arrows home”
While it’s simple to follow the arrows; it’s confusing to have so many arrows to follow. The old truism; “the best way to make a million dollars is to write a book about how to do it, and sell a million copies” – has been carried to extremes in today’s advice giving landscape. • Political advice, social advice, health advice, financial advice, cooking advice — all vying for your attention [and money] — and all adding up to more than a lifetime of reading, comparing, preparing, and consuming. • The conclusion is self-evident: if you don’t have some of your own arrows to follow – you’ll never find your way home.
“Stones”
There is a knowledge you can only acquire when you don’t spend all your time with machines and plodding categorizations. • Our society is not the glue that hold us together – it’s the bars that keep us apart. When you think in terms of “people”; everything is understandable – there is no human convention in place or time that does not answer to our desire to find our place in the world; both within us and without. • Stop bending under the ceiling of those who would limit our growth to their understandings of use and control — it’s time to stand up and stretch. • There is no limit to the imagination that has not been placed there for that purpose.
“Knots Too Much”
With more twists, turns, and dead ends than modern governance: these policy projecting pieces of rope could be used to replicate resident’s paths in our Kafkaesque bureaucracy. It’s as difficult [and as useful] as tracing skate-marks in the ice – but I hope it’s perceptually invigorating and fun.
3 Activity Pages
These three activity pages are meant to engage the mind and “cleanse the palate”: “Spot the 5 sharks,” “Knots,” and “Spot the 5 frogmen.” I will have a number of graphical fun pages, as well as games, puzzles, mazes, and riddles throughout the book. Black and white does not mean “without color” – and these pages present some of the special strengths that black and white line art is noted for.
“Irreversible consequence technologies”
“Is there anybody approving the use of irreversible consequence technologies; who does not plan to profit from them? • Bumpers are intended to protect us from serious harm in the event of a collision – but this bumper sticker argues for a more proactive solution: not having a fatal accident. • In the movie “Forbidden Planet”: Krell Super-Science gave the inhabitants of that planet the power to do anything their minds could imagine — but when they slept, and their conscious minds were no longer in control — that power resulted in their extinction. • Are we poised on the same precipice? • We are gambling the future of all life on earth; on the assurances of people who have fame, fortune, the realization of a dream, and great political ambition in the balance — and with no way to reverse the damage or make restitution. • All the equational delusions and statistical status quos are beside the point. I may not have studied science and politics — but I have studied scientists and politicians. And “deep shit” – is deep shit.
“Un-titled” Road signs
End of Days? A little stocktaking might be appropriate. It’s tough to quibble your way out of death. And complaints about bed bugs and mold will certainly fall on deaf ears — no matter what kind of afterlife we get. • We’re in for Big Changes. BIG CHANGES. Why aren’t you being told this? Get Real. It would cause problems. And there are responsibilities. And they’ll justify those actions in their memoirs – from the space colony. • We are living in a point of history where there is no “everybody” – just “everybody else” — and everybody is someone else’s “everybody else.” • Maybe I should start smoking again? I can give it up when I give everything up. Or everything else.
“Environmental Merchandising” Road signs
Environmental Merchandising serves a need – the need to sell products. Most people are happy just to have the stigma removed [or at least the appearance of it] and will buy without looking too hard for the unvarnished truth. A Ramen Noodle cup with “35% Less Sodium!” still has more salt than the Dead Sea – and slowing down the destabilizing increase means less than little in our runaway environmental system. • How good is our corporate environmental stewardship these days? In a word: Pathetic, Minimal, or in a word I prefer: Disastrous.
“Reasonable Rhymes XII” Road signs
Wouldn’t it be nice to have some reinforcing “Burma Shave” style road signs back on our highways? Like the “eatery” exit signs — food for thought.
“I’d like a second opinion” Bumper sticker
“You have to remove my heart to save my life? I’d like a second opinion.” Not only are today’s social policies radical; they’re radically irrational – and it would be smart to get a second opinion from some trusted sources: • Abraham Lincoln: “Important principles may, and must, be inflexible.” • Frederick Douglass: “Right is of no sex, Truth is of no color” • I think I’ll go with them. • What about the “Greater Good”? • “How many legs does a dog have if you call his tail a leg? Four. Saying that a tail is a leg doesn't make it a leg.” — Abraham Lincoln
“Scientists are from Pluto” Bumper sticker
“Men are from Mars. Women are from Venus. Scientists are from Pluto. Is it even a planet?” These days: people they don’t ask; “What is your sign?” – They ask: “What is your category?” And those who create the categories have great power — the new alchemists who will reconstitute the perfect society from base metals of discrimination and oppression. • The power of Doctrine to put people in their place . . . from now on.
“The tale does wag the dog” Bumper sticker
Stories, stories, stories – it’s the stories that hold sway today; and reality is cut to fit the narrative. But where do these stories come from? • One way to find out is to search the “target,” instead of the story. A story is repeated widely; but the originators have a more substantial agenda than mere maliciousness: They like to include a support structure for their tale – and are usually high in the search engine rankings. • And sometimes you can tell the maker’s label by just the cut of the cloth.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “Secrets”
Secrets. Government is run by secrets. We could speculate; but maybe that’s what we’re supposed to do. Making up answers is a cloud that best hides secrets.
“Permanent tattoos and wash-off ethics”
It’s all in the packaging. You can always sell the appearances – if the contents don’t matter. • When people are famous for being famous – does being famous for your achievements mean you’re successful? • 2022: The year when people are willing to do anything – for not all that much. • The ethics? They come off with the wrapper.
“BIGOTRY – written in letters too big to see”
It’s not a foreign language — so stop relying on the subtitles to learn what’s going on.
“What’s cool about natural disasters?”
“It depends on how you see the world.” There used to be a morality question: “If you could press a button; and kill a million people on the other side of the world; and get a million dollars – would you do it?” • This simple “yes/no” scenario would be met today with equivocation: “It’s only about 1/8000th of the world’s population – 0.013%.” or “There are too many people anyway” or [maybe even more dismissive] “A million dollars isn’t worth that much today.” • It seems that the only objection to making a deal with the Devil: is not getting the best deal possible. • If in the setting of Science; People don’t have much importance – why are we letting Science decide our future? • Science and politics are what people do; Art is what people are — maybe we should remember that.
“Patching Policies”
Since government policies are created for the benefit of government; and not the people – the resulting deaths and other non-functional defects merely require a patch to keep the policy machinery rolling. • Enacting an expensive policy is argued on the basis of the welfare of the people; while a policy designed for the welfare of the people is rejected on the basis of its expense. • And our government’s need for secrecy cites your right to privacy much more forcefully than it defends your right to live. • If you want to change that “you don’t know politics” smile politicians keep in stock – just suggest/demand that their policies be radically changed – or entirely done away with!
Storytime Remix: “Frikin’ Little”
They make Reality shows about subsistence living; but if they made one about substance living – it would be as interesting as watching paint dry, and as stupid as pushing paperclips into an electric outlet. And you’d need to keep replacing the cast: They don’t live many seasons – once you subtract the rehabs.
“Tompkins County’s Rural Policy”
“Tompkins County’s Rural Policy: Constructive Eviction.” Under the cover of “We” and “Us” – with a Greater Good “lens” – Tompkins County has unleashed a series of policies to destroy the troublesome rural community. • The Town of Lansing was broken up and divided into Town and Village by the rural community’s refusal to accede to collegiate control — but a world-class Ivy League corporation cannot be gainsaid: and through urban sprawl, voting loopholes, and unilateral planning decisions; Lansing Town government was taken over and made to conform. • Lansing’s rural community is entirely unrepresented in this government, with no services except their own volunteer fire department – and the County has cut back rural law enforcement to one deputy for two towns. • High tax assessments are forcing the original rural residents out; and the community’s character has changed from “blue collar” families to a “drug dollar” Ag Ghetto. • In rural Lansing’s future; all that will be left are factory farms, foreign workers, felons . . . and fools.
“Be the change [small change]” Bumper sticker
“The Change” is projected big on a paper-thin world of self-promotion; but if we walk through that projection into a world of reality – what do we see? Nothing. • There is no rising tide of anything good. There is no atmosphere that is positive and loving: It’s an atmosphere of hate and recrimination – and a repressive feeling of fear and apprehension. • “I’m not bad people; it’s people that made me bad.” “I don’t need to work; I just haven’t been paid what I’m owed.” • Once we’re done blaming others; there is no meaningful action — and once we’ve taken everything; and there is nothing left to take . . . it’s time to turn the page on this Society. That will be “the change.”
“Social Policy in 2022” Bumper sticker
“Social Policy in 2022: Bigotry and piggery – joined at the hip.” Our social policies are not selfless actions; but filled to overflowing with a sense of self and self-interest. • Keeping in mind that our leaders are not “movers and shakers,” but users and takers; gives a clearer perception of the “why” in back of policy making. Our social policies are designed to “line the pockets” of those who carry them out, and those who are the beneficiaries – and bigotry is the oil that it all slides on. It’s an elitist “black box” that conceals the construction, the actions, and even the results of the process — there is no public oversight: we have to take them at their word. • It’s this same commitment to self-interest that has led to the current batch of distancing descriptors. For example: “Lens” has replaced “viewpoint” in elitist lexicon – a viewpoint is inextricably attached to a person; while a lens implies an outside and less personal view. It’s the “lens” that is responsible – not the person who uses that view. Tricky.
“Law • Paper • Bullet”
It’s not a time of building; it’s a time of cycling: the COVID cases ebb and flow, we go out and come back home, and crime endlessly cycles through our bureaucracy like hunters through the woods. • Deer me. I was going to add a fourth choice for the game: “Victim” – but since the victim is always the victim: it would always be the wrong shape at the wrong time — a Form Based thumbs down.
Tompkins County and Tammany Hall in pictures
“Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” is planned to be an all text book; so any pictures will have to appear in this book. • What you notice is the misrepresentation – but what you don’t see; is what’s behind it. And while you can see a number of trucks – it’s only a tiny fraction of the truck traffic roaring through our hamlet. One day I counted; ninety dump trucks from just one of the hauling companies pictured – it was a January day in Upstate New York. In the summer it can get much worse. • When we asked for a standard 4-Ton weight limit for thru-cutting trucks; the County Highway Department posted a 20-Ton limit – 5 times the posted weight of every other road. • And, yes – I did bring the Highway Director’s behavior to the attention of Tompkins County’s ethical oversight authorities: Their response was to completely ignore his actions. • As Tompkins County Legislators like to say; “the colleges define the community” — and it’s the County’s ethical conduct that defines the colleges. • “In rural New York no one can hear you scream.”
“The Ship of State 2022” Bumper sticker
A neighbor of mine once said: “I’m the only one around here that works.” There was a lot of truth in that. • Our government not only takes from the present, and takes from the future – but with their attack on Social Security: they want to take form the past as well. • Our economy is just a scam: a ‘take gold from seawater’ scheme that will leave us all rich – if we started out even richer. • My neighbor is retiring now: and watching everything he worked for being sucked down into a sinkhole of government policy. • Our government needs to escape the scene of their crimes; “Tell the workers to ‘row harder!’”
“COVID in the USA” Bumper sticker
Compassion is just another piece of “we are the change” vaporware. The only rising tide our elderly felt during the Pandemic; left them struggling to keep their heads above water – or not. • Our “Better Nature” has become a fold-out brochure – no more than a media promo spot – a marketing tool. And not to be confused with “truth in advertising.” • The elderly are “Victims” — and in our stratified future: you can’t change your label. • Only our government can do that – or not.
“They don’t take responsibility”
Tompkins County is a government that believes it has the right to “balance the burdens” on residents as they choose – and responds to accusations of hubris and evidence of dictatorial policy making by just claiming that they are not. • They and their cronies are never at fault; it’s always someone else’s fault — and probably your fault — and they always need more money, and more power, and more control to get us out of this trouble. • Tompkins County: the views of some forced on everyone — at a cost.
“Everyone will be treated the same”
“In Biden’s Society: Everyone will be treated the same – disposable.” If the lowest common denominator is non-existence; our government is pressing all Human worth and dignity into a vast plane of nothingness. • Their assertions of “equality” are only hypocritical lip-service: after establishing that the promotion of certain social actions are “more important” than principles or rights; our government then proceeded to add corporations, unions, and race, gender, and ethnicity, along with powerful special interests to this “more important” constellation that will guide us to the Promised Land. • Importance has become the mark of the new nobility - a coat of arms ensuring constant profit “without let or hindrance” by ethics or legitimacy. • Everyone WILL be treated the same – it’s just that some of us are no longer “everyone” — they’re “Important.”
“Separate but Equal”
It’s the same scam you see everywhere today: We’re all together [so we’re part of the same community] – but we’re categorized differently [so we don’t get the same treatment.] It’s a world of users and losers. • Rural people whose families have lived there for five generations; are marginalized by a high-tax, urban sprawl bedroom community – whose transient [and more affluent] families only plan to maximize their benefits and then move. • Tompkins County policy making exemplifies the kind of diversity that results in concentration camps. We’re all in this together . . . just different sides of the fence.
“Empowering Local Government”
We have traveled back in time. We are living under a government with all the powers and privileges of royalty, of dictators . . . of secret police. • Well; aren’t we living “under” a government that has those powers? Haven’t “we” given that government the power to collectively and selectively oppress us? However they want. As long as they want. In secret. • And doesn’t the use of this power permeate their every policy and attitude. • We are blinded by the vision of what we are owed by others – not what we owe to everybody. The vision of an adolescent. “Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee” We’re off to the Island of Empowerment. • Rise of the Evil Ones. They have great needs — work harder.
“The Hate Reflex”
Like MSG or Microplastics – it’s a part of our diet: Hate. • It’s a fog that clings, glistens on the skin; and hides in its own shadow. • In a world without love and compassion – there is nothing but hate to fill the emptiness. • For a better world: would you hate those to blame, or fill it with love? • The future is a place of choices — many choices; many futures.
New Phrase: “Information Cul-de-sac”
The complacency of not thinking; is only surpassed by the dangers. • The stories of people who believe they will retain authority; while giving up responsibility – show how often this myth has been sadly revealed as wishful thinking. • It’s only by accepting the responsibility of thinking; that we can remain free of oppression — and that requires access to everyone’s ideas. • The comfort of intellectual complacency; is only one plot away from the silence of the grave.
New Definition: “Underwriter”
You don’t need anyone to tell you the right thing to do – that’s why we need “underwriters” to convince us to do otherwise. • I frequently think of the Moody Blues lyric; “How one thought can live provide the others die” – and how it encapsulates our modern “One Thought” Doctrine: where the action of endlessly “underwriting” one way of thinking; is paired with unceasing attempts to destroy every other. • In Authoritarian governments like ours: Everybody talks about oppression, but nobody does anything about it — not if they know what’s good for them. It’s a Victim’s Fault society; and the victims “put themselves at risk” by being “in the wrong place at the wrong time.” • A strangely disclaiming statement from a government that has gained its power through claiming it can fix everything. But a little “underwriting” can fix that too.
“Local Government Planning”
This graphic is like looking across an intersection; towards the policy making documented in “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall.” • The actual survey questions are just as manipulative, although they are crafted more subtly in the Town of Lansing Survey – and the Town’s Comprehensive Plan is demonstrably written by Cornell; through its parts and partisans – and Town authorities did turn their backs on any meaningful participation, review, or approval by the town’s residents. • The violence? Well, there are some rural people who believe I was sprayed with Roundup and poisoned because of my Rural Social Justice activities. • The facts? There is no one in authority left to go to – no one left to trust. That’s a fact.
“Local Government Communications”
It happened again. Mr. “Hope-a-dope.” We were told; “You already have my support there” by our County representative; and “You’ll need the signatures of people on the road” – which we did – but when we finished our part: he refused to acknowledge or respond to any of our communications. • We were fools to believe. The only question is whether we were just tricked into wasting time and energy to weaken our resolve — or whether they needed the time to put something over behind the scenes. • Asking for the government’s help in Tompkins County; merely gives advance warning of a problem that needs to be covered up, or a public action that needs to be quashed.
“Local Government Hearings”
It’s hard to tell whether people don’t attend public hearings because they don’t think that it’s important – or they do know that it’s not important – or they’re just apathetic. But there is one thing that is certain: There is no meaningful public participation in Tompkins County. • While citizens can sign up to speak their opinions for two-minutes; local authorities don’t take two-seconds to reach a decision afterwards. It’s as meaningful a government participation as reading a magazine in a municipal waiting room. • Local governments in Tompkins County treat the opinions of residents like fast food containers – they look for the first place to dispose of them without being seen.
“End of Days” Activities Text
When you read those articles that discuss the advantages and disadvantages of new technology, and the risks inherent in low-probability, high-impact outcomes from emerging technologies: there is one important factor that never seems to be included — the benefit to scientists. • With the prospect of fame, fortune, and the realization of a dream in the balance; these scientists are the last people you can expect to give an impartial and unbiased opinion; and yet they are frequently the decision makers in our “should we risk it” scenario building. • Human nature is not something that only operates outside the boundaries of Science. And the Scientific Method demands that they be allowed to experiment to the end limits of their instrumentality – and beyond. Even if it’s the End of the World — They were the ones who brought it about. Megalomaniacs and Doomsday devices operate all the more freely behind today’s Selfless Science façade. • Not with a bang but a Nobel Prize winning obsession.
“Tompkins County: New Mottos” Bumper sticker
“Tompkins County: Creating rural communities where drugs, crime and poverty can thrive.” • “Policy Appropriate” mottos would be a great help in raising public awareness of the ongoing destruction of rural Tompkins County. • It’s not the self-serving evil of Urban Colonialism that sets it apart – it’s the repressiveness of its policies. • And if Cornell isn’t responsible – why is it always at the center of the web?
“Kafka Kraze AI Maze”
In a British sit-com – an employee is helped to simulate illness with a bit of soap for his mouth, and an onion to put under his arm. When it doesn’t work; he gives back the onion and is told he should have peeled it first. “You didn’t tell me” he says. “Well it’s common sense ain’t it” he’s told “nobody puts an onion under their arm without peeling it first.” That’s how I feel about Artificial Intelligence. • When my land-line deteriorated into a loud hum and a hash of static; I shouted through the noise to a computer for a service appointment – and then two computer follow-up calls to confirm that I still wanted the appointment – and nobody showed up. So I went through it all again. And again. In an online “chat”; I was told that all the appointment “tickets” had been somehow erased; received assurances – nobody showed up. I made more attempts – at least 8 frustrating hours. • Then one day; the hum and static suddenly stopped – a technician called and said he had fixed a problem that he found on the line – he was never informed of a complaint. • The hum in the line has started up again — should I try to make an appointment?
“Zero Compassion by 2050” Bumper sticker
“It’s nice to have a goal.” I read an article about “Global Warming” influenced weather of 2021 that ended by saying: we have the technologies in place to end our destructive activities – all we need to do is “scale them up.” But isn’t that the whole problem? • We help others – all we need to do is scale it up. We have love – all we need to do is scale it up. We’ve climbed hills – all we need to do is scale it up. • Maybe it would be more practical to scale things down: to scale down hate, and corruption, and greed, and indifference – to have a goal. • “Zero Compassion by 2050” does have one strong point — it’s doable.
“It may be groundbreaking . . .”
“It may be groundbreaking; but is it marketable?” It’s not what you do – but how you market it that’s important. The groundbreaking idea may not be yours; but if you market it quicker, better, or to a wider market – it will become yours in the minds of the many. • On the other hand; an idea that is not marketable is unlikely to get any traction these days – “Responsibility” is the duty that other people have to take care of You; or the accountability they have to You for their actions — the idea that You have to pick up any burdens that are not for your own benefit, or that You have a fault that has not been made by someone or something else; is outmoded and unmarketable. • What used to be Society and Community; has turned into a self-serving “Celebration of Our Lives” paradigm. • When you are perfect; it’s everyone else who must change — maybe that’s why people don’t make those New Year’s Resolutions anymore: there’s no market for humility.
“Government Cleanup Campaign”
As you can see in this “Rise of the Evil Ones” graphic: if we don’t clean up government; they’ll clean us up. It’s not so big a step from an unresponsive government; to one that responds in ways that may terrify us. Some people just won’t conform . . .
“2022: Evil out in the open” Bumper sticker
It’s time to make predictions for the coming year; and I think that “Evil out in the open” is a pretty good one. For fans of the “slowly raise the water temperature and boil the frog” paradigm: the substance of our social policies directly contradicts the lives and beliefs of everyone we were once taught to believe in and respect – and Liberals of today have become everything that Liberals in the 1960s claimed to detest and despise. We have created a living evil; cloaked in human skins: and it will soon throw off the disguise. • All roads lead to Cornithaca: and all the roads to a future of Human worth, independence, and yes, goodness; have been closed. What will it take to open them again?
“Hardwired for Hate”
Hardwiring reduces flexibility – but it greatly increases the reliability, and ease of replacement. The “hater” can become the “hated” with just the flip of the switch. • That is why governments love hardwiring – whether it’s Form Based Codes, or a new regulatory statute: we supply the power, and they supply the control. • Our Societal Abattoir is funneled by “Social Justice” — and the only way out is through their knives.
“Dare to Debate” Bumper sticker
“Dare to Debate” – of course I mean a real debate – not a dog-and-pony-show showcase for pre-decided election blurbs. The kind of debate that makes you think, and discuss, and decide together – not stand on both edges of a chasm; throwing packages of hate at each other: where every fact is a barb intended to hurt – not an understanding intended to heal. • Maybe you could have public meetings for debate and reconciliation at the local and neighborhood level. How could this be a waste of time? Aren’t people all we really have in this life? • Debate the issues in a public forum? What a radical idea! Next they’ll be having the people participating in government!
You can’t see the reality for the statistics
Using small facts to obscure a larger issue has been around for ages – but modern technology has turned a drizzle into a deluge. • The word processor changed the book world: churning out sequels as fast as fingers could type – with salability as the constant goal. Books blossomed in size – 350, 400, 500 pages – published as fast as stamped foil covers could be produced: “Another ‘!!!’ novel in the ‘$$$’ series.” The best sellers became almost the entire book market. • Equally overwhelming changes were overtaking the world of research and statistics – historical and scientific “facts” received pride of place because they were endlessly cited and repeated – not because of any verifiable roots. • The best place to hide unpleasant facts; is with a sea of conforming facts – a SEO flood that will saturate popularity driven searches: muddying the waters against all but the most diligent research — and who these days takes the trouble to do diligent research to inform their opinions? • Tompkins County uses these facts as barriers to separate the people from the reality of the issues that most affect their lives. What is the perceived reality? That their government is corrupt — they haven’t stopped the people from looking through the bars. Not yet.
“Chernobyl wasn’t an accident” Bumper sticker
“Chernobyl wasn’t an accident: It was a safety test.” Leaving aside other interpretations: If the reactions of authorities to the Chernobyl disaster is a test of our future safety – How safe are we? • Let’s look at the “fallout” — in spite of the willful disregard, and deliberate subordination of safety; to monetary, political, and personal agendas – both before and after the “incident”: nuclear proponents insist on labeling it an “accident” – implying that on one is to blame. • The very fact that such a thing can happen; shows that it can happen again — unless you can change human nature. • Some scientists now believe they should contemplate the possible risks from advancing a technology: “wherein slight permutations of initial conditions can lead to unforeseen and profoundly negative downstream effects, for which the technologist and the new technology's proponents must be held accountable.” • In their worst-case scenario: all life on earth may be extinguished; but someone will be held accountable afterward? — Is that the best that science logic can do?
“Everything in Science is clear cut”
“Everything in Science is clear cut: Until you get to their mistakes.” Like just about everything nowadays; Science is shamelessly self-promoting – which makes “spin-doctoring” part of the Scientific Method. • The defects in their “Creators of the Universe” persona are patched with “unexpected,” “complicated,” and “unforeseen” modeling tools — using human lives as the material. • And the credit grabbing “science” and “scientist” word choices; quickly change into a generalized “us,” “we” or “people” whenever mistakes appear as outliers on the bell-shaped profile of Scientific Progress.
Doctrinal “THEM!” Pressbook – page 4
Doctrine is everything – Everything is Doctrine. The advertisements and text on this page; merely make a more overt display of the hate self-interest that lies just below the surface of almost everything you see and touch these days. Sometime soon – they’ll just pull off the tarp, open up the box, and raise the curtains on the Final Show . . . the End of Days.
Doctrinal “THEM!” Pressbook – page 3
“You can’t make a dictatorship; without breaking bones” – and “page 3” makes no bones about indoctrinating the public to do it for them. • Giving up your children for school and activities – is still giving up your children. Few parents have any idea of the conforming patterns and attitudes that are being taught to their children. • The COVID Pandemic showed a remarkable lack of compassion for the elderly victims; and marked lack of interest by our government and media. • Maybe the real diversity today resides in the many different pathways we are racing along toward our dissolution: Social, Political, Scientific, Environmental – way too much arrogance and greed, and way too little humility and compassion. • There has been a popular culture of “Post-Apocalyptic” visions — but what are the odds of there being a “Post”? Less every day we wait.
Doctrinal “THEM!” Pressbook Cover
A target — like many others in today’s Doctrinal Demagoguery. It’s interesting that the “One Thought” doctrine holders have aggressively claimed to have debunked the “No Irish need apply” belief – only to have their own claim debunked through a simple internet research of period reference material. In addition to the negative “No Irish” declaration – a number of want ads preferred to use a “Protestant only” affirmative – like an early form of today’s discriminatory “Affirmative” techniques. • You could write a book on the number of truisms that are no longer spoken of, the wisdom turned to face the wall, the back-door bigotry that has been given the run of the house. • The ongoing academic “replication crisis” finds that more than a third of the studies in some fields cannot even be reproduced by independent researchers: many are due to contemporary incompetence; but a growing number of studies are deliberately made up to support a political agenda. • There’s a pretty good chance that the “study” Doctrine holders are citing is just a lie they want you to buy — damaged goods; selling damaged goods.
Doctrinal “THEM!” Pressbook – page 2
The names have been changed to “THEM!” to protect the innocent. Names? If you can only think of one; then you are ripe to be one of the mob. • The form is based on the 1954 movie pressbook – with the “kitchen sink” Type Direction that adds an element of exploitation publicity fun to the graphics. I know my graphic senses will be itching to redesign the “paste in the blank space” pre-press, board style; but it’s nostalgic too. • How many remember “mechanicals”? I worked for a magazine that was too cheap to pay for proofreading the Galleys – so I had to correct it on the drawing board with a razor blade and a T-square: but then; my current budget only allows for Photoshop CS5 – when InDesign would be more fine.
“The Crime Machine” Movie Poster
What is Science Fiction? If I were to go by the billboards and TV spots; the threats of global warming, drug addiction, and violent crime are nothing compared to the evils of tobacco — if you’re not robbed, killed, or struck down by an unprecedentedly large hailstone on your way to buy a pack of cigarettes. • The victim is the lie that you’ve gotten away with. The victim is only a walk-on part. The victim is only the wrapper; the criminal is the candy, the product. • People used to gasp at the irrational logic of “no more than ten to twenty million killed, tops”: welcome to 2022 . . . and the future.
Sanitizing Corruption
Saying corruption is cosmopolitan is like saying “may you live in interesting times” – it mellows with distance: a lot of distance. Corruption is dangerous because it attacks the foundations of ethics like a virus; replicating and replacing precepts with profit. While you could argue that a little corruption can make doing some good possible; it makes “goodness” impossible. Corruption is not selfless; and the easy answer is all too often the handle end of a knife. Would you kill this person to save this one? Would you destroy one person to profit another one? Would you kill a million people to profit this one? Corruption always has the same easy answer: “As long as I’m the one.”
Sanitizing Urban Colonialism
Urban Colonialism is the tentacle of our City-centric government: rural America is the patsy of urban policy making, and the cesspit of urban waste. Our country’s rural “Ag Ghettos” are decaying communities; lorded over by corporate agribusinesses wielding an absolute political power and entitlement. Communities that stood for centuries; through drought, depression and war – are being crushed by corrupt regulations and Agricultural Law: forced on them by a New Urbanism that sees rural America solely as a source of their food, and their recreation. • Urban Colonialism is the same authoritarian and arrogant model as every other colonialist paradigm: a policy of oppression, marginalization, and use – under the umbrella of “bringing civilization to the natives.” • If you want to see everything that’s wrong with our country; don’t look to the cities – look to the poverty, drug, crime, and ignorance that has eaten up rural America – the destruction of a people that are so unimportant — they’re not even worth thinking about.
“The further you get from ethics”
Ethics is not the rule – ethics is only a tool in Tompkins County. When the overwhelming belief of Tompkins County residents is that their government is corrupt and that they have no meaningful participation or oversight in that government’s policy and decision making process — there is something Wrong with that government. And when that same government proclaims that they have made every effort to involve the public, and refuse change or do anything to address that belief – that belief is corroborated. • A legal definition of ethics states: “law and ethics are far from co-extensive. . . In much that the law does it is not simply codifying ethical norms.” And when the laws can’t be bent to serve the rich and powerful . . . Well, you know what the residents believe.
Sanitizing Criminal Activity
Another article bemoaning parolees released into the community; and telling the “other side” of the story — but that’s just what they’re not doing: the other side of the story is about the victims, the victim’s family, and the victim’s friends. • The people living in neighborhoods that have been picked for the “formerly incarcerated” to “re-enter” don’t have the same detached viewpoint as reporters who see predatory behavior from the outside; debating sociology and the circle of life concepts; while driving through a game park with the windows rolled up. • The figures of recidivism they quote; all too often stand for the additional deaths of children, of fathers and mothers, sisters and brothers – and for the pain of loss and injury that can only be dealt with; never disposed of. • You’ve probably heard of the term “fake news” – maybe we need to add “fake justice.”
Sanitizing Proverbs
We’re living in a time of “remakes” – but also a time of revisions. Rather than debating their disconnect from the principles and people we most respect and revere; Doctrine holders try to coopt and corrupt those principles, and our memories, by claiming they have the same aims; and the same views — but you can’t follow somebody by walking in the opposite direction. • Claiming that you are following Martin Luther King, Jr’s path to “Justice” through discriminatory and racist policies, carried out in secret; is an insult to his life and his fight for human freedom and individual worth. • Lincoln’s belief that: “Important principles may, and must, be inflexible” directly contradicts modern Doctrine’s teachings: that principles can be twisted, bent upon themselves, and broken in the service of that Doctrine. It’s interesting to see how the doctrinaire History Channel avoids and “revises” Lincoln’s beliefs.
“Sanitizing Oppression”
Order and Form are the great levelers of Government — putting government above the People. Putting everyone in their place; and keeping them there: is basic to modern Doctrine. • The “Information Cul-de-sac” funnels people; through “preferences,” “favorites,” “search engine rankings,” and “links” – into the same dead end of uncontested views and hate-mongering: constantly reinforcing a hierarchy of thought and action. • People, places, beliefs, and even facts; are keyed to a hate-reflex through group pressure and operant conditioning. Cellphones send “pleasure-of-conforming” messages like rats in a Pavlovian experiment. • The Non-conforming are “sanitized.”
“Sanitizing Global Warming”
Institutionalizing disaster. We don’t learn from our mistakes; we incorporate them. The New Normal is all about normalizing the results of disastrous choices – the cost of doing business as usual. You could call it “Sanitizing Satan”: the righteous evil of our times. • And it’s not just the usual suspects: the corporations, the special interests, the “rich” – our government plays political “patty cake” with wrongdoers; while sanitizing the issue and their own refusal to protect the people and the environment. Here’s how NOAA cleverly sanitizes the unabated and unchecked Agricultural pollution that feeds and maintains the ”Dead Zone” in the Gulf of Mexico: • “It begins innocently enough. Farmers use fertilizers to increase the output of their crops so that we can have more food on our tables and more food to sell to the rest of the world.” • Even if it began “innocently enough” – it’s been continued and increased knowingly for decades. “Farmers use fertilizers” “so that we can have more food on the table” – It’s our fault; they did it for us – “food to sell to the rest of the world” they’re helping the Economy, and feeding the world. A great job of sanitizing in 35 words.
“Sanitizing Nanotechnology”
Dr. Frankenstein has gone mainstream – nothing can stand in the way of Science; there are no ethical or moral boundaries; no value of human life or real concern for repercussions that will stop it. Science has taken a cue from the “One Thought” Doctrine of today; and written their own mantra: “I can; therefor I will.” • When the extinction of the human race is in the balance – what can you weigh it against? And how could you trust anyone that thinks that they can? • Even if we tried to stop the progress of our runaway adolescence – the breaking distance extends far into the future; and we’ve still got our foot on the gas pedal. • Gray Goo may be a low order of probability — but we seem obsessed with rolling the dice.
“The Deadly Mandate” Movie poster
A not-very-good monster movie from the 50s – became the monster that has eaten our future. “We’ll pay it as soon as our tax refund comes in.” We’ve chopped up the house to keep the fire pit going . . . and it’s starting to rain. While we get further behind every year; we’re going to close the gap? Don’t count on the politicians — it would be easier to stop the Tectonic plates from sliding.
“Invaders from SARS” Movie poster
“Keep watching the sky!” The Pandemics aren’t over – this is just the beginning. We’re throwing genetic material around with the gleeful thoughtlessness of a lunch-room food fight . . . and with the same lack of concern for missing the target. Oceans of antibiotic-resistant pathogens are spilled, dumped, sprayed, and injected into the environment by the billions of gallons from the cesspits of factory farms – where genetically modified pigs and chickens are packed by their thousands in sheds – the perfect environment for genetic reassortment, recombination and mutation. • Can you do anything? Yes – don’t be a “circle of blame” statistic; make sure you keep stocked up on masks, gloves and sanitizers; food and water and cleaning products, flashlights and batteries, towels and toilet paper [you remember that last time?]; keep your car gassed, your deadbolts locked, your gun loaded, and your guest list restricted — and keep watching the sky!
“Voyage to the Flotsam of the Sea” Poster
People may not “re-ingest” plastic containers, as I suggested in another piece, but they seem able to swallow any policy or marketing idea that suits their own convenience. • Nothing that is being done will have any meaningful impact on the actual problem — reality has proven extremely resistant to the policies and efforts that have been applied. • The reality is that people are unwilling to make the choices that have to be made – and with so many extinction causing routes and vehicles: will it be “Fire and Ice,” or “Not with a bang but a whimper”? “Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee.”
“Voyage to the Flotsam of the Sea” Poster
People may not “re-ingest” plastic containers, as I suggested in another piece, but they seem able to swallow any policy or marketing idea that suits their own convenience. • Nothing that is being done will have any meaningful impact on the actual problem — reality has proven extremely resistant to the policies and efforts that have been applied. • The reality is that people are unwilling to make the choices that have to be made – and with so many extinction causing routes and vehicles: will it be “Fire and Ice,” or “Not with a bang but a whimper”? “Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee.”
“NYSDEC Water Quality Management”
“Muddying the waters – with no intention of cleaning them.” My upcoming book: “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” will document and expose the actions of the NYSDEC at some length – so I will speak to a recent development in New York State: the passing of an Environmental Rights Amendment that declares: “Each person shall have the right to clean air and water, and a healthful environment.” Agricultural groups, the biggest polluters of the state’s lakes and waterways, [and political overlords of the state’s poor rural communities] strongly opposed this Amendment. • The New York State Farm Bureau President made the kind of statement to voters that could only be made when there is no one to challenge it. Hot buttons like “vague Green Amendment,” and “protect family farms from nuisance lawsuits” were freely used – but there’s a world of rural pain and suffering behind the “Berlin Wall” agricultural media: when the toxic fumes of farming practices cause brain damage in one neighboring child, and required the removal of eyelids of an elderly man: “right-to-farm” laws protected the farmer from this “nuisance lawsuit.” That’s just one glimpse behind the wall — a wall the Environmental Rights Amendment threatens to tear down.
“Global Warming is what we expect”
“Global Destruction is what we get.” Global warming is always portrayed as something that will change your life; but not something that will end it. Science’s pride of always “leading us forward” leaves no room for the humility of stocktaking. • People often quote: “A little knowledge is a dangerous thing” – but the original saying was; “A little learning is a dangerous thing” — and with all their knowledge; “science” seems to have learned little from the disastrous miscalculations and unintended consequences of their past actions. • From “The Discovery of Global Warming”: “1986 Meltdown of reactor at Chernobyl (Soviet Union) cripples plans to replace fossil fuels with nuclear power” and “2011 Reaction to nuclear reactor disaster at Fukushima (Japan) ends hopes for a renaissance of nuclear power” – the dismissiveness of the loss of human life and million-year environmental recovery shown in this scientific historical viewpoint is only overshadowed by the certain repetition that the use of existing and future reactors would bring. How can “New and improved” protocols help? New and improved protocols were in place at Chernobyl and Fukushima — they’re plugging holes that are only discovered when they leak. Disastrously. • “Global Warming” may require more than sunscreen – you may need a submarine.
“This Frypan, Earth” Movie poster
“Inspired by Scientific Fact!” It’s a new deal in the fight against Global Warming – but the big players have already been shuffled to the bottom of the deck. • A psychologist once told me that doctors were taught arrogance at school. Now, all our “professionals” seem to have caught the bug. They have the pride of a child who feels in control because he or she has gotten the machine to move: without worrying about how to stop it. • The roles that government, business and, science have taken on for themselves is the same recipe used to plot monster and horror stories throughout the millennia — power, pride, greed, and victims. • Proponents of genetically modified and manipulated organisms, nano-technology, artificial intelligence, and more are bursting the unguarded safeguards of reason and caution. They’re itching to make their toys run – and have no idea how to stop them. • As our ability to start things far outstrips our understanding; and our power to effect change becomes world-class – the coming fall; may be the end for all.
“Because it’s difficult times”
“When the times are tough; it’s TS to the little people” is a dictum that suits Tompkins County to a “T”. It’s a county that’s connected at the highest levels; and friends don’t let friends cut profits. • Being at the forefront of political doctrine means that using and taking is the foundation of their policy making. The County’s proclamations proudly announce the burdens and restrictions that are needed to ransom a great and “vibrant” future: All the serfs can do is duck their heads and bow their backs under the load. • In a different world; authorities would embrace compassion and human worth — today; they only embrace each other.
“Generalize your arguments” Bumper sticker
“Generalize your arguments to distance the facts.” Distancing has become a popular way to avoid any facts that conflict with established beliefs. Distancing the unpleasant fact to another place, another time, or another context; not only moves it to a more comfortable distance and dilutes its importance — it allows you to step into a righteous generalization; and aggressively return – mending the broken threads of Doctrine and belief. • “It’s for the good of the Universe.” You can’t get a greater, or a more distant good than that.
“Inflexible Principles” Bumper sticker
There is big push these days to have “workarounds” for every principle that protects us from government tyranny and oppression. Inflexible principles are not for the benefit of government; they’re for the benefit of the people. • The use of the distinction “greater;” puts the power in the hands of those who will make the decision – to the disadvantage of those who will not. • To put it simply: It would be for the greatest good of the people; not to have the legislative concept of “Greater Good.” • It’s “fool’s gold” for those blinded by their own greed.
“lightening the load” Bumper sticker
“You can’t save a leaking boat by lightening the load.” This statement can be seen as interesting on three levels. First; as an exhortation for appropriate action: it’s the leak that needs to be fixed to stop the boat from leaking. Second; as a social analogy: you cannot solve social problems by merely sacrificing people. And third; the Millennial/scientifical “quibble”: “You can save it by lightening the load; to raise the leak above the waterline.” • The legitimacy of a larger meaning or non-conforming idea can discredited by reducing it to the level of a children’s science activity, nitpicking the grammar, disputing the applicability, or calling it “fake.” • It’s been said that you can prove anything if your viewpoint is narrow enough – but it can also can be said of disproving anything. Larger ideas of human worth, belief and interaction are just too big to fit through grate of today’s Doctrinal teachings. • Their “lightened” boat may not leak; but it’s not going anywhere – becalmed in a sameness that has no direction.
“Everybody knows who’s pulling the strings”
“It’s the puppets who are in the shadows.” In Tompkins County; it’s a question that’s very much in people’s minds: “Who are the puppets?” • Some residents would say all of them. While this isn’t true; it would be a bad gamble to trust to chance. • Who is it “safe” to go to? • The helpful and cheerful rural personnel are being pushed out: replaced by those who resent public interference in their workday and workplace. Residents are only entitled to government. To be governed. To be helpless. • The people make no decisions – and the puppet show never stops.
“Tompkins County: Privatizing Public Office”
Corruption rides on the coattails of “importance.” Because, like so many things in our “Us is not everybody” society, it begs the question: What, or Who, is important? Or rhetorically: More important. • It’s a question that Tompkins County officials push to the forefront – and are quick to supply an answer: It’s not the people. Corporations are important. Institutions are important. Vested Interests are important. Their Political Doctrine is important. And most important of all: themselves. • Isn’t this the definition of political corruption? It’s OK – ethics aren’t important.
“Killing the Golden Goose: the Work Ethic”
Work produces a more basic reality – a reality that interacts with the physical world. Whether you call it entropy, or deterioration, or just the bit that is lost in the process; you can’t go on for long without replacing what is so surely and continuously lost. Even in theory: shuffling things around results in unavoidable loss. • Distributing money is like distributing energy; it requires that the item first be produced – through work. • Some people will tell you that no one needs to row – that you can just let the current take you there; but when you hear the falls ahead – you realize they’re talking from the safety of the riverbank. “There’s no such thing as a free lunch.” And anyone who tells you differently – probably has you on their menu.
The root of “equitable” is expediency
For those like myself; who think that it is ethics that gives a government legitimacy – there’s none to be found these days. It’s a game of “give” and “take” in which our government will end up by taking all. • And it’s not just expediency in the little things; but in the basics – a foundation built on expediency is all about selling; not security. It’s about buying on credit; without a thought for those who will have to pay in the future – or what the final cost will turn out to be. • In a society brought up to ask “who?” not “what?”: when they’re told that sacrifices must be made – and to see everything in terms of how it can be used to personal advantage – “expediency” is a lie; then use of force; then desperation.
