Dude, where's my thoughts?

Lil Charlie gets the professional treatment

2012-01-14T12:09:00.000-08:00

We love going to Utah because that means family. We love family because that means that we can take advantage of them...in a good way. My sister, Heather, literally threw this together in 10 minutes in her bedroom. Check out all of her work here.

Tis the season to get into the season

2011-12-03T15:10:00.001-08:00

No better place to get the Christmas season started than a visit to the Mesa Temple Christmas lights.

South Mountain Park

2011-12-03T08:24:00.000-08:00

A recent visit from mom and dad was reason enough to visit another nook of the Valley that I haven't experienced. Here are a few above average photos from South Mountain Park. On a clear day and with the right equipment you could get some great vistas of the whole Phoenix area.

Lil' Charlie's Feedin' Legs

2011-11-27T10:33:00.000-08:00

You notice the littlest things as parents. Not surprisingly these little discoveries are the most worthwhile. For me I love watching his legs as he takes in his bottle.

Wait...I need a centrifuge to cook some of these dishes?

2011-11-26T18:33:00.000-08:00

The cooking book to end all cooking books... Take a look at this book. It is cool and ground breaking. It will make you wonder if you've even been cooking before you read this thing. I was all excited until I realized that I need a PhD in Chemistry and the budget of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory to pull off most of these dishes.

Modernist Cuisine Trailer from Modernist Cuisine on Vimeo.

Why we named you Charles

2011-11-04T13:34:00.000-07:00

Good morning Lil' Charlie. You've only been with us for a couple of days but it seems like I can't conceive of a time when you weren't part of our family. I wanted to spend a moment to tell you why we gave you the name we did. You see we didn't need to consult a magazine to pick the most recent name du jour; we have had your name picked out for a long time.

Your name has great significance in your father's family. It was the name of a great man who passed away many years ago but whose legacy is still fresh in the hearts and minds of all he touched. It was the name of your great grandpa Charles Otterstrom. He was also known as 'Chic'.

The world sometimes measures men by a different scale then we do. Sometimes it values wealth, power, and notoriety over things like character, selflessness, and love. You see Chic wasn't noted for those former qualities but he had the latter ones in spades. His character will last far longer than when all the gold of the wealthy man has been spent.

I never met my Grandpa Chic. He died before I was born. In fact he passed from this life on the same day that Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin made the famous first moon landing. My knowledge of him has been passed to me by those whose lives were touched by him. Here are a few things they mentioned.

He was a humble man who always put the needs of others over his own. He was never a wealthy man but that never stopped him from sharing what little he had with others.
He was a creative man. He worked for the great Walt Disney and helped animate some of your soon to be favorite movies like "Cinderella", "Snow White", and "Pinocchio". Some say he never got the credit he deserved for his work because he was so humble and he never sought to put himself over others.
While he never had the opportunity to serve a mission he was always sharing the Gospel with others. Most of his best missionary work was done through his Christ-like example.
He was a man who never succumbed to anger. He never needed to. He was able to educate and communicate without having to raise his voice.
He was also a great photographer. He was so good that the Government used him on top secret missions to photograph the tests that took place in the remote desert to capture the tests surrounding the feared and powerful atomic bomb. This work ultimately led to the cancer that took his life. In spite of this he never complained. Actually he still remained more concerned about the needs of others.

We will continue to gather stories of this great man so that you can follow his example. This shouldn't be hard because there are still so many people who have so many wonderful stories to share.

Soon enough we will tell you about the person behind your middle name, Don. He is also a great man and he has also created a wonderful legacy for you.

Not so subtle plug for my sister

2011-10-25T20:35:00.001-07:00

She's becoming quite the mainstay on KSL

Good Wealth, Poor Wealth

2011-10-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

While there are various ways to generate wealth, I contend that their overall value can be boiled down to something I'll call "good wealth" and "poor wealth". I know, I know 'just one more dichotomy that further illustrates the growing divide in an increasingly divisive America'. Let me see if I can back up this claim with the recent passing of an icon and a book that I am currently reading.

I will use Steve Jobs as the embodiment of "Good Wealth". Through his company, Apple, he was able to generate billions of dollars, hire thousands of people, create and reinvigorate entire industries, and essentially create a positive multiplier effect across the entire economy.

On the other hand, I will use Wall Street, specifically the world of Hedge Funds* as described in "More Money than God", to personify "Poor Wealth." These groups operate well out of the reach of the general public, generate/destroy incredible amounts of wealth, and have been known to help exacerbate the demise of entire economies- think the whole Thai Baht fiasco of 1997.

One creates something tangible. The other speculates on the work of others. One creates jobs, intellectual property, and tangible products. The other hires very few, generates no real value outside of the elite inner circle, and the only real tangible by product of its efforts are the creation of markets that are far riskier.

I'm sorry if I'm ranting. I'm a capitalist and risk taker at heart. I know that the Hedge Fund guys aren't as bad as the investment bankers. Because at least the Hedge Fund guys usually risk their own money and they don't get bailed out like Goldman Sachs does. But their size and exclusivity plays a big role in creating a wider income disparity in our country and they make the overall markets far more volatile.

As I conclude I can't help but be reminded of all the "Occupy Wall-Street" protests that are springing up every where. The "we are the 99%" message not only resonates but it really does capture what is taking place right now. The income divide is huge and there is definitely a tangible anger towards the super rich. But notice that these protests seem to make the same distinction that I am. They aren't burning an effigy of Steve Jobs or other innovators. They have turned their ire on the Wall Street fat cats.

