This past week I had a member publicly express dismay and disappointment that I was skeptical of the point of view that they had. This was during the Oregon State Grange Session, where I had the opportunity to be a delegate from my Community Grange, and the body was debating a resolution.
I believe that being skeptical has its place in our lives as it forces us to evaluate information before we accept it. The ability to question allows us to look at new information and to balance it with what we already know before incorporating it into what we deem facts. It also allows us to change our mind when presented with new information.
I learned as a young person that science was the search for facts. Scientists create a theory of why something is the way it is, or what will happen and then try to prove or disprove it. I also learned that many times through history people agreed that something was fact only to learn later, when better data came along, that the fact was incorrect. The search for facts is always ongoing.
The other issue is faith. Faith is when you believe in something without absolute verifiable proof. I have faith in God, a God that gave us the ability to make choices and solve problems. I have faith or trust in the goodness of Americans, even though I know a few are not good people.
The future of our organization and even our country will require both skepticism and faith. We need to believe completely that we are doing worthwhile service to people and our community. We need to have faith that we can ride out the challenges and that we can find solutions to our problems. At the same time, we need to question every solution to find where it works and where it may fail. A healthy debate allows us to find the best solutions and should never be discouraged.
I believe that a healthy dose of skepticism on top of the foundation of faith makes for a person who can question and debate the issues. It doesn’t make us right all the time, but it will allow us to make good decisions most of the time.
Listening to others is required in being skeptical. If your position on an issue is an article of faith, then there is no discussion and there is no possibility of you learning something new.
I can’t apologize for being skeptical, but I will be doing more research this summer on the topic that was presented in that resolution.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Right To Repair
I have discovered a bill in Congress that I am in strong support of, the Motor Vehicle Owner’s Right to Repair Act of 2011 or H.R.1449. This bill has bi-partisan support and deserves to move through Congress in my view.
I’ll admit that many years ago I turned wrenches for a living and still like working on my older “classics”. The newer cars are a pain in the you know where, due to the computers and special tools needed to diagnose and repair almost any problem, but I do still work on them occasionally.
The reality is that not everyone maintains their own cars and pickups. However, many people have a shop that they trust to work on their cars when they need regular service or repairs done. These are places where you know the mechanic and often the owner has as much grease under their fingernails as any of the employees.
The challenges that small independent shops face in dealing with new cars are substantial. Having the tools available to diagnose today’s complex computer systems is essential and having access to up-to-date information in order to replace many components is critical. That is all that the House bill asks for and it makes a lot of sense to me.
The dealer-only parts will still be ordered from the dealers and the aftermarket parts will still be available to the independent shop or to the guy like me that likes to save a bit of money by fixing their own vehicle.
The big change will be that information and tools that are available to the auto dealerships will be required to be available to the public. I may still need to buy a tool, which will get my wife to sigh once again, but I will not need to take the car to the dealer to be fixed.
Especially in rural America, independent shops fill a need that dealerships often cannot fill due to distance. The Motor Vehicle Owner’s Right to Repair Act of 2011 makes good sense for rural America. If you have a shop you trust, let your Representative know what you think about this bill. If you’re one of those like me, who uses a grease rag now and then, contact your Representative… and then watch the knuckles with that wrench.
I’ll admit that many years ago I turned wrenches for a living and still like working on my older “classics”. The newer cars are a pain in the you know where, due to the computers and special tools needed to diagnose and repair almost any problem, but I do still work on them occasionally.
The reality is that not everyone maintains their own cars and pickups. However, many people have a shop that they trust to work on their cars when they need regular service or repairs done. These are places where you know the mechanic and often the owner has as much grease under their fingernails as any of the employees.
The challenges that small independent shops face in dealing with new cars are substantial. Having the tools available to diagnose today’s complex computer systems is essential and having access to up-to-date information in order to replace many components is critical. That is all that the House bill asks for and it makes a lot of sense to me.
The dealer-only parts will still be ordered from the dealers and the aftermarket parts will still be available to the independent shop or to the guy like me that likes to save a bit of money by fixing their own vehicle.
The big change will be that information and tools that are available to the auto dealerships will be required to be available to the public. I may still need to buy a tool, which will get my wife to sigh once again, but I will not need to take the car to the dealer to be fixed.