“Ingest” Logo
I deny that beer had anything to do with it. I was drinking a few beers, and thinking about the “microplastics” we eat; and the plastic pollution problem – and I had an idea: Why don’t we eat all that plastic. • A little number crunching showed that 7.7 billion humans could consume all the plastic produced by eating only 3 1/2 ounces per person, per day – so I roughed out a campaign: First was to expand the recycling behavior canon by adding the “Ingest” category logo that you see – “Reduce, Reuse, Ingest, Recycle” [Maybe it would be better to call it “re-ingest.”] • Next came some catchy promo phrases: “Put your plastic where your mouth is.” “Actions speak louder than burps.” And of course: “You are what you eat.” • They used to say: “You have to eat a peck of dirt before you die.” – But now we can say: “You have to eat three tons of plastic before you die.” • As we enter the post-logic era of prioritization – eating our waste; means less waste: “It’s all our shit anyway.” • And now that I think about it – it is a Global problem; and it was Imported beer.
“Baby Daddy” Board Game Download
Free download on my WordPress blog: ruraltompkins.com – [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials] – See “Downloads” page on the menu. • Six men are rumored on Facebook to be the father of the child. But only the one who best matches the DNA sequence by drawing the right cards and dodging the legal labyrinth will be able to move on to “Baby Daddy” status. [Requires a “standard” 52 card deck for moving player tokens.] • Download, print, cut out, and assemble the game board and tokens.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 16
Not saying is considered transparency.” Deception and misrepresentation are so much the norm in County policy announcements; that their not saying is a relief — but it’s a long way from open government. In fact, the County’s not saying is their “go to” tool for those situations where assumptions are more useful than lies.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 15
“They use tardigrades for air quality testing.” Like using a plastic canary in a mine – having the right safety testing procedures can eliminate nitpicking slowdowns and causes for action. • In Tompkins County; the most common word authorities use to describe big corporations and big institutions is “important.” They’re important for the economy; they’re important for jobs; they’re important for attracting other businesses; they’re important; they’re important; they’re important – and the County’s policies always recognize that importance. • In Tompkins County; one word authorities never use to describe the people is “important” – and the County’s policies . . .
“Village of the Damned Idiots” Movie poster
Can this happen in your town? It’s a parent’s worst nightmare! [Well, one of them – your kids playing lawn Jarts with unmedicated friends is right up there.] What if your children are unable to do anything for themselves? What if “taking care of your parents” meant giving them the COVID virus as soon as it was available? • What is they made “Return to the Village of the Damned Idiots”? – Hideous Brain Eating Zombies searching for where it is located.
“Krazy Rats Scenario”
Increase the density of the rat population – and they go crazy. It’s a myth – they say. So what’s our excuse? In a world so Doctrine-ordered; maybe our craziness is ordered too. Form Based Craziness. Maybe the craziness is so we can’t see what’s going on. Or maybe the craziness is to stop us from living comfortably together. Craziness gives a great power; but without sure control. Will the craziness destroy us? It’s not brinkmanship – it’s a pattern of abuse: If they can’t have the world . . . then no one can.
“Form Based Urban Sprawl”
“Form Based Code” advocates always postulate the best of all worlds for their own plans; and the worst for everyone else’s. This follows the modern technique where one side of an argument also presents the case for the opposition – invariably to their detriment. [A real debate, like real public participation, is considered a dangerous throwback.] • These planners use the same arguments as dictators have always used: decision making by citizens is inefficient and contains too many varied and conflicting viewpoints for a properly directed society. And their vision of everybody rowing together under one authority does not preclude the use of galley slaves. • Like architectural drawings; where the buildings come first and the people are thrown in in later – Form Based Codes are all about power of codes; not the lives of people. Their vision is not about making people happy – it’s about making people conform. • In a time when the public has no meaningful say in policy making – it’s beyond foolish to increase the scope of government policy making power.
“The Puppet Show”
Got me again. Even though I wrote about the bureaucratic trick of referring you to another department – another bureaucrat, and another and another — I requested the support that was promised with petition signatures: and received nothing – no response to my emails at all. It took waiting a couple of days to sink in. • The Holidays are a dangerous time for citizens; the weeks between Thanksgiving and New Years are the season for sliding in unwanted decisions and developments – while the opposition is busy elsewhere. Ho, Ho, Holy Cow! What was that resolution!? I thought that was tabled until January!
“Load Stomach”
Too much turkey, and you won’t be climbing many of those ladders. A full stomach can make you content – not to worry about where the next meal is coming from – not to worry where the money for this meal is coming from. Where do all those government payments come from? The future. • So sit back, loosen your belt, and watch the game: it’s a race between global warming, over population, pandemic pathogens, and crashing debt. • That’s OK – we can make it all better with a combination Artificial Intelligence and GMO Nanotechnology . . . Oops.
“Form Based Boiler Room”
Balance yourself on the pipes to find a way across the bed of hot Prohibitions – but even following the pipes can’t prevent you from being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Today’s Doctrine monitors, not only your actions, but your thoughts — and the looks of anxiety and fear are everywhere in Cornithaca County. One Thought – One Taught – One Voice – One Choice.
“If Wisdom is extinct” Bumper sticker
“If Wisdom is extinct; how far behind are we?” In thinking back; all the cautions of arrogance, and the counselling of Wisdom have disappeared – all the governors that stop runaway pride and hubris have been removed. • Our social policies directly contradict the lives and beliefs of every notable figure of human worth and equality. • Our scientists eschew the advice of unpredictable and disastrous worldwide consequences; by covering their asses with unaccountability. • Our activists bond with the same forms and institutions as those whom they decry; in competition, rather than in opposition. • The “gadfly” is now considered a disruptive force – a noise in the “lossy” one-voice rhetoric of today’s authoritative elite. • Young people are media-fed on attractive lies; growing unnaturally, like 6 month old chickens that are bigger than an adult of the last century – and for the same purpose: money. • Everything that contradicts and competes with today’s Doctrine of Using has been relegated and erased — and that includes the wisdom and humanity of millennia. • • We’re calling on science to drive us ever faster from the scene of our crimes — but in one global world; we’re only racing more quickly to meet it as we come full circle.
“Form Basted Thanksgiving”
The form based conventions and convocations of Thanksgiving are everything that Form Based Codes are not – they’re all about people. And when there’s no room left for food and drink; there’s room on the couch for a snooze.
“Five workers are scheduled” Bumper sticker
No matter how much you reduce your expectations in the workplace; you have to keep lowering the bar. • It was an older woman working the grocery store checkout yesterday who told me about the “five workers” scenario – and she wasn’t happy. For her; it meant an unending line of unhappy customers. • The lie that they’re only hurting the company is refuted by the curses of those who have to carry the extra load – those who work for the same disparaged wages; are those who suffer the most. I know this from experience. • Not paying for auto insurance doesn’t hurt the insurance companies; it’s just added to the amount others have to pay – you’re climbing on the backs of those already struggling to keep their heads above water. • Today’s “Workless Ethic” crew blame the lack of a motor; while refusing to help the rowers. They’re shooting at a paper target; when they know that the bullets are going into the homes in back of it . . . and they really don’t care. • If you want to get the lowdown on low-pay shirkers — just ask low-pay workers.
“Education 101” Bumper sticker
According to the new ABCs: “Authority, Bureaucracy, Conformity” — citizens should wait for the proper experts to get them out of any difficulty; praising them for their salvation, or dismissing the victims as being “in the wrong place at the wrong time.” • Citizens coming upon an emergency should call 911, text a friend to call 911, or post it on Facebook . . . while our “Bread and Circuses” Media tosses another sanitized tidbit into their scheduling abyss.
Form Based Evil – “Stone the Unbeliever”
“Everybody must get stoned” Bob Dylan sang; and certainly, today’s societal climate favors gang violence against those who don’t conform – with the hate disappearing back into “normalcy” as quickly as it appears. • “Well, they'll stone you and say that it's the end - Then they'll stone you and then they'll come back again” A lesson learned: there is no end to the constraints of conformity – and no constancy will guarantee your safety. [If you are wondering why the bloodstains are the same in all these images: Form Based Evil is unchanging.]
“Rural people have no representatives”
Yes, we certainly have tax collectors; and tax assessors — and they each ramp up the taxes in turn – while pointing to the other. • The assessment department claims that they are saving us money by keeping the number of employees down – but gather many times the amount of that “savings” from the blanket assessments their reduced size “forces” them use. • Representatives do nothing; can’t do anything; won’t do anything to help rural taxpayers — they just explain “why” this is happening; and feel content. It’s like a doctor diagnosing a gunshot wound without worrying about treating it – rural representatives seem to feel no need to actually help the people they “represent” – they have “larger issues” [more important people] to be concerned with. • In a meeting of unhappy rural taxpayers; the head of the assessment department announced that next year they would reassess homeowners on the other side of the county – Really? I wonder what he’ll be telling them . . .
“Whenever they talk about ‘everybody’”
Talk, talk, talk: in one chapter of the upcoming “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” – I deconstructed one of their “goodness and togetherness” policy statements to arrive at the following core description: “This plan is based on values that reflect the principles of the County’s Legislature. In serving this agenda; We will choose the burdens to place on individuals and businesses, and decide which individuals to restrict in their choice of where and how they can live.” • Not only does it reveal the authoritarian bones in their body of policy making — it showed a mocking and dismissive humor in the way that it was clothed.
“It’s not a government; it’s a gang”
Tompkins County’s elitist clique doesn’t need the public as a source of legitimacy; just a source of funds and goods. Like the bandits in Kurosawa’s “Seven Samurai” – they see the surrounding communities as a means of comfortable living; just due for just force. An air of intimidation hangs over every County policy making decision. • What sort of people are these gang members? In a county where the people overwhelmingly believe that the government is corrupt and self-serving — County leaders publicly declare their unbroken service to the people and their commitment to public participation. It’s a measure of their power – and their hypocrisy.
Form Based Evil – Scientific Protocols Room
We all know it – modern regulations protect wrongdoers from accountability. Psychiatrists release patients into the community who do unthinkable things – but neither they, nor their patients are held accountable. Scientists who can’t even introduce existing species into a different ecosystem without disaster – can follow protocols and release Genetically Modified Organisms into the land, air, and water without any comeback for the harm they do. Polluters make use of a Swiss army knife” of sweetheart deal-making: Voluntary Guidelines, TDMLs, Best Practices, Permit Shields, and a marriage of toothless regulations, best-friend investigating, and zero-fine adjudications. • Protocols are important because they cut people out of the loop – and cutting out any meaningful citizen participation is what today’s quid-pro-quo government is all about.
Form Based Evil – Diversity Processing Room
Every grain of sand is different; but they’re all grains of sand. • Diversity was defined as “the quality or state of having many different forms, types, ideas, etc.” But in our government’s “Diversity” – forms and types are all regulated, conforming, and limited – and there can only be one thought. In the diversity of the natural world; our government is a monoculture. • Henry Ford said, "Any customer can have a car painted any color that he wants, so long as it is black." • This is what our government would call: “freedom of choice.”
Form Based Evil – COVID Room
“Exposed!” It could be the headline for a Pandemic story that can’t be written. Compassion is no longer a human feeling; it’s a marketing tool. Say “pandemic” and “compassion” together and a picture of a smiling health care worker or first responder appears. Victims are no more than an object — the messy collateral of societal policies and problems. • The elderly did the dying; and there was silence instead of crying. Instead: the Media lamented that kids had to stay at home and play Xbox and text each other; rather than visit their friends and play Xbox and text each other. Our elderly are looked on as an object of the past – put on a display shelf – and minimally cared for to retain their catalog value. They’re a piggy bank waiting to be smashed open — so don’t live too long and disappoint the kids. • Somewhere in our money-changing maze; bureaucrats are gleefully rubbing their hands together and thinking of all the Social Security payments they can keep. But that’s another story . . .
Form Based Evil – Phrase Molding Room
The same phrase; the same viewpoint; the same hate; the same target: over and over – dulling the mind into obedience. Everything else is secret. EVERYTHING is Doctrine. One Thought – One Taught – One Voice – One Choice. • But this is not the end: the end is coming because their Doctrine is unable to handle any emergency. And pushing back the decisions; is just stacking up the disasters.
Form Based Evil – Fly Zapper Room
Form Based Codes are the way out? Just like a fly zapper: the blue skies of freedom hide a grid of death within. Form Based Codes bring the power and streamlined approval process of a dictatorship; to one of the last remaining areas of publicly participatory government — no wonder politicians and planners are eager to close zoning’s loophole of liberty. It’s the difference between doing what you want; and doing what they want. A 50 foot leash is still a leash – and they can retract it whenever they want – to a chokehold.
“End of Days” Activities Frontispiece
There’s “when you die; all the lights in the universe got out” and then; there’s “End of Days.” Greed, famine, and pandemics come together in a feeding frenzy of evildoing — but what will you be doing? This piece will present a number of different activities to help pass the time in God’s waiting room: from “Max your credit cards” [for early adopters] and “No Place to Hide” – spot the silly survivalists [they’ll be dead before they reach the first “sell by” date]; to the decadent thrill of “Open Burning” – “burn leaves and brush openly; with pride – burn your house; or your neighbor’s house.” So much to do – so little time. Which activities will make the cut? — that’s what End of Days is all about — you could “Dig your own grave” – but you’ve already done that. . . “Next!”
“Tompkins County: Proud to be ignorant”
When there is only one belief; there is no need to look any further. Tompkins County’s doctrine pure don’t try to understand anything different; because it cannot be important – and it’s wrong. When there is only one belief; self-examination is unnecessary. When there is only one belief; there can only be believers. The Urban Colonialism of “New Urbanism” supporters sees only one form of living; spreading from one central seat of power – everyone and everything must conform – or be discarded. We’ve seen this kind of thinking before . . .
“A house that is built on excuses”
There are no fundamentals in government anymore; no foundation of human worth or meaningful participation: Just excuses that this new house will be sturdy enough to shelter us all – and road we are taking will lead us there in the end. How long will it be before people start to question: “when will we get there?” How long before they dare?
Printable Game and Playing Card Downloads
Pages from the upcoming book as printable downloads on my WordPress site: Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials [ https://www.ruraltompkins.com/downloads/ ] • “Process of Elimination” Card Deck – “Standard” 52 card ATV Hazards themed deck. Print and cut out the playing cards – a page of card back images is included for double-sided printing. • “Road Trip” Board Game – In this reimagined version of the “Handy Land” board game: You battle Urban Colonialism in a hopeless attempt to control the rising flood of thru-cutting industrial traffic. The game is won by reaching the goal of “Home Sale” and escape. Printable game board, player tokens, and cards for this “Candyland” style game are included. • “Hate Maggots” Game – Printable spinner and Hate Maggot “memory” cards. • “Escape from Corruption” Board Game – Every printable [and unprintable] thing you need to Escape from Corruption. • “Proctors” Card Game – Be the first to rid your Doctrine Block of Non-conforming citizens and score 500 Privilege Points. These points can be used to offset Demerits, call Adjudication on your enemies, and increase your Block status. Print and cut out the playing cards of this “Uno” style game – a page of card back images is included for double-sided printing.
Doctrine Anger Warning Poster
This Warning is REAL. The Hate Gangs are real. This poster is reprinted for public awareness: it could save your life. • Forgiveness has no part in The Revealed Church of Secular Self-interest: it’s a Doctrine of privilege and hate. • Its members benefit from hate; they relieve repressed urges and envy through acts of hate; all those who oppose them or refuse them become targets of that hate. • Theirs is the sort of hate that feeds upon itself; cannibalizing each other if there is no other victim in view. And those who fear it the most; are those who are trapped within its ever-narrowing maze.
“Everybody wants to succeed” Bumper sticker
“The fruits of their labor” is horribly Old School – 2021 isn’t about planting; it’s about harvesting – acquiring. The world isn’t a vineyard; it’s a product – it’s marketing. We have lost the connection with growing and making; and so have lost our deep connection to the real world of cause and effect. We live in a shallow adolescent world of cliques, and fads, and images – shrugging off the future. 2021 is all on the surface — and the problems run deep.
“Go with the flow” Bumper sticker
I’m working with a minor official to make a difference in rural Tompkins County – and I haven’t heard from her in a while; so I sent an email this morning. There has been no reply. Helpful officials see things differently after an initial favorable response. Dictators see threats everywhere.
“Zero Debt” Bumper sticker
There are promises that are meant to be kept . . . and there are promises that aren’t. And Biden’s “net zero 2050” has all the earmarks of unfulfilment – I’ll do my homework/clean my room/take out the dog/trash “later.” • Much later. Biden will probably be dead, and probably out of office – so it’s a safe bet to write an I.O.U. on. And there will be three decades of global warming/sea rising/population depleting/pandemic spreading disasters to distract the voters. • Considering that not one of the government’s environmental programs has had any teeth; or any impact – corporations will jump on board the marketing-profiting bandwagon. • “I lied before, but now I’m telling the truth, and I’ll pay you back with interest . . . and . . . can I just borrow a little more until payday – in 2050.” • I remember hearing an activist in the 60s saying: “If you see a pipe pouring out pollution; stop it up.” I used to think that was a radical solution — now I think that it’s too late.
“Form Based Thinking” Bumper sticker
Form Based Thinking does not lead by example; it leads by regulation; by Law; by forcing people to conform; by intimidation. Form Based Thinking sees gender and race as a way of compartmentalizing actions – in a way that directly contradicts every ethical and humanitarian precept. • Form Based Thinking is the thinking of the powerful: If you can divide people into the forms you choose; and regulate the attributes of those forms – you can ensure your position and power. • Form Based Thinking does no see humanity; it sees order — it’s diversity from a single viewpoint. Nobody is left behind . . . and nobody can leave their compartment.
“The good news?” Bumper sticker
In a world of users: someone’s always trying to get a handle on you. In New York State: Where lawmakers have declared that unborn children are not Human Beings — the same lawmakers declare that it’s compassion that shapes their policies. Our government is not about human worth: It’s all about the bottom line — and you can’t get any lower than their bottom line.
“COVID Inheritance Planning” Bumper sticker
The entitlement – the virus – over half-a-million elderly deaths – and no news stories? Don’t create any harmful anxiety — they might change their wills.
“It’s later than you believe”
Fifty years after 1971: and people don’t worry about what they think – they worry about what they believe. If you think for yourself: you’re probably counselled by past experience. But if you’re counting on the warnings of people who do your thinking for you — you’ve got a problem: they can always get another you.
“Environmental snapshot of 2021”
You have to look a little deeper than the surface; if you want to heal the surface of the earth. For too many years I have followed the billboard-sized butts of behemoth SUVs with environmental stickers. “Be the Change” has inspired no rising tide of responsibility. And their environmental efforts amount to no more than electing someone else who claims that they will do something about it. “Environmental” is an established marketing segment. We keep borrowing — and the bill collector is coming.
“No Justice – Just excuses” Bumper sticker
The most important criteria for government experts and contractors is how well they work with the government. Our taxes pay for the Town lawyers who defend the government from the encroachment of the public into the policy and decision making process. Always and everywhere; the minimum possible legal participation is the maximum allowed to the people. • Everywhere in Tompkins County: self-serving policies and draconian regulations are enacted – without the involvement or oversight of the people — while contracted experts gain career longevity by showering the residents with carefully worded misrepresentations and intellectually dishonest paradigms. • At Town and County policy “hearings”; the public is informed that they can’t ask questions, and should be grateful they can sign up to speak for two minutes; because they don’t have that legal right. • County Authorities [and their cronies] don’t worry that a thoroughly cowed and conforming public will burn down their money-changing halls and establish a radical form of society: representative government.
“Top of the heap – Bottom of the barrel”
Abraham Lincoln said: “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” Tompkins County government is overwhelmingly liberal and Progressive: so it is the ideal place to study the character of its adherents — While the universal opinion of area residents is that County government is corrupt and there is no meaningful public participation; authorities continue to do as they please. There are no rules – only tools. The character: Self-serving, Authoritarian and Corrupt. Tompkins County is leading the way to our “Lies and Lubyankas” future.
“An Age of Reasonable Bigotry” Bumper sticker
Abraham Lincoln said: “How many legs does a dog have if you call his tail a leg? Four. Saying that a tail is a leg doesn't make it a leg.” — but today’s self-serving society gives legitimacy to assertions of “goodness” that spring from greed, the love of power, and hate: Backing up excuses that wouldn’t fool a child; with an intimidation that would convince almost anybody.
“It’s the Circle of Lies” Bumper sticker
It takes a special kind of liar to portray a collegiate world of environmental nurturing, ethical policy-making, and public participation — when they know that everyone believes the opposite: and it takes an influential plutocracy to avoid the consequences. Tompkins County: submit to the power – or else.
“Form Based Codes are the mold”
Just as manufacturers create molds to define shape their product; Form Based Codes allow politicians and bureaucrats to define the shape of the community that residents must conform to. Form Based Code proponents spend a lot of time trashing previous Zoning processes; but they are reticent in revealing their own: Form Based Codes give unprecedented and unarguable power into the hands of authorities – PERIOD. There is no other certainty. There is no guarantee of public meaningful participation, there is no practical way to change or prevent any Form Based Codes that are handed down. The “streamlined development approval process” ensures that there is no way for the public to block any development that authorities want. • Form Base Codes are a tool of the “New Urbanism” – a manifesto of Urban Colonialism – a city-centric mono-viewpoint that architects have offered to gain a place in the power structure. • Form and Conform meet in Form Based Code regulations – first, the streets outside you home – then, the rooms inside your home – then, the thoughts inside your head — is there a limit to “form based” regulations? Is there a limit to the craving for power?
“There are plenty of fish in the sea”
The college experience in Tompkins County used to be characterized as “Centrally located; in the middle of nowhere” – now it’s “Centrally located; in themselves.” So many college students, staff, and alumni are wrapped up in being the “destination” of the future – they’re unable to wrap their heads around anything else. • Being in the middle of nowhere not only eliminates the competition; it throttles any opposition: there is only one source quoted for all information and explanation. • The metropolitan seas may offer a greater variety and number of opportunities; but the Tompkins County puddle offers the opportunity to be an absolute ruler — and for many people here – that’s the destination that attracts them most.
“The names have been changed” Bumper sticker
“The names have been changed to pass for individuality.” If you were to search for any common name for anything on the internet; you would probably find it was being used to brand a company. [Just as businesses used to put “AAA” before their name to be placed first in the Yellow Pages listings.] Many parents however; seek to change up the common name commonality by changing the spelling of their child’s name – I admit that “Brandiiiiiii” has a certain uniqueness; but that is no guarantee of individuality. • In marketing a “NEW” product – today’s entrepreneurs have embraced the idea that by changing the spelling of a product; they may convince an increasingly conforming public that they are being unconventional [if not actually individual.] • Let’s take “beer” for a makeover: Lyte beer, LiiiT beer, Lytisha beer, Lyyte beer; or maybe Beeyr, Beyre, or Beeeeerrrrr [a “growler”] • I’ve had commonly labeled “beers” that are more than just individual – they’re unforgettable . . . terrible. Is individuality good? Does the protruding nail get hammered? [Is that another beeyr drinking reference?]
“There’s more to policy than meets the law”
Tompkins County’s policies are legal: sort of — the sort of legality that lets people get away with things – the “fine print,” the meeting the “minimum” requirements, the deceptive phraseology, the shameless assertion, the credentialed cronyism, the “in-house” decision making, the agenda-filled survey, the “loophole,” the gerrymander — it’s actions without ethics; it’s law without legitimacy – but it’s all swept under the rug. • In a college county with a four-year memory: a couple of graduations and a friendly newspaper is all it takes.
“Tompkins County Legislators” Bumper sticker
“Tompkins County Legislators: They make their mark – you toe the line.” Government guidelines are simple in Tompkins County: “Shut up, pay your taxes, and do what you’re told.” — and there’s nothing you can do to change any of it. Even if you talk; they never listen – they know that you have no power; no one can “upset their applecart.” The tax breaks all go the big corporations that run the county. And new laws and regulations are constantly being passed to repress the rural community and drive out the ones who haven’t already been forced out by high taxes. You can still hunt deer to help feed you family: but you can’t hunt up the cash they demand to support their luxury school system. Tax assessors are the only County outreach most rural people ever see.
“Couplets” Road Signs
“Old School – New School – Gat Tattoo School” Losing control on the learning curve.
“Don’t Wake Me” Road Signs
It’s bad enough to be a piece on the board in a political game; but with a dictatorship – it’s game over. In Tompkins County; the people have no human worth — they’re just a material that’s used to cast the “selfie-statues” of the elite — a humanity that their impaired “vision” can’t see.
“Reasonable Rhymes” Road Signs
Peel back the skin of today’s cosmetic world; and all the problems are still there. They go too deep to build a world of electric cars and ecological shoes on. People are selling their products, they’re selling their policies, their selling their image – but they aren’t selling the dirty job of responsible living and thankless effort that makes you an adult — it’s up to you.
“Victim’s Rhyme” Road Signs
People are tired of being victims of the overflow from our societal cesspits. If it’s so hard to live without victimizing other people – how can so many people manage to do it? • Our prison policy is like rehabilitating an alcoholic by locking them in a bar with other alcoholics; who force liquor down their throat. Forcing criminals to adapt to a criminal society and then compassionately releasing them back into the community is the sort of ill-logic that breeds in our hot-house bureaucracy. Isn’t it time to open the doors and let the reality in?
“COVID Voicemail Menu” Bumper sticker
Oh well . . . There’s no vaccine for COVID Crazy.
“The role of the victim” Bumper sticker
Just as the bereaved are sometimes put in the position of comforting those who are uncomfortable talking to them – victims can be put in the position of justifying their own “victimology” – even if they’re already deceased. • But then; they play such a small part in the Criminal Justice System – do they really need to?
“Tompkins County is so stratified”
“Tompkins County is so stratified: You can’t just kneel – You have to grovel.” It’s not just that the County’s policy-making elite think so much of themselves; it’s that they think so little of everyone else. Their pretensions can be laughed at – but their pronouncements must be feared. A fool with a gun; has a gun.
“New York State’s Agriculture Policy”
When it comes to Agricultural Pollution; New York State isn’t doing the same old worthless things – they’re doing a new version of the same old worthless things. As our lakes and waterways become increasingly impaired; State authorities do a handshaking-dance with powerful Agribusiness interests in a dog-and-pony show of endless data-deflecting studies. Voluntary guidelines and regulations with less teeth than a Gummy Bear – stewarded by agriculture controlled committees with a no-fault/no-fine manure spill mandate. • Is anything changing? Yes, the pollution is getting worse — and the corruption is getting “grandfathered”.
“Integration in Tompkins County”
“Put the poor urban blacks and the poor rural whites together – somewhere else.” The County Comp Plan calls it “balance the burdens” – but it’s another name for the County’s policy to move everything and everyone they don’t want in Ithaca – somewhere else. • When a drug rehab center marred their vibrant downtown – they found a better home for it in another municipality. Necessary public works in Ithaca’s “jungle” displaced the homeless; but they were found new housing – elsewhere. The County’s urban housing authority merged with rural providers and absentee landlords turned rural homes into subsidized housing apartments for the urban unwanted — and since agriculture is the only rural activity and land use that the County considers of any importance – those people [and their problems] effectively disappeared. Clever. And there are other words for it . . .
“What’s changed?” Bumper sticker
1521: “He was fated to die” – 2021: “He was in the wrong place; at the wrong time.” What’s changed? In one way; nothing. But in another way; everything: in 1521 “fate” was a way of coping with something that couldn’t be changed – in 2021 the “wrong place/wrong time” is an excuse for writing off human lives as bureaucratic overhead. In 2021 being murdered in a “robbery gone wrong” is almost considered dying of “natural causes.” In 2021’s society: everyone has a place; and they’re kept in it — even victims.
“Form Based Codes are like Dictators”
“Only a fool would assume they won’t abuse their power.” Don’t we know it. It seems like wisdom has become old fashioned – with so many cautionary tales about people who expect to retain power while renouncing their authority; and those who give over their authority for the promise of thoughtless ease – it’s surprising that today’s uber-naive demand that their government act responsively; when they’ve already given up the power to demand anything.
“Form Based Codes 2” Bumper sticker
“Form Based Codes: If you think they’re not authoritarian; Try to get them changed.” Form Based Codes have the following attributes: • 1. They give government a much greater regulatory power over where and how people are allowed to live. • 2. Developers get a “streamlined” approval process. • 3. Most descriptions of the advantages of form-based codes are only statements without any actual proof. • • Are Form Based Codes right for your community? Do you wear a sign on your back that says “Kick me!”?
“Times change – But for the better?”
“Times Change • But for the better?” The Adolescent Society is all pride and prevarications – so when they tell you they’re doing this so that things will be better in the future – they are only thinking about what they want now. “If you buy me a dog; I’ll take care of it.” Maturity and responsibility are Adult traits. • “Ethnic mix” was for everybody — today’s “Ethnic purity” is a proud doctrine of privilege and hate – argued for a future that is only an excuse; not a goal. • Everybody I respect; from Abraham Lincoln to Frederick Douglass, from Mother Teresa to Malcolm X: believed that the Only way to achieve a future of human worth and equality was by never practicing discrimination. • They weren’t fools. Human nature hasn’t changed; and these were smart people; people who heard a lifetime of arguments and pronouncements telling them that they should turn from that path – even if only a little bit, or just for a while – and they refused. • Does this mean you are walking on a different path? Yes, and if you think you’re heading to the same destination – just look who you’re on that path with. And clean up your room.
“Bureaucracy Reduction Act” Bumper sticker
“1. Replace the bureaucrats with computers 2. Unplug” Like those products that change a clinging, gummy mess into an ash that can just be wiped off – this two-step process changes the form of the mess; to enable a quick and simple clean-up. “1. Replace the politicians . . .”
“Scientific protocols: Don’t protect us”
“Scientific protocols: Don’t protect us from harm – They protect scientists from accountability.” An important part of today’s regulatory process is how well it works to protect the interests of those who are regulated. We are a country filled with ineffectual environmental regulations; that effectively protect the polluters. Methods that “sustainably catch” the one kind of fish; while they are devastating to another. The slippery-sliding codes of “USDA Organic.” “Voluntary guidelines” and “Best” practices – best for who? Science’s disastrous history of the importation and introduction of already existing species; has in no way reduced their willingness to create and release new organisms of unknown potentialities and repercussions. So don’t look at it as putting your fingers in a grinder — look at it as getting a free multi-articulating myoelectric prosthetic hand. The road to hell is paved with good credentials.
“Reasonable Rhymes”
Why? Because I like to write poetry; and because this book is about thinking, and doing, and creating. Society is what people do – Art is what people are.
Tompkins County: There’s no you in University
Cornell is a closed system. They act on; instead of interacting with those around them. We are the materials that they use to create their “vision” — and remake our lives. All roads lead to Ithaca [or Cornithaca] – there is no other way. One Thought – One Taught — One Voice – One Choice: and none of them are ours.
“but ethnicity did the crying” Bumper sticker
COVID-20.21 The old folks did the dying; but ethnicity did the crying. They were “going to die soon anyway” – “it’s culling the herd” – “it’s the nursing homes” – “they’re wallets” – “it’s due to pre-existing conditions” – it’s politics without ethics or compassion; anything to minimize it and rationalize it — it’s not who dies; it’s what you’re worth in our eyes. • Need vaccine? Fill out the form. Are you an Easter Islander? No? Then just mark “white.” Check the box if you’re “someone who has a sexual fetish for dolls that were made between 1903 and 1908” – it’s good to see we have our priorities straight; as we’re spinning down the YouTubes to an all-chomping reality that doesn’t give a shit.
“The sort of moral compass” Bumper sticker
“Tompkins County: A college destination with the sort of moral compass that lands people a spot on American Greed.” If you lived here you would know. It’s become filled with the sort of people who see making a better world, and making things better for themselves as the same thing. People whose sense of entitlement takes a cut off the top – to the cheers of an imagined appreciative audience. Autocratic Rulers in a crumbling democracy. Laughable in their denials – deadly in their acts.
“A cat can look at a king” Bumper sticker
While “A cat can look at a king” – staring is not recommended. In so many ways; looking too fixedly, too openly, or for too long can drain nine lives quicker than a casino can drain your bank balance. • Not staring means not being noticed – it means putting more attention to what you’re stepping into than where you want to go – it means not getting too clear a look at what you don’t want to see; or shouldn’t. • When we mainly get by in life by not looking at anything or anyone too closely [including ourselves] – doing things “with your eyes wide open” may not be as smart as it sounds.
If rural people don’t fall through the cracks
“Tompkins County steps on their fingers.” There is nothing accidental about the fallout from the County’s policies – or the people who it falls on. The strength of the circumstantial case is in the unanimity of the evidence – like iron filings in a magnetic field; they fall into a pattern that reveals the force that works upon them – unmistakably. • Being in the wrong place at the wrong time? Yes, rural Tompkins County for the past twenty years.
“The Greater Good is a goal – not an excuse”
Just as you can’t follow someone by walking in the opposite direction – you can’t achieve a greater good any other way than by adding more goodness. This is why Lincoln said; “Important principles may, and must, be inflexible.” – You can only break them by trying to twist them into another shape. It’s a broken world of broken principles; and they both need to be fixed. Now. Now or never. • And if you don’t hear the clock ticking — it’s because time has already run out.
“Theirs is the burden of rulership”
Tompkins County’s city-centric elite don’t have opinions – They utter pronouncements. They feel comfortable in deciding how everyone should live – and they would feel comfortable in using force to ensure those decisions are carried out. Of course there are perks that come with that responsibility: money, power, and the satisfaction of making people conform. To be their kind of Masters — others must be less — much less.
“Buy local – Employ foreign” Bumper sticker
Hypocritical? Of course – but there’s a workaround. In Tompkins County there’s a workaround for every self-serving act – if you’re important enough. And what profit-loving Agribusiness owner doesn’t love foreign “guest” workers — they live in owner supplied housing, available 24/7 – they work really hard [or they will be sent out of the country] – they don’t report violations [or they will be sent out of the country] – their pay is subsidized through State taxes - and as an added plus to the local economy – they send their money out of the country. • What do these owners say about the unemployed families down the road? They’re “lazy, shiftless, thieving, red-neck, racist, trailer trash . . .” Bigoted? Of course – but if you’re important enough . . . • So employ foreign, and tell everyone to “buy local” — profiting twice is “Tompkins County nice.”
“Urban Colonialism – Pure urban cronyism”
Just like in other colonial enterprises: Urban Colonialism creates special opportunities for interests tied to the central power. And just like the Hudson’s Bay Company – that was incorporated by royal charter and functioned as a de facto government – Tompkins County’s power elite were gifted with large chunks of rural land, and “incorporated” as the “preferred land use” – with regulatory rights and privileges that overrode those of the marginalized natives.
Bringing Civilization to the natives
“Urban Colonialism – Bringing Civilization to the natives” I don’t know if you could rightly call this; “blowing off steam” – but taking a break from my “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” book is at least a “calming measure.” It’s a break from the “rural bashing” and ‘land use’ covetousness that fills the Tompkins County Comprehensive Plan – a plan to annex all the rural land in the county; and expunge the rural communities that have lived in harmony with the landscape and its natural rhythms for more than two centuries. Their Plan outlines policies to turbocharge the colonial bedroom communities into mini-cities, drive out the rural natives with high taxes and repressive land use regulations, and use the land for urban food and recreational needs. Their “vision” of the world is a mirror; in which they only see themselves.
“The New School Nazis are socialists”
It’s a distinction without a difference. Shocking? Look around. • It’s like the story about the frog: If it’s put in boiling water; it jumps out – but if it’s put in cool water, and you gradually increase the temperature – you can boil it to death. • If you took a snapshot of today – hate targeting people by race, gender, and age – repressive measures by an increasingly authoritarian government – how would you match it up in history? • Concentration camps and Gulags? They’re just a few years away. You can say; “No it’s not.” — but where is your evidence? Where is the social underpinning of love and human worth? Love and compassion would never do what is being done — only hate. • It’s your actions that define you – not your ideological excuses.
“New skins for old sins” Bumper sticker
There may be nothing new under the sun; but there’s a new name for it. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a reverse look-up table for modern policies and social theories – a way to see how many times over the millennia the same goods have been repackaged and sold as a “new” solution to human social behavior and interaction – and their cost in human lives and misery. • So many of today’s grandiose social ideas come with a grandiose sense of importance – the kind of importance that leads to totalitarian oppression. Full disclosure and full exposure of all government policies and statistics would turn the tables; politicians – instead of saying what we should do – would have to answer for what they did — and that might make all the difference.
“We’re all in this together II”
“We’re all in this together” Said the Predator to the Victim. Politicians talk about “Our Elderly”; the way Factory Farmers talk about “our cows” — proud about how much they can be milked; before they’re slaughtered for the remaining profit. It’s all about turning the corner on the circle of life.
“We’re all in this together” Bumper sticker
“We’re all in this together” Said the Centurion to the Galley slaves. Politicians love to talk about “us” – and avoid breaking it down to “you.” In the words of the Grateful Dead: “We can share what we got of yours ‘cause we done shared all of mine” — And I don’t mean your money – I mean the attitude that you’re better than other people – that you can judge others because of who you are; and who they are – the deep self-satisfied feeling that comes from being owed something because of your race, gender or ethnicity . . . that’ll do to start with — Wooooo — I’m feeling better already. Don’t burst the bubble.
“There’s no “us” in University: only you”
Not only do the colleges “define the county” – they have an exclusive right to do so. There is not a single policy or government committee that does not strengthen their power and fill their coffers. It’s intellectual dishonesty at the service of a corporate agenda that defines the colleges; that define the county.
“Tompkins County – the views of some”
Tompkins County is a functional dictatorship — everyone agrees that there is no meaningful public participation in government. Therefore; the views and interests of those in charge become the rules for everyone. Everyone else, that is.
“Evil abhors a vacuum” Bumper sticker
It’s not just that evil will fill an unfilled space — it’s that evil needs something to work upon — and someone to do it. Evil needs a physical manifestation. Evil exists. • The myth isn’t what primitive people believed — the myth is what you believe about primitive people.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 14
“The Will of the People is in probate.” . . . and the Legislators have appointed themselves Executors. In a county whose “vision for the future of the community is based on a set of principles that reflect the values of the community as expressed by the County Legislature” – there’s no doubt about where the “vision” and all the decisions are coming from.
“There are none so blind” Bumper sticker
“As those who are blinded by gold.” Sometimes blindness is not being able to see – and sometimes it’s not being able to see anything else. Regard for the things that money can’t buy is not just for those who don’t have it: it’s for all those who realize what a poor substitute money is. Most people find that out sooner or later. Sooner is better.
“Tompkins County’s response” Bumper sticker
“Nobody noes.” Tompkins County’s rural community is unrepresented and unimportant — and in the County’s most recent Comprehensive Plan “vision of the future” – they don’t even exist. Like so many native cultures under colonial rule: they are “withering away” in poverty, neglect, and oppression.
“Cornell and COVID” Bumper sticker
“A big frog in a small pond in a draught.” How does it take you? Is it the only water? Or has it dried up? Is it pride in a dying/drying pond? How will the frog act? Toward others? – do they have everything? Or nothing?
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 13
“Even the billboards have a flipside.” Even he biggest and most public of announcements has a self-serving backside – in fact, in a county where compassion is not seen as a good way of living; but a way to make a good living — it’s the backside that generates the smiling faced façade and extravagant claims.¬ The corruption isn’t built in; it’s built upon.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 12
“9-1-1 calls go to voice mail.” It’s not a stretch; it’s just a further step down the path that the County is already traveling: Due to COVID-reduced revenues; Tompkins County decided to cut back on services; not politicians, and not giveaways to corporations – but since their lock-step legislature always votes the same – why not double or triple up on the “representation” and use the money that we’re paying to unnecessary legislators for the safety of the community. I’m sure there would be a lot of public support for this solution — that is; if the public had any meaningful participation in County government.
“Our children may blame us” Bumper sticker
Shut off all the noise, and what do you feel? Nothing. There is no rising tide. No compassion. No goodness. No hope. Just endless repetition – indoctrination – rote: “We are the future” – and? “It’s your generation who ruined the world” – and . . . what? • It’s all “when are we going to get there?” to an uncaring Doctrine. A road trip without a ‘rest stop’ or a motel.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 11
“Their Code of Ethics is fill in the blanks.” Cornithaca County’s ethical oversight is like a temporary spare — it’s used to distance participants from the scandal until permanent repairs can be made. There is no clear-cut case of misconduct that cannot be side-stepped or misunderstood into non-action. And if you persist; they just stonewall.
“The concept of being ‘owed’” Bumper sticker
Let’s face it: when “entitlement” started getting bad press; it started using disguises — it’s “tradition,” it’s “compassion,” it’s a “safety net,” it’s what you’re “owed” – it’s all about you. You can’t balance the scales of justice with nothing on the other side.
“Biden’s Global Warming Policy”
“Is like cleaning the storm drain in the shadow of a tsunami.” Government policy is all about talking big; and getting tough with the little people. Expect to see “Global Warming” Taxes — that will be used to pay off the big polluters. [They’re called “incentives.”] • It’s not panic that causes the most deaths in house fires — it’s lack of panic.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 10
“It’s considered sophisticated.” There’s nothing like exposure to the victims of crime to take the shine off of evil. Acceptance of harm to others as a proof of your worldly experience and understanding; is as empty as corruption itself. If all is corrupt — then all is emptiness.
“A rural county with 40,000 transients”
Tompkins County: The students have no idea of what’s happening in the county; but County authorities and corporations have a good idea of how to use that ignorance – the power of representation to run the county like a private club; without any accountability. Tompkins County’s stratified community puts all power into the hands of its urban elite — and all burdens on the backs of the rural poor. It’s like having 40,000 convention guests; whose biggest concern is – “Is the ice machine working?”
“Sustainability” Bumper sticker
“Sustainability: Having the same standard of living as your parents.” As much as this may inform the modern social conscience – it equally informs those who are teaching it to our children – we can’t move into the future; if you’re trapping them in the past. A rich “standard of living” is a poor substitute for quality of life.
“Don’t worry that you’ll be extinct”
An extinction expression that shows we are [or were] creatures of habit. We won’t go down fighting; we’ll go down blaming. Nothing shows the adolescent nature of today’s social structure better than the belief that other people are responsible for fixing everything — they had better . . . or they’ll be sorry!
“Colonies on the moon” Bumper sticker
“Fly me to the moon; earth’s rolling dead among the stars – we’ll destroy it all, including Jupiter and Mars.” • Maybe the current trend isn’t about space exploitation — maybe they’re abandoning ship.