--
* I selected the Hedge fund mainly because of the book I am currently reading. I would likely cast the investment banks as the larger player in terms of "bad wealth".

Saving our Bluths

2011-10-03T19:10:00.000-07:00

There was a collective feeling of jubilation this weekend amongst those who value good comedy. It was 'sort of' announced that Arrested Development was going to come back for a brief 4th season that would be capped with a movie. Yes, fan's have been tormented for several years of similar news that always failed to materialize. But this seems different and a little more formal.

So in preparation for the release I thought I'd dust off my DVD collection, waste a few days to get reacquainted with the family, and come up with a few questions that I'd like to see answered. Feel free to share a few of your own.

I'd like to see more of Franklin Delano Bluth. Gob is always looking for a suitable assistant as he continues his quest to get within the Magicians Alliance; why not give that role to Franklin?
I was a fan of the friendly rivalry between the Bluth's and the Sitwell's. I'd like to see the family battle out Sitwell Housing for control of the Bluth Company.
Is Buster still a viable candidate with Lucille for Mother Boy XXXV? I'd like to find out.
It's time for another "Bluth Boy Adventure". I'm game for anything that gets Michael and George Michael on the screen together.
I'd love to see Tobias come out....straight.
Steve Holt. Has he graduated yet or is he continuing to cement his legacy at the Corona Del Mar high school?
Will Uncle Jack be around to bail out the next Bluth crisis?
Will Michael ever manage to settle into a normal relationship?
Has Barry Zuckerkorn been disbarred yet?
Does Lucille have to decide between George Sr. and Uncle Oscar?

The list could go on and on. My mind is racing with possibilities.

Here is what MTV would like to see.

Get More: Music News

All in for Austin

2011-09-18T19:08:00.000-07:00

Using the BYU-Texas game as the excuse we spent another memorable weekend deep in the heart of the Country of Texas. While the team wound up folding we managed to invent a new sport (Two ball), bust an Achilles (Garrett), gorge on meat (Rudy's and Salt Lick), have a love affair with the taco (Torchy's) discover Rone's Corner at the UT Campus, get healed at the waters of Barton Springs, awkwardly walk down 6th Street on a Friday night, and chuckle at the whole 'Texas Pride' thing.

A great time and here's to another Skutch trip.

Achtung Baby Documentary: From the Sky Down

2011-09-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

Can't wait for this. Amazing insight into the one of best albums of the last 25 years. I miss the fly.

Here's a link to an interview with Bono and the Edge at the Toronto Film Festival discussing the documentary.

Salt Lake: Center for Italian Epicurean Finery?

2011-09-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

On the surface, one would be relatively hard pressed to find many similarities between the Salt Lake Valley and Italy. Both are home to prominent religions...what else? If you said, 'both have ideal climates for world class artisan meats' than you'd be a step ahead of pretty much everyone.

Unbeknownst to most, even the most culinary alert, is the fact that the finest cured meats made this side of the Ligurian come from Salt Lake, specifically Cristiano Creminelli- the proud man pictured here.

I stumbled upon this fact while savoring the best and most authentic pizzas in Arizona. My first exposure came from friend Stefano Fabbri, owner of Pomo Pizzeria. It is the only certified authentic Neapolitan pizza in Phoenix. My love affair with this place has its origins here. I have explored the finest reaches of this menu and all of my favorite dishes, most notably the Quattro Stagioni and Diavola, are made exceptional through the use of Creminelli Salame.

More recently while enjoying a pie at the world renowned Pizzeria Bianco- yes the best pizza in America is found in Phoenix- I had an interesting and informative conversation with their chef regarding the quality of their ingredients. The conversation naturally turned to meats and his eyes lit up when the conversation moved to Creminelli. They too use their meats. And according to Bianco, Christiano hand selected the Salt Lake area due to its similar climate to Italy.

Imagine that. The best cured meats coming from this humble valley. Brother Brigham was a bigger visionary than I gave him credit for. Do you think he had Salame Piccante Creminelli in mind when he said 'This is the Place'? Utah, you've given me one more thing to be proud of

Learning with Bono

2011-08-27T09:45:00.000-07:00

We all have our childhood idols. For most growing boys idols come in three flavors: Sports Figure, Actor (Namely someone in the mold of Harrison Ford or John Wayne) or Musician. Eventually we will mature and start patterning our lives after captains of industry, politicians, or- should we hold on to our ideals- a philosopher/religious figure. But nothing comes close to the magic that we felt when we first connected to our early heroes.

For me no one had a bigger impact on my formative years than Saint Bono. I tried to emulate his horrible Western 'Rattle and Hum' era wardrobe. I studied his Rolling Stone interviews. I dissected the inner workings of his lyrics in search for answers to life's mysteries. He was my school teacher and here was some of my curriculum.

