Education: In addition to taking Finite Math so I can complete the ever-so-useful Community College of The Air Force degree and get promoted again some day, I am also currently taking a FREE on-line course via edX (https://www.edx.org/) titled “Super-Earths and Life.” As the title suggests, the course covers the latest information about the search for extra-solar planets that fall into the Earth and Super-Earth size range, as well as having detailed discussions on the subject of life, what makes up life, and how we can detect it at such vast distances. The class is being taught by professors and staff from Harvard. Yes, THAT Harvard. It has been insanely enjoyable for a geek like me, and ironically, at a night out at a bar for a former co-worker of mine, I discovered that another friend from that same office was also enrolled in the class. Small World. Any way, check edX out. They have a VAST catalogue of courses covering a wide variety of interests. I am already signed up for another free offering, “The Conquest of Space: Space Exploration and Rocket Science”, which will be instructed by staff from Universidad Carlos III de Madrid.
Meaning of The USA: Last Friday of course saw the tragic terrorist attacks in France, and we have been witnessing the aftereffects which have been almost as tragic. All across the USA, and in parts of Europe, refugees who have done nothing wrong except dare to leave their war-torn homes looking for a better life are being refused, targeted and feared. All for the remote chance that one of them might be a terrorist. We are at risk of creating that which we fear, as segregation, racism and outright hatred risks turning potential friends into probable enemies. Yes, we may risk letting in a few terrorists, but what of the two million plus Muslims that already live in the USA? Do you want to radicalize them? Donald Trump has called for closing Mosques that preach hatred. Fine, but maybe we should close 1/2 the “Christian” churches as well. In addition to playing right into the hands of the enemy, we crumple up our most cherished values by turning our backs on those who need help the most. If Lady Liberty could change her expression, she would be hanging her head in shame at those she defends.
Michael Golden, author of “Unlock Congress”, pointed out our own national motto as well today: E • pluribus • unum: 1. Out of many, one. (motto of the U.S., appearing on most U.S. currency and on the Great Seal of the United States). We are in direct violation of that motto by shutting the doors on the many.
Star Wars: ONE MONTH UNTIL THE FORCE AWAKENS!!!!!!!!!!
LOCAL POLITICS: Heard the start of what will likely many radio interview over the next twelve months. Marijo Peterson, running for the Democrats out of state house district 22, was on 790. She was pretty damned good on the radio, striking at key topics that should concern us without swiping at other candidates or elected officials. It was a tone sorely lacking in politics. Unfortunately I don’t live in her district, but it got me thinking about one thing.
How many times do you go to the polls and not have a clue who you are voting for in local and state races? Shamefully I have done it lots of times, and that ends today. Do your research, learn about who they are and what they believe. They are the ones who represent you at the state level and have a direct impact on your daily life. It’s a little more on you at this level, since budgets are so much smaller and it often comes down to yard signs and editorials. But the effort you put in will make you a much smarter, and more valuable voter.
UND: The “Fighting Hawks.” <hangs head>