New York’s Agriculture Policy Bumper sticker
New York refuses to disclose the serious health and financial risks of living near “modern farming methods”; or the risk of those “methods” moving in next to you. • New York refuses to disclose the extent of Agricultural pollution or meaningfully regulate its sources – while at the same time requiring the 3 of the 5 voting members of all “soil and water conservation committees” be from Agriculture. • New York refuses to disclose the externalized costs of Agriculture; bragging of their economic and tax benefits, while keeping quiet about programs like the Farmer’s School Tax Credit; that pays back Agricultural entities for 50 to 100 percent of their school taxes through levying additional state taxes on the residents. • “Urban Colonialism” paints a deliberately deceptive picture of modern Agriculture; while urban and suburban populations allow themselves to be convinced and placated – “it’s our food and it’s only those people who are complaining – they shouldn’t be living there anyway.”
Tompkins County “The tough love image . . .”
It's an ill wind that blows no corporation any good. In fact, in Tompkins County; every wind is used to fill their sails . . . and coffers. Even though Cargill’s salt mine continued to mine and sell road salt throughout the Pandemic, and the County’s new budget included significant property tax increases and budgetary cuts; the County Legislators continued to implement Cargill’s $640,000 tax abatement plan. • COVID may have meant cutting back on basic services in the county; but friends don’t let friends cut back on corporate profits.
“Age may not teach wisdom . . .”
“But you certainly learn to recognize bullshit.” And you certainly learn what not to do. Maybe it’s time to listen . . . and learn what today’s politicians are so scared of.
“Reciprocity is Old School” Bumper sticker
Democracy is not about taking, and it’s not about using — that’s why Democracy, along with reciprocity, is a concept that has no place in modern doctrine. • Modern doctrine is not a dialogue; it’s a monologue — and harmony requires more than one voice. It’s not about love and equality; it’s about hate and entitlement. • The alien race in Forbidden Planet became extinct because their unconscious minds were able to express any thought or desire with unstoppable power. • The “If you’ve got an itch; scratch it – if you’ve got an appetite; feed it” attitude that underlays today’s new world, sugar coated image is just as dangerous. • There are some experts who think that humans may be extinct by the end of the century — we seem to be on a pretty direct road. If you stick your head in the sand; you’re exposing your ass.
“The Digital World is flat”
It’s not just the Digital World that’s flat — today’s “0/1” right/wrong thinking destroys all debate, and creates enemies. If we want to advance our society; we need to go back to the wisdom of previous Presidents: “I don’t like that man. I’m going to have to get to know him better.” — Abraham Lincoln
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 9
“It’s a self-fulfilling sophistry.” In Tompkins County; every policy argument becomes true; because everything is controlled by the same people. It’s no surprise to residents that the fox not only guards the hen house; but also investigates the disappearances, and rules them to be “runaways.” • Tompkins County and Tammany Hall will examine the origins and credibility of the term “rural sprawl” and why it immediately replaced all mention of “urban sprawl” at every level of County planning and policy making — and its use in carving up rural towns for commercial exploitation.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 8
“There are no problems – only trouble makers.” When you have a dictatorship; everybody agrees — or else. And when the colleges that “define the county” are intellectually dishonest — you have the kind of oppression that permeates every thought and act. • The county’s “independent” bookstores are not independent enough to allow non-conforming books on their shelves. And exposing an issue, even a serious one, that differs from those officially pronounced; is rejected by the local media on the grounds it “would confuse our readers.” People don’t smile much: not from being serious minded — but from being afraid. • Form Based Codes create neighborhoods – and prisons: they’re created by the same people; and for the same purpose. • How do you get to be a “trouble maker”? Speak out. While you can.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 7
“The politicians elect the voters.” It’s not such a reach as it seems – by controlling the community’s environment; politicians attract and select those who will fit into their template of society. Form Based Codes, lock-step bureaucracy, and intransigent, hand-picked policy making ensures that no opposition larger than an individual can be sustained.
“If you blame the rain . . .”
There is no one like a politician or bureaucrat for sidestepping the obvious. If every lake that is surrounded by agricultural activity is impaired; they will find an impaired lake without agriculture; and use that to claim, “We don’t know what’s causing the impairment of our water bodies.” • Cause and effect cease to have any meaning in the political decision making process — and not by accident. • The elderly in New York aren’t dying because of equitable paddy cake and bureaucratic indifference — they’re dying from “COVID-19”; and they’re not categorized as “elderly” — but as “New Yorkers” — thereby removing both the identity of the victims, and the reason for their deaths. . . and not by accident.
“Process of Elimination” Card Deck Download
Free download on my WordPress blog: ruraltompkins.com – [Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials] – See “Downloads” on the menu. • Print and cut out this card deck – a page of card back images is included for double-sided printing. • Insight: I wasted good beer drinking time putting this “Download” page in the site. It’s like jumping onto a moving platform, from the shifting sands of a landslide, while blindfolded. Oops – what was that that went by? – I’m trapped in the “learn new: use once” time-wasting technical paradigm.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 6
“The taxpayers aren’t the stakeholders.” Tompkins County has one of the highest median property taxes in the United States – but the formula used to determine the property tax on any one property is so complicated; that it’s not possible to condense it to a simple tax rate. • When the simple is made complicated; there’s always a reason. • In the rural northeast part of the county – there is only one Sheriff’s deputy for two towns – so if there’s criminal activity; just give them a call and they’ll come and write a report – and in the new budget, the County is making additional cuts in the number of deputies. • The problem is not that the rural towns in the county don’t have police departments; it’s that Ithaca and its suburbs do — and they don’t want to budget money for the needs of anyone else; especially people they don’t want living there. • While the formula for determining the property tax may be complicated; the formula for determining County services is simple: RURAL = LESS.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 5
“’Passing the buck’ is welcomed.” These days; when the meanings of so many words and statements have become twisted and subverted in a mocking, “in-group” way: This piece changes “buckshot” to “bills” –guns to money becomes “robbery” — and what better definition of corruption?
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 4
A chapter in “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” will deal with the ongoing attempts to get traffic management on the rural roads running through our hamlet. • When we tried to get the County to stop the flood of aggressive and lawbreaking industrial trucks short-cutting through Lansingville [by posting a 4-ton weight limit for non-local deliveries] – they first claimed there weren’t any – then posted a 20-ton weight limit. • We emailed every County Legislator; trying to find out who was responsible for this decision; but no one would respond.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 3
The voters of Tompkins County have no say in the running of the county. Zoning Codes and decisions were based on the “visions” and “reimaginings” of Comprehensive Plans; themselves created without meaningful public participation or oversight. • This closed door decision making has been granted the respectability of legislation with Form Based Codes. • The defining characteristic of Form Based Codes is the power it gives government authorities to decide what people are allowed to do — and what they MUST do. • People can fight zoning decisions; but they can’t fight Form Based Codes. Fait accompli.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .” 2
There are no real public meetings in Tompkins County – no meaningful public participation in the decision making process. In the rare instances where questions from the public are allowed – they are deflected with irrelevant, partial or unresponsive answers. • There is never any discussion or deliberation – the voting follows without a minute’s pause – exactly as planned – for the benefit of the county’s rich and powerful interests. • They’re not even called “meetings” they’re called “hearings” – it’s an event where members of the public can sign in, and talk for 2-minutes [timed] – to a group of authorities who have already made up their minds and are merely waiting for you to stop talking. People who don’t attend are labeled as “not wishing to participate.” • It’s the kind of government that’s sweeping the country — and sweeping away anything that stands in its path.
“Cornithaca County is so corrupt . . .”
One of a series of punch lines. They will probably appear as a page in the book, rather than in the bumper sticker format. Writing these “humorous” pieces relieves a little of the tension I build up while working on the “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” book — and the growing feeling that it’s too late for change — as we move from a functional dictatorship to a factual dictatorship.
“Sweat Equity” Bumper sticker
I thought of a number of things to say; but I don’t think I could make the point any clearer.
“Evil Recycles” Logos
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – not exactly the place you would expect to find Evil – but then, while waste breaks the conservation circle; evil is always coming back around – evil is composed of 100% post evil actions; but also 100% post good intentions – and every empty container for good can be filled with evil for reuse. • Evil is everywhere — even the recycle bins.
New Disorders
Seek and you will find – You will find inevitably what you are looking for if you go about it in the right way. Politicians know the truth of this – You will always find enough work to mandate a new bureaucracy; even if you have to create it. • I had a number of learning disabilities in school; but I didn’t know it — my papers would come back with “careless” in big letters. I thought they were just problems to overcome and move forward. It was no big deal. Many problems in life are just part of the fine print. • Not everything comes out of the same box. Not everything comes out of a box. Not everything.
“Fuel efficient vehicles” Bumper sticker
Being owed the right to do bad has always been one of the strangest aspects of entitlement. These days it’s gone mainstream. • Liberals embracing profiling and discrimination have become everything they once claimed to despise. The “60’s child” was about loving and giving; today it’s all about hating and taking. • Our leaders have become the very beast that they claimed to be protecting us from . . . and it’s hungry.
“Everything is gray” Bumper sticker
How do you take it? Some people will associate with “gray areas” – in which it is difficult to judge what is right and what is wrong. • [Ironically; these are same people who embrace divisive and incisive solutions – clear cut solutions that can cut principles in half, and denude the human landscape of centuries of societal growth.] • Or maybe it’s the gray steps of a treadmill – the gray corridors of our Kafkaesque-Soviet bureaucracy – the gray of hopelessness that crowds our streets — because many people are preparing for a winter that will outlast all preparations – “Not with a bang but a whimper.” • Maybe it’s the gray of a fog: that hides an unimaginable future. Maybe.
“Everything’s transparent on the surface”
Tompkins County’s pretense of transparent government is as thin as the smile on a billboard. Its inner workings are as opaque to citizen oversight; as its intransigent decision making is to citizen opinion. • Impassive faces and utterances of sound Doctrine echo the fears of the oppressed – while downcast eyes and conformity are the price of economic survival. • If you think this is melodramatic: then why are people scared to speak out?
“Hard-wired for Hate” Bumper sticker
Love is for everyone — so it’s a good thing for today’s bigots that hate is all around. Not a straight forward in-your-face hate; but a mealy-mouthed, pussyfooting hate – the kind of hate that whispers in your ear; what you deserve, what you are owed. A hate that can be used. A hate that can be targeted – against this one, and that one. The kind of hate that gives up all for its desires. A hate held too close and secret to think about. • And when you find [as is always true in these tales] that you didn’t get what you thought you had bargained for; it’s too late — Your hate can’t touch them; for you have given them all power — the power to teach your children . . . to hate you. • Then you wake from this dream: to a world of love and compassion. [That’s my dream.]
“The root of Equitable is expediency”
The “Equitable” label exists as a convenient and practical way to mask the political agendas and payoffs that riddle our government’s every policy. • Cuomo’s talk of equitable distribution of COVID vaccines went hand-in-hand with New York State’s reporting of vaccinations by race and ethnicity only. It was only in March of 2021 that age based data began to be revealed. • Did this mask the diverting of vaccines from the state’s elderly to a less at risk, but more important political demographic during those months? What do you think? • My letter to the NYS Dept. of Health requesting the age based vaccination data for previous months went unacknowledged.
“Justice” Bumper sticker
“Justice” is a word that politicians and bigots both love; because it gives them so much wiggle room. • You can take Martin Luther King Jr.’s belief that the only road to equality was by never practicing discrimination; turn it 180 degrees, so that the only road to equality is through a policy of discrimination; and claim on his birthday that you are honoring his life’s fight for “Justice.” • Today’s “Justice” is bigger than the people — but too small to embrace their dreams.
“You make the path by talking” Bumper sticker
At the same time they denounce other people for their actions; today’s elitist policy makers only “talk the talk” and “talk the talk” — all the while insisting that it’s their excuses that validate their acts. • Like the joke: “We lose money on every piece we sell; but we make it up in volume” — these bigots claim that all their evil actions will add up to good in the end. Really? • Then why won’t they let us check their math?
Urban Colonialism – “Show those hicks”
There are many tricks that a City-centric social system can use to reimagine all the surrounding land for their own use and profit. The Urban Colonialism paradigm presents a top to the bottom, centrally controlled structure for urban gain. • The next time their “experts” come to address issues in your rural town or village; remember where they are coming from — and who will ultimately benefit from their solutions. • Even the Consumer Price Index is based solely on Urban consumers and workers – there is no “us.”
Road Signs – “I’ll Decide for You and Me”
In Tompkins County; Legislators don’t represent the people: they represent themselves. Elections are seen as a validation of their personal viewpoints, and a mandate to make their beliefs the basis of all policy and law. And in a county where it is widely accepted that there is no meaningful participation or government oversight by the citizens; you can imagine what a dog-and-pony-show these elections are.
“Road Trip” Free Game Download
The Urban Colonialism Road Trip game mirrors the efforts made to establish thru-cutting truck weight limits and traffic enforcement in a rural hamlet already overrun with reckless and lawless industrial and commuting traffic. • The actual documented story that will appear in “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” is, frankly, unbelievable: after two years of efforts to bring traffic management to our rural roads — we have been unable to even find out who makes these decisions. • • FREE Downloadable game pages on my blog: www.ruraltompkins.com – Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials.
“Turning Ethnic Mix” Bumper Sticker
New School Nazis? Yes, and it can be demonstrated, but here’s a simple analogy: You have three children, but you only praise two of them; you tell everyone that you meet how smart, caring, and wonderful they are. The third child is recounted very differently: stories about him show how he must be instructed and corrected by his other two siblings, and focus on his shortcomings and bad behavior. Does this action lead to a perception of equitable worth? Or negative stereotyping? • Make this simple experiment: Take television commercials [or TV shows, or books, or reporting, or conversation — it’s everywhere] and divide them into categories by race, gender, ethnicity, and belief: then note the differences in how people are profiled in each category. • New School Nazis? Proof 1: These actions deliberately create negative and discriminatory stereotypes. Proof 2: A refusal to change these actions — always defending and excusing them as permissible behavior. Proof 3: [You don’t want to know; but I’m afraid you will find out] Violence — they can bash you with their hate; but they can’t shame you with their love, because they don’t have it in them. Love would never make the choices they do.
County “NO ENFORCEMENT ZONE” Sign
Who really decides Tompkins County policies? You would probably need a Congressional Committee to find out. Repeatedly sending documentary videos of the reckless and outrageous actions of thru-cutting traffic to County had no effect on their decision to forbid Sheriff’s Department patrols in rural areas. Even attempts to find out what rural residents needed to do and who we needed to talk to post traffic regulating signs met with a stone wall of silence. The only response [from an undisclosed county authority] was: • “Residents don’t decide where signs are placed. Petitions hold no merit. • Roads are posted for other reasons. • • Good luck” • All doors to rural representation are closed — and all decisions are made behind them.
“Rural Crime Stopper” Yard Sign
In Lansing, Tompkins County, NY; only the Rural areas are zoned for Adult “cabarets,” Massage parlors, sex toy stores and all other Adult businesses — an area where the residences are frequently isolated, and there are no street lights or Sheriff’s patrols: this recent special ordinance was enacted “to promote the health, safety, morals and general welfare of the citizens of the Town of Lansing.” • Rural houses are bought by absentee landlords, and turned into subsidized housing where the County can dump the unwanted poor, homeless and addicted from around the colleges to “balance the burdens.” • Rural families that have lived in the county so long; that the roads they live on are named after them are leaving.
“Hate Maggots Game” Free Download
Free Download on my blog: Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials [ www.ruraltompkins.com ] Game on.
“Going to hell in a handbasket” Sticker
It’s not a knock on recycling; it’s a knock on “glossy thinking” — the kind of thinking that glosses over the difficulties. • While recycling is a worthwhile concept; re-using is preferable. The original plastic milk carriers had many generations of re-use because they were constructed for every-day use. Today’s flimsier store reproductions crack and break and are usually thrown out instead of recycled; the original carriers were scavenged whenever they were spotted. A plastic tub pickle container may be too thin and permanently branded to inspire re-use — but double the thickness, and use easily removable branding, and they would have a long life for plants, projects, or a multi-use container. • There should be a preference to use materials that are the least harmful if they are not recycled, and the least environmentally harmful/energy wasteful to manufacture and recycle. Glass would be preferred material. • Isn’t something made of 50% Recycled Materials with 100% of the material produced being recycled; better than made of 100% Recycled Materials with 50% of the material produced being recycled. Human nature prefers easy — if people have to drive 15 miles to recycle a couple of flashlight batteries; how likely are they to end up in the garbage instead? • Ran out of space, but words are 100% recyclable.
“Pride cometh before the fool” Bumper Sticker
Pride is one of the best handles that users can grab a hold of to lead you around by the nose. Pride, even more than respect needs to be earned by your actions. The price of your Pride was to support and promote government social policies of race and gender bias. • You can’t compartmentalize bigotry: like PCBs; the smallest part can pollute the biggest body. That’s why every revered figure of human worth and equality was unalterably opposed to any discriminatory policy for any reason. • Your Pride is being used as another tool to destroy anything that may oppose their rise to power: and to bring another area of human belief and activity under their control. When you are no longer needed; and booted out into the cold; don’t cry that you were betrayed — for it was your pride that has betrayed us all.
“I’ve Got A Sheriff” Song
A seventh song for “Rabid Lemmings: The Musical” – I say “God Damn the Tax Assessor Man.”
“You can’t make an omelet” Bumper Sticker
With entitlement; how you get something is always subordinated to your need for it.
“Opportunity” Bumper Sticker
Short term thinking; long term denial. • There is a disconnection between actions and consequences that is frightening. • “Opportunity” used to mean that you could get a job and prove what you could do; now it means starting at management level with great pay and benefits, and no experience. • I can do business at the touch of a button — and spend hours fixing the fuck-ups. And then I’m asked to fill out a customer satisfaction survey.
“Lots of Not” Poem
I first began to notice cell phones in the videotape rental stores; people would read out loud from an empty tape case, wait a moment, then their eyes would glaze and they would wander off. The same behavior started popping up in grocery stores; like a kind of wandering question and answer game show. People sitting alone in restaurants would feel compelled to describe what they were eating, and every detail of the table décor, to avid listeners who may themselves be sitting in other restaurants and describing their own dining experience. • The culmination, if you can call it that, took place in a doctor’s waiting room — where a middle aged woman took a cell phone out of her purse and screamed a long repetitive conversation to a deaf relative. • Over the years; I have been engulfed in the frisson of vocal public dramas, and have more than once overheard parts of conversations that made me wish I could have overheard more — but I have never heard an interesting cell phone conversation. • Where are we going with this? That’s the question in the poem, isn’t it?
“Responsibility” Bumper Sticker
Words like “justice” and “equitable” are very subjective in meaning; and can be used to support actions that “equal” and “ethical” would never condone; but words that can directly manipulate others have taken over the spotlight in our dog and pony show. • “Using” is probably the most important concept behind social rhetoric today — because using always puts the user in control and at the center of any action. Therefore “old school” concepts that are “loaded” with connotations and are historically tied to our views of ourselves and our humanity are a perfect tool for using; by threatening damage to someone’s self-image.
“Leading by example” Bumper Sticker
Today’s leaders don’t lead by giving; they lead by taking. And they don’t lead by forgiving: they lead by hating. You can’t walk in the opposite direction from the great social leaders of the past; without your actions doing the same. All you can do is put on a mask of pretense, and lash out at anyone who tries to remove it.
Undercover Party – “Are they coming?”
A game with a storied the past — and a story for the future. Does it work for survival? Does it work for the survivors?
“Revised Constitution Bumper Sticker”
After many emails to County authorities with no acknowledgement of my question: “what requirements the residents of other local roads fulfilled to get approval for their “4 Ton” weight limit for non-local traffic”; I received the following response: “Residents don’t decide where signs are placed. Petitions hold no merit. Roads are posted for other reasons.” • This is an excellent example of Black Box Bureaucracy: even when Tompkins County authorities are willing to respond; there is nothing to get ahold of — not only is there no meaningful public participation in the decision making process; there is no disclosure of why these decisions are made, or even who is making them. • What are the “other reasons” behind their decision that roads in some areas have a 4-Ton limit, and rural roads like Lansingville Road get a 20-Ton limit? Is it that we’re not golfing partners? Or because we didn’t make a big campaign contribution? Or maybe it’s just that we’re rural and have no place in their “vision” of a future society. • The role of Tompkins County government in the continued thru-cutting of large industrial trucks on rural roads will be fully documented and exposed in “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall.”
“Discredit the Witness” Road Signs
There is a certain animal cunning in the survival tactics that authorities employ to protect their acts of corruption and misconduct from exposure; but they follow predictable pathways, and leave recognizable tracks. • One of their most common tactics is exemplified the progression in these signs. The first two steps: “Discredit the Witness” and “Discredit the Facts”; need no explanation. The third step; “Discredit the Context,” is the deliberate attempt to minimize and trivialize the incident or issue; they will claim that it’s been exaggerated to obtain money, or notoriety, that it’s a political attack, and more recently; to use scams like TDML to convince the public that everything is now under control, and there is no need to investigate or take further action. • If inquiries persist; authorities pull together to create an inescapable maze of “in-house” adjudications: by conducting investigations that ignore all pertinent material, handing the issue back to the group accused of the misconduct for a self-investigation, or falling back on the legality of a permit or a regulation that has been formulated for just this sort of eventuality — thereby effectively “caulking” all the cracks. • “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” may be able to document and expose corruption — but that doesn’t mean anything will be done about it.
“Corruption’s Just a State of Mind”
Corruption is sophisticated, corruption is the “Wild West” — it’s cool, it’s a tool, if you’re upstanding up you’re a fool. • Ethics committees are only for show; they’re a calming measure for the public. It’s not just that they’re useless in promoting an ethical government — every complaint gives a warning to those involved that it’s time to cover up and put on an act of innocence. • Corruption, like bias in government policies, is considered a means to an end — and no more subject to ethical review than the self-serving results it achieves. • Corruption is the cost of doing business. It’s the cost of keeping your job. • Corruption on the quiet.
Cornithaca Road Signs – “Don’t Judge a Book”
Judging by outward appearances is a sure road to intolerance; but judging by a brief association or an isolated opinion can be just as misleading. • There’s more to people than a first page, or a first chapter. Often the automatic categorizing as “enemy” or even “friend” is all that’s needed to shut down further exploration of what that person really is. • Abraham Lincoln said, “I don’t like that man. I’m going to have to get to know him better.” If only we could make wisdom a law — or act like it was.
“Live Life like a Bettor” Road Signs
It’s not the world we want; that politicians are offering. Time and again over the years; people have clearly spoken of the world we want. Not the larger world of rules and rulers; but the smaller world of needs and accommodations — and human compassion. Maybe the best way to bring about world peace; is to make a world of peaceful communities.
Cornithaca Road Signs – “Everything We Do”
You might think that these signs are acknowledging a government by the people — but you’d be wrong: It’s the acknowledgement of a subservient population to an all-embracing theocracy — The Revealed Church of Secular Self-interest. • Don’t tell me you still think there’s any meaningful public participation in government?!
Cornithaca Road Signs – “It’s Unquestioned”
Did “we” decide to have a government policy of discrimination on the basis of race, gender, and ethnicity? Sure, the same way “we” decided on a policy of slavery. Both decisions sprang from the same source – evil.
Cornithaca Road Signs – “Fem Supremacists”
It’s everywhere. The Queen Bee of the New Society. In these days of unabashed arrogance and corruption – don’t pay attention to those bogus “replication crisis” studies; listen for this simple telltale giveaway: their manner of speech. In conversation do they say: “Ladies and men”? – putting themselves at a higher politeness level and revealing a sexist bias. Or do they even say “Ladies and guys” – putting themselves two levels above. Don’t be smiled off with the “sexist smile” - This should be corrected. Sauce for the gander is sauce for the goose.
Cornithaca Road Signs – “All Your Excuses”
All the talk of “it’s your actions that define you” is just talk. And it’s more talk that’s used to cover all those actions and empty claims: loud talk, aggressive and threatening talk. • That’s because we’re living in a world of adolescents — because there is no need, and very little pressure to grow up. And there’s always somebody in the background waiting to make some money and grab some power by encouraging it. • Responsibility has come to mean that other people have to take care of you — and they will; until it’s time for the shearing . . . or the “bleat” “it’s not fair” “bleat” silence.
“Going Down This Road” Signs
Sometimes, you end up in a place where you can’t get help. Maybe it’s your fault; but you still need help. • Cornithaca County is too busy remaking the world to worry about the people living in it — Compassion and empathy are left to the spell checker. You can see the signs all over.
“Ag, Gov. and Media – More Than In Bed”
Like “Rural Social Justice” – What? – the plight of rural communities across the county, and their victimization by “City-centric” corporate and government policies, is unreported and unremarked. This is not by accident.
Cornithaca Road Signs – “Ag Disclosure”
When an Industrial Farming business moved into a nearby town, and its farming practices seriously injured neighbors [including brain damage in one child and an infection that necessitated the removal of all the eyelids in an adult] they were legally protected from any wrongdoing by an agricultural “Permit Shield.” • Anything that would expose a threat to health, or reveal the subordinate position neighboring rural families are put into as the result of Agricultural Law is NEVER disclosed to prospective buyers or the general public. New York State’s fraudulent Ag Disclosure statement is a tool of Urban Colonialism. • The conduct surrounding the formulation and use of this “Ag Disclosure” statement is one of the topics that receives documented exposure in the upcoming “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” book.
“A Word to the Wise” Road Signs
The very concept of using experience, knowledge, and good judgment as a basis for decision making has been suppressed by today’s authority figures: it might give people the idea of questioning the motives, and the competence, of those same authorities. Wisdom has been relegated to the sphere of family and social relationships; and used as a mouthpiece for the “gentler” side of dictatorial thinking. Do you think it wise to give up our protection from tyranny; so that our government has the power to overturn any human right that blocks their will? Using your experience, knowledge, and good judgment; do you think they’re going to give it back?
“Our Colleges Defined Us” Road Signs
What can I say in a brief text about such a large subject? It’s not satirical, for one thing; and it presents the kernels of privileged beliefs that flesh out New York State’s Urban Colonialist policy making — bringing their civilization to the rural natives. “We’re all in this together” said the Centurion to the galley slaves. "Please, sir, I want some more."
“Dirty Hands – In Every Pie” Road Signs
The number of recent pieces on corruption is spillover from my work on “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall [I can’t seem to find any difference at all]” — I am currently sorting through more than 2,000 documents, letters and emails, and setting up timelines for a number of incidents. This will be a text and free download book. I would much rather be downing beers, than “downing” politicians and bureaucrats; and this has given a sharper edge to my delineations. After this is posted; it’s time for an Einbecher Pils to refresh me while I’m choosing what to pour next — something from Asia? . . . Scandinavia? . . . Probably both.
Cornithaca Road Signs – “Pride”
“Love knows no gender” — of course it does — Pride activists are staunch supporters of government policies that have carried out ethnic, gender and race discrimination in secret for more than five decades. “The path is made by walking” — maybe “Hypocrisy and bigotry know no gender, or race” and “Self-love knows no bounds” would be more appropriate. Goodness doesn’t need to hide, and Love would never make those choices. “Important principles may, and must, be inflexible.” — Abraham Lincoln. The “lapdog” choice: where’s the Pride in that?
“Rural Poor - Get the Axes” Road Signs
Who says road signs are out of date? It’s always good to know what you’re heading into. These rhyming signs are placed at intervals along the road to convey a complete message, a la Burma Shave. That’s the signpost up ahead – your next stop, Cornithaca County!
“Our Vi$ion – Your Deci$ion” Billboard
Tompkins County government authorities are always telling us how important corporations are; and never saying how important the people are. In many places the people say; “we need to eliminate corruption.” In Tompkins County, the people say; “yeah, it’s corrupt” — and look over their shoulder for fear of losing their job. Corruption is the cost of doing business; and frequently the profit.
“It’s Fun to be a 501(c)” Billboard
Is nothing sacred!? Charity, like Compassion, was always considered to be an unconditional act. Today, Charity often comes with conditions, overheads, and product and personality tie-ins. Charity is big business. And unlike the old proverb: “Charity sees the need, not the cause” — today’s charities are quick to define who has cause to be a recipient. Unsurprisingly, this cause extends to the charities themselves; with as much as 80% of the contributions going to “prime the pump” in-house.
“Elevate Your Quid Pro Quo-tient” Billboard
Quid Pro Quo, Cronyism, Misconduct, Bigotry, Censorship, Self-serving Policy Making, and Greed are just a part of business as usual for Tompkins County’s Elite. When you add all that corruption to an arrogant Urban Colonialist attitude — their “bringing civilization to the rural natives” policies; more closely resemble an invasion.
“Fill that ‘0’ with dough” Billboard
Cornithaca is proof that there is more money in helping people than there is for helping people. Non-profits are big business. And if you can’t get into that parade; there are charitable tie-ins for marketing your products and for pimping out your events.
“The Greater Good and Bigfoot” Bumper Sticker
The Greater Good, like Bigfoot, is a claim requiring more proof than anecdotal corroboration. “Greater good” policy making insists that a government is greater than the people it serves — and where’s the good in that.
“♪gtting 2 [know] u”
It takes more than one voice to harmonize.
“I’m Not You Under My Skin” Song
A sixth song for “Rabid Lemmings: The Musical” – A sophisticated tune for grace under pressure: and there’s a lot of pressure these days.
“Rabid Lemmings: The Musical – trickalittle”
A fifth song for “Rabid Lemmings: The Musical” — The doctrine of the schoolroom in one generation will be the doctrine of government in the next.
“The Sadder but Wiser World” Song
A fourth song for “Rabid Lemmings: The Musical” — the story will go wherever the music and lyrics lead me.
“Seventy-six New Laws”
A third song for “Rabid Lemmings: The Musical” — I was inspired by changing the oil — if only we could change our leaders that easily.
“Protecting the Assets of the Rich” Sticker
When a car chase/gun fight on one of the local roads caused a higher number of complaints than usual; the County made an announcement: One: There are only a “few bad characters.” Two: Their department was too small. And Three: It would be too expensive for the County to do anything about it. • Just the sort of response you would expect from a County Sheriff’s Dept. that will only show up in rural areas when it’s called, write a report, and leave. • Tompkins County’s “Ag Ghetto” policies, like other ghettos in other places, is one of containment. It’s a tool that Urban Colonialism uses to marginalize the rural natives. • Another tool? High rural property taxes — my neighbor just received a 10% increase in his County assessment: it takes an important amount of money to serve the important areas of Tompkins County.
“Rabid Lemmings: I’ll Borrow”
Another song for the “Rabid Lemmings” musical. Now it’s time to kick back, watch a movie, and have a few beers — “Pint of lager, please, Mary – Right you are, my love.”
“Rabid Lemmings: Gonna smoke ya”
First song for the musical — and yes, it does have some lemmings in it. It’s a Victim’s Fault world.
“Rabid Lemmings: The Musical”
Cornithaca County featured the 15 tune “Bigotry: The Musical” songbook. Now, it’s time for “Rabid Lemmings: The Musical” . . . Fear travels by word of mouth.
New Word: “Unaccountyble”
After repeated complaints about hundreds of thru-cutting dump trucks to County representatives; requesting a 4 TON weight limit on our rural road; the County Highway Director stated “I have researched the area and talked to highway officials in Lansing and they report there are no large through haul trucks utilizing Lansingville Road.” • Photos documenting this truck traffic was sent with no response. Suddenly signs appeared stating a limit of “20 TONS” — a weight limit that would ensure continued road usage by these thru-cutting trucks, and five times the 4 TON weight limit of every other local road. • A complaint letter sent to the Deputy County Administrator resulted in a response that completely ignored the Highway Director’s false claims and strange behavior; saying that the Director “posted the road at 20 tons to limit through traffic of large trucks”. A follow up email urging the County to address the facts of the complaint was ignored. • From there on; County authorities stonewalled and refused to comment or acknowledge any communication. • • The full story will be recounted in the upcoming expose: “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall [I can’t seem to find any difference at all]”
“Escape form Corruption” Board Game Download
“Escape form Corruption” Board Game Download FREE Printable download on my Blog: “Rural Tompkins County: The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials” • This board game borrows material from an upcoming book with the working title: “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall [I can’t seem to find any difference at all]”. • This book will present the strongest possible circumstantial case through documented actions, polices, and statements — all pointing in the same direction.
“I’m not non-Hispanic! I’m Irish!”
It’s interesting and revealing that our government policy makers have so many ways to make you less, and so many reasons why they should do this. It was absolutely wrong to discriminate for any reason; now it’s absolutely right to discriminate whenever, and for whatever reason they decide — we were always told America was a “melting pot” of race, gender and culture; now they’ve reversed themselves and punitively profile people in all those ways — there used to be a belief in the innate worth of every human being; now our worth is decided by how will profit an arrogant and self-serving bigotry [covered up with a secretive and unquestionable “greater good.”] • This is not some little thing — no matter how hypocritical and blatantly bigoted their statements and policies; they adamantly refuse to change anything. • When they’re done with their self-love feast; you’re next on the menu. And if you don’t stand up for yourselves; you’re just fast-food wrappers on the side of the highway.
“Practice before you preach” Bumper Sticker
Nothing could be less characteristic of today’s social policy and its adherents than the advice contained in this phrase. Rather than trying to be a living example their claims, and abjuring bigoted and discriminatory actions; they insist their right [by virtue of their race, gender, ethnicity] to perform acts of bigotry and discrimination [by race, gender, and ethnicity] — thereby double dipping into the very evil that they tar their victims with; while hiding the hypocrisy of their own actions behind censored news, fiddled statistics, and a smokescreen of self-righteous anger and secrecy.
“I get the message” Bumper Sticker
A cryptic bumper sticker that’s intentionally thought provoking.
“Global Warming: prove it’s happening”
The urgency of the action is in large part dependent upon the consequences: if you don’t take precautions against the weather and only get wet; that’s one thing — if you die; that’s another matter. • While many countries believe that efforts should be undertaken to prove an action or process is safe beforehand; in America, we are frequently in the position of having to prove something is unsafe after the fact. • And with powerful, rich, and well-connected interests: that can take a lot of proving.
“Global Warming & Weather” Bumper Sticker
Some problems just don’t go away. Some systems don’t heal themselves after injury. • The TDML attitude says; “I can leave my car engine running because it’s more efficient”; but a more sensible attitude would be to make use of that efficiency to further reduce the carbon footprint. The world may not return to its previous state; but it may recover more quickly. Or we could just wait . . . with the engine running.
“Global Warming is Green” Bumper Sticker
An example of how a small fact can be used to obscure a larger one. Authorities know that presenting facts as “truths” is the best way to have people buy into their policies. • “It begins innocently enough. Farmers use fertilizers to increase the output of their crops so that we can have more food on our tables and more food to sell to the rest of the world. But it is this agricultural runoff combined with urban runoff that brings excessive amounts of nutrients into waterways that feed the Mississippi River and starts a chain of events in the Gulf that turns deadly.” • In the book; I will deconstruct this government handout. It’s amazing how many misrepresentations are dovetailed into these few sentences — a beautiful piece of work.
Global Warming: Making Ocean View; Beachfront
Just a reminder: You can make more money by using disasters; than by preventing or remediating them. COVID-19 grabbed the headlines; but smart investors know that there are always profitable opportunities in our downward spiraling world. • Ocean-rise investments in real estate is a “global warming-proof” way to ensure you can comfortably live out your natural life in our unnatural society.
“Corruption speaks louder than words”
Corruption: “An act done with an intent to give some advantage inconsistent with official duty and the rights of others.” • This legal definition is entirely consistent the actions and policies of Tompkins County government. • Although they are public servants; it is no longer the people who are served; the growth and profitability of corporations and institutions is now considered more important to the welfare of Tompkins County — the people have been moved to a secondary position. • Oversight committees short-circuit investigations and ethics complaints are regarded as an annoying interference. • 200 years of Collegiate bureaucratic inbreeding has gone county-wide; and the results are Machiavellian.
“Poverty is more than color” Bumper Sticker
Poverty may be more than color; but public policy isn’t. Unfortunately, there aren’t enough blacks living in rural New York for the community to be worth caring about. • Even the pretense of equal worth has been replaced by an openly dismissive “somebody has to take the hit” philosophy, and disguised with an over the top ladling of “the greater good.” • After all; when “somebody” has to take the hit — it’s always a campaign decision.
“Greed in the face of need” Bumper Sticker
How does Tompkins County save money? By denying public services to the county’s rural poor. • Public transportation is stopped miles away from those farthest from doctors, medication and groceries. And the drugs and crime that poverty produce are handled by a Sheriff’s department that only come when they’re called, write a report, and leave. • The County does maintain one presence; its Assessors are constantly raising rural valuations to enable higher taxes — and rural families living on roads named for them are forced to leave and make room for urban sprawl developments and corporate cronies.
“Rural Social Justice” Bumper Sticker
A “what’s that?” bumper sticker. Rural Social Justice is the Social Justice that hasn’t happened yet; and if Urban Colonialism continues to hold its grip — it never will. • Urban Colonialism, “characteristic of, or constituting control by a city over a rural area or people,” is the de facto policy in New York State. As urban authorities co-opt increasing amounts the state’s rural land for their food, recreation, infrastructure needs [and as an “out of sight” dumping ground]; they act as if they are “bringing civilization to the natives.” • Rural residents are ungrateful obstructive, and ignorant people, who won’t accept their place in a City-centric social order. Rural communities are resettled, restructured, and the natives are marginalized, driven out, or destroyed. • In Tompkins County’s most recent Comprehensive Plan: there is no rural community — just a scattering of “urban nodes” in a landscape that supplies food, raw materials, and low-level labor to a “vibrant urban center” — can you get more colonial than that?
“When politicians won’t kiss your blue baby”
There has never been a long-term study made to evaluate the effects of factory farming methods on the rural community. Such a study would not be welcome. How many rural babies have died because of nitrates in their drinking water? Nobody knows. Autopsies are rarely performed on infants. • If you’re a poor rural family, and a factory farm pollutes your well; what happens? Nothing. That’s your problem. Authorities advise spending a few thousand dollars on a reverse osmosis system or buying bottled water; but that is all they will give: the advice. What can you do? Where can you go? That’s your problem. • Agriculture-funded politicians and colleges are dismissive of the conditions that rural families are forced to endure; they can afford to be — or rather, they can’t afford not to be. Just follow the money.
“When the morning mist is herbicide”
Rural Tompkins County is a place where residents need to be vigilant when they hang out their wash. Giant agricultural boom-sprayers spray herbicides that drift across the landscape like a toxic fog — coating the toys that children play with, and the sheets they sleep on with glyphosate and other chemicals. • How can Agribusinesses get away with this? Because the regulations aren’t enforced — that’s what friends in high places are for.
“There’s no Anybody anymore” Bumper Sticker
“If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change.” – Mahatma Gandhi • The concepts of being “owed” something and “those people” is foreign to the beliefs of every respected figure of human worth and equality — so when they all point to the same path; why are you walking in the opposite direction? • Without “anybody”: there can be no “everyone.” • Our government; like all confidence tricksters; plays on fear and greed to convince you that by giving up some; you will receive more. But when you’re doing something that you’ve been told is “good”; and everybody we consider good denounces it: what are the odds?
“You know you live near a factory farm”
Life in an Ag Ghetto is like life around Chernobyl: it may look unchanged to those quickly driving by; but the poison is deep in everything — and sometimes it comes to the surface. • There’s not much biodiversity in all those thousands upon thousands of acres of Tompkins County farmland — because nothing is allowed to get in the way of the bottom line; and that includes the rural residents. • Factory farms are whole-hearted supporters of Urban Colonialist policies. The concept of food production as an overriding activity increases profits and flattens any opposition. Cornell Cooperative Extension informed the “non-farming” families in rural Lansing that they “didn’t deserve to live there,” and the most blatant environmental misconduct or health debilitating activity is treated with a blind eye or a wrist-slap. • So the next time you check a label in the grocery store; remember — there’s a little bit of a rural family ground up in there as well.
“Life is like riding a bicycle” Sticker
Unfortunately; this statement is both true and untrue: we can learn from accident and adversity; but the type of learning may not be good for ourselves or others — and sometimes we seem to learn nothing; which presents its own set of problems. • Luckily, life is a continuous and continuously adjusting process — otherwise the bruises would never go away.
“Destroy the past” Bumper Sticker
It’s the sort of future that needs the past destroyed: the records of repeated failure for the same policies, the echoes of history in their acts of discrimination and suppression, the accusing voices of those who fought for human worth and equality. • They not only try to destroy the past by suppressing it, but also by overwriting it. What children are taught in schools is not an accurate representation of the past; it’s a version created to deny the legitimacy of anything that does not conform [or cannot be presented as conforming] to their Doctrine. • Abraham Lincoln said, “How many legs does a dog have if you call his tail a leg? Four. Saying that a tail is a leg doesn't make it a leg.” Calling their acts of hate and discrimination “justice” does not make them just. And destroying a thing; does not destroy the memory of it.
“Better safe than story” Bumper Sticker
Sometimes it seems that there are no more cautionary tales because our decisions are no longer important. • A reimagined Government has allowed authorities to distance themselves from accountability and expectation by adopting fatalistic precepts like: “the wrong place at the wrong time.” • When a recent car chase/gun fight upset local residents; the Sheriff’s Department answered with: the number of officers [we’re too small], their non-local presence [it’s too expensive], the level of criminality [there are just a few bad characters]. • They’re too busy protecting the assets of those with money to protect the asses of those without. If we want to be safe, and not a story, it’s up to us. • “Right and wrong are awful narrow - Ain’t we got guns? - Took a wrong turn, where’s the arrow - We ain’t got none - They’ve cut patrols back - But the income tax won’t be any smaller - When I’m played out, I’ll be laid out - Ain’t we got guns?” — from Bigotry: The Musical, “Cornithaca County”
“Assistance beats resistance” Bumper Sticker
I have a cousin who would always say “don’t force it; get a bigger hammer” — if there was a big rusted bolt on the silo unloader; and all you had was a quarter-inch socket wrench — just put a three-foot pipe over the wrench handle. • Today’s super-powerful government is the “bigger hammer.” It’s the assistance that overcomes any resistance. • Don’t waste time with discussion or with debating your intentions. Things move much quicker if you don’t have to convince the public, or your neighbors. Just grab a mandate, an entitlement, or an equitability; and smash them into submission. You don’t need a good reason to play a “greater good” card; just a good friend on the committee who will deal you the right hand.