Literature: Bono was my gateway to Flannery O'Connor, James Joyce, even Norman Mailer. I remember him mentioning in passing how cool "Ulysses" was so I spent all of my summer vacation money at the Ex-Libris bookstore in Sun Valley, Idaho to get a nice copy. Despite my best and repeated efforts I never made it more than 30 pages into that thing. I did have better luck with Norman Mailer and his 'Executioners Song', the inspiration for the underrated Joshua Tree classic, 'Exit'. That book was far more accessible and set in my Utah backyard. Too bad it was written about the notorious serial killer Gary Gilmore.
Social Activism: One cannot truly experience growing up without responding to the well intentioned calls of activist groups that occupy liner notes and arena lobbies of our favorite concerts. For me it was Amnesty International, Green Peace, with a little bit of UNICEF. While their messages get a more cloudy through middle age and a more complex lens, their earnestness and devotion to their cause is to be admired.
Religious Studies: U2's Christan imagery not only inspired fervor in many Mormon boys such as myself it also led to some of the greatest Mormon urban legends. (i.e. that whole silly bit about Bono writing 'Streets' for Salt Lake City or 'One' for a Mormon girl that wouldn't let him in the Temple.) While I never fell for the Mormon-connection side of the U2 religious experience I did spend plenty of time poring over the Psalms, namely Psalms 40. I remember using that Psalm and the U2 song by the same name to lead my seminary class in a daily devotional. I must of thought I was so cool and so spiritual.
Musical Exploration: U2 also introduced me to the wider world of music. (Don't worry Brian Tibbets you still get credit for Simon & Garfunkel, the Beatles, Colors, and the Smiths) My old CD collection is full albums from the Pixies, Joy Division, the Pogues, the Clash, Velvet Underground, Sex Pistols, and the like. Some were accepted into my musical rotation, most gathered dust next my mystical moods collection. Every time Bono or the Edge would list a musical influence I would follow their path so that I could, perhaps, better understand the essence of my favorite U2 songs.
Reinvention: Amongst my friends U2- Bono particularly- took a big hit in popularity when they transitioned from the earnestness of the Joshua Tree years to the leathery irony of Zoo TV. While I didn't fully understand of the genius of the move at the time I did value their courage in stepping out of a successful act and completely reinventing another one. Comfort is only good for lounge wear; life is to be experienced on the uncomfortable edge of exploration and discovery. It was the Fly, or was it MacPhisto, who taught me that.

I could continue but you get my point. There is something magical about a childhood hero. Even if they get middle-aged and start turning out boring records, that doesn't detract from those youthful moments when they inspired possibility and opportunity. Who were your childhood heroes?

Covers can be good

2011-08-23T19:23:00.000-07:00

Thanks Gar. I will now revisit the "30 Second to Mars" catalog. Great cover.

Get More: 30 Seconds To Mars, MTV Unplugged, Music, More Music Videos

Why music matters

2011-08-16T20:22:00.000-07:00

Do certain songs reach such a personal chord that they make you literally stop you in your tracks so that you can adequately absorb them? Every once in awhile a song comes around that matches an exact sentiment from a certain period of your life.

If you know anything about my personal history you will know why this beautiful song from 'Noah and the Whale' resonates.

The Montana oil spill, but more importantly Rob Rogers

2011-07-09T17:28:00.000-07:00

Rob, your voice is like a fine aged single malt Scotch.* Good to see a Skutch in the news.

*Assumption based solely on what I believe a fine Scotch would taste like, I mean, c'mon.

Hello Charles, ready for your close up?

2011-06-25T15:23:00.000-07:00

A more magical moment I cannot imagine. The first glimpse of your kid. Parenthood leaves the realm of the abstract and becomes something very tangible with that first picture. Plus, it looks like he'll be a boxer. A scrawny little, wonderful pugilist. We haven't even had him yet and he's already making us proud.

Becoming reacquainted with 'the man'

2011-06-21T20:51:00.000-07:00

I recently made the decision to go back to a full time corporate job. With us now getting ready for a kid it just made sense. I will be leaving the sometimes thrilling and sometimes crushing world of entrepreneurship and joining the throngs of us who are indentured to 'the man'*. I am excited for the opportunity but there are few things that will be missed. Among them:

The freedom: I will miss having incredible flexibility in my schedule and having the ability to, at the drop of the hat, pull off a road trip or getaway. Here's to a quick accumulation of vacation days.
The public restroom: On occasion I would work out of a public library. For the most part it worked well. The notable exception being when a restroom visit was required. My GI tract probably suffered insurmountable damage due to my fear in going in there. About as third world as Scottsdale can get.
The Tax deductions: It was certainly fun to try and justify every expense as 'business related'. Every January was like a treasure hunt as I danced through the myriad deductions available for the small business.
The Mutual Fundification of my income: It is very nice knowing that if you lose business from one source you have it coming in from some other ones. In these uncertain times when a layoff is just around every corner it is essential that you can draw upon another cash cow.
The cachet of calling yourself an entrepreneur: Ok, I'm not sure how much cachet exists, but there is a certain adventure to being one. Since I can't be an adventurer, this was the close second.

I'm sure that there are several other reasons why I'll miss what I've done and what I built with Lacuna. They will probably reveal themselves slowly over the next few weeks as I try to acclimate to the corporate lifestyle.

*By the way, who is this man and why do so many of us have to work for him?

File this under: Good, damn good

2011-06-15T14:34:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you mix the best new act to come out of England and the mundane melodrama of The National? This. Very cool.

Tags: Mumford and Sons Unplugged, Mumford and Sons, Music Videos, Live Performances

The collective human experience

2011-06-12T16:28:00.000-07:00

A good portion of my free book time is spent towards history. Oftentimes we are so consumed with the issues of the 'here and now' that we forget to truly educate ourselves or to enjoy the triumphs and tragedies of our forebearers. So replace that copy of "The Millionaire Next Door" with a book regarding an age or a time that truly interests you.