Especially in rural America, independent shops fill a need that dealerships often cannot fill due to distance. The Motor Vehicle Owner’s Right to Repair Act of 2011 makes good sense for rural America. If you have a shop you trust, let your Representative know what you think about this bill. If you’re one of those like me, who uses a grease rag now and then, contact your Representative… and then watch the knuckles with that wrench.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Why Not Pass It?
Yesterday I was listening to the news on the radio and heard an interview with a State Representative. The Representative was being question by a well-respected and experienced reporter about a bill that was stalled in the legislature. The bill was to ban a certain chemical in the production of items such as baby bottles.
The Representative explained that the reason she was opposing the bill was that she had gone to a number of different stores and bought many of the items covered by the bill and found that market forces had already dealt with the issue. It seems that moms still have power, since most, if not all, of the products were advertising that they are free of that chemical. She added that she had a barrel full of these products in her office to demonstrate her findings.
The reporter then asked her why if there wasn’t a problem, what would it hurt to pass the bill into law?
At that point my blood pressure went up! I don’t think we elect people to just pass bills. There are enough unintended consequences to laws that we need, and I can’t see the point in making new laws just to feel good about something.
I applaud the elected officials who vote against bills that are not needed and then stand up and explain their vote. I wish more of our elected officials would publicly explain their positions and not hide their position or blame the other guy.
Our American system of government is not supposed to be about passing a bill about every issue that someone thinks is important; it is about our elected representatives dealing with the issues that affect us at the local, state or federal level.
I am still fuming a bit at that particular reporter. I think it may be time for a refresher course in civics for someone.
The Representative explained that the reason she was opposing the bill was that she had gone to a number of different stores and bought many of the items covered by the bill and found that market forces had already dealt with the issue. It seems that moms still have power, since most, if not all, of the products were advertising that they are free of that chemical. She added that she had a barrel full of these products in her office to demonstrate her findings.
The reporter then asked her why if there wasn’t a problem, what would it hurt to pass the bill into law?
At that point my blood pressure went up! I don’t think we elect people to just pass bills. There are enough unintended consequences to laws that we need, and I can’t see the point in making new laws just to feel good about something.
I applaud the elected officials who vote against bills that are not needed and then stand up and explain their vote. I wish more of our elected officials would publicly explain their positions and not hide their position or blame the other guy.
Our American system of government is not supposed to be about passing a bill about every issue that someone thinks is important; it is about our elected representatives dealing with the issues that affect us at the local, state or federal level.
I am still fuming a bit at that particular reporter. I think it may be time for a refresher course in civics for someone.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
A Hero for this Memorial Day
This is Memorial Day weekend and I met a hero today. On my way to the Metro as I headed home, I met a young man in a wheelchair taking his dog for a walk. His wheelchair said combat wounded and had the seal of his branch of service. I paused and asked if I could shake his hand. He smiled and held out his hand. I thanked him for his service and asked where he had served. “Afghanistan” was his response. I wished him the very best and with my eyes misted up continued toward the Metro station.
That young man with no legs and a big smile is my hero. I don’t know his name, but I won’t forget him. I do hope and pray that he forgets me as but one of thousands of people thanking him for what he has done for our nation and for each of us as Americans. He and all those who have given of themselves deserve our ceaseless thanks.
This should be a weekend of remembering and honoring all of those who gave what Abraham Lincoln called the “last full measure of devotion”. We need to also remember and appreciate all those who have served our nation and sacrificed of themselves both physically and mentally. Lastly, those men and women who have served our country and came home safe and sound need to hear our heartfelt thanks.
This weekend isn’t just a three-day weekend, it is a time to remember the gift we have of freedom and those who earned it for us. It is a time to honor heroes and to remember the legacy of freedom they have entrusted to us.
Enjoy the barbeques and family gatherings and take a moment to thank God and all our veterans for the rights we have. It is fitting and proper to remember all who have passed to the next life, but never forget to thank those who quietly walk with us today.
To that young hero, my Dad, my Son, and every other veteran, thank you again and may God bless you and our wonderful nation.
That young man with no legs and a big smile is my hero. I don’t know his name, but I won’t forget him. I do hope and pray that he forgets me as but one of thousands of people thanking him for what he has done for our nation and for each of us as Americans. He and all those who have given of themselves deserve our ceaseless thanks.
This should be a weekend of remembering and honoring all of those who gave what Abraham Lincoln called the “last full measure of devotion”. We need to also remember and appreciate all those who have served our nation and sacrificed of themselves both physically and mentally. Lastly, those men and women who have served our country and came home safe and sound need to hear our heartfelt thanks.