“Hope for the best, repair what is worst”
I have always thought that “preparing for the worst” was a very passive approach — why tarp the furniture if you can repair the roof? • Abraham Lincoln said: “Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them?” How’s that for a repair job.
“Necessity is the mother of convention”
Conventions are there for a reason — survival. And while it may seem counterintuitive to some; they promote the survival of the individual. Conventions serve one of our most important needs: they let us know what we can each expect. • “Climate is what we expect. Weather is what we get.” Conventions help us achieve a stable “climate” of individual human interaction. Is there anything beyond conventions? Yes, maturity. And beyond that is wisdom. • Is there anything beyond wisdom? Give me a break — I’m still working on conventions. • Another remixed proverb from “Cornithaca County.”
“Absence makes the heart go wander”
There’s more than longing; there’s belonging — and needing to be with someone can turn into being with someone else. It’s perfectly sensible human behavior: but since when has that mattered? • This is another remixed proverb from “Cornithaca County.”
“The early bird catches the germ”
There’s something to be said for not being the first: you can pick your space at the party, you know that the ice will hold your weight, and you aren’t the one they name a virus after – you can always learn from experience; especially if it’s someone else’s. • This remixed proverb is from “Cornithaca County.”
“Cover-up the Cover-up” Bumper Sticker
When New York’s elderly caused Cuomo trouble; they ceased to exist. • The suppression of Nursing Home deaths has progressively led to a non-reporting status of all Pandemic age-related demographics. Since only Race and Ethnicity are important; they are the sole determiner in State vaccination statistics. • Not only are the elderly doing the overwhelming majority of the dying; the pro forma “Sadly, we lost [today’s number] New Yorkers to the virus” announcement hasn’t changed one word — only the number of dead has changed. Since January 13th; more than 7,000 human beings have been added to the total — up a thousand since March. • Sadly, we still have the same Governor.
“Conforming is Safest” Bumper Sticker
The miasma of fear is everywhere; but it’s not due to the Pandemic, that would be a relative comfort — it’s due to political dogma — and if their words don’t scare you enough to conform: there are always sticks and stones at hand. • It’s not surprising in a Doctrine that directly contradicts the lives and beliefs of every revered figure of human worth and equality. • How many of you are fearful to speak out? • Conforming won’t help you. It may spare you the whip — but not the abattoir.
“Don’t think of it as Early Release”
Early Release could be described as an act of arrogance and dismissiveness: the arrogance to decide that they can judge the future behavior of criminals who have already displayed aberrant behavior and committed acts of violence, and the dismissiveness to treat the human beings who suffer from these acts as mere statistical phenomena. • Psychologists claim with “reasonable certainty” these acts will not be repeated, but in the light of a “replication crisis” in the psychological research that underpins these conclusions; what are the real odds? I would bet with a much more reasonable certainty that they won’t be apologizing to the victims if they’re wrong.
“Victim’s Fault” Bumper Sticker
When the evidence is gathered and the suspect arrested; that’s their job. When the plea bargain is made and the sentence reduced; that’s their job. When the criminal is released back into the neighborhood; that’s their job. Being the next victim? That’s our job.
“The Only Rights We Have Left” Bumper Sticker
It’s an idea too big to write about; but the right size to think about.
“Looking for a good excuse” Bumper Sticker
With the modern Doctrine of privilege and hate; finding an off-the-shelf excuse for doing evil to others is easy — it’s finding an argument for doing good to others that’s impossible. • We’ve come to the Great Divide. • It’s the difference between those who believe in human worth; and those who believe in human use. • It’s a gulf you can’t straddle; and there’s no place to hide — so where do you stand on the Great Divide?
“Who’s Your Grandad” Bumper Sticker
Maybe it’s time to change up the societal role of our elderly citizens. The mild, smiling, grandkid doting role got us no respect, compassion, or vaccine availability when the Pandemic hit. • With the current sense of entitlement; and with the easy and available COVID solution: it’s certain that many inheritances were hastened with human intervention — murder — but this media plum is nowhere to be found. • It’s not smart to play us. They did the lying; we did the dying. This last election taught the lesson that if you’re not confrontational: you’re nothing. It’s time to step out of your AARP boxes and shake up things again.
“When does corruption . . .” Bumper Sticker
What used to be “Oh, God!” is now “Oh, yeah? So what.” • People have been educated to accept corruption as a normal part of society and government – to see pollution and the environment as a balancing act – and human death and suffering as quantifiable overhead. • This viewpoint is all very well for those who are nibbling our society to death; but what about the rest of us? • Just because you can’t end corruption, and pollution, and human suffering; doesn’t mean that any amount of it is acceptable. In the real world: A predator doesn’t leave after one bite — if they like it; they stick around for more. For all of it.
“We’re all in this together” 2 Bumper Sticker
Nowadays “We’re all in this together” is merely a figure of speech. Every discussion, every media story, every video, every study, every job application, every school lesson, and every law places more importance on our differences than anything else. • Our togetherness is that of people waiting for plane, crossing a city street, or even that of dogs in a pit. • This bumper sticker stresses that being in the same place at the same time, and “the wrong place at the wrong time,” are equally good descriptions of today’s “togetherness.” It’s not a togetherness of compassion — it’s a togetherness of use.
“Don’t bet on computer weather models”
Unlike jockeys in a real horse race; weather professionals jump from one weather model, to another one that seems to have a better chance of winning, and then back again — sometimes even straddling the field. • It’s all very scientific; but most of the accuracy comes after the event; not before. • 60 years ago; people watched the TV weatherman who had a proven record of accurate predictions. Today science has bedecked a self-righteous certitude with a fog of “complex” patterns and ever-fluctuating “chances of” — that leaves you looking at the weather outside your window an hour before it appears in their “updated” predictions. • So remember; the next time you’re caught with your excuses down: Don’t change your story — just update it.
“The right thing to do” Bumper Sticker
You Know the right thing to do — so when someone tells you there’s a better, quicker, easier, or more correct way: watch out. “Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee. An actor’s life for me!”
“Are they teaching? Or Preaching?”
Does a uniform curriculum mean uniform thinking? Is an ideology something that our children are not being taught about — but are being taught to accept? • It’s surprising how little we know about what is taught in our public schools; let alone how and with what agenda it is being taught. • Policies are not just presented; they are being embedded in youthful minds. • When powerful unions and powerful interests get together; the result is never for the benefit of outsiders. • Try to find out the “what” and “why” of your child’s “public” education — and see how quickly you’re shut down.
“Goodness doesn’t need to hide”
There are many ways to hide government activities and wrongdoing besides a plain refusal to disclose information: selective disclosure, purposed government studies, substitution of information, claiming the need to “protect” someone or something, or just by making it too difficult to obtain. • Withholding the information that the people need to debate and decide issues, and denying them the ability to judge the merits of government policies, has become a basic political strategy for authorities who have come to see themselves as rulers and molders of society; rather than representatives. • And although governments may claim to a “greater good” by withholding information from the people; there is no evidence that this is true, or that it is the public good that requires this. • Demand Full Disclosure – Full Exposure of all government policies and statistics.
“New York State of Corruption” Bumper Sticker
The scariest thing about corruption in New York is its acceptance. It’s the “sophisticated” view that so clearly overlays a landscape of self-interest and fear. • It’s frustrating to see how quickly and completely the county’s educated people distance themselves from any wrongdoing or partisan payoffs in their own community; immediately jumping to another place, another belief, or even another time; always denying the darkness — and yet fearful to stray from the herd. • “Corruption is always with us.” “They’re going to die soon anyway” “And I'm sure it wouldn't interest anybody - Outside of a small circle of friends” • The New York State of Corruption; it’s a place where even the investigations need to be investigated.
“Bureaucratic Misconduct” Bumper Sticker
Did you ever wonder what a liberal community would be like with complete top-to-bottom control of government policy; and the ability to enact everything that their beliefs approve? • “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” uses documented facts and incidents to create an undeniable circumstantial case for the future of our society; and the place of Government and the People. • In a society with the sort of moral compass that lands people a spot on American Greed: The only question is: is there any power on earth that can stop it? • [Excerpts from the book will be appearing in the coming months.]
“COVID-19 Elderly Deaths” Bumper Sticker
With the undercurrent “cull the herd” attitude towards our dying elderly citizens; it would be a good time to look for a really practical solution for a healthy society. • All our world’s problems have one source: overpopulation. Even the pollution and global warming that are racing us to extinction are tied to this single fact. • Sterilize the young and it’s “problem solved” — simple, direct, and measurable results. A plan that would pay back every year; until we reach a stable, clean, healthy world with enough for everyone. • Stop this selfish reproduction; and pass a law for its reduction.
“Get off the high ground” Bumper Sticker
Get off the high ground: because your views directly contradict the lives and beliefs of every revered figure of human worth and equality. Get off the high ground: because goodness acts in the open; and you insist on secrecy. Get off the high ground: because you bend important principles 180 degrees and still claim you’re fulfilling them. • Get off the high ground; you ain’t all that — but you are all that that has oppressed people throughout history.
“COEXIST” Bumper Sticker
We can coexist; as long as we do what they want. As long as we say what they want. As long as we think what they want. For as long as they allow. • There is no compromise — it’s just that some things can’t be swallowed whole.
“Scientific Method” Bumper Sticker
In Cornithaca County; I exposed the myths behind this modern Icon of Incorruptibility — debunking the popular view that Science is responsible, rational, reliable, selfless, and self-effacing. • When scientific studies rely on outside funding, and when, in some fields; more than a third of those studies cannot be replicated by impartial researchers — it doesn’t require a mathematician to add things up. • Science is the well-fed lap dog in the houses of the rich and powerful.
“If You Want to Understand” Bumper Sticker
If you want to understand our government’s policies — just think like a 14-year old: A world of privilege without responsibility. A demand to have now at any cost; ignoring the future consequences. • A resentment and refusal to listen to advice. A rebellious attitude toward anyone and anything that restricts your behavior. • And a pattern of blaming everything on someone else — especially anyone outside the group. • Or you could read “Lord of the Flies.”
“EQUALITY™ - It’s not Just for Everyone”
Keywords. Just as keywords help in search engine recognition; they can be used attach attributes to actions [whether or not they exist] — that is why every questionable government policy comes cloaked in words of righteousness. Equality. Equal. Equitable. • And yes, the double meaning is intended.
“Where do our taxes go?” Bumper Sticker
Where do your taxes go? Do you know? • In Tompkins County; the rural people pay the same county taxes as everyone else, but do not get any County bus service, Law enforcement patrols, Municipal water, Planning representation, or County outreach — and it’s the county’s urban residents; the ones who receive all of that, who are designated as “underserved” and given special attention. • This isn’t widely known — but then, we don’t get any media coverage either.
“How Many Cronies Can You Spot”
“Cronyism” is the Gold Standard of corruption. While following a money trail is difficult; the Quid Pro Quos and Future Expectations of cronyism are much more difficult to nail down as misconduct. • New York State requires that 3 of the 5 voting members of every oversight Soil and Water Conservation Committee be “farm” [one an active farmer, one from the Farm Bureau, and one from the Grange]: farming is the biggest polluter of the state’s lakes and waterways — is this “cronyism”? These Committees oppose fines and excuse even the largest agricultural spills; while constantly praising these farms for their commitment to Stewardship — is this “cronyism”? • There is always a point at which the logic and reasoning disappears, transparency is lost, and the power of the decision maker takes over — we need to make sure that these decisions are made for the right reasons.
“We’re all in this together” Bumper Sticker
We’re all in this together . . . but wouldn’t you rather be together somewhere else? • When you’re in a speeding vehicle with an impaired driver; maybe it’s better to jump out anywhere, then end up who-knows-where. Oh, Hell!
“The Greater Good” Bumper Sticker
“Faster than a spending bureaucrat! More powerful than a lobby! Able to leap ethical barriers in a single bound! • (“Look! Up in the sky!” “It’s a Law!” “It’s a Mandate!” “It’s The Greater Good!”) • Yes, it’s The Greater Good… strange concept from an autocratic viewpoint, who came to our society with powers and abilities far beyond those given by the Constitution! The Greater Good… who can change the course of ethical guidelines, bend principles in his bare hands! And who, disguised as Equitable Policy, mild-mannered proponent for a Great Dictatorship, fights a never-ending battle against truth, justice, and the American people! • Is there a “kryptonite”? Yes, knowledge. Full Disclosure • Full Exposure of our government’s policies and statistics will change a Greater Good Dictatorship into a good for all democracy.
“When one bar closes; Another bar opens”
Life is more than just choices; it’s also about opportunities. Sometimes the opportunity comes when you’re out of choices; sometimes the choice carries an “opportunity cost”; and sometime the choice creates the opportunity itself. • I can’t say the choice of not going on to another bar was ever a bad one. The opportunity? Maybe just living to talk about it.
“Paste link here” Bumper Sticker
Nature abhors a vacuum — doesn’t everyone? There’s always the urge to fill in the blank space; even when you’re not requested to “insert image/comment/URL here.” But what constitutes a “blank space”? • Incomers define our rural fields and meadows as “vacant space” because they have not been defined and demarked as to usage. To them, these “blank spaces” are frightening; objects without labels —opportunities without a profit. • There is no neighborliness: instead, we’re now a “community,” and our community needs, running and bike trails, a dog park, sidewalks, a “town center,” a high-tax school system . . . a suburban pastiche of county club aspirations and sit-com sensibilities. Forcing on the original inhabitants things that they don’t want; at a price they can’t afford. • The natives either die off, are taxed out, or squeezed into low-level jobs and marginalized living. Pure Urban Colonialism.
“One bumper sticker is a statement”
Say it and forget it; stick it and regret it. Bumper stickers can say a lot of things, and can be put on for a lot of reasons, but there’s one thing they have in common; they’re difficult to take off.
“NO Privileges were given up” Bumper Sticker
Cornithaca is a place where rich non-profits decry the materialism of working people all the way to the bank; and “lip service” is another name for a convocation of policy makers. • It’s a place where non-conforming people and ideas are targeted in a servile media; while intellectual lemmings attack and attack with mindless ferocity. • In a county where “user-ism” has replaced activism; profiting in a very material way from public policy has become a way of life. • Their burden is the weight of rulership; ours is to carry their sedan chairs.
“Full Disclosure – Full Exposure”
No concept could be scarier to today’s secular elite. The selective disclosure of information to legitimize elitist policy making is the stepping stone to their “greater good” dictatorship: a “Black Box” Bureaucracy of power and control. • I used to satirize this society by saying that the only rights left will be the right to be a victim and the right to be poor. This isn’t true — they’ll decide that as well.
“Confrontational” Bumper Sticker
If the last election and its aftermath has taught us anything; it’s that if you’re not confrontational; you’re nothing. • Those that were confrontational and violent are being showered with privileges and media promotion; those that were not are just fodder for the Sacrifice Grinder. • Use this generic bumper sticker as an attitude setting giveaway for your group’s confrontational launch. • Remember: “If you don’t make the list; you’ll never be missed.”
“It’s not the experience you can see . . .”
Today, in a word, is dull. The endless flashy parade of entitlement is no more than a freight train that holds you up at the crossing. • It’s time for old people to shrug off the soporific talk, talk, talk, advocacy that led to so many pandemic deaths; and get confrontational. • When you’ve done so much; it’s annoying to be treated as so little.
“It was like that when I moved in.”
It’s hardly a problem in logic; but it’s a problem with our society. Not the self-serving lying — but the attitude that everything ends with you. • Compassion is no longer something that binds the community together; it’s something that flows from designated sources and institutions, and only to those who are considered worthy. • The “Us” of our current administration, like the “We” of previous royalty, does not refer to all; but to a single authority that rules all. • When told “we” have to make sacrifices; the first thought is not “what,” but “who?” • It was like that when you moved in — and will it be any better when you move out?
“FORM BASED CODES” Bumper Sticker
Power AND Control: that’s why authorities are authorizing Form Based Code Planning as their template for the future. Controlling behavior through controlling the environment is the sterile dream of Operant Conditioning and “Skinner Box” societies. • Form Based Code proponents are very much like their Code: intolerant of anything different, and gaining power from an intransigent authority. • You’re not some misplaced “square peg in a round hole”; there are no “square holes” — so you’ll just have to fit.
“URBAN COLONIALISM” Bumper Sticker
Urban Colonialism is not a term you’re likely to hear in our city-centric media; or from smug “form based” futurists. • Rural people are a backwards people whose lives [and lands] are being improved; because, like the natives in other colonizations: keeping their culture is not worth considering. • The deeper you look the more parallels you will find — but who cares?
“TDML” Bumper Sticker
TDML is one of those concepts that clearly points to the direction we are heading; it sets an acceptable level to act that should never be acceptable at all. • This is the perfect bureaucratic policy because it accepts inaction and paperwork as the solution to society’s ills. • We used to cringe at the dark logic of “10 to 20 million killed, tops” — Today that sort of thinking is standard government practice.
“A Child’s Garden of Curses”
Short rhyming poems for children. This book, like Cornithaca County, will contain a number of activities and games that children can participate in; or be used in lessons. Besides, rhymes are fun at all ages.
“SENIOR EMPOWERMENT” Bumper Sticker
In the days before air bags; when strong chassis added to an out-of-the-car experience: everyone knew that shit happens — they just didn’t say “shit” in public. Now, with all the power of a flaking metallic, V-8 powered, pyroclastic cloud of an “aircraft carrier” [with 85,000 miles on the odometer] it’s time for Seniors to roar back. You don’t have to say “shit” to do shit.
“C-O-R-R-U-P-T” Bumper Sticker
The rhythm of the sticker message brings back a song from the 60s; and like the song; all we’re getting is “disrespect.” State and County vaccination data is only displayed in terms of “race” and “ethnicity” — and yet New York’s elderly is a minority group that comprises 85% of state’s COVID deaths —— why won’t they show age related data for deaths and vaccinations? Because they’re not supposed to. • Corruption doesn’t have to be about money; it can be about power — New York State’s corrupt power brokering relies on control of the people; and that requires a program of omission, revision, or suppression of all conflicting information. Wouldn’t you like to see the memos that instruct public employees to do this?
“EQUITABULLSHIT!” Bumper Sticker
Corruption and evil do not grow and thrive in the light of disclosure and exposure — they scheme for non-disclosure and the reimagined righteousness of self-interest. • “Equitable” policy is a denial of human worth. It’s a proclamation by the rich and powerful that They will now decide who you are and what you can be. You disagree? Let’s debate it in the revealing light of Full Disclosure and Full Exposure: if there was nothing to hide; it wouldn’t be secret.
“COVID CUOMO” Bumper Sticker
This series of bumper stickers will tie into a number of themes in the book. I use the COVID-19 pandemic as a social tool; an acid test that can reveal more by what it doesn’t affect then what it does. It reveals a glaring lack of compassion in a state whose governor places political doctrine and self-serving policy making above human worth. • In his daily executive updates; Cuomo always has a phrase — never featured; just a tag-line to a bunch of statistics. • “Sadly, we lost 57 New Yorkers to the virus.” “Sadly, we lost 61 New Yorkers to the virus.” “Sadly, we lost 49 New Yorkers to the virus.” New York’s unidentified elderly. • No more important than dripping faucet. An annoying background noise to the political agenda that eventually gets shut out by the brain. • I started to add them up. 6,047 since January 13th — 6,047 Human Beings. Maybe 6,100 by tomorrow. Drip . . . drip . . . drip . . .
Poem: “You Decide”
This poem is dedicated to the Autocrats who run our lives, those who aspire to that position, and those live off the scraps. You don’t believe it? When’s the last time you were ever asked [or allowed] to have any meaningful participation in policy making?
“PROCTORS” Card Game: Free Printable Download
Get it at my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials” [proctors-card-game-free-printable-download] • The download includes printable PROCTORS card game instructions and all card and color designs. A page of card backs is included for double-sided printing. OOPS: the original download was missing the #9 card - it's fixed now.
“PROCTORS” Game Cards 4
The three last card designs from the “Proctor” card game. Repression, suspicion, and corruption are integral parts of any authoritarian government; and an everyday occurrence in Cornithaca County.
“PROCTORS” Game Cards 3
Four more card designs from the “Proctor” card game – including Wild and Wild Draw Four card designs.
“PROCTORS” Game Cards 2
Here are four more card designs from the “Proctor” card game. The book will include pages for scanning/copying/printing every card in all four colors; with a card back page for double-sided fun.
“PROCTORS” Game Cards
Here are four card designs from the “Proctor” card game: it’s a shedding-type card game where the object is to dispose of all the non-conforming people.
"Not" Again
All the insight is in the reader.
“BEFORE you go out” Poster
It’s not surprising how easily COVID posters can be converted to cautionary proclamations. The restrictions used for the eradication of a virus and the eradication of an idea are very much the same. • And a vaccine performs a similar function to indoctrination in building resistance to an outside influence. • Even the policies that emphasize isolating and tracking down the source share a common fear: loss of control. • “For the greater good” is the tyrant’s slogan of the new century. While the “good” is something that the people can decide among themselves, this “greater good” seems to require an overarching and overriding control — and the kind of authority that glories in it. • “Full Disclosure – Full Exposure” of government policies and statistics leads to thinking. Thinking leads to questioning; and questioning leads to freedom. • How much does your government like to be questioned?
“PROCTORS” Card Game Advertisement
“It’s not revenge; it’s Justice.” • In a time when the wildest performances adhere to convention as clingingly as the safest Salon painting; being different is more than just a target of repression — it’s the object of envy. • The “PROCTORS” Card Game lets you get back at those whose courage makes you feel small; and with some serious vicarious teeth. • It’s like a hanging in effigy; when you’re safe in the crowd. • • Coming Soon.
Cornithaca Billboards – “Come GROW with Us”
Big government only seems to be comfortable with big players. This “big” does not refer to its size, but to its scope and its partners: A small town government may aspire to “bigness” through its connection to larger powers; and the control this leverages in the lives of the residents. • Cornithaca’s government is an interlocking structure comprised of Institutions, Corporations, and Non-profits; with no meaningful participation by the people. • We are told we should be grateful that we are allowed to speak at public meetings, and live among such forward looking and benevolent guidance. We have no choice.
“message”
Scary? It depends on who’s calling. • Society is no longer about people: it’s about government. That’s why governments [and the people who control them] have been rolling up all power and decision making into one place. • Artificial Intelligence may replace you; but it can’t replace the greed and ambition that drive it . . . yet. Scary.
"TIME TO GO"
Whether it comes through experience, listening to stories, or just animal awareness — one of the best survival skills is knowing when it’s time to go. And not wasting any time doing it.
New Word - "Equitabullshit"
“Equitable” is actually a denial of human worth, and a proclamation that those in authority have the sole right to divide and decide the rights of others — even the right to live. • To the people who claim that there is a “greater justice”: if this justice can be apportioned by the dictates of the rich and powerful; how can you claim there is any justice at all?
"True Light Blocking Glasses"
Apps that direct you to sites that only reinforce what you already believe, automatic rejection of conflicting information as “Fake News” or “Fake Video,” all non-conforming thought condemned without debate — the pieces are all there — putting them together is just around the corner. • Build them a concentration camp; and they will come.
EASY MAZE – “Housing Maze”
“Cornithaca County” uses the concept of “US” as a way for the Elite to move their burdens onto the backs of others. • Even though Ithaca is one of the most expensive cities in the country to live in; it retains its neighborhoods of would frame houses and surrounds itself with large tracts of “conservation spaces;” while pushing thousands of housing units into the meadows and fields of outlying rural communities and creating Urban “Nodes.” • The County’s latest Comprehensive Plan doesn’t mention “urban sprawl” once.
“HIT•FALL – The Municipal Adventure”
Bureaucracy’s no mystery - It’s unchanged throughout history - With power, privilege, and with wealth - It works to keep them for itself.
New Word – “Entitlespent”
I remember a bartender telling me that most of his younger patrons didn’t even come in until after midnight. • That they planned to party into their forties, then get a high paying job with great benefits, and retire in a few years to luxury. • Too many cooks may spoil the broth; but too much dead weight will sink any ship. • What will the captain do when we get too low in the water?
New Definition – “Shearing”
Words are an age-old means of obfuscation and misrepresentation. From riddles to reasoning; words are the leaders in misleading. • Words are used to sell you on a policy or an idea “As Is” — never buy one without a thorough inspection. • The use of words to promote and to describe oppression is one the threads in this book.
Turbo-Accelerated Image Destroyer
“Bidenstein – Triple-pumped” is based on the Full Disclosure – Full Exposure concept of ethical and responsible government. Future writings will give examples of how completely and cleverly government constructs its disclosures to ensure that you will look, and think, no further. • Industrial Farming can claim “free range” by cutting openings in their sheds — sheds that the chickens raised within their multitudinous interiors under artificial light are terrified to use. • What sort of “free range” thinker are you?
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “Farmzilla” Poster
Just because there’s a COVID-19 pandemic; it doesn’t mean that you can’t be run over by a car, or that polluters won’t increase their polluting. • Industrial Agriculture has smoothly moved from the untenable “stewards of the land” position; to a slightly threatening “we feed the world” declaration. • One Agricultural professor casually opined that the death and destruction in the rural community was just the price that has to be paid for maximizing food production. No doubt Cuomo would agree that this is an “equitable” solution. • It’s all part of Urban Colonialism.
Urban Colonialism Poster
Like the State’s ethnicity profiling; that demeaningly describes people by what they are not — the New York’s political profiling describes rural communities as; “not of any importance.” • And as the state’s city-centric elite increasingly find uses for rural land; an Urban Colonialist policy is used to marginalize and dispossess the native rural population. • If you don’t make the list; you’ll never be missed.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “The Quake Jester”
Some musical comedies don’t get old — especially with a story line of the common people rising against those who have unlawfully usurped power and are now fighting among themselves for ascendancy. • How would you advertise “Quake: The Musical”? With bulleted text, of course. Bloody brilliant.
Equitable War of the Two-Headed Gargantuas
“Equitable” is a bureaucratic term for “We’ll decide who is worthy of being helped.” If more than four-fifths of the state’s COVID deaths were among its vulnerable elderly; how can it “equitable” to deliberately reroute the vaccine to a much younger and healthier population? • Cuomo claims that this decision is guided by the historical plight of “underserved” communities in New York City: but ignores the needs of the state’s historically even more underserved rural communities. Would anyone allow an Urban Community to be told by municipal planners that they “don’t deserve to live there,” and to be excluded from any participation or importance in their own future? • This is the sort of policy making that happens routinely, unchecked and unreported, in rural New York State. • “Equitable” and “underserved” are part of a future that appears more like “Lord of the Flies” than a Peaceable Kingdom. • They are terms that define a government that searches; not for a greater compassion — but for a greater control.
Form Based Evil – Search Room
This is a cautionary takeaway. Doctrine holders have been conditioned to react to any questioning or opposition with denial, entitlement, hate, and verbal/physical violence. • For some; violence is always the first choice. • Keep your lines of retreat clear. • Their doctrine fights the people’s right to think and to be free. They won’t debate but only hate all those who disagree.
Form Based Evil – Green Space
It was in the late 50s when I ordered a civil war set from a comic book ad. There were an amazing number of pieces for the price; but the ad had drawings that showed the actual size, so I was reassured. A small cardboard box arrived. It contained the advertised number of pieces of the advertised size — in embossed, flat plastic with little feet to keep them from falling over. • It was my desire that had turned them into the unaffordable object of my dreams. • More than half-a-century later; politicians are presenting monolithic regulations like Form Based Codes as solutions to the complexities of human interaction. • The only truth behind these presentations is that government will gain considerably more power in deciding how people will live. That it will be used for our benefit is only the product of our dreams.
Form Based Evil – Public Area
The best way to control the people is to have them control themselves. • Today’s society of privilege and hate uses both the carrot and the stick to make its donkeys carry the load: with a fear directed hate replacing all thought, and those privileged; climbing the backs of those who are drowning beneath them. • If you give up the protection of the individual against a government’s tyranny and oppression; then you give up that protection for all individuals — everyone. A “greater good” policy may be enacted against you, or your children. Actually, you can count on it. • Where are these “oppressors”? • They’re always here, fool!
The “No Appointments Available” Mobile
Even though 84% of New York’s COVID deaths were aged 65 years and older, and its administration is being investigated for its handling of Nursing Homes during the pandemic; State and County governments still treat these vulnerable elderly residents as a demographic not worth bothering about, or even bothering to mention. • New York’s only “Vaccine Demographic Data” is displayed on their website by the percentage of “Race & Ethnicity” and categorized by “region”: without any population data to distinguish between New York City [42% of the state’s population], and the Southern Tier [2%] — there is no age related information disclosed for any of those vaccinated. • I searched 28 of Cuomo’s “NYS Coronavirus Updates” from 1/13 to 2/23 for “elderly” and “senior”: and the only found the mention of “senior residents” receiving vaccine; as part of a NYCHA vaccination program. • On February 20th; we received a mailing from the County’s Health Department telling the “over 65” population to get vaccinations; but stressing that they do not block or make appointments, they won’t put you on a waiting list, or give advance notice of clinic locations, and advising that you should “ask a trusted family member or friend to assist.” • The motto on the envelope read: “Aging Better, Together”
“Bidenstein – Triple-pumped”
As we enter an age of Lies and Lubyankas: Conforming has never been such an important survival skill. Fortunately, there will be no lack of instruction . . . and instructors.
Rise of the Evil Ones – “Camo-Origami Level”
Patterns can reveal; but they can also be used to hide. Sometime the focus is kept narrow so that the larger pattern cannot be seen. • “Full Disclosure – Full Exposure” is a policy that has the promise of allowing the public examine all the factors that should be involved in any government decision making process. • This idea is not welcomed.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “Cuomo Kong”
“How many legs does a dog have if you call his tail a leg? Four. Saying that a tail is a leg doesn't make it a leg.” — Abraham Lincoln • Have you ever noticed how the more dictatorial the government; the more beneficent the terms they use to describe their self-serving policies? • Today’s autocrats use the pretense of a “greater goodness” to cover the undeniable evil of their actions. And an insistence that they are leading us to a better place; to calm our uneasiness that their path leads in the opposite direction. • You don’t need anyone to tell you the right thing to do; but you need a government to tell you that it’s wrong to do it. • How many legs does an inequitable and unfair government policy have to stand on? Two. Yours.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “BLOG BOG”
The COVID vaccine is being distributed by New York State authorities with the same dismissive attitude that is a hallmark of their policy making toward the elderly and the unborn. • Age may be the demographic that defined the state’s COVID-19 fatalities; but it’s politics that defines who gets the vaccine. • A teacher who has already received the vaccine told me that he had been networked with the time vaccine appointments would be available, and on the dot used his smart phone and laptop together to grab a slot before they were gone in minutes. How can the county’s rural elderly; without prior notification, many without computers, good vision, and even the ability to move their fingers without pain, compete with that? • I have been unable to schedule a vaccine appointment for my mother, and called the County hot-line: I told them she was 97 years old, with heart disease, high blood-pressure and a pacemaker — they replied: “Everyone thinks they’re at risk.” • The sum-total of their help was to say: “Just keep trying.” • Now you know what happened with the Nursing Homes.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “URB INVADERS”
"The real tragedy of these small enclaves of marginality and poverty is that people are playing a game of life that has been structured in such a way that they are required to play but prevented from winning.” — Janet Fitchen, “Poverty in Rural America” • In rural New York; No one can hear your scream.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “KOVID KRAZY II”
Can you spot the monster in this screenshot? • No, he’s having lunch with the Governor.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “KOVID KRAZY”
KOVID KRAZY: It’s like cabin fever in a motel.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “Social Distance Bo
“Social Distancing,” like any other of today’s social programs, is a formalization that does nothing to change people’s attitudes. Millennia after “The Sun and the Wind”: governments still rely on force and form as the builders of society. Even in the face of victory-defeating restrictions; these two boxers still only think of defeating each other. • "I have always found that mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice." ~ Abraham Lincoln • It’s ironic that such a forward looking social outlook is the product of “old school” thinking.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “Urban Colonialism”
Terms like “Urban Colonialism,” “Urban Colonization,” and “Urban Overclass” would be in common usage; if the victims were of any importance. • “Rural Social Justice” is an action without a Legislator; an idea without an ideology to call home. • The people of rural communities, and their cultural identity, is one subject that our “oh-so-correct” city-centric society provides for ridicule and denigration. • Just as our poverty, hopelessness and neglect is greater than that of a Media-coddled Urban Overclass: So is our capacity to demand change.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “Legend of ATVs”
Why the “Legend of ATVs”? You might as well ask: “Why ride around on ATVs?” • Because. • • [A larger version of the graphic is viewable in my blog: “Rural Tompkins County — The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”]
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “So Long”
Public Health officials announced that COVID-19 vaccinations for those over the age of 75 in rural New York “will move into an undetermined time.” • Even while the Attorney General’s office is investigating misconduct in the State’s treatment of nursing homes during the pandemic; the State keeps shuffling its most-at-risk population to the back of the vaccination line. • While New York’s power groups bat COVID causes and cures back and forth — its rural elderly are merely in the way.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – “BurglerTime”
In an old Monty Python sketch; a man was told that unfortunately he had chosen the “no-pay” insurance policy, which was a great deal if he never had to use it, but . . . • Our Criminal Justice System best fits the people who never have to rely on it — it works just great in no-crime areas.
“Dig Done” - The High-Risk Salt Mining Game
Is permitting to mine underneath a lake a complex procedure? Not when the state and the county split the revenue. • Is mining a less than stable lake bed risky? Not when the mining company gives you verbal assurances. • What will happen if there’s a lake bed collapse? That’s a complex question. • Why did it happen? That’s simple.
Form Based Evil – Power-ups Corrupt
“Power-ups” can instantly add to the life, armor, strength or score of a videogame player — but how does this apply to the games politicians have created? • Uttering a “shopping list” of cant phrases; politicians have blown apart the barriers that protected us from oppression, and designed a game where all differences can be treated differently. • These societal “power-ups” can add markedly to the wealth and perceived worth of those people who are designated; by their race, their gender, or by any categorization or profiling that politicians decide. • They make the rules. • Power-ups can be given — but they can also be taken away. • Maybe the rules will be changed to produce a game you have no chance of winning. • They’ll decide.
Form Based Evil – Code Enforcement
The Code of Form Based Living [like that of criminal organizations] uses the threat of punishment to keep its people in line. • This compliance to a rigid doctrine makes the actions of non-conforming individuals stand out like weeds in a gravel path. • All that’s left is suppression . . . or removal.
Form Based Evil – Counselling Room
The essence of Form Base Codes is conforming to the rules — and those rules come from the top. • The activities behind Tompkins County’s policy making, like those behind the walls of Lubyanka; are unseen and not to be talked about. • There’s an authoritarian anxiety in the county that is palpable. • Pretend you’ve been turned . . . or you’ll be burned.
Form Based Evil – Interview Room
Form Based Codes are all about power and control — that’s why they’re so suitable for prisons and planned doctrinal living. • Doctrine holders always assume the right to question you. • In a formal interview; they can be much more insistent. • Does your Form Based Community have any buildings with sub-basements?
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – RE-Cycled
Evil recycles – it comes around again and again – the same content; remade. • Wouldn’t it be useful if government policies were labeled – “80% post corruption content” • [The remaining 20% is mostly fools.] • Recycling: it’s the same evil with a different face.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – AI Face-off
Old science fiction stories predicted a future where we wouldn’t need machines: our leaders are creating a future where they don’t need us. • In a society where human worth has been replaced with “someone has to take the hit;” Artificial Intelligence is a defensible tool to scrap people for cash. • Is this “face-off” unfair? • Machines don’t play fair — and neither do our leaders.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – Owed Runner Level
Evil does not play games; but it enjoys making you think it does.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – Bug Zapper Level
Bug zappers work by giving the illusion of freedom and escape — and hiding the consequences: This is the same way elitist policy making works. • [I can’t say this will lead us to an early grave; because graves take land, land is worth something, and we’ve already served our purpose.]
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – TDML
TDML [Total Daily Maximum Load] sets the maximum amount of pollution bearable without serious consequences; and then tells polluters they should TRY to get below it. • In Tompkins County; one of the biggest polluters was tasked with studying and deciding what that maximum was — immediately following that; the NYSDEC announced the deletion of the Schedule of Compliance, and elimination of the just completed Cayuga Lake Water Quality Model Plan and Outfall Redesign schedules and conditions for that polluter. • If you make evil legal; you can hide your actions behind the law.
Department of Assessment
The government’s departments of assessment are much bigger these days: there’s so much more to decide — who you are, what you should think, what you can be. . . . They’re the judge. • The government’s bureaucracies are much more powerful these days . . .
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – Mono-Droids
Today’s brave new world is the one that terrified us in the 60’s: Technology, society, and education — all twisted to make us conform. • Our limited access information highways only lead to places that reinforce a single belief. The most popular product is everywhere on view. And people are famous for being famous. Your opinions are now delivered to you by using an app. • • Do you ever wonder why our world is so sick? • There’s so much more money and power in treating a sickness; than in curing it. None of our ills are accidental. • The current trend is for all professions to become one with the central control. • With Artificial Intelligence fully realized; they won’t need us anymore. • Now you can go back to your “hate bytes”
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – Victim’s Fault
Being in “the wrong place at the wrong time” could describe living in Tompkins County in 2021. Mealy-mouth phrases flow like crocodile tears from the Corporate-Institutional coalition that rules over the people. • It’s going nation-wide — watch your back.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – Screenshot 2
While it’s tempting to “fight fire with fire”; we should always look for a better way. • Abraham Lincoln said; “Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them?” What a world of human worth and dignity that sentence contains. • Today we are celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and beliefs — or are we? Martin Luther King, Jr., along with every other revered leader in the fight for equality, believed that equality and human worth are an unconditional and inseparable part of every act towards another human being — while many of those leaders who use his name; betray this belief. • "The path is made by walking." – African Proverb • If you act to repress others; then that is the path that you make. It doesn’t get plainer than that.
“Rise of the Evil Ones” – Dark Days
Life is not a game — There’s no end to the corruption and tyranny of Cornithaca County.
Little Black Boxes
In this story; you can see how the Highway Supervisor is playing us — Tompkins County’s bureaucrats and government officials actively work against the people to enforce their self-serving policies of Urban Colonialism.
Form Based Code Dictatorship
Bureaucrats love to take big steps quietly, and planners love the power that an association with government gives them; so it’s not surprising that Form Based Codes represents a “love feast” that threatens to eat up what’s left of our individuality.
There’s No Such Thing
You can’t pull yourself up by your bootstraps; but today’s policy makers pretend that you can selectively repress and oppress on the basis of race and gender without doing harm. • Like a parent who argues that they only abuse their child rarely; so they should be judged on the majority of days: Their irrational rationalizing declares that you can isolate the cause from the effect; just by saying it is so. And that you can defend any evil action by minimizing the victim, and stressing the self-righteousness of your excuse. • Nothing so undercuts their paper-thin pretensions of a greater good, than a comparison with those that have fought in the cause of human worth. • It’s not surprising that today’s policies, so at odds with ethical behavior; are also at odds with the lives and beliefs of every respected figure of human dignity and equality we hold as examples: From Frederick Douglass to Martin Luther King, Jr.; and from Mother Teresa to Malcolm X: their belief was that equality was unconditional — for everyone, everywhere, and always. • You can’t follow someone in the opposite direction. • Today’s policy makers are not the inheritors that cause – they are its betrayers.
New Word: “Stonewindowing”
Mealy-mouth manipulation has risen to a tsunami of treachery in government policy making; so it’s time to coin some new words to describe the doctrinal dictatorship we live in. • In a county where legislators went to the state capital to block our town from access to the natural gas needed to attract businesses; for “environmental” concerns; and later approved the construction of a 2,000 student residential complex powered by natural gas in their own — the word “mealy-mouthed” just means “business as usual.”
The Wall of Hate
Some of the mail I received last election. A number of these mailings don’t even promote an opposing candidate: just hate. • • What did I learn? • They have an awful lot of money from somewhere. • They don’t want to debate the issues. • They hate anyone that stands in their way. • • And when they take complete control: Cornithaca County.
Codifying Corruption: New School Marks
Is nothing sacred? In the Revealed Church of Secular Self-interest; Doctrinal policies are. • With new programs and attitudes that directly contradict the lives and beliefs of every respected figure of human worth and equality; it’s time for Full Disclosure – Full Exposure of our government policies and statistics. • After all, if there was nothing to hide; it wouldn’t be secret.
New Definitions: “Rapprochement”
It’s a new year; and time for a new book and some new definitions. • [And check out IdeaEnhancement.org for the Idea Enhancement Project’s free to use for anything images.]
Biden’s New School Dictionary
As Cornithaca’s dictatorship becomes more and more emboldened; “The Greater Good” becomes the answer to every questioning of government policy making and ethical conduct; and it’s commonly accepted that the “greater good” is always for the benefit of those with the greater money and influence. • The County’s “daisy chain” of cronies not only hold all the positions of power; they populate all the committees that formulate policy and are responsible for its oversight. The politicians, bureaucrats, institutions, and corporations are in so tight together; that not a crumb of decision making power falls through to the people. • It’s in this milieu, in the aftermath of a hate-fueled winning election campaign, that this book is set. • Two books ago I was rejected; writing the last book I was warned; with this book . . .
Idea Enhancement Project
Self-Help
The Idea Enhancement Project is a visionary undertaking that explores the use of art as a practical tool for increasing innovative and creative thinking. This project is visionary, but not theoretical: the results must be practical; because the process itself is unknowable to the conscious mind.
The unconscious mind is often portrayed as a wild beast; an uncontrollable and destructive atavism. Artists and creative people know that this is untrue.
This process has too many “true” ways of looking at it to have an explanation that fits all viewpoints. One way I like to look at it is that art and ideas share the same level in your mind and can communicate and interact directly with each other.
Visualizing “qualitative thinking” as a nodule or an accretion of thoughts is a useful analogy; because it describes a way in which the results are presented to the thinker. There is no conscious effort involved.
Ideas form naturally; like a fruit – and harvesting them is like picking apples off a tree – this is both practical and useful.
The unconscious mind is an analog computer of unimaginable power and effortless processing — why not use it?
Rough-Cut Book Bubbles from Idea Enhancement Project
“Who would have thought?”