And if you don't find value in history, the words of Hugh Nibley, taken from 'Approaching Zion' offer you a good reason as to why you should.

"By neglecting to consult the writings of the ancients, we miss the fact that in their trials and triumphs, individually and collectively, they had to undergo exactly the same trials that we do: the props of the plays, the technology, and the fashions, wear out and are constantly being replaced, but the issues and the plot always remain the same."

Jury Duty Extraction 101

2011-06-07T15:18:00.000-07:00

Your jury experience suck? Blame Henry Fonda.

Let's be honest. Outside of an occasional Victoria's Secret catalog, J/K, there is nothing very exciting about getting the mail these days. I guess we have Al Gore and his internet to partially blame for that. There is probably even a hierarchy that outlines the dread associated with most mail. If such a pyramid existed the Jury summons would be near the top, just under the photo traffic ticket but slightly above the utility bill.

Wait. Shouldn't jury duty be something that we, citizens of an open democracy, relish and be proud of? Sure, the right to a jury by your peers is something that distinguishes our great legal system. We like it, just as long as we aren't being called on to spend an afternoon at the old courthouse passing judgement.*

So, as long as there has been a need for a jury, there has been a need to come up with a suitable excuse to extricate oneself from this grand responsibility. Since this is something that effects all of us and since I have successfully gotten out of all 5 of my summons I thought I would share a few things that might help you successfully neglect your civic responsibility. Monsieur McAdams can check the list against his ever expanding legal experience.

The racist/sexist/just about anything that ends in 'ist' card: This is an easily played card that promises results. But keep in mind that those results come with potential consequences. The success of this one might depend on the size of and your standing within the community. You would hate to be labeled the town homophobe just because of a couple well placed comments to the person picking a jury.
The political outlier: This fellow is a close relation to the "ist" man explained above. All it takes is a couple of comments regarding your support for some militia group in Northern Idaho or for socialism in general. Better yet, bring a copy of Das Kapital to the jury selection meeting.
The suffering patient: Head over to your nearest medical supply store before your jury selection date. Don't forget to be creative in your selection of items to wear. My suggestion? Buy some loose gauze. Visit a magic shop and get a hold of some fake blood or puss. Apply liberally. Should get you out pretty quickly.
Mr. Answer: This one takes a little longer to execute but its effectiveness is not questioned and it reduces the potential stigma associated with the previous three. From the moment you enter the building you need to put on your best "A" personality and actively dominate every conversation. Not only that you need to have very strong opinions that you have to insist are absolute. The best way to get your pass is to target any staff and harangue them regarding the inefficiency of the current judicial system. Go the distance by going into a 15 diatribe about your prescription for this problem. Nobody wants to execute justice with "Mr. Answer", trust me.

These are just a few suggestions. Try them out and let me know how they work. Have any better recommendations? Please share.

--
*The obvious exceptions would be anything worthy to be shown on Court TV.

Thank you Zooey

2011-06-05T20:51:00.000-07:00

Randomizer Volume VII Series I

2011-05-19T14:39:00.000-07:00

No band is as adept at creating an atmosphere or mood as the National. But can they just lay off the melancholy and minor chords every once in awhile? Things can't be that bad, can they?
Maybe it's some kind of deep seeded guilt for not having served in the military but I have a real thing for shirts with epaulets. That either makes me very patriotic or very fashion forward. Or maybe it reveals that I'm still having a hard time saying goodbye to Michael Jackson.
I'm having the darnedest time trying to figure out who to cheer for in the Chicago-Miami series. My disdain for both current franchises is equally distributed. I am going to reread Machiavelli's 'Prince' for inspiration on how I should strategically direct my boo's.
So I've been told that the world is supposed to end this weekend. Where's my heads up? I was totally getting ready for December 2012. I wish someone would have told me sooner before I re upped my cell phone plan. That's money that could have been spent for a bomb shelter or last minute South Pacific getaway.
Don't cook? Did you laugh at those poor saps who got stuck in Home Economics? Take a look at this book. It will seriously blow your mind with how cool it is. Disregard the price tag because this book will enable you to unlock all culinary mysteries.

Nevermind the Gas prices, Bisbee calls

2011-04-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

Bisbee= One of the better places in Arizona to relax, rejuvenate, and rediscover life.

Ayn Rand's ideas and Mormon thought?

2011-04-14T12:46:00.000-07:00

I believe in the brilliant possibilities that can be obtained by individual thought, ingenuity, and hard work. I believe that a free market is the ultimate place to test and value those ideas and works. I believe in preserving our freedoms so that we choose the course best suited for ourselves.

I suppose you can tell a lot about me based on those aforementioned beliefs. You would guess that I am a proponent of capitalism and I might even be a Libertarian. You could argue that those beliefs match many of those who share my Mormon faith. And you could also argue that I am likely a huge proponent of Ayn Rand and her core philosophy, Objectivism.

Before I read 'Fountainhead' I probably would have answered yes to that last question. But there was just something about Howard Roark and his actions that just didn't jibe with core beliefs that I held. I looked a little more at objectivism and I was surprised.

I was going to write my own treatise comparing Ayn Rand's philosophy with Mormon tenants but somebody already did a better job here. I'm all for reason, human accomplishment, capitalism and independence. But the lack of morality and compassion that I've found in a lot of these materials just doesn't ring true to me as someone who believes in the tenets of Christianity.