This weekend isn’t just a three-day weekend, it is a time to remember the gift we have of freedom and those who earned it for us. It is a time to honor heroes and to remember the legacy of freedom they have entrusted to us.
Enjoy the barbeques and family gatherings and take a moment to thank God and all our veterans for the rights we have. It is fitting and proper to remember all who have passed to the next life, but never forget to thank those who quietly walk with us today.
To that young hero, my Dad, my Son, and every other veteran, thank you again and may God bless you and our wonderful nation.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Connecticut FFA Experience
I spent last Saturday at the State Association meeting of the Connecticut FFA. Wow! It has been a few years since I attended a FFA State Session and it was just as powerful as I remember.
When viewed through the eyes of young people like those FFA members, I have no fear for the future of our nation. They were respectful, courteous, enthusiastic, and so talented. Speakers and proficiency winners alike showed the training that these young people get and the commitment they make to excel in the areas they choose to compete in.
The leadership of Victor Salazar, the 2010-11 President and the State FFA officer team was evident throughout the day. I was especially proud as Victor is also one of our young Grange leaders in addition to his duties as an FFA leader.
I talked with at least six FFA members who came up to me and asked many questions about the Grange during the day. I saw the Connecticut State Grange table surrounded with FFA members asking questions and taking brochures and other materials. These young people were interested in our organization because we have things that they need and want.
It is great to see that the FFA has remained true to its principles of teaching young people skills critical to their future. While some of the contests are quite different from the ones I remember in the 70’s, the FFA members of today have the same drive and intensity as members did back when I was proudly wearing that blue jacket.
I’d urge every Grange to find a way to support their local FFA Chapter or to advocate for the creation of the program in their school district. These FFA members are the ones who will join your Grange and there refine the skills they’ve learned. In the process, they will improve your Grange and community!
When viewed through the eyes of young people like those FFA members, I have no fear for the future of our nation. They were respectful, courteous, enthusiastic, and so talented. Speakers and proficiency winners alike showed the training that these young people get and the commitment they make to excel in the areas they choose to compete in.
The leadership of Victor Salazar, the 2010-11 President and the State FFA officer team was evident throughout the day. I was especially proud as Victor is also one of our young Grange leaders in addition to his duties as an FFA leader.
I talked with at least six FFA members who came up to me and asked many questions about the Grange during the day. I saw the Connecticut State Grange table surrounded with FFA members asking questions and taking brochures and other materials. These young people were interested in our organization because we have things that they need and want.
It is great to see that the FFA has remained true to its principles of teaching young people skills critical to their future. While some of the contests are quite different from the ones I remember in the 70’s, the FFA members of today have the same drive and intensity as members did back when I was proudly wearing that blue jacket.
I’d urge every Grange to find a way to support their local FFA Chapter or to advocate for the creation of the program in their school district. These FFA members are the ones who will join your Grange and there refine the skills they’ve learned. In the process, they will improve your Grange and community!
Friday, May 20, 2011
Big Government Deciding What’s For Lunch
I read an article on the new U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations on school lunches and breakfasts. USDA seems to be seeking final authority on what our children eat, or more accurately, what is put in front of them to eat.
USDA claims to want to match rules to the dietary guidelines that are recommended by the National Academies Institute of Medicine. I do support eating healthy, but I never liked being told what to eat. On top of my natural stubborn streak, I wonder if you double the servings of carrots does that translate to kids eating those servings.
I’ve seen a lot of kids eat only the things that they liked and throw away the rest. If we add more things that a lot of kids don’t eat, are we making things better or is it just waste mandated by the government?
Likely one result of these rules is that schools will receive a few extra pennies for each meal while spending dramatically more on fresh foods instead of canned or frozen foods or substituting high cost food for lower costing food.
While I wish everyone would eat healthier, I don’t believe it is my duty or that it is our government’s obligation to make sure that we take care of ourselves. Plus where is the parental responsibility or why, if this is such a critical issue, isn’t the local school board making this decision.
It seems to me that these USDA regulations are just one more case of unfunded mandates from the federal government. When you look at the financial condition of the federal and state governments, it doesn’t make sense. Plus it is one more responsibility taken from parents and local school boards and given to government bureaucrats who don’t live in our community. I think I want a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and an apple for lunch, wonder how that would fit in their regulations?