The “Congress of Gorillas” was not a political reference – it was a paradigm for how difficult it is to transcend our belief that “better” is just more of what we already have. As we become trapped in a lifestyle that is more and more style; and less and less life – we should take time to think: “Is traveling at 60 mph down the wrong road better than being broken down?” Science is a smooth running engine; with money at the wheel.
“What’s The Big Idea?”
Since ideas don’t have a physical façade; I give them one: I see them as an accretion of different things, floating in emptiness. My mind can see the “differentness” – but nothing more. It’s a qualitative apprehension in our quantitative and Lossy society. What is Lossy? It’s like the rate increase in your streaming services: they know they can strip away customer satisfaction; and still retain your subscription. All that remains is the money. And what’s more quantitative than that?
“It’s a mistake”
In moving from the universal particulars of my “Cornithaca” series; to the universal universality of “The Idea Enhancement Project” – I have tried to leave behind all quantitative structures that would hinder the expansion of knowledge and ideas – the sole determining test being: “Does it work?” Like a writer who is so blocked: he can’t write a way to get his character out of a room: we are binding our ideas and creativity in shackles that will never allow them to be free. Maybe humor can supply a key: Q: “What’s the Scientific Method?” A: "Get a grant.” Now massage your wrists and let’s get to work.
“Idea Enhancement Project Introduction”
Participating in the Idea Enhancement Project is like going to an event – whether you get there by car, train, bus or by walking – you only need to bring along your willingness to be open to benefit from the experience. It’s my intention to have many “vehicles” for arriving at the destination – text and images – games, puzzles, riddles, and humor — bring yourself, and take away everything you can. There is no guarantee as to how helpful it will be; but there is no limit as to who can participate – and how much they can benefit.
Tompkins County and Tammany Hall [I can’t seem to find any difference at all]
Politics & Social Sciences
A circumstantial case for further investigation and adjudication of government misconduct. All the incidents in this book are unresolved. The complete lack of any meaningful or substantive action on the part of authorities in Tompkins County and New York State was a driving force behind continued efforts to publish this book and get a positive resolution for the county’s marginalized rural community. My “closure” in writing these narratives was not the bureaucratic closing of a file; but the act of keeping those files open and exposed to public view — and, hopefully, public pressure. The circumstantial nature of these accusations is greatly strengthened by a singular lack of any contradictory evidence. Every incident I was able find has the same “earmarks” and points in the same direction. The sole basis for selection was the amount of documentation available through public records and my personal involvement. Any effective circumstantial case depends on the number of facts that support a single conclusion: I have sometimes sacrificed readability in an effort to present those facts. This is not a Detective Story, it’s not a “who-done-it”; it’s a “what-are-you-going-to-do-about-it?” In our government’s “vision” of society; there seems to be no room for public participation, approval, or oversight of its actions — we need to replace that vision, and that power, with ours.
Book Bubbles from Tompkins County and Tammany Hall [I can’t seem to find any difference at all]
Ag Protection Plan – “Take the High Road”
There is no meaningful public participation in Tompkins County. Dotting every “i” and crossing every “t” in is just the on-ramp for a highway to nowhere – you do all the work; and they use up your energy – handing you around in a bureaucratic circle; until you realize there’s no gold ring; and the only meaningful action is to get off. And find another road.
Complete Streets
Cornell’s “Design Connect: Transportation Issue Assessment and Best Practices Guide” leaves out the most important planning ingredient: the people. Its self-serving New Urbanism vision sees rural Lansing’s urban sprawl bedroom community as a solution; not a problem – and its recommendations are designed to maximize the community’s size and density. The town’s original rural residents are never mentioned – except as an obstacle. They are “outside the Study area” — outsiders in their own town.
Form Based Codes
In “The List of Adrian Messenger” – the victim’s last words were a breathless, “Clean sweep. Clean sweep.” — A fitting epitaph for Euclidean zoning’s humanist precepts under the heel of Form Based Code (FBC) regimentation. • This New Urbanism regulatory device has an authoritarian clout that garners approval from all those who aspire to be those authorities. • Our “old fashioned” and “inefficient” Euclidean zoning is ridiculed by Form Based Code proponents; who want to replace “what can we agree on?” with “do this because we say so.” • In the darkening of our enlightenment; experts and professionals increasingly cleave to the Political-Corporate-Institutional Centrality for profit — and survival.
Town of Lansing Comp Plan – Introduction
The Town of Lansing is proposing a new Local Law – one that only applies to the “Rural/Agricultural Zone”; and further restricts the lives and activities of the town’s rural residents. • In today’s world of unabashed self-promotion; where the most repressive and discriminatory policies are marketed as the “Greater Good” — a dictatorship has crawled through the crumbling remains of our once representative government. How can you survive on the path to world-wide dissolution? Conforming won’t help you get a place in the lifeboat: you’re just clawing up the backs of those who are already drowning.
Town of Lansing Comp Plan – “Home Invasion”
It’s an age where people don’t need to know what they’re talking about – only that it needs to conform to what they are supposed to say. When this book is finished and available; even with all the documentation – many people will see it as an attack on their beliefs – without reading it – and without thinking. It’s “fake” news, “fake” facts, “fake” something. • This unthinking mob of adolescent adults may be useful for politicians and corporations – but it’s a one-trick-pony where survival is concerned. They need to see a disaster movie screenplay where they are not selected as the designated survivors; because no one survives. • Today’s government policies read like a man who jumped off the roof of a hundred-story building and as he passed the 79th floor was heard to say: “All right, so far!” We’re falling to place most people can’t imagine; and are not being told about. Parachutes made from recycled plastic bottles will only give you a soft landing into a toxic sea, breathing unsupportable air. • I won’t live that long — but here’s a thought: maybe the building is only 50 floors . . . or twenty five. Think “fake” extinction.
Chipping Away at Bureaucracy
In Tompkins County; it’s not just government above the people – it’s government against the people. Public participation is a smokescreen of meaningless ceremonies; and anyone who tries to pierce its obfuscations runs into a bulwark of bureaucratic defense. Bringing about change from the public sector is more than difficult; it’s practically impossible. If you don’t bring big money or power to the table – you can’t sit in on the game.
Whose Plan is this Anyway? Part 5
Environmental ethics used to mean making the right choices – today it’s just another sales mark. Picking up beer bottles on the beach. It’s too late for that. • If you voted to ban all fossil fuels, and made the next space station out of recycled plastic bottles – it would make no difference. • Environmental ethics is a choice — and when you let others make that choice for you; it’s their choice. In the future; if we’re forced to live in sealed cities: The elite will have the best of everything that’s left; and the poor will have . . . an answer to why we’re developing artificial intelligence?
The Problem
This piece will probably fit in before the County and Town of Lansing plans are examined. • Since these plans have no public oversight, and almost no public readership; they have ballooned into a dumpster’s worth of poorly supported arguments and misrepresented problems – gaining importance through the sheer weight of their endlessly insistent claims. • It’s not a question of “Cui Bono”; because the players are unfazed by the spotlight – but “Can anything be done to save the community?” • Is there anything left but the rot?
Whose Plan is this Anyway? Part 4
“Rural Colonization” This insight bypasses the text of this essay; and takes a turn directly into the heart of Tompkins County’s “ag ghetto” policy: Two days ago, on the afternoon of September 20th; a Medevac copter landed on my front lawn. First responders picked this location because they remembered using it for another Medevac pickup only four years before. [A 15-year old boy was thrown onto the pavement while riding standing on the trunk of a car.] • Tompkins County has refused to enforce any traffic laws on our rural road that has become a playground for reckless games, illegal vehicles, impaired drivers, and “any speed you want” short-cutters — no matter what is happening. • I sent an email [with a photo of the victim being loaded into the copter] to my Town Board rep, the Town Supervisor, the County Sheriff, and two County Legislators: “This is the second time a Medevac Helicopter has landed on my lawn to transport a Lansingville road accident victim. Am I the only one who wants to stop this?” Two days later — silence is their only answer. • I can’t describe the sadness and anger I feel.
Whose Plan is this Anyway? Part 3
“All the f**king surveys – where do they all come from.” Frequently they come from “why”? Tompkins County government has no need for surveys – except as a calming measure – so residents can feel listened to. It’s the public parking outside the impenetrable walls of privilege and bureaucracy. Meaningless public participation is the logo on every self-serving agenda in the county – a smudged, fifth generation copy that reveals the Legislature’s lack of concern with its appearance or legibility – they just don’t care. Do you?
Whose Plan is this Anyway? Part 2
Even though it’s tempting to believe the County’s rhetoric that all local plans become the county plan – their every effort is exerted to ensure that the County’s plan becomes all local plans. To a hierarchical government that sees themselves as rulers and deciders – a foot in the door is only the first step to the head of the table.
Whose Plan is this Anyway?
This piece is one of a series that demonstrates the intent and the interests of the Tompkins County government through an examination of the 2015 County Comprehensive Plan: “Planning for our FUTURE”. • From the Plan’s Foreword [which this piece examines], to the County Legislature’s “Mission and Vision Statements” that bookend their Plan — their air of rulership is unmistakable: They decide everything – and this Comp Plan is a proclamation of those decisions.
Rural Sprawl
Like the elite in any authoritarian social structure; Tompkins County uses the needs and fears of its citizens to control and direct their energy. • Coining new terms to make people believe they’re getting a new deal is as old a trick as targeting a group of people for suspicion and hate. • While Tompkins County may deny they are stacking the deck against the rural community; they won’t let anyone else touch the deck – or deal the cards.
Truck Route – Part 1
The process of effecting change in Tompkins County policy decisions is like the law of diminishing returns – the more effort you make to move forward; the less real progress you make;. The “best” results are achieved by doing nothing, and believing their conscience stultifying patter — and since unabashed self-praise is so au courant; there are less and less people who “walk the walk.”
Ruler of all you survey
“More Info – Less Filling” A more satirical treatment of the ethical misconduct that saturates the fabric of Tompkins County — the Urban Colonialism of Cornell University has marginalized and destroyed the “native” rural culture throughout much of the state; and runs the county for the benefit of its corporate “bottom line” — The New Paradigm: “Squat . . . shit . . . move on.”
The Map is not the Territory
“The Map is not the Territory: The mapmakers are”. Tompkins County policy making is a puzzle with thousands of pieces; all the same size, the same shape, and imprinted with the same design. No matter how many pieces you put together; the picture never changes — it just gets bigger.
Zone Alone
Tompkins County’s attack on the rural community goes far beyond a passive and stony gaze in the face of poverty and need – Ithaca’s expanding resettlement government uses a high maintenance, urban sprawl bedroom community policy to increase taxes beyond what the original residents can afford; while choking off services and bombarding the stubborn with iniquitous laws to speed up their “constructive eviction.”
Non-disclosure Agreement?
“Everything’s transparent on the surface” is a good way to describe government in New York State; because every ethical and public “empowering” policy is no more than a screen for covering up their “quid pro quo” deal making agenda. Tompkins County’s overwhelmingly liberal government gains strength from an increasingly gerrymandered redistricting and the representation of a huge student population; who have no voice in policy and no knowledge what goes on in the county — everything comes from the elite urban center of Cornell’s “dog eat dog shit” bureaucracy.
Deadly Drift
Deadly Drift – Gone, but not forgotten – like a blight in the life of a tree – leaves a permanent mark in its growth. Every chapter in this book contains evidence that points in the same direction – evidence that cannot be refuted by facts – because there are no facts that contradict. • In these days: where “equitability” replaces equality, and any evil can be excused with the assurance of a greater goodness — our revered figures of human worth and equality are arranged like a jury of bobble heads: always nodding, but never allowed to speak. • And like the often cited “necessary evil,” or TDML’s “necessary” pollution; is the corruption and cronyism displayed in the pages of this book something that you’ve come to terms with? And if so; does that reflect your sophistication? Or your inhumanity?
NEW BOOK “Tompkins County and Tammany Hall”
Everyone I talk to in the rural community thinks that Tompkins County government is corrupt and biased, although many are afraid to speak out in public. There are those who believe that my herbicide spraying was in retaliation for my advocacy of Rural Social Justice. Urban Colonialism, like other colonial arguments, takes on a much darker form when its “greater good” rhetoric turns to on the ground boot heels in rural towns and villages. This book exposes only a part, but a part is enough to begin with. The rest is just the same — and it stretches farther than you would believe.
“Tompkins County and Tammany Hall” – Preface
Everyone I talk to in the rural community thinks that Tompkins County government is corrupt and biased, although many are afraid to speak out in public. There are those who believe that my herbicide spraying was in retaliation for my advocacy of Rural Social Justice. • Urban Colonialism, like other colonial arguments, takes on a much darker form when its “greater good” rhetoric turns to on the ground boot heels in rural towns and villages. • This book exposes only a part, but a part is enough to begin with. The rest is just the same — and it stretches farther than you would believe.
Cornithaca County
Politics & Social Sciences
“Cornithaca County” applies the cherished counselings of compassion and human worth to the thoughts and actions of today’s inflexible Doctrine — and the result? A Satirical – Teaching – Thinking – Investigative – Activity – Game – Puzzle – Poem – Essay – Troublesome – Inspiring – Non-Conforming – Ranting – Embarrassing – Inexcusable – book. “Bigotry: The Musical” songbook 5 board games; including “Users & Losers” and Farm-cheesi – The “Game of Flies” “Fake the Lake” – polluter card game “Pin the Tail on the Media” and “Undercover Party” games Fables, Mazes, Essays, Sing-a-longs, Posters, and much, much, more Color 8.5” x 11” 318 pages
Book Bubbles from Cornithaca County
Cornithaca County Is Here . . . Now
“You’re Not Welcome Here.” This slogan of Ithaca’s hate gangs in the October 18 attack perfectly summarizes the County’s policy towards the rural community: You’re not welcome here. • The Cornell planner’s opinion: that Lansing’s rural residents “did not deserve” to live there, and the deliberate exclusion of rural residents from any participation by Town and County authorities, is only one of the many incidents of bias and intolerance that define the County’s agenda. • I spent a long time researching and writing “Cornithaca County” to “out” their policy of privilege and hate; only to find they’ve outed themselves. • The County’s attempts to minimize the story of this outrageous behavior towards peaceful demonstrators is proof of their approval and tacit complicity. In this intellectually dishonest University Town; media bias and cover-up is a part of the academic routine. See the video of the attack for a true story. • The Attackers: What sort of people are they? They felt good about themselves afterwards. • • I used to joke that the New Nazis would come claiming to hate Nazis — and then it happened. • Are you welcome here? • The County won’t want to answer that; but the hate gangs will let you know. • Be careful going to the polls.
CONCLUSION
“The conclusion seems inescapable: regardless of the “ism”; “Cornithaca County” is marching steadily towards an all-encompassing dictatorship. A secular theocracy.” • Four years of hate and manipulation are cresting in a toxic tsunami: whether through voting or violence — soon we’ll all be living in “Cornithaca County”: A government where an intransigent and dismissive; “greater good,” is the only response to protests of overtly repressive policies. A government whose marching banner of “justice” invariably covers up oppression, bigotry, and corruption. A government that can just refuse to enforce laws whenever they choose. A government of Doctrine. • “A word to the wise is sufficient.” But wisdom is “old school” — and Doctrine is everything.
Cornithaca BLACKLISTED Store
It had to happen. The Blacklist. Oh, they won’t call it that; it will be for protection, or to prevent serious problems, or possible violence — but it’s a blacklist nonetheless. • Or, it may not be needed: schools may produce the conforming citizens of elitist dreams. Conform and be safe, and saved. • Why are things so precarious? In a universe that seeks equilibrium; who’s stirring things up?
“I Get the Message”
Don’t you get tired of the messages of hate? On a day that commemorates a hate crime; we should look back a century and a half to Abraham Lincoln’s words: “Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them?” • When people deal with people; they get wisdom: when people deal with governments; they get Doctrine. • Isn’t time we made the wiser choice?
Doctrine Flowchart Poster
Make your own Doctrine Flowcharts of community policies. While the actual government policies are predetermined, and the approval process ticks along unchecked; many meaningless branches are extended into the public arena: the questionnaires, the media enabled promotional articles, and of course, those public hearings where policy-maker-supplied “experts” reinforce the need for these changes and “a vision for the future” that’s as likely to happen as winning the Lottery. • • Cornell-supplied experts and County bureaucrats placed a “Berlin Wall” across the rural Town of Lansing: producing a document that claimed the Agricultural Sector would keep taxes low by preventing the “high cost of services” of residential development — and that the development of a “bedroom community” Residential Sector in the south would also lower taxes. The existing 200-year old rural community; had no place in this document. The plan was immediately approved without public oversight or participation.
New Word: “Copyrighteous”
There are so many new words being created; I wanted to make a few for my book. Doctrine Holders like to hide their actions in the shadow of large words with commonly accepted meanings: like “equality,” but I prefer to coin words that show both the root and the fruit.
“You Ain’t All That” –Get Off the High Ground
Since my book has always argued for the beliefs of Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr., Frederick Douglass, Mahatma Gandhi, Malcolm X; in direct opposition to the actions and Doctrine of Cornithaca County . . . whose beliefs are they following? • Wouldn’t it be great if 2021 was the year of “Full disclosure – Full exposure” in our society? [Deep intake of breath from authorities.] • Everything in Cornithaca County points to one conclusion: the Elite want a dictatorship; run for their own personal benefit. There are no facts that disagree with that. And no act that supersedes it. • All the while they are sending up a smoke screen: attributing the evil that they do to those who oppose them — it’s like being demonized by demons.
Doctrine Questionnaire
From the Questionnaire: “It’s a truism that by constantly telling people not to think of something; you only ensure that they will do so. Politicians know this.” • Do you ever wonder why things don’t get better? Maybe they’re not supposed to. • Do you ever wonder what happened to: “Power to the People”? It was given to the government; and a powerful government is not about to give it back.
“The Exception IS the Rule”
It’s hard to get more hypocritical than to carol “it’s your actions that define you” and then blatantly excuse your own hateful activities; or to mouth the inclusive “everyone” and “for the Greater Good” at the same time you are doing just the opposite. • In an upcoming piece; I will show how Doctrine Holders assume a moral high ground that does not exist to protect themselves from questioning — and how to bring them down to earth. • Be careful. Violence may be the last resort of the incompetent; but it’s the first resort of the bigot.
Anxiety Undercover Party: “Who am I?”
There can be anxiety in the darkness; but also in the light: What will it show? Who is directing it? . . . And why? • This book is nearly ready for publication. It shines a light of disclosure on institutions and bureaucracies that can ignore laws and rewrite regulations at their discretion. While no one has disputed the facts presented; many have disputed the wisdom of publishing them. • And with winter coming . . . will there be footsteps in the snow?
The Last Undercover Party: Match OR Mismatch
This last Undercover Party piece was first to the finish line. Today; claims that non-doctrinal statements, or “slurs,” made the suspect “snap” are enough to dismiss the victim and all-but-exonerate the perpetrator. In the future you may just disappear; and if you do reappear: will “you” still be you. The beliefs are there, the attitude is there — and the line that marks “the last” may already have been drawn.
“Drinking Glass Analogy”
This “lesson” is in spite of [or because of] the “you have to be carefully taught” piece. Analogies, like fables, are simple touchstones for day-to-day living — a simple compass that tells you the direction in which you are heading; and [sometimes] how to get back. It’s up to you to look out for the cliff. • I once saw an old milk bottle decorated with the Quote: “There is hardly anything in the world that some man cannot make a little worse and sell a little cheaper, and the people who consider price only are this man's lawful prey.” — John Ruskin. • It was a fired-on design. The milk was probably better for your longevity too.
“You have to be carefully taught”
This is not a satirical piece. I have been told by some parents that their kids are not only being taught exactly what to think; but which political candidates should be voted for. When exposed; these actions are simply excused and ignored. In Cornithaca County; the law is used to obstruct the participation of people in government and prevent any ethical accountability. • A number of parents Home School their children — but standing out from the sheep gets you noticed — and listed as non-participatory.
“Conforming Warnings”
Signs of the times? Maybe by next year. History shows how quickly things can change in a dictatorship. • If things go wrong for you . . . you “put yourself in that situation.” [The phrases are already in place.] It’s not a hate crime; they just “snapped.” And they’ll distance the incident so fast no one will see you for the doctrine. • Then one day you’re gone; and nobody know where . . . but they all know better.
“We’re all in this Together”
These days people use words like a kid uses excuses; flinging them out in the hope that they will do something helpful. We don’t decide things “together”; we are supposed to comply “together” with what the elite have decided. Sheep for the shearing — lambs to the slaughter. • Words are merely slogans. A New School “Jingoism”. “Love has no labels”? How about pedophile? “Love” IS a label; and it’s no guarantee of the contents.
“Where does it Come From?”
This page is both an introduction and a conclusion. It introduces 33 pages of investigative and analytical articles; and it concludes the preparation of this section for publication. This is an insignificant fraction of the material I’ve researched and written concerning rural social justice, meaningful public participation, and government “shenanigans” in the county — in just checking the computer; there are 325 folders with 3,800 files that could have found their way into this book. • And every single one of them points in the same direction. How’s that for a circumstantial case? Then why can I get any action? Cornithaca County.
“Sewers of the Land”
Every Silence Tells a Story. “Sewers of the Land” is an 8-page essay exposing the extent of the County’s agricultural cover-up. I am only posting a short excerpt from the end. • The county’s rural community is being systematically destroyed — but as Phil Ochs said: “And I'm sure it wouldn't interest anybody - Outside of a small circle of friends”.
“The Guilt Project”
This poster mirrors today’s black and white Doctrine on the gray background of half-truths and questionable actions that underpin it. • If you want a world based on hate; where “The only real crime is not getting what you want.” — Your dreams may be about to come true.
“Case Closed!” and Bookmarks
Corporate farms and corporate universities have a lot in common: They both hide their money-making agenda behind a façade of selfless good for the people. • There are no closer ties than our country’s “Land Grant” agricultural colleges and their multi-national Agribusiness contributors; and there is no partnership more dismissive of the health of environment and of our rural communities. • The “Case Closed!” speaks to the skewed “investigation” and blatant disregard for regulations of “Deadly Drift”; but there are many example of regulations enacted with legal loopholes already written in. • United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit: “limiting the ability of ‘private attorneys general’ to bring suit until after compliance deadlines may be inadequate for ensuring the safety of our environment and for protecting citizens from serious injury. But that is the remedy that Congress has provided and to which we are bound.” • Congress is in no hurry to change that. We don’t matter.
“Debunking the Ag Plan” Part 3
The little farms and traditional farming families were just the patsy “poster children” for the big CAFOs. Farming is an occupation that speaks “corporate” these days. • Even large farms in Lansing with the latest farming practices are being pressured to sell to the biggest dairy farm in the state. • • A parting concern: CAFOs are an ideal environment for breeding a pandemic. Money not only talks; it seals lips.
“Debunking the Ag Plan” Part 2
The old “Stewards of the Land” (we make the world better) wheeze has been replaced by the darker “We Feed the World” (you need us to live) threat; but when the Ag Plan was being written; there was still a little shine left on it. • The “cows in a field with red barn” photos and Ag Days “Dairy Queen and her Court” stuff is for the incomers who wouldn’t know hydrogen sulfide from hydrogen peroxide; and see rural poverty as a quaint roadside view from their speeding BMW. • Local, county, and state authorities parrot sugary drivel like a visitor’s brochure; while media outlets regurgitate handouts. Are these Agribusinesses that important; or are we that unimportant? Both.
“Debunking the Ag Plan” Part 1
This long article [in three parts] shows how important elite policy making is to the big players in the county. Even though I wrote and distributed a report detailing the inaccuracies, misrepresentations, and untruths in this “Cornell Cooperative Concoction”; it was never questioned by any local or county authority; in fact, they had a hand in promoting it. • On a number of occasions, after I had spoken out; one of these authorities would ask me [with that practiced look of puzzlement] “What is it you want?” Every time I would answer: “I want the Ag Plan writer’s discriminatory assertion that “nobody but farmers deserve to live here” retracted, and for rural residents to have meaningful participation in planning the future of their own community.” Every time; there was no reply — only silence. • Many rural residents are afraid to speak out for fear of reprisals. Some are certain my herbicide spraying was payback for my unwelcome activism. • When elite policy making flows down to the rural poor; it plays hardball.
“The Road to Hell. . . ” Part 2
An important part of elitist policy making all decisions final. Policies made by Cornithaca’s elite; flow down invisibly until they are revealed to the masses by the County Legislature. There is no way of knowing exactly where they come from — just that our lives are being shaped “up there.” As in the “Non-disclosure Statement” article: County Legislators may go away saying one thing, and come back saying something very different. They’ve talked to someone(s). • Our County Legislators see a “need”; and implement a fully formed policy to fill that need. Government is that simple in Cornithaca County.
“The Road to Hell. . . ” Part 1
Just as there isn’t room for the full title in this “Bubble” format; this article will be divided into two parts. • Self-serving, deceptive, and bigoted policies don’t just litter the ground in Cornithaca County; it’s more like you have to wade through them [and if you trip they would fill every orifice.] • The Form Based Codes that the “County” is using for planning are not only an incredibly powerful tool for government control; they are unanswerable. This a Plan for everybody. Their Plan for everybody. A Plan made by and for the Elite to enforce “restrictions needed to protect or otherwise benefit the larger community.” • Form Based Codes slide in under the cover of “zoning” and rise to the position of “dictatorship.” Form Based Codes are not a new way of living: they’re as old as oppression. • See if the officials in your community are planning to use Form Based Codes — do you think they will use all that power with compassion and respect for human dignity and worth? Haw, haw, haw, haw.
“Smoke and Mirrors” 2
Once again, you can see how the implementation this new society is just another form of colonizing — and for the same purposes: A source of wealth, raw materials, and cheap labor – a dumping ground for the unwanted and criminal in their own population – and an unconsidered people to squeeze dry of all worth - all for the exclusive benefit of the colonizers [and a useful distraction from problems at home.] • Ithaca always looked down on the rural residents of the surrounding towns and villages — they still do; but now they snap the whip.
“Whose Plan Is This Anyway” 2
This middle section of the article focuses on the fate of the rural community under the Plan’s “vision.” • Once the takeover of the surrounding towns was accomplished: The vested interests/nobility were given lands and position; with the understanding that they would acknowledge the leadership/sovereignty of the College Town through its County Legislature and the Plan. • Like the unborn who are no longer human beings, and the elderly who died in their thousands from COVUD-19 while state government shrugged its shoulders; New York’s rural residents are a troublesome segment of the population already marked for the chop. • In a county based on using and taking at the highest levels; the less-educated rural poor stand out like a starveling in a field of contented cash cows. • If we don’t “wither away”; there are other means.
“Urbites” Cartoon
This is from a cartoon series for the book that was never realized, but I thought I’d throw in one. It speaks for itself.
“Fly Zapper Incidents”
You know what they say about factory farms: “Familiarity breeds contempt; and flies.” • Here’s a few “zap and dirt nap” scenarios that makes play on words like playing in traffic. If you’ve never experienced it; you don’t know what you’re missing. • A factory farm has flies; and their rural neighbor flees. Bug out.
“Smoke and Mirrors”
Another excerpt. If you’ve read the previous excerpts; you’re probably thinking: “Oh, another example of elitist policy making; can’t he write about something different.” There is no other kind of policy making in Cornithaca County. • I am trying to present a strong circumstantial case by showing the reader how all the facts point in the same direction. I could write about a hundred incidents that that support this argument; but it would be a waste of time: where could I go with it? • As I point out in my Deadly Drift story, even the laws don’t matter — they have the power and the friends to ignore or even rewrite them. • This book can be seen as a cautionary tale. As they used to say when I was in grade school: “A word to the wise is sufficient.” The “unwise” become characters in their own cautionary tales.
“Whose Plan Is This Anyway?”
These are a couple of excerpts from one of the County Comp Plan articles. This Plan is a scary document that outlines how each aspect of our lives will be directed and controlled. It may be even scarier to learn how few people want to read it. • “To make a contented slave it is necessary to make a thoughtless one.” — Frederick Douglass • In a kind of natural selection; Cornithaca attracts those who are only concerned that their place in this new society is secure and defined. • It’s strange to think that it’s a University Town where the residents refuse to look at the corruption and oppression that goes on all around them. Maybe it’s what they’re being taught.
The Death of Meaningful Public Participation
By the time readers of the book have gotten a few pages into Part2; the posters, games, and “humorous” pieces in Part 1 will be viewed in a different light. • These are no “A 2-page form to register a trailer!” type stories, but “The farm polluted our well, and I can’t afford to fix it or buy bottled water for our family!” situations. • And how do government agencies help them out? They tell them to mix bottled water and the polluted well water together to be able to afford it. It may be safe to drink [if you’re not too old, or too young, and don’t have medical conditions.] Or: Shut down the well for safety; so they have no water at all. • In New York City: this would be outrageous! In rural New York: it’s not even a story.
“A Cyclic History”
These are only three excerpts from a ten-year history of government doing nothing. • The New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee is appointed by the Governor. Current 2020 Voting Members: Representative-At-Large for Farm Interests (Chairman), New York Farm Bureau representative, New York State Grange representative, Representative-At-Large for Urban, Suburban, and Rural Non-Farm Interests (a former farmer, currently Associate Director of an Agribusiness.) • In the New York State of Corruption: “You have to be in it to win it” — and the deeper you’re in; the more you win. • In every lake and waterway pollution remediation plan in NYS: All power is placed in the hands of farmers, politicians, and bureaucrats. Rural residents are unimportant and powerless. We don’t matter.
“The Map is not the Territory”
Government in Cornithaca County is inaccessible to its residents. The doors that lead to meaningful participation are merely a decoration. The actual decision making process takes place out of sight; and is revealed to the people as unalterable policy decisions. • Cornithaca County is the template for a secular religion: a stratified and compartmentalized society based on 200 years of bureaucratic materialism. • One thought, One taught • One voice, One choice . . . a shiny dictatorship with a dark underbelly.
“Non-disclosure Agreement?”
Another short excerpt. By this second letter, I’m a known “troublemaker.” Faced with documented health issues from agricultural activities; authorities stonewalled with silence. • The injuries to neighbors cited included brain damage in one child and the surgical removal of eyelids in an adult. The farm was protected from this “nuisance suit” by a NYSDEC “shield” and Agricultural Law. • When I put the issue up to the County Legislators; they handed it over to the local Board of Realtors and the county’s Ag and Farm Protection Committee: and referred to those parties as the “stakeholders.” • • Once again the decision to take any action was left to the same people who were accused of the misconduct; and had the most to lose if any action on the complaint was taken. No “conflict of interest” concerns were ever expressed by any County Legislator. • The health and well-being of rural families was never mentioned: We don’t matter.
“Deadly Drift” Report
This is an excerpt from the beginning of the Deadly Drift report. The reality of Cornithaca’s “Ag Ghetto” make the satires of Part 1 seem like nothing more than an extrapolation; a projection of the future. • I tried to explore all avenues of remediation, and follow all the proper protocols, so that nothing could “fall through the cracks,” but it doesn’t matter. - The Law doesn’t matter. - The rural drug addiction doesn’t matter. - The poverty and lack of education doesn’t matter. - The health of the rural community doesn’t matter. • You have seen a lot of stories recently about injustice to Blacks; but none about the continuing injustice in our rural communities: We don’t matter. • • The fight for rural social justice is like throwing a stone into the abyss — In rural New York; No one can hear you scream.
“Center of the Maze”
Bureaucracy is like filter that has never been cleaned — and if you try to clean it or replace it; you’re told that you can’t without destroying the functioning of the machine. There are “no user serviceable parts” in our government’s workings. • This game embodies the futility and pointlessness of going through government channels in a bureaucracy where we pay its workers $50,000 to distribute $500; when it could be done with a $5 device: And career longevity is a gray road to a gray destination. Just follow the rules, and if you don’t get anywhere; at least you’re not getting anywhere bad.
Water under the Binge
Every one of these ideas had its own folder; with at least a Word doc rough description of how to work it up — some are even at the layout/artwork stage. All the ideas were thrown into a hopper; and I picked out whichever I felt like working on. The ideas were organized in several different ways, so I wouldn’t lose control of the project. • I would like to share two insights that took me many years to learn the hard way: 1. Always organize the project in your mind, and clear the workspace before starting. 2. Always put things in the first place you would look for them.
“County employees won’t pick up the phone”
Government has more important things to do than deal with the people — that’s why Doctrine puts people on the “receiving only” end of elitist policy making. The career longevity message to bureaucrats and government employees is clear: “Pay attention to those above you; who cares if the people love you.” • Having to deal with other people’s problems interferes with the work-flow — and if they think they’ve got rid of you, and you come back: you’re labeled as a trouble maker.
You know you live in Cornithaca County . . .
There is more truth in these statements than is comfortable — in fact; they’re all true. • For example “. . . school taxes are used to promote more school taxes”: the school board uses a number of unethical and even illegal ways to grab all the money they can. While it’s illegal to use school funds to promote a school budget; weeks before the vote, a large color “bulletin” arrives; “explaining” the budget and including many faces of young school children for added leverage. The “official” notification this year was a 6”x 9” card arriving on June 4th; and announcing that all ballots needed to be received (not postmarked) by June 9th. The card omitted the amount of property tax increase. • Twice recently they have taxed funds to save for future expenses; the State Comptroller told them it was illegal and, instead of giving back to the taxpayers, they spent it all — effectively double-taxing for the expenses. • A large debt taken on for “needed” new school buses is paid down every year with taxes; and spent back up to the max again — while the taxpayers are told “there’s no new debt.” • Welcome to Cornithaca County.
They Don’t Make Liberals like Lincoln Anymore
Part 2 of the book will still have some bits and pieces like this poem. The poem speaks for itself.
“Six Degrees of Segregation”
There was an investigative television show about Doctor in Florida whose fake biopsy reports showed every skin blemish on his elderly patients to be cancerous, and require the most invasive [and most expensive] skin cancer surgery. The spouses who brought these patients were also talked into having biopsies that resulted in the discovery of even more cancers requiring this profitable surgery. When whistle blowers reported to Medicare the hundreds and hundreds of unnecessary, and very painful, surgical procedures they were being billed for: Medicare replied that as long as the operations were being performed; the doctor had a right to be paid. • This bears a striking similarity to Government’s role as the doctors of our society: they are constantly finding dangerous “ills” that need immediate surgery, and more governmental power, to eradicate. The more power they are given; the more ills they seem to find. • And who is playing the role of Medicare? That’s us, stupid. • In a universe run by cause and effect; such coincidences need to be viewed with suspicion.
“Cornithaca: Where’s the Love?”
Since my “Bubbles” can only display JPEGs, and I’m not sure how large they can be made in Social Media; I narrowed the text to allow for a larger view. • • Doctrine holders always take the moral high ground as a matter of right; judging and questioning others as to the worthiness of their actions and opinions — but if their own Doctrine is measured against the accepted standards of love, compassion, and humanity; the results give no reason for their doing so.
“Part 1 Proof Print and Preface”
The humanity and wisdom expressed by the quotes in this book, and hopefully echoed in its activities and games, is a touchstone for human behavior that is hard to argue with. Every speaker points to an unconditional humanity: a golden rule that cannot be bent — only broken. • “Important principles may, and must, be inflexible.” — Abraham Lincoln • In one sense; this book compares the principles of these original speakers with those who today claim to be following in their footsteps. In this age of scams; are their pretentions no more than a cover?
“The No Uncertainty Principle”
This page is a kind of a bridge between the satire of Part 1 and the dark reality of Part 2; and is placed just before the “Bigotry: The Musical” piece that ends the first part of the book. • The second section of the book will include the real incidents and actions that gave rise to the questions outlined in Part 1– and a much better idea of how those questions should be answered.
“Rural Whites Don’t Matter” Yard Sign
In Cornithaca County’s Ag Ghetto: rich farmers, surrounded by rural white poverty, drug addiction, and joblessness; hire subsidized foreign labor and put up Black Lives Matter signs to emphasize their dismissive attitude. • • “Rural whites don’t matter” is the basis of the County’s rural policy. • This will be well documented in Part II of this book.
“Old Folks Don’t Matter” Yard Sign
I turned down a trendy “Zoom” conference of writers; but I couldn’t resist the current “yard sign” craze. • Their lack of compassion for the more than 100,000 elderly dead in this country; makes the Pandemic a defining moment for the New Secular Religion. It’s no more than another tool that can be used to gain power and wealth. • Why this antagonism toward the old? Even if they haven’t gained wisdom; they’ve lived long enough to recognize bullshit when they hear it — and say so.
“Part II — WARNING”
You’ve been warned.
“Hog Farm Sing-a-long”
The “Hog Farm Sing-a-long” replaced a page that I was always uncertain about. Every time I would look at it I would question whether it should be in the book. It was only after all the pages in Part 1 were put in a layout; ordered and numbered, that I decided to pull it and put this sing-a-long in that slot. • The 227 pages of material comprising Part 1 are ready for printing and proofing: a darker journey is about to begin.
“Doctrine Says” Game
A simple game about a difficult problem. Conforming is often the one calm spot in a turbulent, pressure filled situation. • People may conform because they want to be liked, or they because want to survive, and frequently because it appears to fit what they believe in. • Conforming is natural; that’s why it’s so important to think about what you are conforming to. Especially when it begins to change.
“Human Compassion”
After reading the wisdom, humanity, and compassion expressed in so many quotes and proverbs; it’s hard to see why we listen to these politicians and media idols at all. • With writing my books, reading, and other activities; I’ve plowed through a lot of “stuff”; and one thing keeps repeating in the background: we are not living in, or moving toward, the kind of world that people want to live in. • When I look at the 1950s; I think “Yeah, we can fix that.” But when I look at 2020: I feel like we’re stuck in the mud in the middle of nowhere, the temperature is dropping, and it looks like snow. • It’s time to leave 2020 where it is, find shelter and warmth in some human habitation; and call to have it towed to the junkyard. • In the extras on the Lord of the Rings DVDs; the actors playing Hobbits in Hobbiton would say how much they envied the community lifestyle that their characters enjoyed. Maybe it’s not a return to the past; but a return to humanity and sanity that we need.
“Old” Sayings
“There are old sailors, and there are bold sailors; but there are no old, bold sailors.” • I call these “old” sayings because they’ve been around a long time – but wisdom never grows old. And while people learn by doing, and experience is a very thorough teacher, learning from the experiences of others can save you much pain and regret . . . and more.
“Cornithaca Corner Store – Products”
Have you noticed how many people monitor what you say in order to chastise you for non-conforming opinions? It’s a technique that’s often used these days to put others in their place — a lower one. • In the Revealed Church of Secular Self-interest; those who reveal it; have no belief in it. This presents a special danger: Even your belief won’t save you if they believe you have something they want.
“Cornithaca Corner Store – Books”
In the year 2020 of the Mealy-Mouthed Millennium; in a frenzy of using and entitled self-worth; in the silence of the virus: what are the attributes of the perfect survivor? Someone with the compassion of a shark; the character of a talking doll; and the integrity of a sand castle — it’s scary that there are so many of them out there. • Sometimes I’m worried New York may pass Early Harvest laws before I get a chance to publish it as a satire. • These book descriptions speak for themselves. It’s a pity that history’s champions of human worth and freedom can’t return to do the same.
“Cornithaca Corner Store – Games 2”
There’s more coming out of the Cornithaca County pipeline than effluent: games that you might want to wash your hands after playing — and not for the virus. • Cornithaca County’s College-town is flooded with profitable non-profits; it’s proof of their high level of education. • They’re cunning as weasels and slicker than snot; but compassionate humans is one thing they’re not.
“Cornithaca Corner Store - Games”
This page contains a few of the hundreds of ideas that never made it into the pages of this book. There will be a few more “Cornithaca County Store” pages to house other ideas that I can’t bear to leave entirely out in the cold. • That the games listed here could be made is satirical — that they would be made; is scary.
Bigotry: The Musical – “End Piece”
Whether you see bullet holes in this image, or not: bigotry feeds on itself and it keeps repeating.
Bigotry: “Scenes and Musical Numbers”
This page shows all fifteen musical numbers. I decided not to write a story synopsis; but hope that the readers will create stories of their own with the scenes and characters listed.
“Doctrine Anger WARNING”
“This shit just got real!” I put this page first for that reason: The danger is real. • When you question the statements and beliefs of those who hold that only they are right and have the “right” to question; there is always a risk. Since Doctrine is everything; Doctrine can excuse anything — even violence. • Doctrine holders work in concert to suppress any non-conforming expression or belief: They don’t need to communicate — Their Doctrine Told Then So.
“Cornithaca County - Beginning PART II”
With Part I of Cornithaca County finishing up the last few pages; it’s time to begin “populating” Part II. • Part 1 was setting the table; Part II will carve the turkey: It will include Doctrine Identification Guides, surveys and probing questions, essays, investigative reports, and a Study with conclusions. • • I hope this book will be useful in identifying, in questioning, and in exposing today’s emerging Doctrine dictatorship; a theocracy in the worst sense of the word. It’s time to “out” the Dorian Grays of hate and oppression.
“Cracking the Ag Code”
This reprint from Family Farm Fun shows how even the most blatant environmental transgressions are being hidden and minimized on a “conspiracy” level scale. • When Agriculture’s laughably ineffective “voluntary guidelines” and “nutrient plans” risk exposure; they divert attention with a dog-and-pony show. • The “9 Point Plan” and similar events are Industrial Agriculture’s answer to public outcry; and a way to avoid enacting any restrictions on polluting that would erode their profits. • Using studies and data gathering, committees and comments, updated “voluntary guidelines” and “nutrient plans,” and of course, the help of politicians and bureaucrats; a good 9 Point Plan can provide a 10 year respite in regulatory oversight of agricultural pollution. • Some impaired waterbodies are now undergoing their second “9 Point Plan” cycle. And not only can’t politicians seem to see this new “elephant in the room” — they can’t even smell the carcass of the last one.
“Industrial Agriculture Anthem”
It’s fitting that industrial agriculture has its own anthem; because its perceptions of this country are so very different from those originally expressed by the Katharine Lee Bates lyrics. • Theirs are not the traditional cattle “on the range” or in pasture; but walking bags of genetically modified meat grown in a soup of hormones, antibiotics, and not-to-be-advertised diets: to maximize the per pound profit. • If today’s consumers could see and taste a frozen TV dinner from the 50s; they would cry. • The aerial view in the background looks like an infestation . . . and maybe it is.