The Desert Botanical Garden

2011-03-17T13:38:00.000-07:00

When you think of desert do you think dry wasteland? Spend a spring evening at the Botanical Gardens and the lush surroundings will have you completely rethinking your opinions of the desert. And it's just moments from down town.

The battle of the bulge

2011-03-05T15:36:00.000-08:00

No, not that Battle of the Bulge.

As the average male matures into his middle years there are certain measuring sticks that are used to determine whether or not he is in control of his physical being. There are the obvious ones such as hair- both on the top of the head and the back-, weight maintenance, or muscle tone. But there is one more subtle mile marker that all men secretly gauge, one that has repercussions both to his psyche but, also, his wardrobe.

What is it?

The waist-length ratio for our pants.

For most of our formative and early adult years we carelessly prance around on the positive side of this ratio. Our metabolism is robust, our activity solid, and our stomach flat. It is easy to understand why a 24 year old will take his 30x34 measurements for granted. But then real life happens and the slow advance of extra pounds makes its assault on our mid section.

The first time you really become aware of the advance is when you get to 33x34. For years you have been on the positive side of the ratio and now you are coming to the precipice. And then the possibility of 34x34 looms. The difference between a 33 and ..gasp...a 35 is a Continental Divide a Mason-Dixon line, if you will, that you don't want to cross, but like the River Styx it's crossing appears inevitable.

For awhile, you ignore it. And than you begin your meek counter attack.You step up your time in the gym. You uncomfortably sit through lunch meetings as you hold in your gut to maintain the 33x34 charade. And then finally you can't take it. You either must reverse this course, and all the hard work that entails, or you must come to grip with the reality dealt on the other side of the equation.

You start to evaluate diets. You secretly try on a pair of 35x34 jeans just for the sake of investigation. You log in a few extra minutes at the gym. You've reached the crossroads that all men, aged 30-40 inevitably face. Father time is calling and he is wearing a pair of loose fitting sansabelt trousers.

Friends, I have reached that critical juncture. Pray that I will have the strength to extend this fight and not prematurely succumb to the siren song of easy meals and suspenders.

Ode to suburban living

2011-02-13T13:53:00.000-08:00

I spend a couple days a week working down in a little community nestled in the Southeast end of the Valley. 15 years ago it was nothing more than open land and farms. Now it is one giant master planned community dealing with the scars of the current housing debacle. By scars I mean an uneasy blend of half occupied communities and never finished developments.

I've never really liked the suburban lifestyle. Why? A variety of reasons. I prefer the patchwork diversity of a more urban setting. I prefer older more established communities. I very much prefer the wider range of options afforded to those who live in the city boundaries. Actually those seem to be reasons to prefer city living. Why the disdain for the suburban dream? I could never really put my finger on until...

Let me set the scene.

I'm at a Chikfila for lunch at 123 Anywhere street USA. Well, to be sort of precise, the aforementioned
community in the Southeast Valley. The place is packed with the thirty-something moms and their little broods. A mixture of exhaustion, yearning, and pride can be read from their faces. They look cut from the same cloth. The hair, the number of children, the clothing selected from the entire spectrum of the gap catalog. Just hints at the real nugget. And then it comes.

Over the stereo comes a completely castrated jazz rendition of "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds". Gone are the psychedelic meanderings of a once creative genius. Replaced by a sterile copy, unoffensive enough that it can be placed comfortably at any number of stores selling any number of goods. That dreadful version of that great song served as my epiphany and helped me understand why the suburbs might be great for some but just not for me.

Seriously? Which one is mine?

Here's my impression of the suburbs. They represent a nice generalization of the ideal community that will satisfy the largest percentage of the population. Everything from the square footage of the Home Depot to the menu selection at the neighborhood Applebees, to type the of swings at the community park are almost scientifically designed to maximize the utility of the community.

Now, that is all fine and dandy if the interests, aspirations, and values of the community are completely homogeneous and non-offensive. But to someone who prefers to live in the "long tail" this type of environment is stifling and very unattractive. These communities leave very little room for creativity, diversity, and risk because they are just too inefficient and unprofitable to incorporate into the blueprints.

Now that is not to say that one can't be a risk taking, creative, diverse individual and still live in the suburbs. But the odds, by odds I mean the design of the community, are against you. That's why those types typically flock to a more urban setting. These communities are probably a great safe place to raise a family. And since we haven't reached that stage in our lives maybe we are unqualified to offer the critique.

Note: The impetus of this post was the response that we get in Mesa from most friends when they discover that we endeavor to move back to Phoenix.

Tonto Natural Bridge and the open road

2011-02-05T09:58:00.000-08:00

We recently decided to head up to the famed Route 66 and the Turquoise Room at the Posada Hotel in Winslow. Our route took us right through some scenic pine country and the Tonto Natural Bridge. It is right off the highway and well worth your time.

The recent cold freeze created some great photos. The waterfall froze and we were able to witness several large icicles come to a tremendous crash at the bottom of the ravine. The sun was very bright which made most of the photos over saturated or laden with too much contrast. Nonetheless, they do a decent job of capturing another of Arizona's natural gems.

Introduction: The View from Both Sides of the Border

2011-02-03T08:40:00.000-08:00

Things have slowed down here on the blog. I don't want to blame it all on the recession, but...