-Ed Luttrell
National Grange President
USDA claims to want to match rules to the dietary guidelines that are recommended by the National Academies Institute of Medicine. I do support eating healthy, but I never liked being told what to eat. On top of my natural stubborn streak, I wonder if you double the servings of carrots does that translate to kids eating those servings.
I’ve seen a lot of kids eat only the things that they liked and throw away the rest. If we add more things that a lot of kids don’t eat, are we making things better or is it just waste mandated by the government?
Likely one result of these rules is that schools will receive a few extra pennies for each meal while spending dramatically more on fresh foods instead of canned or frozen foods or substituting high cost food for lower costing food.
While I wish everyone would eat healthier, I don’t believe it is my duty or that it is our government’s obligation to make sure that we take care of ourselves. Plus where is the parental responsibility or why, if this is such a critical issue, isn’t the local school board making this decision.
It seems to me that these USDA regulations are just one more case of unfunded mandates from the federal government. When you look at the financial condition of the federal and state governments, it doesn’t make sense. Plus it is one more responsibility taken from parents and local school boards and given to government bureaucrats who don’t live in our community. I think I want a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and an apple for lunch, wonder how that would fit in their regulations?
-Ed Luttrell
National Grange President
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Friendship and Life's Journey
I am in New England to say goodbye to Tom Severance, a fellow National Grange officer and friend. Tom passed away on Sunday and his funeral is tomorrow.
It seems every time I lose a friend or family member it is a moment to reflect on the journey we each are on. No matter what we accomplish or who we know, life ends for all at some point. To me there are two essential truths in life to consider. First, what comes next and second, who we touch during our life.
First, I do believe that what comes after this life is critical. I do have faith and believe that our journey doesn’t end in the grave. The spiritual choices we make in this life will affect us in the next life as death is but the doorway. The opportunity to be around people who believe similarly is important to each person. In the Grange, the way we as individuals choose to worship is our choice, but we acknowledge that there is a supreme being as a part of our basic principles.
The people we touch throughout our lives are what our lives are made up of. Bold or quiet, soft or a bit harsh, happy or sad, each person adds something to everyone they touch during life. Friendship is one of the true treasures of life and I have learned that friendship freely given is a powerful thing. Regardless of how often you see someone, the fact that you look forward to seeing them and miss them when they are absent is a sign of true friendship.
My Grange friends are a large part of my life. I’ve been blessed with friends like Tom, people who often live in places I might never have gone without the Grange. People who I never would have met and with whom I have discovered shared interests have become friends due to the fraternal bonds of the Grange.
My life is richer because of my friends, the friends I’ve had who have crossed over into the next life, the friends I have around me today, and the promise of friends to be made in the future. With each step down life’s pathway we need to remind ourselves to treasure all who walk with us, whether for a short while or for many long years, as our journey’s value is measured not in recognition or material goods, but in the friends we make along the way.
It seems every time I lose a friend or family member it is a moment to reflect on the journey we each are on. No matter what we accomplish or who we know, life ends for all at some point. To me there are two essential truths in life to consider. First, what comes next and second, who we touch during our life.
First, I do believe that what comes after this life is critical. I do have faith and believe that our journey doesn’t end in the grave. The spiritual choices we make in this life will affect us in the next life as death is but the doorway. The opportunity to be around people who believe similarly is important to each person. In the Grange, the way we as individuals choose to worship is our choice, but we acknowledge that there is a supreme being as a part of our basic principles.
The people we touch throughout our lives are what our lives are made up of. Bold or quiet, soft or a bit harsh, happy or sad, each person adds something to everyone they touch during life. Friendship is one of the true treasures of life and I have learned that friendship freely given is a powerful thing. Regardless of how often you see someone, the fact that you look forward to seeing them and miss them when they are absent is a sign of true friendship.
My Grange friends are a large part of my life. I’ve been blessed with friends like Tom, people who often live in places I might never have gone without the Grange. People who I never would have met and with whom I have discovered shared interests have become friends due to the fraternal bonds of the Grange.
My life is richer because of my friends, the friends I’ve had who have crossed over into the next life, the friends I have around me today, and the promise of friends to be made in the future. With each step down life’s pathway we need to remind ourselves to treasure all who walk with us, whether for a short while or for many long years, as our journey’s value is measured not in recognition or material goods, but in the friends we make along the way.
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