“I Can Open My Window”
Rural opinions are not based on perceptions or media slants, but on actual incidents. So when the rural community calls the DEC the Department of Environmental Corruption and ridicules public health officials; there’s more than just resentment behind it. • Here is just one incident: A teacher at a school for disadvantaged children noticed that herbicide being sprayed on a nearby field was drifting across the children’s playground and over the recreational equipment. When she complained to the school administration, they refused to do anything; so she notified OSHA: the only result was that she nearly lost her job. • "None are so deaf as those who would not hear."
“Writer’s Choice”
“Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” are just words to those who live under the boot of industrial farming. Corporate Agribusinesses fund and bully the politicians, control the agricultural colleges and the regulators, and through a combination of advertising dollars, threats, and litigation control the media as well. • As the upcoming Part 2 will show: even the law is no protection against these powerful interests. They have the power to make the law go away.
“Anonymous Victim Survey”
“You know you live in Cornithaca County, when the only rights left are the right to be a victim and the right to be poor.” This statement sums up what it’s like to be a rural resident in Cornithaca County. Rural people are considered so unimportant that they don’t even get a minimal share out of the wealth that its autocratic leaders gather from each new policy decision. Unfortunately; this survey can’t even be classed as satirical.
“Proctor Aptitude Test”
This test is almost like a cautionary tale. • What is its purpose? While these “government departments” might seem to be recruiting sick and aberrant individuals; they could be casting the net for those who enjoy “directing a ‘non-conforming’ play” or writing an “unapproved song.” • Evil is the master of misdirection.
“Nice Perk If You Can Get It”
A last song to finish off the “Bigotry: The Musical” collection. A sophisticated tune for an unsophisticated life.
“We hate, hate, hate, hate . . .”
This number from “Bigotry: The Musical” will slot in somewhere before the “My Doctrine Tells Me So” song.
“My Doctrine Tells Me So”
Another song from “Bigotry: The Musical” — from a section where Doctrine is gaining a stranglehold on all aspects of life. That is I think it will be placed there; but I haven’t written the story yet. [I’m always ready to create in advance of categorizing.]
Bigotry: The Musical – “The Great Pretender”
This musical number will probably come just before “Can You Keep a Secret?” in Act 1. • It’s an age of “pretending” as a tool for users. Political doctrine is now working for the immediate profit of some; while pretending to work for the long-term good of all. • Pretending it’s for “us.” • • Those to whom the death of a hundred-thousand elderly was no more than a reduction of an excess population [and a troublesome obstruction]; have now found a use for them as an issue to bash others. Hard-wired for hate: but pretending they care. • It’s a user’s world.
“Can You Keep a Secret?”
Bigotry: The Musical – “Can You Keep a Secret?” This piece is scheduled for the end of Act 1. You can tell from the tone of the lyrics that dark days lie ahead. • Cornithaca’s elite have run a “hate and fear” smear campaign for many elections; burying their own misconduct with the help of powerful corporate influence and a 4-year College Town memory.
“Cornithaca Billboards 5”
“Be the change that you wish to see in the world” is the kind of selfless exhortation that Cornithaca’s elite see as dissolution. They lead by edict; not by example. “Make the changes that you wish to see in the world” is what people at their “level” do. • Their concept of “We” is a hierarchical one; with themselves at the top. They don’t assume the burdens of others; they distribute them “equitably” among the under classes. Theirs is the burden of rulership — ours is to carry their sedan chairs. • It’s not surprising that Cornithaca is effectively a dictatorship, and well on the road to actuality: with a doctrine like theirs; anything is possible.
“The New Food Pyramid”
Today’s Food Pyramid is celebrated as a monument to modern science; and a symbol of the enduring worth of its Pharos of Agriculture. • Turn the monument over and you’ll see the rural communities that have suffered under the hubris and greed of Big Ag and their scurrilous scriveners.
“A rich factory farmer named Fred”
Another Family Farm Fun reprint revised with a color heading and a more offensive fly. I have a bug zapper indoors, and have noticed that doom comes in many forms: some flies fall buzzing on their back to get up and get zapped again, some get caught in the grid and start smoking, and some actually explode in fly parts. [If flies land on every surface in your house; how can exploding them be any greater a health issue.] I thought of doing a chart on this subject.
Bigotry: The Musical – “Victims’ Hymn”
This song is planned to be the last musical piece in the 3rd Act. There are many grades of shadow in this musical. In the stage lights; everything casts a shadow — but it’s the actions, not the shapes, which will define them.
“Factory Farm Bookshelf: New and Popular”
A two-page spread; this reprint has some of my favorite unrealized ideas. The “Ag Almanac” is my second choice; while “Don’t Step on My Blue Baby’s Shoes” holds on to the top of the charts. It would make a good t-shirt for the Factory Farm Music Festival. Or on a mug.
“New School Nursery Rhymes”
Another colored reprint. I enjoy writing rhymes. I enjoy drinking beer. But I don’t do both at the same time. I drink beer with people and write rhymes alone. I drink beer when I need to and write rhymes when I’m ______.
“Factory Farm Bookshelf: Family Fun Classics”
This page is a reprint from the “Family Farm Fun” book, with color added. I used the Bookshelf pages to list some of the ideas that were never brought to fruition. [I still liked them though.] • “Cornithaca County” has almost 700 folders already — most of which contain ideas that will never make it into the book in any form. A handful will be included in some new “bookshelf” pages. The content of the book is mild compared to some of what is being left out.
“Crack the Code” 2
Another simple code with a difficult question. Doing the right thing is always simple; it’s making excuses for not doing it that’s complicated. The difficulty is that the difference between “simple” and “easy” can be the same as between “life” and “death.”
“Crack the Code”
These coded texts pose the same questions as in my comments on “How many violations can you spot?” • While there is a solution to the code; there is no solution to the questions.
“How many violations can you spot?”
Is secrecy ethical? Is secrecy necessary? There are many reasons for secrecy; but are they all covered by the same reasoning? The best answer to a difficult question is to leave it open. It’s only when you close the door to questioning; that you open the door to oppression. • Cornithaca County’s “One thought, One taught – One voice, One choice” attitude is the essence of the oppression.
“Cash Cow Piñata”
In these days of bashing for self-interest and self-profit — it’s time for some old-school bashing of those who profit at the expense of others. Cornithaca County has more corruption than you can shake a stick at . . . but give it a shot; you’ll feel better.
“Floaters”
There’s a very simple [or maybe even stupid] answer to this page. Think outside the book . . . or look at the Solutions page [not included in this post.]
“I Wandered Lonely As A Cloud”
The brittle and harsh tone is meant to remove the comfort that would be natural in this setting. • Industrial agriculture is always unmoved and unchanged by the natural world, “like plastic bottles on the sea,” until, through its increasingly impervious influence; it changes the natural world itself. • It’s a world without beauty; permitted by an age without memory.
“Denial”
This singsong poem is a reprint of the end piece from Family Farm Fun. It’s the kind of repetitious word use that dispels fears. A rant that creates an obstruction, and reinforces the speaker’s beliefs against any threatening idea or thought. • The change in typeface is intended to slow the reader’s recognition and present the words like dropped stones.
“CAFO Sing-a-long”
In this CAFO version of the sing-a-long, the number keeps on increasing. 40,000 cow CAFOs already exist. Where will it end? 80,000 . . . 100,000? • Locally; the few remaining traditional farms and factory farms alike are being ploughed under as the biggest CAFO in New York State is continuing to spread like a shit stain across the rural landscape. It’s only a mile away.
“Stopping by Woods on a Snow Melt Evening”
I tried to keep what I loved about the flow of this great poem, and paint on some of what I hate about the flow of “nutrient” toxic waste. I think the addition of color effectively sets the mood for this reprint of the black and white version in Family Farm Fun.
“You Probably Think this World is about You”
This is the ninth song for “Bigotry: The Musical” so far. There are probably 6 or 7 more to complete the book. I’ve divided the songs into 3 acts and the plot line has become clearer: a rural couple are forced off their land by bureaucrats and are resettled into an urban world of subsidized poverty – jobless, powerless, and surrounded by criminals; they must try to survive the establishment of a secular theocracy.
“Origami Fly”
As a kid; I looked through a book of sketches made by an army soldier in the South Pacific during WWII. Many of the drawings featured dead bodies; and the air around them was always filled with flies. • In rural Cornithaca County; flies, factory farms and death are certainties, but factory farms and death are never linked together. The high rural cancer rate is counted as a “lifestyle” issue.
“How Many Toxic Gas Plumes?”
A respirator that would once have been worn in a joke about barn odors; is now a life-saving protection from liquid manure off-gassing. • I remember an incident where a home exploded due to a natural gas leak. The leak was in a neighboring house; but the heavier-than-air gas flowed down into a lower level where it collected and ignited. • Factory Farms occupy a high ground of money, influence, and legal cronyism — so you know what flows downhill to their rural neighbors. • While I’m writing this; I keep hearing in the back of my mind: Jumping Jack Crack it’s a gas, gas, gas . . .
“Regulator Sing-a-long”
Knowing how to navigate your way through a maze of shadow-government regulatory shortcuts is sometimes just a matter of knowing the right people. Often, public oversight is seen as a stumbling block to the smooth functioning of established business-bureaucrat partnerships, and their special understandings. • This difficulty has been overcome in Cornithaca County, where the people have no meaningful representation in government, and the investigation of regulatory misconduct is handed over to the parties involved; for their sole adjudication. • They’re “so important” and they “define the county” are phrases that are frequently used by county government to elevate powerful interests above the everyday requirements of ethical and responsible action. • There is no ethical voice raised in opposition . . . they’ve taken care of that as well.
“Farm-cheesi Board Game”
Farm-cheesi – The “Game of Flies” is adapted from the Indian cross and circle game Pachisi, and its many variations. The goal of the game is to move the maggots from the player’s carcass home to the center space where they become flies. • The 17” x 17” game board [pictured] is in four parts to be copied or scanned and printed - or cut out by utilizing two books. • You can also cut out maggots and attach them to the “Cornithacan” tokens from the book; achieving a sort of “African Queen” leach effect. • • Living around a factory farm; you have to do something with them — if only we could train them to synchronize in their swarming and blow back the toxic fumes.
“Corporate Pushback Balloon Relay”
Simple and graphic: this game shows how easily years of work and hope can just go “pop” when the big players decide you need to be sat on. • In Cornithaca County; the corporations, institutions, and politicians are so tight together; there’s no room left for the people. • A corporate plan for a large facility, powered by fossil fuel, was recently pushed through vocal public opposition with only a “Thanks for keeping us on our toes” response from politicians. • • How dismissive is that?
“Traffic Flow Maze”
Form Based Code planning is a great idea . . . for those in authority. It allows for an autocratic control of planning to exclude or mandate any type of community development those in power desire. The “college town” is a city that preserves its downtown wood frame houses and tree lined streets as a “historical” necessity, and use will Form based planning to add green spaces, parks, and upscale shopping and restaurants to “one of the twenty most expensive cities in the country to live in.” • The same planning shows that “Affordable Housing” Nodes should be placed in rural towns; where “historical” has no cachet, and the woods and fields are bulldozed for tract homes, condos and apartments. It’s the “form based” place to dump their poor and homeless in affordable housing complexes, and place a drug treatment and outpatient facility at a safe distance. • The county’s mass transit buses, which are so thick around the college that people have difficulty driving cars, don’t enter the Ag ghetto; but if I walk 2 ½ miles to its border, and stand by pole at the side of a ditch, they pass by several times a day.
“Farm Worker Mortality Disposal”
With the short life-spans of their antibiotic and hormone-filled cows; industrial dairies have a problem with unsalable carcasses. Disposal of dead cows and hogs in compost piles is now recommended over dragging them out in a field to rot. • It’s just a step to using the same method of disposal for their workers. Who’s to know — it may already be happening.
“Hatch and Release”
Where is the mercy in a “mercy killing” when you have created the situation that lead inevitably to that choice? • Where is the “love” in deciding who is worthy of receiving it? • Today’s doctrine releases us from the need to make the unselfish choices and take the compassionate actions that traditionally defined “humanity”: It only requires that we conform. • Human beings are parsed into different containers to meet different ends: one gender here; one gender there; one race for this perception; one race for that — all as instructed by the revealed doctrine of an unrevealed elite. • Where is the love? You might as well ask the chicks going to their disposal. It’s all about the using; love doesn’t make those kinds of choices.
“Farm Harm – Respirators 101”
Do you know what you’re breathing? It’s good to know. People often learn by doing; but sometimes the learning process is painful or even fatal. • I once had a professor begin a lecture with: “Sewage is purer than Ivory Snow.” This statement juxtaposed the advertised purity of the soap with the fact that sewage is 99.99% water. The purity of the air, the effects quantified by surveys and studied in laboratories, and the duration of exposure; all need to be judged in terms of human health. • Factory farms take a lot of the bad things from human industrialization; and put it all in one place — the rural community. If it was anywhere else they would be shut down.
“The Urban Dairy”
Located at the intersection of Satire and Sensible; the Urban Dairy is a practical solution that has practically no chance of ever being implemented. The demographic defines the definition. The same factory farm “nutrients” that are sprayed within feet of rural children’s bedrooms, are defined as “toxic waste” if transported to an urban setting. • So the question of an Urban Dairy is more or less a judgement call – urban communities are worth more, and rural communities are worth less.
“Factory Farm Feely Bag”
How to describe the indescribable? I’ll leave it up to your imagination. • A number of the items on the list are actually used by factory farms to fatten the animals you eat. Want to know what’s in that burger? “EEEWW!”
“Child Safety Poster – Manure Lagoons”
Factory farmers and their families are warned to wear respirators around manure lagoons to prevent injury and death. Authorities don’t consider the health risks to farmer’s neighbors of any importance. • Satellite Lagoons are promoted as being a cost saving alternative to carrying liquid manure to distant fields. Under Agricultural Law; factory farmers can buy land and build a “lagoon” containing millions of gallons of liquid manure within feet of a rural residence as a matter of right. This has become the new standard for factory farms. • There is no disclosure of this practice, or recourse under the law, to potential home buyers. Instead, they are blamed for being “unfamiliar with farming practices.” • In Cornithaca County; it’s the demographic, not the act, that defines accountability.
“Farm Harm Child Safety Poster”
This reprint from the Family Farm Fun book adds color to the original black and white poster. • If you think this poster is scary; prospective buyers of rural property will never see any of this. The current Agricultural Disclosure Form only states “farming activities may include, but not limited to, activities that cause noise, dust and odors.” • All my efforts to have this decades-old form updated to include modern agricultural methods and activities, and court acknowledged injuries to local farm neighbors, met with a stone wall of silence from State authorities. • This issue and others will be documented and dissected in Part 2 of this book.
“Must see television . . . “
Television used to be an entertainment for promoting products, now it’s propaganda for promoting doctrine. Every edit, every description or plot, every “first responder” spot or college student, and every shmuck who can’t pick the correct toilet tissue or pays too much at the pharmacy; must conform to the doctrinal agenda. • Since it’s true in every case; it’s easy to prove — but they will never stop doing it. One Thought, One Taught – One Voice, One Choice. Scary.
“[The new normal]” Poem
A short poem. Take from it what you will.
“Find the Original Virus”
This simple puzzle is intended as a change of pace so the reader can bring a refreshed attention to the book.
“Cornithaca Billboards 4”
“Doctrine, Doctrine everywhere, and not a drop of love.” to paraphrase the poem. Cornithaca’s Elite have run a relentless hate and fear campaign since I can remember — and as to their love; any examination of the county’s poor and needy shows that it must have evaporated decades ago. • When I wrote to the local college where the noted Rural Sociologist Janet Fitchen taught and authored Poverty in Rural America, requesting their help in publicizing the county’s current rural poverty and neglect: The response I received was; “She lived in simpler times.” • A year ago, Cornithaca gave a quarter of a million dollar tax let-off to the largest privately owned corporation in the US. Why? The corporation said they needed it. • What’s complicated about that? • It’s OK: they’ll simply increase our taxes to make up the difference.
“Cornithaca Billboards 3”
Early Harvest is an idea whose time has come in Cornithaca County. This week the Common Council voted to eliminate rental payments by tenants and place the burden on “people or entities who have greater resources to solve the issue." They themselves will, of course, be the ones to decide who those entities are, what resources will be needed, and what further issues need to be addressed. • It’s notable that the University, by far the richest and most powerful entity; one whose expansionist policies have driven out the original residents and turned their College Town into one of the twenty most expensive cities in the US to live in, is not one of the entities they have decided to burden. They will target the old, the poor, and those they can separate from the herd. • There’s not much sympathy that this issue can squeeze out of rural poor living three generations in an old wood frame house that they’re trying to keep in the face of ever-rising assessments and taxes: not for upscale urban renters having a hiccup in their six-figure salaries — but then they don’t write stories about the rural poor in Cornithaca County.
“Cornithaca Billboards 2”
I have a couple of more songs to write before putting together a storyline and working on the interior of the “Bigotry” Paybill. • • It’s been months since I’ve been in the Pub; drinking pints with a pizza to die for. When it reopens, I think I’ll call myself “Doug the Beloved” and see how that plays . . .
“Cornithaca Billboards”
As leaders in the New Religion; Cornithaca billboards may seem strange to people in many other parts of the country: but you had better get used to them . . . you had better! • There’s more to fear than the Yellowstone Supervolcano. “Not with a bang but a whimper.”
“The Hierarchy of Righteousness”
To put this page in proportion: Googling the CDC’s COVID-19 Provisional Death Counts for the US for the week of April 11-18: Aged 24 and under = 14, and Aged 65 and over = 12,818. This ongoing trend never even rated an emotional story in the College Town media. What is the big story? “Police brutality protest draws hundreds to downtown” • In Cornithaca’s “One thought-One Taught – One Voice-One Choice” dictatorship: Doctrine is everything. • It’s a doctrine of privilege and hate; and they never miss the chance to procure more of the first and loudly express the second. • For them; the tens of thousands of elderly who have died so disproportionately in New York is not even an issue. Their pretense of compassion is only skin deep: and they have a very thin skin. • There is no time for love in Cornithaca — they’re too busy hating everyone and everything that’s different.
“The Government Courtyard Puzzle”
Trying to put the fun into Bureaucracy is like trying to lift yourself up by your bootstraps: but I hope you will have fun completing this coloring page/puzzle. The type of fun, and the way you finish it; depends on you — and what could be more un-bureaucratic than that?
“The Helpful Bureaucrat Puzzle”
Which is the helpful bureaucrat? This puzzle contains a simple solution to a question that is often difficult and frustrating in everyday life. • Bureaucracy is a labyrinth that only grows over time. Without help; you can toil around a great circle of government employees [many of whom are out of the office, on vacation, or seemingly unreachable] to arrive back at the same desk you started at . . . and be sent on another journey. • In Cornithaca’s Kafkaesque environment; “Finding the Helpful Bureaucrat” is a puzzle that may have no solution.
“Write Your Own Story” Coloring Page
One of the best ways to avoid indoctrination is through creative and imaginative thinking. The stasis imposed by Cornithaca County’s doctrine, which allows only one “correct” answer to any question; is shattered by independent thought. • The figurative elements in the coloring page can be used to create a story. I won’t impose the “doctrine” of saying the writer must use all of the elements; or even “as many as possible.” You could write any number of stories and use only one, or none. • Creative work is not an exercise — it’s a necessary and rewarding part of being a human being.
“The ‘Ize’ Have It”
In an overwhelmingly partisan government: there is no need to compromise. It’s the perfect viewing conditions to see the future unfolding. Cornithaca County’s doctrine cleared landscape shows, not only the shape of our future; but the tools that are being used to shape it.
“Burn Barrel Cremations”
Easier than a pig roast and better than a backyard family barbecue — Burn Barrel Cremations are sweeping the rural sweepings of Cornithaca County! As one local flyer announced “We bring in the trailer; and it’s ash without failure.” Some vendor’s ovens are even sporting accessory racks; for that big grill-up send off. • For the ultimate in “green” disposals: recycle their ashes as burn barrel insulation!
“Cornithaca Fortune Teller”
This activity is essentially a color version of the “Misfortune Teller” in my Family Farm Fun book. My intention to revise the theme with “meaningful participation,” “transparency in government,” and similar legislative conundrums was less impactful than the reality of the rural original. • I remember these origami “fortune tellers” as a child; along with a freedom and community togetherness that today’s authorities pretend never existed. Everything is Doctrine: including everything your children are being taught. Home Schooling is the undoing of conformity and central authority.
“ATV Hazards”
Most ATV accidents come, not from dangerous situations; but from a refusal to realize the danger of the situation. The journey from “outlaw” to “out of luck” takes only a second: it’s as easy as falling off a log — or running into one. • In Cornithaca County’s Ag Ghetto; ATVs offer an alternative method of destruction to meth and bath salts. And as some of the parents drive around with small children in their laps or clinging to their waist; it’s a family moment as well.
“By Their Deeds”
Nothing sets the “Cornithacan” attitude apart more than their lack of empathy for others. The local Socialist party took to the College Town streets; urging the release of criminals to protect against COVID-19 in prisons; while being quietly unconcerned with the mounting death toll in a nursing home only a few miles away. • Give them a question of Doctrine, and they can parse righteousness to a screaming frenzy: but any question of compassion or human dignity is beside the point. • This is the present state of Cornithaca County — and the future everywhere?
Left in Park – “The Old Days are Passing”
In this new episode of the Cornithaca County television spin-off; It’s an “Ill windfall that does no good” as the usual users find more ways to profit from the Pandemic. • They’ll be singing “Out with the Old and in with the Cash” when “stimulus” checks take on a new meaning and bureaucrats wax fat on wholesale inheritance taxes.
Bigotry: The Musical – People Who Use People
This song (a satirical adaptation of the Song “People” from Funny Girl) is another of the pieces intended for “Bigotry: The Musical”. Although the musical will be in keeping with the Cornithaca County theme; I thought it would be more fun to write the music first, and worry about the plot later. • The ads in the Paybill will include sponsors like “Whole Human Replacement Parts” and “Do•Doctrine Nail Art,” as well as “Early Autumn” Organ Harvesting and other public service messages that will tie into body of the book. • The use of previously created and realized concepts as a leitmotif is a practical time-saver in the project; as well as adding coherence to the book as a whole.
New Word: “Ideafication”
So many words are being redefined: deliberately using expectations of the traditional meaning to hide a very different action. Independently thinking people need to create new words that better describe these actions, and shed a revealing light on this persuasive perfidy. • Cornithaca County’s “One thought, One taught, One voice, One choice” totalitarian government makes frequent use of “ideafication” for control and as a calming measure.
Third “Find the differences . . .”
In this third “find the differences” activity I decided to focus on faces. Since human beings have an understandable predilection for gathering information from faces; it would be interesting to see if this helps or hinders the recognition of differences in these two pages. • The study of imagery as a means of promoting innovative and creative thinking is outside the Cornithaca County theme of the book. However, I plan to add a section on the Idea Enhancement Project’s work to provide a practical framework for achieving and using “qualitative” thinking.
“Jumping Jack Crack” Puppet
There’s nothing good about crack; and there’s nothing funny about crack addicts. I picked crack because of the rhyme, but in the Ag Ghetto meth is more common, with a sprinkling of bath salt psychotics. • The county sheriff’s department doesn’t patrol the Ag Ghetto, and it’s become a magnet for the under-the-radar “animal life”: If you’ve got an itch; scratch it. If you’ve got an appetite; feed it. If you’ve got a pipe; smoke it. • They’ve become more active with the Coronavirus — animals can sense a weakness.
“Proverbs Remix 3 – New School Proverbs”
Whether it’s “An ounce of entitlement is worth a pound of work” or “It takes a village to pay for a child”: these are remixed proverbs with an edge — and over it. • If you need a sense of humor in life; you need two to handle all the advice you are given: one to accept it and a second to remix it. • So remember: “Life is like riding a bicycle. Once you fall off, you never forget.”
“Factory Farm Logic Problem”
There is a concerted effort to suppress the wrong being done to New York’s rural lands and communities; but when you have collected and documented the facts, and sent them to the people and agencies responsible for the health and well-being of the community: it’s ignored. What do you do next? Write a book? • • Living on the road to Drug Land: I’ve seen a marked increase in traffic, especially among the young. Without even the distraction of school activities, they’ve turned to “partying” full time, and the kind of fun that got one boy killed on the road outside my house a couple of years ago. • A county that is backing a “cultural shift” to “transform” the College Town’s industrial waterfront to a boat landing “full of restaurants, parks, shopping, and more” doesn’t waste money on patrolling an Ag Ghetto full of rural poor — they just spend enough to keep the problems contained.
“Factory Farm Fun” Activity Page
An activity page with Factory Farm attitude. In a way, it’s too late to satire their destruction of the natural world; because they’ve already shed the “Stewards of the Land” skin and put on the mantle of “The Important People Who Feed the World.” • I had a feeling that this was coming last year when I met an Ag Professor returning from India: He responded to the issue of rural health and reduced life expectancy by stating it was “a sacrifice that was necessary to fight world hunger.” • This fits in with the Cornithaca concept of disposable people: Other people. Different people. Lesser people.
Second “Find the differences . . .”
Another visual wake-up call. Have fun. • Larger images and downloadable files can be found on my blog: Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials.
Find the differences between these pictures
This is not a test – it’s for fun. There are a fairly large number of differences of varying subtlety and perceptual camouflage. You can’t sleepwalk your way through this one. • Larger images and downloadable files can be found on my blog: Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials.
“Creature from the Frack Lagoon”
Who needs nuclear radiation! Science, Industry, and Politics are the recombinant trio behind so many horrors of the imagination and horrors unimaginable. • Are we heading for a GMO “THEM!”? Keep a large stock of exclamation points on hand! • Add your own lines to this page — and plenty of retro color . . . BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE!
“The Twelve Shady Doings” — A Carol
In Cornithaca County; the Elite take a dismissive attitude towards the victims of corruption because it’s themselves that so often benefit from it. “Corruption will always be with us" is a self-serving excuse that is often repeated, while the Fox Guarding the Hen House has almost achieved the status of unwritten law. Mudslinging “ethics” probes are only a threat to those who won’t play ball. • There is one benefit to this swirling current of power and greed: it’s so brazen that it’s easy to see. Unfortunately, the only good the Elite care about is their own: a good meal, a good salary, and a good retirement.
Humanity: “Isn’t it time to give it up?”
On this and other pages; there’s space for coloring and writing your own thoughts. Perfect for a post-apocalyptic collaboration. [You’ll have to fight over the crayons, though.] • • I once wrote in an application: I’ve no skills to fill my resume. No credentials or honors that weigh. And no previous year Saw my writing appear In a journal, I hope that’s OK? • I didn’t get the job. I guess would have been ashamed if I did. I guess.
“Handy Land” Game Finished
Larger size images can be viewed on my blog: Rural Tompkins County — The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials.
“Handy Land” Game Board
Rural America is the “handy” dumping ground for the unwanted and dangerous by-products of our society. Unreported and unrepresented; rural communities have become a dispossessed and marginal population that is ridiculed by a city-centric urban media. • In this scarier version of the children’s confection favorite: Your children are dropped off at the Ag Ghetto border, and must make their long way home safely. • The copyable book pages will include a 15” square game board in four parts, and all the color and special game cards needs for the game.
“Proverbs Remix Redux”
This second group of remixed proverbs are skewed even more towards humor and satire; and push the reader to view things from a different angle; or in a different way. For a healthy intelligence: Rote won’t float the boat. • The definition of insanity is thinking the same thing over and over, and thinking the same thing over and over.
“Proverbs Remix”
These remixed proverbs are intended to shake up the rote repetition and involve the reader in thinking about the true beauty of human perception and wisdom that classic proverbs embody. At the same time, I would like the reader to use that expanded awareness to view things from a different angle; or in a different way.
“Easy Riddles – The Two Sisters”
“It’s your excuses that define you.” That should be the touchstone for “action distancing” in the New Millennium Normal. You’re not doing something bad to someone; you’re making a better life for yourself [or more hypocritically: “your family/gender/race/everyone”]. • “You’re owed it” is a well that never runs dry — as long as you keep filling it. • Interestingly, every famous icon of human compassion, dignity, and equality is uncompromisingly opposed to discriminatory action in any form. This is a common thread from Confucius to Lincoln to Frederick Douglass to Martin Luther King Jr. to Mother Teresa . . . Or you can stand with those who excuse their actions and oppression: Hitler, Stalin, Mao . . . So maybe your excuses can define you after all.
“Easy Riddles Coloring Page”
I was originally going to have several answers to this riddle and additional text; but I decided to leave more room for coloring — and thinking.
“Mobile Abattoir” Notice
The government tandem tractor trailer with a difference: One part health center – One part organ harvester — coming to a municipal parking lot near you. No need to sugar coat the invitation; it’s your duty. And they know where you live.
“Fake the Lake” Card Game Finished
These three pages [including the corrected first page] complete the game instructions and adds copyable scorecards.
“Fake the Lake” Game Card Designs
These are the four pages of designs for the 106 cards used in the game; along with a guide card and the card back. • • The most disturbing aspect of these waterway remediation plans is their lack of accountability. The people involved in formulating them have nothing to lose if they are proven ineffective; and a great deal to lose by opposing the powerful interests that continue to pollute and profit. These interests in turn, can answer resident’s concerns with the “we are following all the regulations and guidelines” excuse while continuing to pollute without abatement. • As well as being worthless as a tool for remediation; regulators remove any possible effectiveness by postponing, eliminating, offsetting, and not enforcing the actions and regulations that these plans do have. • Rather than a flow of righteous concern and oversight for the world we live in; these plans will only siphon tax dollars to pay for the incentives, tax breaks and subsidies that will provide the sum total of actual benefit. • These are not plans that will fix our lakes — these are plans that are made when you don’t want to make a plan that will fix our lakes.
“Fake the Lake” Card Game
Description of the game: “As scrutiny of our failing lakes becomes unavoidable; powerful interests are taking control of the investigation and remediation process. Fake the Lake takes a somewhat satirical look at the conspiracy that is destroying our children’s future for their own short term gain. • You are one of up to 3 players attempting maximize your allowable pollution while dealing with regulatory and culpability hazards you encounter along the way. There are 106 cards, including hazards, pollution levels, remedies, and four immunity cards.” • The book will include complete instructions, and copy-able scoring pads and cards [including a card back design.] • • Yesterday, while the Coronavirus Pandemic is devastating New York; state regulators announced that they were giving the best connected of the lake pollution “players” a permit that deleted the schedule of compliance for Total Phosphorus, and eliminated the schedules and conditions of the recently completed Lake Water Quality Plan. The timing of this deregulation was either very bad — or very good. Smart corporations know how to take advantage of the downturns as well as the upturns. • How is government using the Pandemic where you live?
“Famous Quotes – Remix with a Twist”
The “twist” in this case is the political remix given to the quotes. The nicest thing about a remix is that you start with something that is already of known quality — this is the reason there are series that are spun off of a successful movie based on an earlier “prequel” TV show with the characters from a trio of hit movies from the previous decade [It’s also easier to get backing – “If it ain’t broke; remake it.”] • The same technique can be observed in politics: remix what has proven successful in the past at gaining votes and backing. • • The producers of one reality show about logging asked the owner to have more equipment breakdowns and dangerous situations to make it more exciting for viewers. How much reality is there in today’s “reality”? • How much equality is there in today’s “equality”? • You can always go back to the well as long as someone keeps filling it. What’s the reality of this action?
“Abraham Lincoln Quotes”
Abraham Lincoln is like a friend who always gives you good advice. It’s not just the humanity and wisdom of what he says; I feel that every word comes from the heart. It’s a rare gift in any time or place.
“Benjamin Franklin Quotes”
I took these ten Benjamin Franklin quotes and used them to illustrate both the universality of human behavior and their usefulness as a touchstone in understanding politics. • Politics is all about people – Numbers in politics are always an afterthought; used to convince a public brought up on the pseudoscience of pie charts and percentages. [That the same basic data can be used to support widely differing conclusions is common knowledge, and usage, among corporate report writers.] • Like the Mark Twain quotes; once again, there is an insight into human nature that overrides the “issues” that are used to distract us. • Since human nature is universal and unchanging: why does our bureaucracy continue to get more complicated? Why indeed.
“Mark Twain Quotes and Coloring Page”
These Mark Twain quotes are very much to the point and worth thinking about; and coloring and doodling are good ways to let the mind wander into some productive thinking territory. • • I’ve decided to add pieces and maybe a section the book to results of research into the use of visual imagery to promote creative and innovative thought. This “qualitative thinking” is based on my belief that art and ideas occupy the same area of the mind; and that the most productive thinking can be done “in situ.” • Work on the Idea Enhancement Project has been pushed to the back while I’ve been writing these books, and this will give me a chance to share the results so far and keep moving forward.
“Frequent Felons Program”
Prisons punish criminals . . . No, prisons rehabilitate criminals . . . no, wait . . . we don’t really know what the intentions of our criminal justice system is. It seems, however, to be much more comfortable with acts of criminals than their victims. • Victims are “in the wrong place at the wrong time” or “put themselves” into that situation. • Our justice system is a long term caregiver for felons; but it “shines on” the victims and their families with a “plea bargain – closure” two-step. • Criminals can turn themselves around and start with a clean slate; but the pain is never erased for the families, friends, relatives, and children of their victims. • Our criminal justice system is not the custodian of our society; it’s just a bureaucratic machine covered in human skins. • • • Cornithaca County’s University Town is refusing to delay displacing people in a homeless encampment — after all, you can’t mount a protest is you’re banned from forming a group. • How is your government using the Coronavirus for their benefit?
“The Climate Change Companion”
I hope to fill out the book more; maybe in a book review or “newsletter.” A travel section listing venues like the “Dead Zone Aquapark –The safe family play destination.” “No prey. No predators. No problems.” Sea Rising Maps for land investments in the new seashore. Articles on Climate-proofing Your Home, and The Climate Change Diet – What Food Items Will Survive or science tidbits like Canada: The New Tornado Alley and GMO on the Grow.
Solution: “The New Society” Riddle
The solution to “The New Society” riddle. • People can solve riddles and people learn new things; but it’s easier not to — people can control government; but it’s easier to let government do the driving and go along for the ride. • That’s one reason I’m so fond of fables as a learning tool; they can give the knowledge without having to experience the situation. • What about people who don’t even learn from experience? Why do people in a horror movie always split up? [Even when you tell them not to.]
Easy Riddles - “The New Society”
This version of the classic riddle is intended to involve children with thinking about government [a much older and more difficult riddle.] • The solution to the first riddle will be posted tomorrow.
Undercover Party “Follow the Bureaucrat”
These bureaucrat icons will bring a rueful smile to those who have bumped up against the monolithic government while trying to bring about change. • Dealing with people as much as they do; the seasoned bureaucrat or politician can call on a wide range of body language to spice up their flat statements of refusal and dismissal. • These gestures could be combined into a Japanese Folk Dance or a Bon Odori dance for some Bureaucratic or Doctrinal Festival.
“A Child’s Well Testing Instructions”
In the 60s, when the fines for industrial pollution were so small that the polluters never even paused; our government vowed to change all that. They did — they removed the laws. • Nowadays, with Industrial Agriculture polluting the all groundwater that they haven’t sucked dry; what advice does our government give to the rural poor? Mix bottled water with your well water to bring it below the maximum health limit levels. Thanks! • The bottom line is [if they still use “bottom line”] that if you don’t take responsibility for your family’s health, no one will. In their “wrong place at the wrong time” – “fall through the cracks” way; Authorities have more important things to worry about than the people.
“Redacted Rehab Facility”
It doesn’t exist. It doesn’t exist. If this was a conspiracy movie; I would have had an accident and bad things would be happening to everyone who saw this document. • But it doesn’t exist.
“Doctrine • Redoctrination Facility”
It’s not that far from being given the cold shoulder to being kept on ice. The Elite are always worried about keeping their mound of worldly goods and their position on the dais; and their Doctrine of privilege and hate goes a long way towards addressing those fears. • Using the lowest motives has always had the highest success rate in authoritarian societies; so a self-policing Doctrine that targets a particular group as being the cause of all suffering and misfortune is the ideal tool for distraction and control. • With the “Brain and Circuses” [Indoctrination and Recreation] curriculum established in schools; adults are persuaded they’re too “busy” with life’s struggle to stop and think — that’s a job for the Experts. • The beauty of the competitive “dog-in-a-pit” approach is that the dogs never wonder about who built the pit and Why? • Form Based Code Living is where Satire meets Science Fiction meets “That’s why we never heard from him!” whispers — it’s an intersection that’s just up ahead in Cornithaca County. • • Weren’t you just wondering what the Experts say?
“Easy Maze – School Bus Maze”
A simple maze that can be solved by young children. The “Easy Maze” Series is an activity book feature intended to involve even the youngest readers. • A school bus ride can be a scary experience.
“Form Based Code Living”
Form Based Code planning is the most authoritarian and self-serving method of zoning this side of an imperial palace — everything is ordered for the benefit of those with power and influence. • Cornithaca County’s only city and seat of power is using Form Based Codes to make their “vibrant” community a place of “historic districts,” “parks,” “walkability,” and “single-family homes and row houses” while the same Codes allow building tracts of multi-family housing and a large urban sprawl bedroom-community in rural greenspaces by calling it a “Node.” • They are getting a new marina; while we are getting a drug rehab center. • Their city is one of the country’s 20 most expensive to live in; so we get the affordable housing mandates. • There are so many buses at their University that it’s difficult to drive a car around; while I would have to walk two-and-a-half miles and stand at the side of a ditch to wait for one of the few that travel the periphery. • • Form Based Codes don’t help the needy; they just build walls to keep them out.
“Spot the Invasive Species”
You could use this as a coloring page, but there’s not much space for coloring; or anything else. Some of the most devastating examples of invasive species are also examples of deliberately introduced species. I found it interesting that some authorities downplay the problem with statements like: “‘invasive’ is a loaded word and harm is difficult to define” and that “Most introduced species do not become invasive” — this is the same as arguing that you don’t usually beat or abuse your kids or that nuclear power plants don’t usually have problems like Chernobyl; the severity of the result should override the frequency of the occurrence as a factor. Human suffering is important.
“Monsters of the Id” Movies
Forbidden Planners – On an ancient world depopulated by Form Based Code planning: space explorers discover a Bureaucrat searching for the secret of ultimate power! • • Planners of the Apes – Scientists ignore warnings of over-specialization and create a genetically perfect human for each task — but as global warming continues to accelerate change; a static society crumbles on the brink of extinction! • • The Beast from 20,000 Fandoms – Pop Personalities incite their followers to a world-wide binge of political violence! Mass cell-phone radiation fries brains as the total of “likes” goes astronomical. Is This The End? • • The Amazing Colossal Mandate – Exposure to doctrine results in a government Mandate that continues to increase in size out of all proportion to the society around it. Outstripping state and federal guidelines; it grows angry and confused — destroying the community it was meant to help! • • Creature from the Frack Lagoon – Gas is escaping from a crack in earth; and Industry scents a profit — but WHAT HORROR will they unleash FROM BELOW? • • Monolithic Monsters – Mammoth Skyscrapers of Doctrine thundering across the Earth . . . crushing ALL that stand in their path!
“Bureaucracy Reduction Act” Poster
People argue that ideas for significantly reducing bureaucracy are simplistic; but won’t admit that their own arguments are equally simplistic. • Narrow-view arguments “externalize” costs and benefits that are important factors in making a balanced decision. Industrial Agriculture likes to point to the cheap price of food in the stores, but that [not even counting environmental and human costs] is only a fraction of what the public is paying for that food — there are investment tax credits, school tax credits, electricity cost reduction, gas tax elimination, school tax credits that can return 100% of their tax from state tax revenues, and a host of subsidies, giveaways, and incentives, that are hidden from casual view. A “Flat Tax” could free up a significant portion of the 75,000 IRS workers [and who knows how many tax preparers, lawyers, etc.] for other careers that would be of much more value to society; this is an “opportunity cost” that Flat Tax opponents don’t like to deal with. Or how about the benefits from not forcing the public to navigate the tax form bureaucracy? There would certainly be an upswing in productivity. • Any societal debate that doesn’t include all the costs and benefits, and doesn’t put the welfare of people as the most important factor, is closing the door to our future.
“You Can’t Do That”
You cannot do what laws forbid you cannot do that thing • You can’t do that with all the changes changes always bring • You can’t do that you’ll rock the boat upset the status quo • Not doing things is all we’re taught and learning never grow
“The Celebrated Breakfast Program . . .”
This story highlights how the focus of a government or charitable institution can switch from the welfare of the recipients to the welfare of the program itself. After all, the program is where the time and money, and reputations are committed. It’s an actual story of the effectiveness of a school breakfast program somewhere. [And maybe many-wheres.] • Programs and charities become vested with goodness; cloaking themselves with the same moral protections as the people that are supposed to be helping — the perfect environment for bureaucracy, inefficiency, and waste. • Our government and our institutions would be much more effective if they saw themselves as self-dissolving servants of our welfare; rather than enthroning themselves as administrators. • Modern technology may be used to reduce the paperwork, but not the work. It’s like inventing the internal combustion engine; and using it to circulate air among the galley slaves. • Why do we spend $100,000 to pay someone to distribute $1,000, when it could be done with a $10 chip?
Plain Speaking/Brain Speaking: 100-Year Flood
This series will examine the dictionary meanings and the common perceptions of certain words and phrases, and show how they can be used to hide the intentions and actions of powerful political and corporate interests from the public. • 50 years ago; the idea of “killing for peace” was used to ridicule war. Today, it doesn’t seem ridiculous to imagine a government program called “Future Love” or “Affirmative Love” that would kill to achieve “Love.” • Pluto was redefined to no longer being a planet; and the individual you has been redefined as a fill-in-the-box – put-in-the-box person [“person” is added because you are “respected”]. What’s in the future? More control means smaller boxes. • It’s ironic that while Biology is turning from physical characteristics to the actions of organisms as a means of classification; government is turning from people’s actions [the only workable structuring for a free society] to a policy characterized by physical characteristics. • You know they “love” you — and just maybe they’ll “love” you to death.
“Inclusion/Exclusion Pattern”
The tiles in this image form a repeating pattern where the Green crosses never touch sides, the Magenta crosses seldom touch sides, the Blue crosses usually touch sides, and the Yellow crosses almost always touch sides: explain this pattern in terms of inclusion, exclusion, and loss of identity.