Anyways, I have reaccessed what I want to do with the 'dude' and how I want to proceed with other interests that might not correspond with the original intent of the this blog and the interests of the 5 family members who still visit this place. So the 'dude' will move on with its original mission and some of my special interest niches will get their own forum.

Which brings us to 'Both Sides of the Border.I am introducing this blog to serve as a portal for my insights, research, and opinions on issues related to the U.S.-Mexico border. Topics will include: Immigration, Drug Violence, Border Security, Cultural Experiences, and other subjects relative to the region.

Feel free to go over there if there is interest. Also, feel free to go over there to enhance my website stats and buoy my fragile ego.

2011...and?

2011-01-25T16:01:00.000-08:00

Well. A new year and a new list of ideas, goals, and assessments. What to do with this blog? Blogs seem so 2005. Do they have a place in my future?

To be continued...

Culture over consumerism

2010-12-11T14:53:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the wonderful world wide web I no longer have to spend my December weekends exchanging blows with my neighbors at the local mall. Instead, I can enjoy things like the dedication of the Paolo Soleri bridge in Scottsdale.

Soleri is the coolest Italian architect in this town and he is the godfather of the whole arcology movement. He is known locally for his Arcosanti concept. His people also make real cool bells and chimes.

Anyway, this bridge is a nice counter and complement to the evolving Waterfront area. It's nice to see his bohemian, utopian influences juxtaposed next to the State's biggest den of consumerism.

Where has all the good Christmas music gone?

2010-12-09T12:32:00.000-08:00

Like many of us, most of my music time comes while navigating local streets. With the Holidays in full swing and my ipod transmitter broken I am at the mercy of the local radio stations to get me in the spirit. It's only been several days and I already don't like the mood they are creating.

A few thoughts on Christmas music and radio:

There are literally thousands of Christmas songs and millions of different versions of those songs. Why do these stations stick to the same 500? I love Bing Crosby as much as the next patriotic American but let's put the daily limit on "White Christmas" at 15.
The 40's, 50's, and 60's had to have been the golden years for the commercial Christmas song. Don Draper and his contemporaries gave us the classics like Rudolph, Frosty, and others all in the name of moving products at Macy's.
Meanwhile the 80's gave as a horrible nadir in terms of quality music. Leave it to Wham, Paul McCartney, and the folks behind "do they know its Christmas" to stink it up so badly that it would be almost a full decade before we would see artists tread back into these lucrative holiday waters.
If you are a successful musician making a Christmas song has to the lowest hanging fruit possible. Easy money, shooting fish in a barrel, you get my drift.
There are few religious Christmas songs played on the radio today. The obvious exception is "O Holy Night". But I think that is because it showcases the range of the diva more than celebrating the traditional meaning for the season. Seriously, if you are an artist and you want to demonstrate your skill then this is the Christmas proving ground for you. "Little Drummer Boy" is another exception but, c'mon...how offensive is a he?

A couple more hours of this and I will be running, not walking, over to the local Deseret Book for some Tabernacle Choir seasonal cd's.

I support the Dream Act. Here's why

2010-12-06T11:48:00.000-08:00

While in no way a comprehensive solution to our immigration mess, the Dream Act represents a positive idea that should be supported and further developed by both sides of the aisle. (For text of the bill as it currently stands in the house click here.) Citizenship should be earned and this bill does a good job of providing the right kind of carrots for the kind of immigrant that will add value to our country.

Let's be honest, we can't blame the kids for whom this bill was drafted. They didn't create these circumstances. And before we lay all the blame on their parents, let's realize that our economy and government have long let the conditions for illegal immigration flourish. If we weren't so willing to pay these immigrants a tax-free pittance for their hard labor I doubt we would be facing our current immigration mess. But this is our reality and we would be best served by taking steps to improve it.

The bill focuses on paving a way for deserving immigrants a chance to go to college or serve in the military. There are plenty of strings attached to prevent this from being a free ride. And no these students won't be taking away grants and in-state tuition for those legal kids. The bill contains no language about in-state tuition, leaving that decision to each State. It merely gives some very deserving students the opportunity to attend college or the military and to earn an expedited path to citizenship through conditional permanent residency status.

There is an economic incentive to pass this as well. The CBO estimates that it will reduce the deficit by $1.4 billion annually. Some might bring up the opposing figures offered by the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS) but their perspective is too biased and their methodology too flawed to seriously to be seriously considered. Nonetheless, here is the link to their take.

The bill is not perfect and there are things that need further clarification and discussion. (i.e. in-state tuition, need to be part of larger reform, vague protections for anyone who simply starts an application, etc...) And, ideally this would be a small piece in a larger bill that truly fixes our immigration mess. Unfortunately that is not the case at this moment.

In the meantime, this is a worthy bill. It gives some relief to a group who can truly contribute and participate in America. And it will help in keeping the spotlight on an issue that only continues to grow.

There's more than just one type of "Hispanic"

2010-11-12T08:25:00.000-08:00

The points of view on both sides of the immigration debate have become so hardened that it is fast becoming near impossible to reach any kind of middle ground or mutual understanding. That is unfortunate because both sides have valid points worth considering.

One tactic that both sides use, to their own detriment, is to paint the entire other side with the same general brushstroke. I guess that makes sense if you are trying to defeat something and not work with it. If there is one thing I've learned over the years it is that stereotypes and perceptions are lazy and often counterproductive. Travel to Italy and compare the cuisine from region to region and than compare it our traditional definition of "Italian" and you'll know what I mean. Not all Italian's eat lasagna and not all Mexicans are law breaking criminals who are undermining the "American" way of life.