“Meaningful Participation Erasers”
As Cornithaca County steamrollers its way into ever more blatant displays of dictatorial and doctrinal hubris; the use of “meaningful participation erasers” is a bureaucratic given for every public policy enacted. • Their theocracy [The Revealed Church of Secular Self-interest] empowers the elite to hand down policy from the highest possible level: themselves [soon to be capitalized.] And unlike the Divine Right of Kings, they don’t share their authority; even with God. • There is an uneasiness that can actually be felt. There is no job security. People who have differing opinions are lashed out at and defiled in public. Scary stuff. • • Is this just over the top rhetoric? What do you see? Maybe there’s no “post” to go with apocalyptic. Extinction is just as natural as evolution.
Undercover Party - “Pig in a Poke” Game
In a world that no longer recognizes human or individual worth; “due process” is no longer needed. All that’s required are Judges, and those who will be judged. • • In Cornithaca County and throughout the whole State: fetuses of any age are no longer human. It’s the Law. • • Who’s next? The elderly, the infirmed, the deficient, the troublemakers; it’s just a matter of time . . . and Doctrine — all the big steps have already been taken.
Chipping Away . . . Lines of Defense – Part 7
I like to recommend the movie Ikiru to people for its portrayal of bureaucracy in Japan in the early 1950s; the same as here and now, and everywhere at every time — I would recommend it for many reasons; it’s a great movie. • • Bureaucracy’s no mystery - It’s unchanged throughout history - With power, privilege, and with wealth - It works to keep them for itself.
Chipping Away . . . Lines of Defense – Part 6
Like any testing, meaningfully involving yourself in government policy requires being prepared. Not just prepared with the facts and information, but being prepared to use them in a constructive and meaningful way. What are your plans? • Having a vision can give you the resolve for the long haul. • • If my more conventional attempts had worked; I wouldn’t be writing this book. And if I could have handed the job off to someone else; this book would never have been started. • • • Coronavirus? When our governor banned gatherings of 500 people or more; a little chill went down my spine. I wonder how many people felt the same uneasiness.
Chipping Away . . . Lines of Defense – Part 5
I live in an Ag Ghetto. I call it an Ag Ghetto because the local policy is one of containment: contain the poverty, contain the crime, contain the drugs. The deputies patrol the borders of the Ag Zone and only enter when called, write a report, and leave. A kid was tossed onto the road outside my house while playing a game where they stand on the truck of a car as it drives around. It’s the sort of games they allow kids to play in the Ag Ghetto. He landed on his head. He died. • • The Ag Zone is no Old MacDonald’s Farm; it more like “Fire Down Below”: people use the land as a dumping ground, buy off the residents futures with next to nothing, while telling them they’re lucky to get anything at all — and the residents know who calls the shots at the sheriff’s dept. and the regulatory offices.
Chipping Away . . . Lines of Defense – Part 4
Getting “public servants” to see eye-to-eye with the public on policy decisions goes beyond logic, and into the world of politics. Even with a groundswell of public support; committees, experts, and agenda filled studies can be used to load the deck and leave the public on the sidelines. No one can divert a flood of voter concern into a thousand rivulets of fast-drying intentions better than an experienced politician. • • With Cornithaca County’s large college population and their 4-year memory; the sands of time are turned into a veritable sponge for false promises and self-serving policies. The legacy of this year’s biggest event is, a few months later, merely the mention that it was last year’s biggest event, and within another year almost forgotten. • • Politicians know that the students are ephemeral, but the powerful interests are always there.
Chipping Away . . . Lines of Defense – Part 3
It’s never a good idea to use government and municipal handouts as the sole source of fact gathering; they always put themselves in the best light possible — even if they have to smash a few light bulbs to keep us in the dark. • In Cornithaca County, it’s laid on thick: our town’s new Comprehensive Plan states that the factory farm agriculture in the north of town prevents development and keeps taxes lower, and that extensively developing the south of the town with condos and apartments is good because that will lower taxes as well. They refuse to explain or correct this conundrum. • This new Comp Plan document is over 300 pages long, and is stored at the County level as images only; it can no longer be searched by the public for words and phrases.
Chipping Away . . . Lines of Defense – Part 2
I had publicly spoken out, written letters and argued for responsive, participatory government and rural justice for years before this incident [that some of my neighbors thought was no accident] and still do; but somehow I was changed — there was a glowing ember inside me that never goes out. • • This book is not a monument to be viewed from the outside, it’s meant to invite people inside, to involve and challenge them; any pieces in the book are pieces to be built on and to move ahead. • • Cornithaca County. I just put that in because.
Chipping Away . . . Lines of Defense – Part 1
The fight to retain human dignity and worth is being lost every time someone sighs because corruption, greed, and deceit will always be with us, and checks their phone for tonight’s party. It’s a battle where it seems that every time you type in a letter, they hit the “backspace” button, and it’s a burden you can’t push off on somebody else. • If you end up in a fast moving river; you can stand against the current, struggle to move against the current, or just relax and end up wherever the current takes you — but if the same person who brought you there won’t show you the map . . .
“Chipping Away at Bureaucracy” Introduction
Cornithaca County’s elite and their corporate and institutional partners never worry where their next perk or profit is coming from: they just announce, “The County needs . . .” and create the program or pass the legislation to make it happen. • The lesser functionaries and businesses run along behind this well-connected combine of perpetual profit; fighting over whatever scraps are tossed to them. • • While Cornithaca County’s functional dictatorship continuously mocks the concept of any meaningful participation in government; residents in other areas may still have a chance to regain a government of “public servants,” rather than a government that sees the public as the servants.
“The Hog Farm and the Hurricane”
If there is any bi-partisan agreement in this country, it’s the importance of “Big Ag” [a conglomerate of corporate Agribusinesses, Industrial Farms, the “Food industry,” and Politicians]. • It’s not surprising that a group with that much money and power [coupled with a “City-centric” media and a government policy that claims to eschew race, gender, and national origin in their forward looking society, and yet uses them as the basis of every decision and piece of legislation] is able to suppress what is being done to rural families in our country. • It’s also not surprising that in Cornithaca County, a place so Liberal that their feet scarcely touch the land they hold dominion over; their mouths overflow with a dismissive contempt — reviling the rural community as “hillbillies,” “good old boys,” “trailer trash,” “ignorant,” “bigoted,” and “Lily Whites,” without ever having met or spoken with one. • This bigotry will be exposed, and well documented, in Part 2 of Cornithaca County. • • Does changing the target, change the act? If so, where does that thinking come from?
“Doctrine Quality Advisory” Poster
“It hasn’t happened yet” is probably the best description of this poster. If you have spoken at any length with, or read the ideas of these Doctrine holders; you have probably realized that they will not admit to any doubt or allow others to live in a manner that conflicts with that Doctrine. Differing beliefs are wrong and must be immediately corrected: by persuasion, accusations, intimidation, or even physical force. • • “Once a government is committed to the principle of silencing the voice of opposition, it has only one way to go, and that is down the path of increasingly repressive measures, until it becomes a source of terror to all its citizens and creates a country where everyone lives in fear.” — Harry S. Truman
Family Fables – “The Rice Grain Moral”
The Minister of Education had brought new teachers and ideas to the schools in the kingdom, and done such a good job that the King told him to name his reward. • The Minister asked just for a few grains of rice in the following manner: pointing to a chessboard he said, “Put a single grain of rice on the first chess square and double it on every consequent one.” • The King laughed and readily agreed • Then the Minister continued: “Oh my King, that reward would add up to an impossible sum, far greater than all the rice your kingdom could produce in many centuries!” • The King quickly realized he would be unable to fulfill his promise; and was so angered at being tricked that he proclaimed: “None of my people shall rest until they have completed this task!” • • Moral: Rationality is a virtue of the weak. • • What’s so scary about fables? The same thing that’s scary about wisdom; it shows up the pretentions of the self-serving and the fool. • Cornithaca County seeks to suppress the lessons of history and the rationality of wisdom, and substitute their new paradigm: “Doctrine = Wisdom.”
“The Rural Families Landfill”
When you control all the Institutions, all the Bureaucracies, all the Lawmakers, all the Experts in the county, and are connected through the highest reaches of State and Federal power; you do whatever you want. • The College Town was looking for a community to take over and remake for their own benefit, and they did. • • Oh, and they write the history as well.
“The New Bell Shaped Curve”
In a single-source-of-truth, “lossy” society; “outliers” are always fair game. An outlier is a person or thing that is markedly different or detached from the others in a particular group, class, or category. How does Cornithaca County deal with outliers? The answer is simple: Outliers hold anomalous values, they’re a source of disruption and discontent, so just delete them. • They may start with people of a different race, gender, national origin or belief — but they won’t stop there.
“Obsessive Compulsive Doctrine” Poster 3
In a county where lock-step legislators rule on the basis of doctrinal code; you don’t think that your child’s education would be any different. [If you think about their education at all beyond hearing: “It’s the Best!”] • Imagine even art being taught as a group activity, where your ideas need to be approved by everyone in the group, or you cannot contribute to the picture. In Cornithaca County it’s called “collaboration” — in history it’s called “oppression.”
The Myth of Rational Science
It’s more than just lab coats; there seems to be an aura of “otherness” that pervades scientific experimentation. It’s as if their actions have the same natural inevitability as gravity, and are divorced from the human sphere of care and compassion. • Their view from the scientific heights delights in portraying people as insignificant and ephemeral, but it’s only people that give Science any meaning. • Science is not in the service of the Universe, it’s in the service of people.
Whole Human Replacement Parts
As Artificial Intelligence looms larger and larger, overshadowing humanity, there is one clear result — nothing is being done to protect us. The actuality of human displacement has been met, not with protections or retraining programs, but with indifference and vague assurances of new jobs in the future. There’s not even a mention of what country those jobs will be in. • • There is an old joke in which a corporate “tycoon” vacationing in a small fishing village instructs a skilled fisherman on the steps he can take to become rich so he can retire and enjoy life. The fisherman responds by asking “Why? I’m doing that right now.” • We could have a simpler and much more fulfilling life with all the latest technology, but then where would the “tycoons” be? • • The once independent rural community I live in has been taken over by an affluent suburban pastiche of incomers. They recently pushed through a 300 page Comprehensive Plan whose most influential writer stated that she didn’t think the rural people “deserved to live there.” • There won’t be any “fishing villages” in their Cornithaca County!
Do•Doctrine Nail Art Advertisement
It’s a common occurrence in satire to question whether something is actually satirical or not. Since the Cornithaca County book is intended to challenge the reader, I have tried not to give even that solid ground. Some parts are obviously outrageous and others quite “sensible.” It’s easy today to only connect with the people and sites that reinforce your beliefs and not be exposed to different ways of viewing the world. Thinking and learning can be uncomfortable, but there’s a comfort in realizing you are part of a larger world than you ever knew existed. • • A larger image of the advertisement can be viewed on my blog: Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials.
Back to School – “The Gift of Grab”
Have you ever gotten those large, bulging envelopes from charitable fund raisers and wondered who is paying for all the printed enclosures, the cards, address labels, pens, t-shirts, ornaments, personalized note pads and attention-getters they contain? • Do you wait in a long line at the only open check-out counter, only to be publicly questioned about your charitable intentions so the store’s owners can brag about how generous they are? • • Non-profits are increasingly using aggressive and psychologically manipulative means to enrich themselves; and why not? — Since they are “good” by definition; every act is cleansed. Cornithaca County’s Corporate-Educational-Non-profit- Bureaucrat-Conglomerate is more that “good” by their own definition; they’re “better.” • And if you’re “better,” what acts can’t you justify?
Back to School – “The TMDL Theory”
Another structured lesson for students. Government authorities have traditionally claimed to aim at perfection and have fallen far short. You can imagine how far short they’ve fallen when they only strive to reach adequacy — or you could take a look around and not have to imagine. • • You know you live in Cornithaca County when they don’t fix the problem, just change the definition.
Back to School – The “Lossy” Society
Since learning of my Family Farm Fun book being used for home schooling in Agricultural Pollution and Rural Justice topics, I decided to consciously add structured lessons to the content of this book. I hope that they will encourage the imaginative and creative thought that has [except for lip service] been removed from the classroom. • • Is this an example of the Lossy Society?
“Map Maze”
Like the “Stone Monuments” Maze, this maze is just for fun and has no connection to the Cornithaca County agenda of the book. It’s one of the places set aside for the reader to relax. The solution has been added to this image. In this book, as in the Family Farm Fun book, the solutions to all the puzzles and mazes will be given in the back.
“The Myth of Responsible Science”
In a time of “doing good by definition,” it’s important to look behind the bureaucratic billboards and see what their “vision of the future” is actually like. Non-profits are defined as “good” [even if 80% of the donations are siphoned off before they trickle down to the needy] and so is “Science.” • • Why is it that so many professions that deal in cold hard cash and cold hard facts are now cloaking themselves in compassion and concern? • The answer is revealed in Cornithaca County.
“The Myth of Science” again and again
Every new advancement seems to promise freedom, and deliver conformity. In Cornithaca County, everyone is busy — busy conforming. • • When computer programs for publishing were first becoming popular commercially, designers were be able to tell which program was used for a publication because each one “channeled” the design into a recognizable form. • • The channeling of today’s devices and apps can be just as controlling, and more insidious, than any totalitarian government. • • Take some time to examine what’s happening to you — if you’re not too busy.
“The Myth of Science”
Is Science right? • • When the practice is as simple as giving someone food, Science creates Industrial Farming; releasing Genetically Modified Organisms and Cancer causing pesticides in a doomed-to-failure “I’m bigger than you!” race with overpopulation — while at the same time destroying the arable land, polluting the fishable waters, and accelerating global warming seasonal changes that are decimating the crops much of the world has relied upon for thousands of years. • • The real question may be: “Is Science rational?”
“Ruler of All You Survey”
In Cornithaca County; the “puppet show” never stops, and the theme is usually Public Participation. The elite conduct public surveys on the county’s “needs” — needs that have already been decided before the survey questions were ever were made up. • The survey results gain legitimacy from a list of “interested parties” [although who they are or how to get on this list is a mystery] and school children [under the guidance of their teacher/authority figure]. While the children are too young by law to be entrusted with mature decision making, their teacher can instruct them on how they should decide the county’s future policies. Input from the county’s adult taxpaying residents is not actively solicited. • • While the areas of policy involved may differ — every decision gives Cornithaca County’s elite more power, more money, and more control over the lives of others.
New Word - “Redoctrinated”
You can’t achieve Cornithaca’s “One Thought – One Taught” goal without an all-pervading redoctrinated bureaucracy of information and education; what may surprise readers is how ubiquitous this bureaucracy has become. •• When you start to examine all the communications around you, the link between redoctrination and indoctrination will become clear. • Rural people are always objects of ridicule and portrayed as the “bad guys” in Cornithaca County — what’s happening in your community?
“Son of a Prominent Atheist”
For Cornithaca’s secular doctrine holders, everything is reimagined in their own self-interest; so it’s not surprising that all the negative mud-throwing is directed at other people’s beliefs. • • Since any belief about religion is a religious belief, and since their secular “holier than God” attitude is just as morally arrogant as any “holier than thou” one; this page discloses the kind of doctrine deflating headlines that you should [but never will] see in newspapers.
“Obsessive Compulsive Doctrine Mythbusters”
These three “Mythbuster” spots accurately convey the “tone” of modern social-psychiatric thinking; focusing on and sympathizing with the actions of the perpetrators, and trivializing their victims. • • What’s the difference to the safety of the community between a bi-polar with a history of violence who is not prescribed medication, and one who does not take the medication they are prescribed? • None. It’s all about accountability and doctrine, the victims are merely collateral damage.
“Tell All? Tongue Twisters”
Cornithaca’s elite easily speak words that mean nothing, and have great difficulty with those that do mean something. Speaking the following phrase may be possible for residents; getting the facts from these Twisted Tompkins Tongue Twisters is not. • • Sue’s shrewd strewn sheepskin shaped shuffling snowshoes slowed slipshod sleuths’ swift sniff sifting Siberians so sore sheriffs’ shots slurried snow spall spoiled spruces.
“Obsessive Compulsive Doctrine” Posters
“Obsessive Compulsive Doctrine” poster, and follow-up poster. • “Is this OCD? Just because someone annoys you, it doesn’t mean that you have Obsessive Compulsive Doctrine. It’s much more than being irritated by opinions that conflict with your beliefs. Don’t trivialize OCD.” •• These are the first two Cornithaca County "OCD" posters in the series. The risk to our safety is increasing.
“Doctrine Anger Assessment Chart”
The progression of angry facial expressions is based on the pain assessment charts found in medical treatment rooms. The top of the picture shows the enlarged chart with the whole page being shown on the bottom. • Anger is an important factor in the ascendance of doctrine in Cornithaca County. Many people I talk to are afraid to express themselves publicly because of the anger that is directed to them by an ideologically controlled mob. These “doctrine holders” don’t persuade by their love, they control through their hate. This behavior matches the early pattern of the worst tyrannies in history. • The page ends with a quote from Frederick Douglass: “To make a contented slave it is necessary to make a thoughtless one.” • • Unthinking anger and hate are the great doctrinal cleansers of Cornithaca County.
“College Town CPR” Poster
When Cornithaca County’s cleverest get into trouble — they look for patsies. The College Town always looked down their noses at their rural neighbors and had nothing to do with them, until their arrogance got them into serious troubles; then using their money, power and Ivy League influence, they reimagined the county as a way to dump all those troubles on their neighbors instead. • Just one example: Their planners created the myth of “rural sprawl” and pushed through the development of ugly urban-sprawl bedroom communities in the green spaces of neighboring towns in order to “combat” this horror. It’s enough to make a cat laugh, and rural residents weep. • • In the “county’s” most recent comprehensive plan, the College Town is said to “define” the county’s future, and the rural community no longer exists.
“You Can Walk Both Sides of a One-way Street”
To the elite of Cornithaca County; the only wrongdoing is not getting what you want. Smiles, shouts, assurances and denunciations are only tools of the policy making that insures their continued profit. • In a county that is almost universally thought of as thoroughly corrupt and without any meaningful public participation, the elite launch “ethics” probes against people who oppose their plans. • • What do they do when they themselves are accused of misconduct? They refuse to do anything; they refuse to acknowledge the accusation, they refuse to investigate, they refuse to carry out their sworn duty under the law, they just refuse. They decide what they want to do, and that’s that. • • Their actions and arrogance demand something beyond “hypocritical” — that’s “Cornithaca County.”
“Reproductive Responsibility”
In the 1960’s Liberals were constantly using the adverb “absolutely” in defining the rights and freedoms of citizens. They realized that there can be no protection from rights and freedoms that have been compromised. Today’s New Religion politicians have come 180 degrees from that belief, and work to destroy anything that can obstruct the spread of their controlling secular doctrine. Their “rights” and “entitlements” are gifts with no responsibilities attached, but there is an expiration date — the day they take control.
“Early Harvest” Poster
“A new law brings new hope to those waiting for replacement organs. Physician-assisted Organ Harvesting (PAOH) legislation has opened the door to a better future for our community. Early Harvest is a humane solution that balances the maintenance of the elderly with the continued care of our at-risk younger population. Physicians know when the time is right, so don’t be afraid of the change. • It’s your doctor’s choice . . . and it’s your duty.” •• Is this a satire? With abortions and assisted suicides already bookending the population, the rest is just filling in. The “Rights” of the individual are only tools, used by the elite of Cornithaca County for their own benefit: They have no independent existence, and may be changed without notice. • Of course there will have to be exemptions to the law for those who are important . . .
“Stone Monuments” Maze
This two-page maze is unusual in that it has no connection to the Cornithaca County theme of the book. It’s one of the places set aside for relaxing — giving the reader a chance to enjoy the engravings on the face of the stone tiles without analysis.
“Crocodile Tears” Hopscotch
The Victim’s Fault of “being in the wrong place at the wrong time” could very well refer to Cornithaca County in 2020: where the elite of Revealed Church of Secular Self-interest believe that goodness is not a way of life, but a way to make a very good living. • In a county that practices outreach as a way take, not to give, the poor rural families are being forced out by high property taxes and repressive municipal codes while its government concerns itself with creating a template for How People Must Live. • Cornithaca County is a New Religion dictatorship, and as its full extent is revealed, you may be frightened to see how much of it is already being put into place where you live. •• You know you live in a Cornithaca County: When the public can’t ask questions at a public meeting. •• One Thought • One Taught • One Voice • One Choice.
“Non-Profits of the Caribbean” Movie Poster
People in Cornithaca County will climb anything to look down their noses at others, and what better way than working in a non-profit — they’re recession proof and smug in an “I’ve got a giving sticker on my BMW” way. • And whether you see it as pirated giving or the big dog gets the prize; today’s biggest non-profits have become so powerful and venerated, they seem more important than the causes they wave. A perfect match for Cornithaca’s “vibrant community” façade.
“Monolithic Monsters” Movie Poster
If you grew up watching and loving science fiction B-movies, I hope this poster brings back memories. Just as in many of those films, atomic bombs were discovered to cause monstrous mutations, politicians and bureaucrats have taken the crack that Affirmative Action put in our protections and blasted it into a life threatening fissure — Cornithaca County residents have no meaningful participation in its “monolithic” government, and no protection from its all-inclusive policy decisions. • As this corporate-political “vision” of how everyone must live expands it control, local governments that have been taken over are now instituting “ethics” probes that reimagine the 50’s Congressional witch hunts. •• If you remember those old movies, you’ll remember that things did not always end well. • You know you live in Cornithaca County: When you’re told not to write this book.
“Pin the Tail on the Media” Game
This is a revision of the “Pin the Tail on the Legislator” game in the Family Farm Fun book, in color, with a little more bite, and just clean satirical fun. [I have a number of pieces on media shortcomings planned — they are truly deserving of our lack of respect.] • You know you live in Cornithaca County: When “journalistic integrity” is an oxymoron. • After I sent documentation of rural social injustice to the local newspaper a few years ago, and urged them to write about this issue, I was told it would “confuse” their readers — an odd comment for a University Town newspaper. It’s the same town where the cooperatively owned, “independent bookstore” refused to even consign the Family Farm Fun book.
“Escape from Cornithaca County” Game
This simple 2-page board game satirizes a place where the community has country club aspirations and sitcom sensibilities, and the cultural festivals are filled with people stuffing their faces and listening to free music. In Cornithaca County, it’s all beneath the surface [and sometimes in the cookery.] • It’s a game that even your young children can play — just don’t buy them anything from the food tents.
“Fundraising Professional’s Motto” Sampler
Here are some other thoughts on non-profits: • Fundraisers act as if there is an endless sea of giving. The greater likelihood is that there is a limited pool of giving, and the more non-profits with highly paid fundraisers and staffing, and expensive administration and fundraising programs are successful, the more of that limited pool is used for “overhead.” This leads to a cycle where those who distribute the highest percentage of the funding they receive to the needy are increasingly disadvantaged in raising those funds. Historically, 100% of charitable contributions were distributed locally, by non-paid volunteers, to those in the community whose needs were known — charities are changing from a way of living, to way of making a living. • Should a Food Pantry that raises much more funding than it needs, bank the excess? • Should two charitable organizations with the same mission, and overlapping outreach, merge together and reduce costs for the benefit of the needy? • How long and how much money should the search for a cure consume before it becomes sensible to apply that funding to a more successful area? • Do people who make large salaries working for non-profits have any more inner goodness than those in other occupations?
Easy Maze – “Lake HAB Maze”
The runoff that spews from industrial farms, Is kept off the news to suppress the alarms. • You’d better be careful of touching those HABs! • So round up your poodles, rottweilers and labs. •• Another maze that is simple enough for a very young child to solve. The rhymes can be used as the basis for home schooling or a classroom assignment. • Time for another “9 Point Plan”?!
Easy Maze – “Salt Mine Maze”
10 billion tons of water — you’re under the lake, How much undercutting can the rock supports take? • That trickle of water is nobody’s trick, So drop your tools now, and get out of there quick! •• This maze is simple enough for a very young child to solve. It can also be colored, and figures and fish added for fun. • What is the real risk? — the mining company is funded by a high risk hedge fund and won’t show their geologist’s reports, while Cornithaca County and the state split 99% of the mining lease and tax income. The rural town where all the mine shafts are located, and that gets all the salt truck traffic receives chump change, and is bypassed on all decision making.
“Predacious Paper-Pushers” - Three Species
Here are three more of the Predacious Paper-Pusher sign boards that will appear throughout the book. If you can’t read the signage on the image: • The “Terrordoctrine” – This predator-from-above swoops down on its prey whenever they utter the wrong words. Although it is only a bureaucratic form, and without creditable substance, the Terrordoctrine is known to have inflicted career ending injuries to low-level employees. • The “Praying Mandate” – Holding the pose of goodness and vulnerability, this New Millennium predator will eat anything, including other mandates. After an initial “we’re all family” mating ritual, the female mandate swallows up the male mandate, leaving only one gender – the “Single Mandate.” • The “Not-for-profish” – Introduced as a means to equitably distribute the nutrients for societal well-being, its ravenous appetite and prolific breeding tactics have devastated the social ecosystem, leaving the at risk population marginalized and with little to sustain themselves. •• The humorous presentation belies the actual seriousness of the situation in Cornithaca County. The second part of this book will present incidents and issues of misconduct that show, even though a citizen has “dotted all the i’s,” and persisted through a discouraging bureaucratic accountability pass-a-round, that in the end the government will do nothing because — they don’t want to.
“Predacious Paper-Pushers” - Two Species
Here are a couple of the Predacious Paper-Pusher sign boards that will appear throughout the book. The “Bureaucrack” was used in the Users and Losers game pages. • If you can’t read the signage on the image: The “Bureaucrack”- Unnoticed among the clutter of forms and layered departments of public office, lurks the Bureaucrack. Just one phrase or legislative revision can open up a family swallowing crevasse where the unwary who “fall through the cracks” are never seen again. • The “Edugator” - Closely related to the Legisgator, the Edugator has an insatiable appetite. It lurks among the youngest pupils and its cries mimic the voices of needy children – “It’s not the educational costs you can see that kill you.” • In Cornithaca County schools; some teachers not only tell their students what to think, but who to vote for. It’s true. A County where the residents have no meaningful participation in government, has no need to bother with ethical considerations. [You wouldn’t believe what they do to get the school budgets passed.]
New Words: Bigocrit
Definition of bigocrit•• 1 : a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or good will, but who regards or treats the members of a group (such as a white male or non-Hispanic group) with hatred and intolerance• 2 : a person who acts in contradiction to his or her oath of office and is obstinately or intolerantly devoted to his or her own opinions and prejudice. — Holding up high moral, ethical, and social standards to mask self-serving and intolerant actions is the mark of a bigocrit.
“Users and Losers” Board Game
These 6-pages from the book can be copied [or scanned and printed] and cut out to make a playable board game based on the classic “Snakes and Ladders.” The ladders are climbed by “using” the virtues of others, and players are pushed down the chutes when they in turn are used through the vices of others. • There is no great or hidden message, only a cautionary theme for today’s social interactions. As one of the pages states: “You know you live in Cornithaca County: When it’s better to start a non-profit to feed the poor, than to feed the poor.” — Users come in many guises. •• A larger image of the gamer is viewable in my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
Bigotry: The Musical –“The Bigots are Coming”
This is another of the songs I’ve roughed in for the musical. I haven’t worked out a story line, but it will fun to see what can be “constructed” with the pieces. First, I’ll need to make an “armature” for the musical, next the pieces can be attached in various ways, and a few coherent ideas will emerge — then process will be repeated to refine the vision. There is also the visual Paybill vernacular to fulfill as well. Projects with both verbal and non-verbal facets are uniquely satisfying creatively.
“Don’t Ban Kitchen Knives” Poster
This page presents a poster from a group opposing the Safe Act II legislation that would ban the possession of kitchen knives by citizens. The fight for control of the kitchen is on — and you thought changing the family menu was a problem. Only in Cornithaca County. A larger image of the poster is viewable in my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
“Ban Kitchen Knives” Poster
This page presents a poster promoting new state legislation (Safe Act II) enacted to ban the possession of kitchen knives by citizens. There will be a second poster opposing this new legislation. Fear and Smear is commonly used in Cornithaca County to create anxiety and keep the residents off balance. The cumulative effect of all this new legislation is to gain complete control of every aspect of daily living. If you think this is farfetched, you don’t really know Cornithaca County. A larger image of the poster is viewable in my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
Song: “Oh, What a Beautiful Doctrine”
Bigotry: The Musical – This is the first time the term “New Religion” has been mentioned in the book’s preview. I think of it as Cornithaca County’s “Revealed Church of Secular Self-interest” and the Three Laws of Doctrine: 1.) Doctrine is everything. 2.) All doctrine is handed down from the elite. 3.) All doctrine is subject to change without notice. • The lyrics of the songs and excerpts of dialog will appear throughout the book [as will spin-offs: games, puzzles, etc. based on the musical.] — Other planned musical numbers include: “People Who Use People,” “You Probably Think this World is about You,” “I’d Like to Fill the World with Kids,” “Ain’t We Got Guns,” and “Let’s Call the Whole Vote Off. •• A larger image of this book page is viewable on my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
9-Point Plan Game
Players compete to fool the public while allowing the biggest polluters to continue their “business as usual” destruction of the environment. • Write in your cronies and write off the community — while your career hangs in the balance of the next 9-Point Plan — Crony Committees • Polluter Friendly Oversight • Voluntary Guidelines • Camouflaged Statistics • Allowable Pollution • No Meaningful Public Participation • Minimized Dangers. •• A larger preview of this page is viewable in my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
Family Fables – The Two Towns
In Cornithaca County there were two very different towns. The rural town wanted to bring in a gas line so that businesses could locate there and help shore up their town’s dwindling tax base. But the County Legislature, most of whom lived in the other town, cried that this would be destructive to the environment, and even went to the state capitol so that it was prevented. • Then the other town, a University Town where most of the County Legislature lived, approved a project that included a three-quarters of a million square foot, 2,000 bed student dormitory powered by natural gas and would require 26 acres of disturbed land. The County Legislature was silent. •• It’s not what you do, it’s who you are. And who you know. ••• Pure Cornithaca County.
Family Fables – The Wise Man and the Fools
At a planning conference there was a Lecturer who greatly impressed the attendees with his slide show of Form-Based Code Planning. He finished off with a vision for the County that was so breathtaking that the spectators stood up and applauded. But a Citizen who stood at the back shouted: "Call that sales pitch a plan! Nothing like it. You give me till tomorrow and I’ll show you what that plan is really based on." The audience laughed, but next day, sure enough, the Citizen appeared on the stage, and putting his presentation on the screen, so undercut the Lecturer’s “vision” that the attendees cat-called and booed to make him stop. "You fools!" he cried, "See what you have been applauding," and pointed to the many flaws that were exposed by his logical analysis, but he was shouted off the stage. •• Moral: Bureaucrats would rather commit to a boondoggle than be shown up as fools. • If the Citizen was truly wise he would have known that. ••• Form-based codes are part of the New Urbanism and represent an urban viewpoint. Cornithaca County uses form-based codes in rural towns to expand their power base and drive out the existing rural community.
The Charity and Its Gold
Once upon a time there was a Food Pantry Administrator who used to deposit all the grant money into a special bank account; and every week he used to log in and gloat over the balance. A thief, who was aware of this account, stole the password and emptied the account. When the Administrator next came to gloat over his balance, he found nothing but the empty account. He tore his hair, and raised such an outcry that all the volunteers came around him, and he told them how he used to log in to check the account every week. "Did you ever take any of it out?" asked one of them. • "Of course not," said he, "I only logged in to look at the balance." • "Then log in again and look at the empty account," said the volunteer; "it will do the hungry just as much good." •• Charitable gifts undisposed might as well not exist.
The People, the People, and the Government
After a dispute had arisen between two groups of people, one group came to some Politicians and asked for their help to legislate against the other group. The Politicians agreed, but said: "If you desire this legislation, you must permit us to place some restrictions on the rights of all citizens, so that we may pass these laws, and allow us to decide where and how this should be done so that we may keep everyone upon the path to a better society." The group agreed to the conditions, and the Politicians soon put these restrictions and laws in place. When with the aid of this legislation that group had won out against the other, they said to the Politicians: "Now, remove those restrictions and give us back our rights." • "Not so fast, friends," said the Politicians. "Now that we have these powers, we prefer to keep things as they are at present." • If you allow a government to abrogate rights for your own purposes, they will abrogate rights for theirs. •• In Cornithaca County, everything is controlled by a corporate-institutional bureaucracy. There is no meaningful public participation in government.
Family Fables – The Man and the Mural
A woman and a man were discussing the relative positions of women and men in society. The woman contended that she and her sisters were more deserving than men by reason of their greater worth. "Come now with me," she cried, "and I will soon prove that I am right." So she took him into the public meeting hall and showed him a new mural depicting women’s greatness in all things. • "That is all very well," said the man, "but proves nothing, for it was a woman who painted that mural." • We can easily represent things as we wish them to be. •• This fable is changed very little from “The Lion and the Statue.” I have reversed some fables, twisted them, and made some ambivalent, and mixed things up, to remove the reader’s comfort zone and provoke thought. For the same reasons, thoughts of the most respected “icons” in the history of social development will be printed at the bottom of some pages in this book, as a benchmark against which current social theories can be measured.
Family Fables – The Sun and the Wind
The Sun of Illumination and the Wind of Doctrine were disputing which was the stronger. Suddenly they saw a citizen coming down the road, and the Sun said: "I see a way to decide our dispute. Whichever of us can cause that citizen to shed his rights and beliefs shall be regarded as the stronger. I’ll begin." • So the Wind diminished and hid itself, and the Sun began to shine a persuasive illumination upon the citizen. But although he shined brighter and ever brighter, the citizen held up his rights and beliefs as a shield between them, till at last the Sun had to give up in despair. • Then the Wind came out and blew a relentless gale of denunciations upon the citizen, who was soon too battered and dazed to hold onto anything. • Moral: Force can be more useful than persuasion in establishing a new social system. • • Investigative material and previews of the book are viewable in my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
You Know You Live in Cornithaca County . . 2
As in the first group, these sayings are an iteration that is used like an armature to give structure to the satirical pieces in part one of Cornithaca County, an armature constructed from the investigations and conclusions contained in the second part of the book. Large type was used on the page to increase visibility. Investigative material and previews of the book are viewable in my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
You Know You Live in Cornithaca County . . .
“You Know You Live In . . .” sayings follow the same style of iteration as the “You Know You Live Near . . .” captions in my factory farming picture book. It’s a simple way to set the stage for the satirical pieces in the first part of the Cornithaca County book while connecting to the investigations in the second part. Large type was used on the page to increase visibility. Investigative material and previews of the book are viewable in my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
Cornithaca County Limericks
Limericks are a great way to explore the vagaries of the human condition, and also a great way to teach kids about poetry. More than just rhyming, limericks combine the brevity of flash fiction with the need to hold all the elements in balance until a proper “mix” is achieved. Limericks are short and, usually in the last line, to the point. Large type was used on the page to increase visibility. Investigative material and previews of the book are viewable in my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials”
Bigotry: The Musical – “Ain’t We Got Guns”
A larger image of this book page is viewable on my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials” — Bigotry: The Musical - The lyrics of the songs and excerpts of dialog will appear throughout the book [as will spin-offs: games, puzzles, etc. based on the musical.] — Planned musical numbers include: “Oh, What a Beautiful Doctrine,” “People Who Use People,” “You Probably Think this World is about You,” “I’d Like to Fill the World with Kids,” “Ain’t We Got Guns,” and “Let’s Call the Whole Vote Off.”
Song: “I’d Like to Fill the World with Kids”
A larger image of this book page is viewable on my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials” — Bigotry: The Musical - The lyrics of the songs and excerpts of dialog will appear throughout the book [as will spin-offs: games, puzzles, etc. based on the musical.] — Planned musical numbers include: “Oh, What a Beautiful Doctrine,” “People Who Use People,” “You Probably Think this World is about You,” “I’d Like to Fill the World with Kids,” “Ain’t We Got Guns,” and “Let’s Call the Whole Vote Off.”
Song: “Let’s Call the Whole Vote Off”
A larger image of this book page is viewable on my blog: “Rural Tompkins County – The Road to Hell is Paved with Good Credentials” — Bigotry: The Musical - The lyrics of the songs and excerpts of dialog will appear throughout the book [as will spin-offs: games, puzzles, etc. based on the musical.] — Planned musical numbers include: “Oh, What a Beautiful Doctrine,” “People Who Use People,” “You Probably Think this World is about You,” “I’d Like to Fill the World with Kids,” “Ain’t We Got Guns,” and “Let’s Call the Whole Vote Off.”
Bigotry – The Musical
This is the cover of the theatre magazine that will showcase the cast, scenes and musical numbers, a synopsis of the story, and [of course] the advertiser’s pages. The lyrics of the songs and excerpts of dialog will appear throughout the book [as will spin-offs: games, puzzles, etc. based on the musical.] Planned musical numbers include: “Oh, What a Beautiful Doctrine,” “People Who Use People,” “You Probably Think this World is about You,” “I’d Like to Fill the World with Kids,” “Ain’t We Got Guns,” and “Let’s Call the Whole Vote Off.”
The Dog in the Manger
A Dog looking out for its afternoon nap jumped into the Manger of an Ox and lay there cozily upon the straw. But soon the Ox, returning from a day’s hard work, came up to the Manger and wanted to eat some of the straw. The Dog in a rage, being awakened from its slumber, stood up and barked at the Ox, and whenever it came near attempted to bite it. At last the Ox gave up and went away, and the dog went back to sleep. Moral: Aggression wins possession.
The Fox and the Grapes
One hot summer's day a Fox was strolling through an orchard till he came to a bunch of Grapes just ripening on a vine which had been trained over a lofty branch. "Just the thing to quench my thirst," quoth he. Drawing back a few paces, he took a run and a jump, and just missed the bunch. Turning round again with a One, Two, Three, he jumped up, but with no greater success. Again and again he tried after the tempting morsel, but at last had to give it up, and walked away with a snarl, saying: "I’ll teach him to put something I want out of reach." The fox brought a suit against the owner, arguing that his not being able to reach the fruit was substantially limiting compared to an average person in the general population. He won the case. The owner of the orchard was ordered to cut down the trees and train the vines to a height that the fox could reach. He went out of business. Moral: You can use “fairness” laws to demand an unfair outcome.
The Lion’s Share
A University Town sent out word to the planners of all the neighboring towns in the county, saying that it had decided on best way to unify the county and distribute the burdens and benefits among its peoples. All the planners hurried to the conference. The University Town spoke forcefully: “These are complicated and difficult questions, and I am more knowledgeable than any of you. You should give me the authority to write the comprehensive plans for all of your towns.” The visiting planners, flattered at the offer [and happy to be relieved of the work] returned home and convinced the others it was in their best interest to do this. Then the University Town called another conference and revealed their Plan for sharing the benefits: “One part is for me in my capacity as the University Town that Defines the County; the second is mine as the Acknowledged Leader Who Writes the Plans; another share comes to me through my Redistricting of the County Legislature, and the last share, well, as for that, which of you dares risk their career by opposing Me?” "Humph," grumbled one planner, walking away with his tail between his legs, and thinking of what excuses he could make, "You may share the burdens of the great, but you will not share the benefits."
Ka•Put – a nerve-racking game of mining
Kap•Put gets its name from the word “kaput,” meaning “utterly finished” or “destroyed.” Players compete to mine as much salt as possible from under the lake without creating a catastrophic breach in the lakebed. The players insert all the sticks into the game tube and then place all the community’s marbles on top of them. One by one every player points the connecting tunnel towards their mine and removes a stick hoping that all the marbles stay on the top. Every marble that falls through displaces water along the tunnel and into the player’s mine – When their mine is filled, that player is out of the game, and must move to another community . . . whoever has the least disastrous flooding at the end of the game is the winner.
Artificial Intelligence Sing-a-long
Why is Artificial Intelligence so scary? Because it works so completely to the advantage of those who have the most money and power . . . and want more. While Artificial Intelligence may be problematical in the workplace, it’s the perfect vehicle for oppression and control. Many of the people who hold at-risk “low-level” jobs face challenges and conditions on a daily basis that lie far beyond the statistical-averaging tools of AI’s apologists. There are real world reasons why “upskilling” is not a possible option. You might as well tell a dishwasher who is “AI’ed” out of a job to get one as a school superintendent or a stockbroker, and then then claim it’s their fault for not following your advice. We’re living in the days of such fatuous expertise. More importantly, even though “AI Erosion” is already underway, there are no “upskilling” programs available for these workers, or being planned.
You Know You Live near a Factory Farm When Your Kids Go Fishing with a Pool Skimmer
Humor & Entertainment
In Rural America the biggest threat to the health and well-being of the community is the same activity that once strengthened and nurtured it — farming. Industrial farming is rolling the dice against a dystopian future of environmental meltdown, antibiotic-resistant pathogens, and genetically modified organisms in a race to quickly amass wealth. Using a simple picture-book style, and the buoyancy of humor, this book navigates the flood of destructive farming practices that have already engulfed the rural community, and are spreading.
Book Bubbles from You Know You Live near a Factory Farm When Your Kids Go Fishing with a Pool Skimmer
Family Farm Fun
Humor & Entertainment
This book has already been published (see below.) Due to the pictorial nature of this book, these Book Bubbles cannot be extracted from the epub file format needed to upload an existing book.
Rough-Cut Book Bubbles from Family Farm Fun
“Pandemic Sing-a-long”
This sing-a-long from the book was posted before, but now might be a good time to post it again — it’s something to sing while you watch the news or purchase pandemic palliatives in the stores.
Hatch and Release (Text)
With the public outcry over the industrial farming practice of dumping live male chicks into a grinder, the Poultry Public Perception Panel is promoting the "Hatch and Release" method as a more humane solution. A cushion of air wafts the chicks up the pipe to the release point, where they are free to go wherever they wish. To avoid waste, those that fall to the receiving area below are respectfully collected and put into a grinder.
The Voluntary Guidelines Coloring Book
A coloring book with an industrial farming twist — 50 scenes of natural beauty you can color however you want. Don't worry about staying within the guidelines, they're only voluntary.