Peel back the onion a bit and you get a far more intricate and complicated picture.

That is certainly the case with both sides of the immigration debate. Peer beyond the talking points of both sides and you can start to make some real ground. Right now I want to spend a few moments talking about the many nuances of the Hispanic community living in the U.S.

The Pew Center does a good job gauging the sentiment of the Hispanic Community. Many will argue that the Center is too liberal, but I don't find it to be too bad to where I can't use their data. Their surveys are comprehensive and often times they provide the source data for any surveys or research done.

I recently reviewed one of the surveys that was conducted before the primary elections of 2008. Most of the questions are centered on political opinions and immigration policy. The link to the full report can be found here. I pulled the data-set, a sample size of just over 2,000 respondents, and played with it in SPSS. Here are a few interesting findings:

Over 66% of the respondents viewed their quality of life as "good" or excellent.
77% were "very" or "somewhat" confident that their children growing up in the U.S. will have better jobs than they do.
While more Hispanics affiliated themselves with the Democratic party and considered that party more attuned to their interests, the numbers were still relatively small. 42% didn't think that either party listened to them and and 37% consider themselves independent.
Over 83% think that we have "too many" or just the "right" amount of immigrants in the U.S.
65% believe that discrimination is a "major problem" and an additional 19% believe that it is a "minor problem".
41% stated that they or loved ones have experienced discrimination in the past year.
46% are fluent in English as well as Spanish.
52% of respondents are employed full-time, 31% are not employed.
48% earn less than $30k/year.

There isn't anything particularly groundbreaking with this study. In fact, data can be pulled by both sides to validate their positions. But if you look at the numbers more closely you see a more diverse and pluralistic Hispanic Community. About the only thing that truly galvanized them in one direction was their opposition to implied or potential discrimination.

So what is the point of all this? We can't simply place the same broad set of assumptions on the Hispanic population as a whole. I know Hispanics here legally and illegally. I know Hispanics who are Republicans and those who are Democrats. I know some who want to stay here and pursue the American dream and others who are here for lack of better options back home. I know those who look down upon illegal immigration and those who see it as the only necessary route to both earn a wage as well as serve a demand here in the U.S. I've met some who are honest, some not so much. They are just as varied and diverse as any group.

Let's be a little more careful with our generalizations and seek to understand before we draw any conclusions.

Addendum:
A recent survey from last month reveals once again how diverse the Hispanic population is. In many ways it is a follow up to the 2007 survey that was mentioned above. Its findings are somewhat surprising and uncover a sizable divide within the community regarding the benefits and proposed treatment of illegal immigrants. Very, very interesting. Link to summary here.

Randomizer Volume VI Series II

2010-11-05T08:14:00.000-07:00

Because my mind only works when it is traipsing gingerly through multiple badly formed thoughts.

Point of Political Ads?: Both political parties clearly understand that the American public is ticked off at partisan politics and negativity, right? Both parties want to demonstrate that they are ready to hear the voice of the people, right? Then why the "H" were the last five months spent subjecting us to the worst, most negative attack ads ever? From both parties! It's stuff like that that inspired me to vote Libertarian across the board. It's stuff like that that make me grateful for the remote control. The Republicans win a resounding victory than their leadership immediately goes off on a diatribe against Obama. We might not agree with his policies but shut up about the attacks. That is exactly what we don't want and that is what is going to make your control of the House short lived.

The Incredible Edible Egg...as dessert? Being married to Jodi means many wonderful things. One of them is that dessert will play a large role in our culinary adventures. I recently took account of my favorite desserts and I discovered one common thread. They abound with eggs. Also, they all have a lot of vanilla....but that's for another time. Tiramisu. Custard. Bread Pudding. French Cruller Donuts. Boston Creme Pie. Flan. All very eggey and all exceptionally tasty.

Having Something to Work With: Ben Folds is cool. And when he teams up with Nick Hornby, of 'About A Boy' fame, he becomes even cooler. This following quote from a fairly recent NPR interview they conducted got me thinking.

"I was just going to say about sending Ben the lyrics and saying, 'Well, this is what they are' — [it] works in the same way that if you tell a kid, 'Write something; write anything; you can write a story about anything you want,' they can't think of anything," says Hornby. "But if you say, 'Write a story about a crocodile, a pineapple and a stair lift in a hotel,' then it will spark something up. The same still happens to me if I'm commissioned to write anything I want for a magazine. I never want to do it. But if someone comes in with some specific ideas about something, then the limit placed on the limitless actually does spark the imagination."

That statement is so true. We need certain parameters in place- whether it be sparked by interest or assignment- before we can really succeed creatively. Otherwise indecision looms because there are simply too many options.

Rome in America. (Part III)

2010-10-23T16:08:00.000-07:00

I am continually fascinated by Roman history, particularly the exceptionally tumultuous period when the Republic was usurped by Imperial rule. I can't help but wonder if this specific period has the potential to be echoed in our contemporary American experience.

Specifically, I am interested in the decline of virtue and its impact on society. The period right before and during Caesar's rise, reign, and assassination saw an increased abandonment of the core principles, values, and responsibilities that girded the Roman Republic. The following is an apt description of the times.