The Factory Farm Poop-up Book
Teach your child toilet cleanliness with this washable vinyl book of factory farm "poop-up" scenes. Each scene portrays a different potty training cleanliness issue with admonitions in large print such as: Antibiotic-resistant bacteria lagoon — "Wash hands" and Manure spill — "Wipe yourself" The book's colorful graphics explain both industrial farming and potty training in child-friendly terms. The "poop-ups" are fun and some are plain hilarious!
The Nutrient Plan Joke Book
One good joke deserves another, and agricultural nutrient plans are about as useful "as a screen door in a submarine." Try out some of these nutrient plan jokes at your next barbecue [when the wind changes]: Q: "How many nutrient plans does it take to screw in a light bulb?" A: "Forget it, they're useless." Q: "What's brown and aqua and smells like bleach in a toilet?" A: "A nutrient spill in your swimming pool." Q: "What did the nutrient plan say to the impaired lake?" A: "It's only a plan." Q: "Why is a nutrient plan like a politician?" A: "They both make promises they know they won't fulfill." Nutrient Plans are the only solution for agricultural pollution that factory farmers and politicians offer to the rural community. This 35 page book overflowing with derisive humor shows how much respect the rural community has for them.
The Child's Water Testing Picture Book
Kids: Your parents trust their well water because it's been pure and healthy for generations, but times have changed. Help keep your family safe with The Child's Water Testing Picture Book. Follow the simple instructions and diagrams to collect your well water samples, then bring them to a laboratory for testing. It's best to test weekly, or even daily during the Spill Season. Remember the Law: "Home owners with their own wells are solely responsible for the quality and safety of their water." So if you die, it's your fault. With frequent enough testing, it's comforting to know that your family will probably, in most cases, be OK.
The Ag Almanac
"What's the record for herbicide drift on a windy day?" and "How far can a toxic gas plume travel?" The Ag Almanac answers these and many other agricultural questions in a refreshingly straightforward way. The statistics section includes such items as a year-by-year government subsidy flow-meter, and a size comparison of the Dead Zone to various states. And the Almanac's long-term weather predictions are based, not on global warming trends, or climate change scenarios, but on a simple-to-understand mix of government influence and career longevity. This book is an indispensable source for measuring our lack of stewardship.
Where's the Inspector?
Children under seven can have hours of fun trying to find the Inspector in a variety of factory farm settings — animal mortality dumps, slurry runs, medical waste piles, spoilage trailers, manure pits, the owner's suite, and more. Every page has a different setting, but only one has the Inspector. . .can you find her?
A+ for Asthma (a nurse's heartwarming story)
Young Jason B. would come to the nurse's office every morning with severe asthma symptoms — even though he taped up the windows and door to his bedroom at night. See his struggle through a nurse's eyes, as she fights to help him escape an Ag Ghetto of fish kills, fumes, and factory farms. Share their triumph as he graduates with honors and wins a scholarship to a college in the state capitol, where factory farm "nutrients" are banned as "toxic waste."
Factory Farm Origami Book
From Blow flies to Bureaucrats, factory farms represent an "invasive species" subsector that is overturning the ecological balance of rural America. Tradition meets perdition in this book, as a "harmful farm-full" of villains are transformed into Japanese art. "Money-driven policy making and corruption have always been with us, but the Factory Farm Origami Book provides some new folds on an old wrinkle," joked Dr. E. Steward, just hours before his tragic accident.
Ag Slang Flash Cards
"Ag up" your water cooler chat with this informative flash card set. Did you know that "100 Year Storms" occur several times each year? Or that a "Family Farm" is a multi-national corporation where the majority of stock is owned by one family? Just follow the instructions, and in a matter of days you'll be understanding what the "rich people" mean when they say: "I'll get the hog farm expansion approval before the next 100year storm." and "If the governor can't push back those regulations for our family farms, he won't be in office come next election." Even if you're a party of the third part, liven up your party with authentic Ag Slang Flash Cards
Make Mine Pink Slime
An author's argument for acceptance of the new paradigm. "After years of being limited to 'old school' organic products, thanks to the USDA's leadership, consumers are now able to choose from a wide range of agricultural offerings, all with the trusted 'organic' label. Industrial farming has done an incredible job of expanding the organic market, and I'm proud they picked me to write this book!" —AW, Cooperative Extension Agricultural Writer
Bobble Head Bureaucrats
This book is the recognized authority on those cult collectible "authorities." Price guides for plastic, ceramic and stamped metal bobble heads. Page after page of die-cut "punch and paste" multi-cultural paper-pushers, nodding approval at all levels of government. Printed diagrams and instructions to create your own "paper-works." Add to this an annotated history of factory farm bureaucracy, with a giant 3,500page appendix of equivocations and runarounds, and you have a book that's as hard to pick up as it is to put down.
The Factory Farm Songbook
Words and music from Spillboard's Top 100 Industrial Farming Songs of All Time — featuring: "Killing Me Softly With His Shit," "Spray-drops Keep Fallin' on My Head," "Hey Rube," "Imagine No More CAFOs," "As Slime Goes By," "Ruined River," "Another Well Bites The Dust," "I Want To Own Your Land," "You Blight Up My Life," "Don't Step on My Blue Baby's Shoes," and 90 more classic dystopian farming tunes.
Regulator Sing-a-long – tune of Eire Canal
I’ve got a friend, he’s a regulator pal Fifteen years is his rationale He wants to retire and I think he shall Fifteen years is the rationale If he makes trouble he won’t last a day No more perks or government pay And every permit pushing pimp I know From Albany to Buffalo Chorus: Down low, everybody down Down low, there’s an honest man in town And you'll always get a favor And you'll always know your pal Cause a quid pro quo’s the only bureaucratic rationale There’s my friend Al, today we’re sure in luck Fifteen years is his rationale And when in Rome, all Romans take a buck Fifteen years is the rationale One more tip and back we'll go A fistful of permits to spread and grow And every permit pushing pimp I know From Albany to Buffalo Chorus: Down low, everybody down Down low, there’s an honest man in town And you'll always get a favor And you'll always know your pal Cause a quid pro quo’s the only bureaucratic rationale
Pandemic Sing-a-long – tune of This Old Man
This big farm, had a plan Grabbing everything they can With an Ag-Gag bag of swag Factory Farming wins This is how it all begins This big farm, had swine flu Now the neighbors have it too With an Ag-Gag bag of swag Nuisance Laws will rule Empty desks inside your school This big farm, stuffed with cows More than rational thought allows All the drugs the law allows With an Ag-Gag bag of swag Resistome lagoon We’ll all be in deep shit soon This big farm, filled with hens Live their lives in foot-square pens With an Ag-Gag bag of swag Breeding something new Reassorting HP flu This big farm, they have clout More than all the poor without With an Ag-Gag bag of swag “Leave those farms alone!” Two dead sisters in your home This big farm, they don’t care Spreading virus in the air With an Ag-Gag bag of swag Body bags are filled Burn the piles of all those killed This big farm, made that germ Greed and power never learn With an Ag-Gag bag of swag Politicians lie It’s too late, we’re gonna die This big farm, they did well Profits in a year from Hell With an Ag-Gag bag of swag Flowers for your friends This is how the story ends
Agri-mandias [Poem]
Unlike the original poem, the barren waste in this poem is not the eraser of hubris, but the result of it. Industrial agriculture would no more dare to openly debate their methods, than they would allow a rigorous accounting of the true costs of the “cheap” goods they produce. They are not only killing the natural world and depleting our natural resources, they are covering up the true reason for their “improved” methods and materials — they are losing the ability to sustain food production — and are now locked in a disastrous death-grip with a sickened planet.
Phosphorus Loading Puzzle
Now that the pieces are all put together, will a true picture of the nutrient pollution in our lake be announced to the public? Not if the agricultural lobby can help it. HABs – if corporate agribusinesses can focus the public’s attention on something new, then maybe the public will forget about the decades of unchecked and unregulated agricultural runoff that has already impaired lake waters and choked the shallows with algae and aquatic weeds. Promoting HABs gives them a chance to reset the clock and start doing nothing all over again. The NYSDEC HABs Program Guide proclaims that they are “implementing planned actions that can control impacts from nonpoint sources” and reduce the phosphorus loading of Cayuga Lake Further reading shows that their plan is to target and regulate septic systems (1%), and rely on voluntary guidelines and education reduce Agriculture’s (82%) impact. This plan is just a repackaging of the same worthless policies that have facilitated the increase of agricultural pollution for more than thirty years. The NYSDEC HABs reports [some of which are 125 pages in length] contain so many equivocations, distortions, misrepresentations, and complications that the reader is left with the impression of an insoluble problem, bravely faced and fought. Implementing regulations to stop agricultural pollution is never mentioned, even as a possibility.
EASY MAZE – GMO Maze
Do the protocols surrounding the introduction of Genetically Modified Organisms guarantee our safety? Of course not. They only guarantee the “hold harmless” status of the corporations and the scientists that produce them. And while their failures might be unfortunate for the public, they would result in new career opportunities for the scientific community — studying the effects of the problems they’ve created.
Pin the Tail on the Legislators
This game is a great stress reliever for any rural get together. When your own representatives refuse to represent you, you’re cut off from government in an especially insulting way. Just mentioning this game’s name brings a smile to the faces of rural residents [and a few choice comments.] When you live close to the bone in a rural home, disrespecting those in a position of trust may be your only option to express outrage at their betrayal. Kiss MY Ass! Lickspittle Legislator!
Spread It!
This card game is a version of the classic Pyramid solitaire. It was fun making up the cards for the Factory Farm deck picture. The four suits are Farmers, Cash, Discharge Pipes, and DEC, and all the face cards have the features of “Mr. Factory Farm” [introduced in You Know You Live near a Factory Farm When Your Kids Go Fishing with a Pool Skimmer.] A number of the games, puzzles, etc. that were planned, were never included in this book. Using Photoshop CS5 for all the art and page layouts is time consuming and I needed to end this book project. In a future posting, I will describe some of the pages that were left unfinished when the 100 page goal was reached.
Pass the Buck
Another children’s party game with an industrial farming twist. Agricultural colleges, agribusinesses, and politicians are so tight together that there’s no room for criticism, but there’s always room for profit. Money is not the only kind of payment — sometimes it’s just career longevity, public recognition, or a coveted post.
How Politicians Do Math
Of course it’s simplistic, I didn’t even factor in the corruption. The important point is that politicians and the agribusiness lobby don’t expect you to add up the true costs of industrial agriculture. Just as they’ve drained the aquifers and deprived future generations of water, industrial farming has run up huge debts that they don’t intend to pay. And their political cronies have tricked us into co-signing the loan, so we’re stuck making all the payments. [You’ve probably seen that in those court shows, and wondered how stupid those people were.] If these agribusinesses are such an economic asset, why can’t they pay off their own debts, and clean up their own messes? The rural poor have to, why shouldn’t the rural rich?
A Child’s Poem
I tried to write this poem from a child’s point of view — one of seeing, but not understanding — of having knowledge of what they should do, but not the context that impels it. Even their parents only have a knowledge of what is readily apparent to the senses, and none of the underlying causes and long term effects. Authorities never inform rural residents of the dangers that modern farming methods presents to their families. And they never do anything to help. Whether it’s against the law or injurious to health is unimportant, they just refuse to do it.
rBGH - No rBGH Maze
A not-so-simple maze for a not-so-simple question: How you decide on the risks of rBGH versus No rBGH without deciding on the quality of the information you receive to make that decision? When an early paper arguing strongly for the benefits and safety of rBGH milk was distributed by the manufacturer, and came into question for not being peer reviewed and for being riddled with inaccurate and misleading claims, one of its authors responded, “It’s only a scientific paper.” One way to decide is to answer another question: Is it OK to feed your family food if it has not yet been proven unsafe – or – it’s Not OK to feed your family food until it has been proven safe? It’s only your health.
Flood Plain Hog Farm Coloring Page
Asbestos companies? Out of business. Rust Belt workers? Unemployed. Factory Farmers? Welcome to Hog Heaven. With flooding from “100 year storms” occurring several times a year, large scale pollution from giant hog manure lagoons is destroying the environment, polluting rural wells, and spreading. But, unlike other industries, they can’t be shut down. They need to be bought out, with taxpayer’s money. Industrial hog farms profit from polluting, and then they profit from selling — and guess who pays for the cleanup?
Hog Farm Sing-a-long
There just had to be a Hog Farm Sing-a-long in the book. Nothing connects the bucolic rural past to the future’s industrial farming dystopia better than the hog. When the tide finally turned in the last century, and factories became accountable for some the destruction they caused, that greed went underground, and popped up as Agriculture, complete with all the arrogance toward the community and the environment that they displayed as factory towns and coal mines. But now they had learned the power of public perception and a wholesome image There was also a new sense of power. As the agriculture industrialists know: If you don’t have a new car you cry, if you don’t have food you die. Agriculture is an industry that is exempt from meaningful regulation in this country, and it’s located in areas that are kept free of urban reporting. Follow this thread and you’ll realize that it’s like a living portrayal of the saying “give them enough rope and they’ll hang themselves” — and us along with them
Original Cover #3
The third cover artwork and new Farm Harm book title were very different from my original Factory Farm Fun concept, but I thought I had hit the bullseye. The publisher suggested changing the title to Family Farm Fun, allowing them to provide the cover artwork, and writing a new preface. This is the book that’s available today. I still have a box of the old books with the original cover, and I’m still not sure . . .
Original Covers 1 & 2
At the top is the cover artwork that I planned to use with the book. The original title was Factory Farm Fun Book. The publisher did not think it would market properly, so I created the revised cover artwork you see below. [This did not go over very well, and they thought the title was no help either.] There is always a problem as an author and an artist as to whether your vision is someone else’s vision — how well do you communicate your story? I made a third version so that we would be on the same page . . .
Cracking the Ag Code
When there is no avoiding the issue, industrial agriculture hides its guilt by camouflaging it — with a little help from their friends. This piece shows one way agribusinesses [that are responsible for more than four times the nutrient pollution as every other source combined] are being reduced to just another source in a list by people that the public trusts to inform. The Iowa Farm Bureau answers their own question: “Where do the increased nutrient levels come from?” by squeezing Agriculture in between Fertilizers from Golf Courses and Lawn Treatment. In light of this answer, it may be ironic [or informative] to learn that Agriculture produces 90% of the state’s nutrient runoff, and that in 2018, after 5 years of voluntary agricultural programs, their runoff had actually increased.
How many violations can you spot?
Ag-gag laws and physical obstructions are only two of the barriers that are used to protect industrial farming methods — farming promotion messages, food corporation ads, land grant colleges, politicians, bureaucrats, and media handouts, all take their turn in persuading the American people that agricultural pollution and animal mistreatment is accidental, rare, unforeseen, blown out of proportion, misunderstood, naturally occurring, and misreported for profit, thereby minimizing and deflecting any possible image of wrongdoing. How many people look past that?
Fish Skimming
It’s a sociologically interesting phenomena that as industrial farming has dramatically changed the environment that our rural population lives in, their pastimes have also changed. With the “old swimming hole” posted because of agricultural waste and runoff, rural children have not only learned to make do, but to make don’t. Fish Skimming has replaced traditional activities in rivers and ponds with what has become an Ag-ghetto classic. In today’s factory farm landscape, where you can catch more fish with a pool skimmer than a pole, it’s “better than trolling a landfill for body parts.”
Ecosystem Tug-of-War
This children’s game is a powerful teaching tool on the topic of agricultural pollution. Using milk crates to stand on better represents the dangers of manure spills and overflowing hog lagoons — not a gradual slide but a dramatic drop-off into the widespread destruction of an ecosystem. After the game, students can study some of the biggest agricultural catastrophes of the past decades, and what is not being done to prevent a repetition. With one player representing agricultural expansion and the other representing agricultural profits, no matter who wins the game this time, our country will be the loser.
Follow the Regulator
Regulators can put a lot of faces on the same refusal to act. Industrial farms are permitted to whatever is profitable, and their failures to follow regulations and their continued polluting activities are minimized and excused. Rural residents are treated as enemies, with their every fact discounted and their victimization ignored. In the face of overwhelming evidence, regulators still refuse to regulate these farms and fall back on the same kind of voluntary guidelines that have proven worthless for decades. It’s a puppet show that makes for damn poor stewardship, but a good line dance.
Origami Hog
To a factory farmer, hogs represent “folding money,” so what better way to represent a hog that by folding paper. While hogs lack the cognitive ability to follow the diagrams, you should have no trouble, but if nobody’s looking over your shoulder, just throw away the mistakes until you get one that’s perfect to display. The hog-face patterned paper gives it a decorative touch for your desk top. Warning: Don’t get caught with an origami hog in each hand making sounds and doing hog things.
Fish Kill Crunch
What’s the last thing you would think of doing when you come upon a water body choked with stinking, rotting fish? Scoop up a double handful and “chow down.” The Fish Kill Crunch children’s party game sanitizes this vision by substituting cookies. Children can gobble up the cookies to clean their stretch of the river and win, but it’s never gone for good — they’ll make more. Should you show photos of fish kills before or after the game? That’s up to you. Maybe just putting a rotting fish in the Feely Bag, and leaving it to their imagination is more than enough.
Cash Cow Piñata
Industrial farming is known, but not widely known, for its ability to externalize its costs. For example: School Tax Credits allow farmers to pay the taxes needed to placate a powerful teachers union, and in return are paid 50-100% of that back from additional taxes levied on an unknowing public. The next time you are told how important industrial farming is economically, ask yourself: How can promoting an industrial model that requires subsidies and tax breaks at every point to remain viable benefit us economically? It’s not just the money: Modern industrial farming methods are draining aquifers of increasingly valuable fresh water [that took tens of thousands of years to fill] to produce the agricultural products it sells to foreign countries for chump change. As we ship out our country’s valuable natural resources of fertile land and clean fresh water in the form of agricultural products, what do we receive for our children in return? Just the rich getting richer.
Rural Destruction Bingo
Classic bingo gets an industrial farming makeover 70 factory farm “icons” and cards for eight players. You’ve never been so happy hear someone call “Persistent cough” or “Reduced life expectancy.” Win at bingo and lose at life with Rural Destruction Bingo.
Anonymous Ag Survey
This sort-of-satirical survey explores the reality behind those beautiful, saturated images of crops, livestock, and farming families that are the staple of commercials and Ag promo spots, and asks the question: In an Ag-Gag industry that judges a disclosure of factory farm activities as “bio-terrorism” and a jailable offence — How forthcoming are agricultural sources? Assuming that an anonymous survey would elicit a candid response, what questions would you ask?
Color Me H-A-B
Color me camouflaged. The NYSDEC led committee on Harmful Agal Blooms claims that since they found a waterbody with agal blooms where agriculture was not the primary source of phosphorous loading, then they can’t conclude that agriculture is a primary cause. That’s like saying: since there’s a patient whose lung cancer was not caused by tobacco use, then you can’t claim that tobacco use is a primary cause of lung cancer. You already know what the recommendations to reduce agricultural nutrient pollution will be — voluntary guidelines, education, nutrient plans = business as usual. [They’ll save the regulatory crackdown for residential septic systems.]
Farm Harm Coloring Page – Blue Babies
Since all land grant agricultural colleges seem to send the same message, I’ll quote from the PennStateExtension article “Nitrates in Drinking Water”: After throwing dust about the sources and severity of the methemoglobinemia or “blue-baby syndrome” problem, the article outlines possible types of remediation: “With agricultural nitrate leaching, often you may have no control of the nitrate source.” While banned from any access to municipal water, rural families have no protection under the law for their only source of drinking water — their wells. Here are PSU’s well water treatment solutions: “ion exchange can be expensive and requires maintenance” “Reverse osmosis is expensive. Added to the equipment costs are the high energy costs for operation.” “Distillation uses much energy and produces heat which taxes air conditioners in the summer months. Energy costs are about 30 cents per gallon produced.” Since bottled water is also very expensive, PSU recommends that mixing it with the polluted well water to make it less toxic to drink will save money. However they admit that “blended water still may not be safe for infants.” PSU ends their article by stating: “Though nitrates concern many Pennsylvania residents, proper testing will confirm the problem and adequate treatment will eliminate it.” How’s that for a slap in the face of poor rural families.
Ag Uncertainly Principle
Whether it’s used as a coloring page, an aphorism, or a pattern, this rural sampler puts the science back into social science. It’s not just a motto to live by, it’s the motto we are living by — in no uncertain terms.
Misfortune Teller
Copy and cutout the design in the book, and fold as shown, and this traditional children’s origami can reveal your fortune — or for those in the Ag ghetto, misfortune. The only thing unluckier than seeing a factory farm, is seeing one from your bedroom window, and since you can’t make a silk purse from a hog lagoon, forget the “tall dark man” stuff and get ready for some old school company town depression. Get together with a couple of friends and have some fun hearing what the Misfortune Teller says about your future. It’s not that it isn’t real, it’s just that it isn’t real likely you live there.
Easy Maze – Manure Spill
Doing the right thing is always simple, it’s making excuses for not doing it that’s complicated. We have had decades of Voluntary Guidelines and Nutrient Plans, TMDLs and Target Dates, Soil and Water Conservation Committees and Regional Task Forces, and every do-nothing dog and pony show bureaucratic folderol they could hold a press conference on . . . and none of them have proven good for anything except to push regulatory solutions into the future while agribusinesses continue polluting and maximizing profits. Solving this maze is as simple as finding a solution to nutrient pollution. If you want to end the pollution, stop the polluting.
Factory Farmer Aptitude Test
Serious and satirical, this aptitude test is intended to challenge participants to think about how much what they enjoy doing has a part in what they will become. In a time where a victim’s fault paradigm of “the wrong place at the wrong time” and “a _______ gone wrong” is used to patch the holes in our society, and “closure” is a term best fitted to bureaucratic files, an aptitude test still maintains the link between actions and the people who perform them.
Farm Harm Coloring Page – Agal Bloom Warning
These signs are becoming increasingly common around waterbodies with agricultural runoff — as it’s more politically expedient to restrict the usage, rather than the polluters. As one local politician said, “Farming is as important as any lake.” [And it makes bigger campaign contributions too.] Tell your kids to use the red crayon. Red for danger.
Sustainable Truth Billboards
Unfortunately, industry handouts are the only basis for almost all the agricultural “reporting” done by media outlets in this country. The agricultural lobby is probably the most powerful lobby in America, comprised of not only multi-national food giants, but also some of the world’s biggest pharmaceutical and chemical corporations. With the kind of power that caused Obama do a 180 on his pledge of agricultural regulations, and the political unimportance of the rural poor, it’s not surprising that theirs is the only voice most people ever hear. I thought of making these billboards with graffiti, but how much more satisfying it would be to see them being forthright for a change.
Farm Harm Coloring Page – Liquid Manure Pit
A graphic reminder of the many dangerous substances, gases, and pathogens associated with liquid manure. Not only is liquid manure spread over millions of acres of land where it seeps into the soil and groundwater, and runs off into our streams, rivers and lakes — it’s an all-pervasive part of the rural environment. Factory farmers like to pretend that liquid manure is just manure, but do a search on some of these components and you’ll realize why there are no long term studies on the health of factory farm neighbors.
Child Safety Tips — Respirators 101
This two-page spread on respirators is entirely factual and its recommendations are no more than prudent. The only thing over the top is the effort being made to deny it. I have documentation showing that those who have been entrusted with the welfare of the public at large are allowing injury to rural residents by permitting agricultural activities without oversight or enforcement of regulations, and are deliberately withholding disclosure of the special risks and restrictions incurred by prospective buyers of property in an Agricultural District. This documentation will be included in my next book: Cornithaca County.
Rural Sorrow Hopscotch
Traditional hopscotch rules and layouts are overlaid with a pattern of sorrow for the death and destruction of rural families and communities. Hopscotch is a game that can be played by the poor, without any sports equipment, playing fields, or car pools. And since this is a game for and by children, it avoids the “killer instinct” so prized by the rich and ambitious, and so familiar to the rural poor of our country.
CAFO Sing-a-long
Unlike the “100 Bottles of Beer” it’s based on, this sing-a-long recounts an ever-increasing number of Genetically Modified milk cows in an ever-expanding [and increasingly profitable] factory farm. Long before they get to “nine hundred and ninety-nine thousand, nine hundred and ninety GMO Cows” you’ll be screaming “This is my stop!” And since industrial farming externalizes so many of their costs with government subsidies and tax credits, you really don’t want to know how much you are actually paying for a gallon of their genetically modified milk.
Mortality Maze
This two-page maze uses an obstacle course of composting cows. The industrial farming practice of confining cow in sheds, continuous feeding them antibiotics, hormones, and anything else that lowers corporate maintenance and boosts milk production reduces their “natural” lifespan from 17 years to 5 years – and with factory farms stuffing their sheds with up to 30,000 cows per farm, they produce a lot of carcasses. The modern cost-cutting way is to dump them in piles and call it “composting.” But, with only the outside of mounds and the seepage visible, who knows what’s really inside. Maybe there could be a horror movie where some GMO carcasses are transformed into monsters – zombie cows? Moojo? Cows on the Plane?
Denial
This poem was a lot of fun to write. The rhythm is meant to be read or spoken with an increasing beat, like a motor starting slowly and picking up speed. The vehemence should increase with the speed to almost a froth — until collapsing in the final line. A political tradition of attack and no facts. A fitting bookend.
The Industrial Agriculture Anthem
Industrial farmers call on farming traditions, closeness to Nature, and their contributions to the health and well-being of society in creating their updated “mid-century” image. And yet their sensitivity to any negative comment or environmentally protective regulation shows that this construction is paper thin. It’s only a step to burst through the screen and see the reality this anthem embodies.
Connect the Dots – The Dead Zone
You need to follow both the letters and the numbers to complete this page. After you connect the dots in the book, hold the page up to a window and a chilling picture is revealed. I had more ambitious [and more complicated] ideas, but had to scrap them due to the time they would have required. Any pages that were started and could not be completed in a timely fashion were dropped. Limiting the scope of this project to black & white, at least a page a day, and 100 pages, actually increased my comfort zone and kept my destination in view.
Escape from the Factory Farm
This simple board game requires no strategy or complex rules, so it’s easy for small children to play. If dice are not available, a spinner can be made using the supplied artwork. The escape theme and factory farm hazards provide the right amount of thrill for the imagination of younger children.
Factory Farm Bookshelf – Family Fun Classics
I just couldn’t get all my favorite book ideas into two pages, so I added a third. While many of the ideas that were roughed out were never realized in Family Farm Fun, I planned a 100 page cut-off and kept pretty close. For my next book, Cornithaca County, I already have almost 400 idea folders, so there’ll be plenty left over to fill the Bookshelf pages [and for other uses.]
Factory Farm Bookshelf 2 - New and popular
This is the facing page to the previous Factory Farm Bookshelf page posted. It presents more ideas for books that I would like to have had the time to write. The Ag Almanac in particular is a book that could cut industrial agriculture deeper than deep plowing cut the prairie.
Lonely as a Cloud (long after Wordsworth)
I don’t know what to call the use that I made of this famous poem. It wasn’t recycled because so much of the original structure remains. It wasn’t repurposed because love of nature is at the core of both. Probably “redecorated” would be a better description: Twisting the strands of reverie to make a net that captures the darker side our false stewardship. In these days of acceptable pollution and understandable destruction of the natural world, no amount of academic assurances can ameliorate the pain of seeing what is being done.
A Rich Factory Farmer Named Fred . . .
It was a pleasure to write these limericks. I use the verbal structuring of limericks and other short poems to “cleanse my pallet” between sessions of non-verbal artwork. They also give me the opportunity to make observations about the situations that people find themselves in and how they behave. I have published two books of poetry: “As a Poet, I have a Confession” – a small selection of light and dark pieces, and “Please Take Care when You Utter a Curse” – 100 limericks. Both these books can be downloaded for free at a number of online outlets, including Smashwords.com. “An activity book from Nantucket . . .”
Regulator Sing-a-long
It may be Election-day, but un-elected officials can wield great power and have little public accountability. Regulators can weather political storms and still succumb to the strong undercurrents of a bureaucratic sea. What is corruption and what is quid pro quo? It may just be a question of survival.
EASY MAZE – Herbicide Drift Maze
Another easy-to-solve maze and coloring page for younger children. And another chance to make a rhythm and rhyme couplet for me. You rarely can see a herbicide drift, but I can attest that you’ll know when you’ve been in one.
Stopping by Woods on a Snow Melt Evening
I have always felt this poem to be so on target that I pinned a doodle on it and let fly with an arrow of my own. Today’s industrial agriculture has championed the concept of acceptable amounts of pollution and used “naturally occurring” as a smoke screen to misrepresent the real dangers of their actions. One agricultural college professor I spoke with recently took the position that the sickness and death of rural families is a small and necessary price to ensure that industrial farming has ability to feed the hungry around the world. His ivory tower must have a dungeon.
Huit Mille Miles Carrés [8,000 Square Miles]
The phrase “8,000 square miles” refers to the size of the “Dead Zone” of hypoxic waters in the Gulf of Mexico that is created by nutrient pollution. You are one of up to 3 players attempting to pollute a specific square mileage while dealing with regulatory hazards you encounter along the way. There are 106 cards, including hazards, a variety of Dead Zone areas, remedies, and four immunity cards. To curb runoff and reduce nutrient pollution flowing into the Mississippi River, Iowa introduced a voluntary Nutrient Reduction Strategy for agriculture. In 2018, after 5 years of this program, nutrient runoff had actually increased. Agriculture produces 90% of Iowa’s nitrogen runoff. Other states are introducing similar voluntary programs. The book includes complete instructions, and copy-able scoring pads and cards [including a card back design.]
Floaters
Every fish kill has a story, but you never hear the fish’s side of it — now, as they break the plane, and move on to another plane of existence, you are there! I still don’t know why I made this page, but I still like it.
The New Food Pyramid
Turning Big Ag’s omnipresent public image upside down reveals a reality you won’t read about in any newspaper.
Farm Worker Mortality Disposal
Closely modeled on agricultural guidelines for cheaply disposing of animal carcasses, this instructional handout gives a nod to both corporate farming attitudes, and the unreported deaths of those who work on them.
Factory Farm Days
This page is from a spread describing the fun activities that can be brought to your town when you host an industrial farming festival. There’s no better way to educate your kids about everyday life in today’s Ag Ghetto.
Farm-cheesi – The “Game of Flies”
The Farm-cheesi pages in the book include the game rules, maggot tokens, and a board in four parts that can be copied and assembled as shown. The object is to move your maggots on a life journey from the carcass to become an egg-laying adult. If using real maggots for tokens, they should be frozen and then colored with markers or dipped in food coloring to represent the different players. The use of live maggots is not recommended as they may move to another space illegally. WARNING: Microwaving maggots can cause them to explode.
New School Nursery Rhymes
Many nursery rhymes are known for containing a darker message below the surface — with these industrial farming rhymes, the poison has spilled into plain view. Which way would you choose to handle it?
Fixing the Environment
More difficult than the “Easy Maze” puzzles, this bureaucratic maze mirrors the real life frustration of activists who struggle just to reach the “hearing” stage — knowing that behind closed doors the decision is all power and politics. It’s as frustrating as an old Dos game that locks up every time you hit the Boss level.
Factory Farm Bookshelf - New and popular
This booklist gave me a chance to use some of the ideas that were outlined, but never fully developed. I enjoyed creating the “Spillboard’s Top 100” song titles the most, especially “Don’t Step on My Blue Baby’s Shoes” — I can almost hear the lyrics.
Writer's Choice
Writing this page of book/author jokes brought back memories of high-humor in grade school. Humor has the ability to leap the wall of obfuscations and directly address the issue. It was very much a juggling act to keep the pieces in the air until a book title and author’s name finally came together.
Farm Harm Poster - Child Safety Tips
This poster is entirely truthful. For those of us who live in an "Ag Ghetto," there is no one to turn to for the protection of our families — and no government agency that is willing to speak out in our behalf.
Party Game - Factory Farm Feely Bag
I don't know whether it's better to touch what you can't see and guess, or touch what you can see and guess, but in this case it's best not to touch it at all. One in a series of Factory Farm Party games for kids.
How Many Gas Plumes?
I counted them several times to make sure they're correct. [I hope so. I was always having my papers marked with "careless" when I was in school, but now I tell people it's a learning disability.] The solution is in the back of the book.
Origami Fly
I always liked activity books as a kid. They were an inch thick and made of a slightly yellowish newsprint that you only see in some big art pads today. A large part of the fun was the variety of ways they provided to entertain yourself and your friends. That's something I have tried to bring to this book — there are even a number of games for your child's next Factory Farm Party!
Hatch and Release
OK, I know it's sick, but I had to put it in. [A lot of others didn't make it past the chuckle.]
Tongue Twisters
I thought the third one would be the hardest, but I've been told it's the easiest. Try them with a dry mouth.
EASY MAZE - Nitrate Pollution Maze
A young child should have no difficulty with this maze, but there are solutions for all the puzzles and mazes in the back of the book. This could also be used as an additional coloring page.
More GMO Corn Mazes
The industrial farming "maze" from a societal viewpoint.
Pandemic Sing-a-long
Both the World Health Organization and the CDC have grave concerns about industrial farming's misuse of antibiotics and the creation of antimicrobial resistant pathogens . . . why aren't we?
GMO Corn Mazes
View industrial farming from the inside of a corn maze, and all you see is the corn. But view it from a different perspective . . .
The Urban Dairy
Is the urban dairy a satirical poke at the "dump it in the country" agenda, or a practical proposal? Even as I was writing it, I couldn't decide.
Monster-Us
My cousins and I could never get enough television Creature Features and Saturday matinee monster movies. I had fun using the same "science and hubris" vernacular to create these snapshots of the monsters we are unleashing through our reliance on industrial farming methods.
You Know You Live near a Factory Farm When Your Kids Go Fishing with a Pool Skimmer
This book has already been published (see below.) Due to the pictorial nature of this book, these Book Bubbles cannot be extracted from the epub file format needed to upload an existing book.
Rough-Cut Book Bubbles from You Know You Live near a Factory Farm When Your Kids Go Fishing with a Pool Skimmer
Farmers and regulators are the same people
Concerns about conflict of interest and ethics have no place in the agricultural decision making process. Whenever issues of agricultural pollution go public, or large manure spills hit the headlines, the Soil and Water Conservation Committee becomes omnipresent, appearing at every conference and quoted in every article — but what is this committee? The name causes people to think that their commitment is to the protection of our natural resources, but this is not the case — their commitment is to the protection of agriculture’s image, and its interests. By New York State law, three out of the Committee’s five voting members have to be farm: One from the Farm Bureau, one from the Grange, and one Representative-At-Large for Farm Interests. And as an influential component of every task force responsible for cleaning up our lakes and waterways, they make sure that no goals are set, and no regulatory steps are taken that restrict the profitability of industrial farming in New York. You can’t judge a committee by its cover story.
When county employees won’t pick up the phone
They just don’t want to hear it. Voice mailboxes make it easy for government employees to avoid taking action on agricultural complaints — just “leave a message,” and wait for a callback . . . Or you could try another employee and leave a message, and wait for a callback . . . Then, if you decide call the clerk’s office, they put you through to a voice mailbox where you “leave a message,” and wait for a callback . . . [Do they really expect us to know our party’s extension?] Finally, when you get a callback, they say can’t do anything to help and pass you on to another department . . . with a voice mailbox . . . where you can “leave a message. . .”
. . . when you have to pressure wash your cat
Don’t do this at home! That being said, factory farm pollution seems to permeate everything in the neighborhood. The prevailing winds sweep up the valley past the fifteen years old CAFO next door, with it big metal cow sheds and multi-million gallon open cesspit, directly at my house. Anybody who says that liquid manure is just cow manure in a liquid form is lying. Not only is it filled with the hormones, antibiotics and antibiotic resistant bacteria that are a byproduct of factory farm methods, it’s fermented in giant open air pits for months, resulting in a number of deadly toxic gasses. These gasses have caused so many deaths, that farm workers are urged to wear gas masks when working around these pits. While the deadly gasses these pits generate, like Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S), can travel for miles without dissipating by an effect known a pluming, no admission of this, or long terms studies on the health of rural neighbors have ever been made.
When blowflies are the top of the food chain
Goodbye to red barns and cows in the pasture, when you live around an industrial farming dairy operation you see . . . an aberration. While any natural meadow would be filled with animals, birds, butterflies and insects, thousands of acres of factory farm fields seem empty of all life except genetically modified crops, herbicide modified weeds, antibiotic modified pathogens, and of course, blowflies. Rural America has moved from the natural world of farming to the unnatural world of industrial farming, and it’s fitting that all that’s left to survive and thrive is this age-old symbol of death and decay.
The lake has more warning signs than tourists
In New York State, as in many others, state and local government doesn’t attack the source of agricultural pollution, they attack the source of the complaint. If residents on and around the lakes are outraged at the situation, authorities gather “feedback,” and then exclude them from any further participation. If the people demand immediate action, authorities hold public meetings and seminars to explain how more data and studies [that will take years to perform and evaluate] are needed to get to the bottom of this complex situation. If residents complain that agricultural pollution is destroying their lake, authorities talk about how this kind of pollution is “natural occurring,” while carefully avoiding how much is unnaturally occurring. If the public has a clear perception of the role agricultural nutrient pollution in a lake’s impairment, authorities confuse the issue by substituting other culprits. New York bureaucrats are currently promoting zebra mussels in this way as a distraction. Mark Twain popularized the saying “There are three kinds of lies: lies, damn lies, and statistics.” — This is an excellent description of our government’s agricultural pollution cover up.
Your bug-zapper sounds like a popcorn machine
Q: Where do flies go in the winter? A: To your house [if you live near a factory farm.] While the illustration is evocative of summer months, blow flies have become a year-round pestilence in rural America. In northern states, even in the winter, when the wind is in the right direction, factory farms open their shed doors and exhaust an extra big helping of flies. When the snow flies, there are still blow flies for factory farm neighbors.
The pitter-patter on your roof isn’t rain
While the action pictured here is part of a growing reality in our rural communities, real estate disclosure forms refuse to inform prospective buyers of these agricultural methods, and the health risks and abrogated rights of property owners in an Agricultural District. When I wrote a letter urging authorities to “update the New York State Agricultural District Disclosure Form and Notice to ensure that prospective buyers understand the financial and health risks of living in an Agricultural District so that they are in a position to make an informed decision” none of those county and state representatives and health officials, even acknowledged receipt.
. . . when politicians and bureaucrats make e
Even though they admit that agriculture is responsible for more than four times the nutrient pollution in Cayuga Lake as all other sources combined, New York State regulators claim they don’t know what is causing the Lake’s impairment and algal blooms. When they’re not stonewalling agricultural pollution questions, local, county, and state agencies are making public statements fully as ridiculous as the one on this page.
. . . when politicians won’t kiss your blue b
Nothing highlights the destructive nature of industrial farming better than the effect it has had on our water. As the wells that are the only sources of water for the rural community are polluted through factory farm seepage and run off, politicians and bureaucrats claim that they can’t be tested because it would be a “violation” of the resident’s rights. It’s enough to make a cat laugh. The only two rights left to the rural community are the right to be poor, and the right to be a victim.
. . . when the morning mist is herbicide
I created this image to commemorate the time I was sprayed with Roundup while I was mowing my lawn. Later that night I stood in the middle of the bathroom completely out of it, vomiting all over myself, the floor and the toilet. Even though the wind was gusting to 23 mph and the application took place in a sensitive area with rural families living nearby on three sides, the NYSDEC refused to issue more than a warning. Why? Because they didn’t want to.
. . . when you dream of a new sitcom
Scary for Halloween: How old sitcom theme songs come back to haunt you. While the music is still playing in your head, imagine an industrial farming version of this classic TV show — Your mind will be overflowing with plot ideas like a hog lagoon in a hurricane.
. . . you're a long way from a country club
Industrial farmers are ever-vigilant in their efforts to keep a wholesome image. In the unreported media gulf between urban newspapers and “Ag ghetto” trailers, theirs is the only voice. And they never stop trash-talking the rural community. In an age that pretends to enlightened social justice, the “hillbilly,” “trailer trash,” “good-ole-boy” is a target that is fair game to all . . . because they’re “racist” and “ignorant” and “backwards” and “uneducated” and you really don’t know anything about them. They’re people who live independently with almost no money, and no representation at all. You won’t see them golfing at your country club, but you might meet a rich factory farm owner — telling “redneck” jokes.
. . . when manure comes out of the tap
You know you live near a factory farm, when manure comes out of the tap Whenever I read articles and handouts concerning industrial farming “accidents” [like the dozens of giant above-ground hog lagoons overflowing after Hurricane Florence] I check them against my 4-step agricultural cover up list: 1. Discredit the witnesses/complainants 2. Discredit the facts 3. Discredit the situation 4. Hide behind laws and regulations It’s particularly useful to look at comments from agricultural colleges and universities. These colleges frequently brag about their close industry ties, or “partnerships,” and receive much, if not most of their funding from industry sources. Land grant agricultural colleges are directly under the authority of the USDA, which in turn is under the political control of agricultural interests. Dismissive and obstructive statements are also issued by government departments — where playing ball is frequently the key to promotion and career longevity.
. . . everyone you know is getting cancer
Factory farms create a toxic environment that can dramatically raise the incidence of cancer in the nearby community. Airborne drifts of Roundup and other pesticides are common. The farming lobby claims it’s the rural “lifestyle” that is the cause. Is living near a factory farm a lifestyle?
. . . when the snow-melt is brown
Spreading and spraying liquid manure onto a snow-covered field just before a predicted rain or a thaw is a favorite way for industrial farmers to get rid of it. Run off from the frozen slopes quickly gathers at the lowest point — a stream or a pond, or a neighbor’s yard. If caught, they’ll only get a warning, so this has become a common practice around factory farms.
Family Farm Fun
Humor & Entertainment
Learn about the plight of industrial farming with this satirical social justice activity book with games, mazes, sing-a-longs, poems, coloring pages, stories, and more — all to do with industrial farming from a rural point of view. You’ll laugh through each page and ponder the underlying causes of our country’s dangerous factory farming habits. If you enjoyed documentaries like Super Size Me, What the Health? and Cowspiracy, then you’ll find Family Farm Fun an entertaining and enlightening add-on to the growing facts surrounding our food and the environment.
Book Bubbles from Family Farm Fun