"As soon as riches came to be held in honor, when glory, dominion, and power followed in their train, virtue began to lose its luster, poverty to be considered a disgrace, blamelessness to be termed malevolence. Therefore...riches, luxury, and greed, united with insolence, took possession of our young manhood. They pillaged, squandered; set little value on their own, coveted the goods of others; they disregarded modesty, chastity, everything human and divine; in short they were utterly thoughtless and reckless."
-Sallust

Now you can understand why people like Cato were so ticked. But doesn't that also sound like today in America? Causes, unity, and respect have given away to TMZ, boorishness, selfishness, self indulgence, and laziness. We've gone from the "Greatest Generation" to "Generation X" in less than 40 years. I don't want to be the bum who says that the sky is falling but I can't help but look at the above quote and think it does such a good job of encapsulating one of the big causes to the fall of one Republic and the weakening of another modern one.

Driving Possibility

2010-10-09T14:27:00.000-07:00

"He looked at the granite. To be cut, he thought, and made into walls. He looked at a tree. To be split and made into rafters. He looked at a streak of rust on the stone and thought of iron ore under the ground. To be melted and to emerge as girders against the sky.
These rocks he thought, are here for me; waiting for the drill, the dynamite and my voice; waiting to be split, ripped, pounded, reborn; waiting for the shape my hands will give them."

I often reflect on these thoughts shared by Howard Roark in the "Fountainhead". To me they speak to the incredible creative powers that are to be discovered in each of us. It is an incredible high to be able to tap into that vein and create something truly unique and of value. It is an incredible low to discover that you have wasted your time by not mining out those creative forces that lay dormant in each of us.

2010-09-23T15:10:00.000-07:00

One could argue that Kauai is for lovers, not brothers. But the Jensen men managed to buck that conventional wisdom and make a memorable week of it.

Writing our own story

2010-08-29T10:15:00.000-07:00

Ah...the thirties. A somewhat mid-point in our lives when we take stock of who we are and what it is we were destined to do or be. For many of us this period represents a sort of writers bloc. Our teens are full of activity and possibility. Our early twenties are spent harnessing that possibility and forging the foundation for our assigned place within the world.

But than the momentum of those promises and goals slows down and by the time we reach our thirties we start to take a deep look at our original plans. For some, they are right on course. For many others, they are left to a cacophony of "second guesses" and "what ifs".

The plot isn't quite moving forward as we'd hoped.

What to do?

This is a period in which we start to soul search, question a little more deeply, and take up jogging. In our quest for meaning we do odd things like growing a garden, writing music, running relay races.

Why?

We've got to prove to our selves that our lives mean something. That there is more to our existence than a career, bills, and taking the kids to soccer practice. We no longer are given lists of clubs to join or teams to play on. We now have to forge our own path and provide our own momentum.

The seeds of change are varied. Disappointment, yearning, curiosity, or thirst can all lead to this change. But these seeds are probably the purest of any that we've ever planted. They can represent the core essence of our soul and ambitions. They are planted and nourished by nothing more than our own desires and our quest to fulfill the possibilities laid out in our hearts and heads.

Finding sources of "Comfort Food" everywhere

2010-07-31T13:06:00.000-07:00

Sometimes life takes us along a strange and unknown journey. It's in moments like these that we yearn for the familiar bosom and the comfort that it provides. We like comfort because it provides familiarity, convenience, and an accurate response. We all know the term, "comfort food" and what it implies.
I feel that the term can expand beyond food. It can cover a variety of activities, diversions, or other aspects of our lives that we can run to when life seems a little too unpredictable. Here are a few of mine.

Movies: James Bond. Anytime, anyplace. I don't grow tired of them in the least. They have the action, the gadgets, the story-sometimes, and the exotic locations....and they are so easy to watch. You don't need to get yourself in the mood for these movies, you just sit back and enjoy the ride. Most rewatchable of the series? Try "For Your Eyes Only", "GoldenEye", and "Quantom of Solace". What, no Connery? We don't need no stinking Connery.
Music: Bad (Live), U2. A song that I can play 17 times in a row without getting tired of it. Don't agree? I'll punch you in the face.
TV: Arrested Development or Seinfeld. These are the ultimate entertainment snack. One episode is just not enough.
City: San Diego. It won't intimidate or tire you. Everything is within reach. The climate is as pleasant and docile as Eden itself. Its like the Krustez of cities. Just show up, add water, and enjoy.
Website: ESPN. Because I'm a man and because there is never enough sports.
Art:The works of Frederic Edwin Church. Enjoy it because it is simple straight forward beauty. You don't need to agonize over interpreting what the artist might or might not be saying. These are simply some of the best landscape paintings that you will ever see.

Because it's hot...really hot

2010-07-24T15:50:00.000-07:00

We all know that it gets hellishly hot in Phoenix during July and August. Experience a couple consecutive weeks of 110 plus heat and you start to really question the draw of this place. And since San Diego isn't an option every weekend, you've got to find ways to escape the heat that are a little closer to home.

Fortunately for us we've got the Mogollon Rim about an hour and a half to the Northeast of us. One of life's simple pleasures is looking down at your car thermometer as you climb to Payson and watch as the degrees peel off.

This weekend we opted to hike Horton Canyon. It is about 20 minutes outside of Payson just below the Rim. While it only takes an hour and a half to get up there, it is a world away from Phoenix.

To start, it is green. We were fortunate to hike the morning after some heavy monsoon rains. Everything was green and absolutely verdant. We saw ferns and other plants that we wouldn't think would have anything to do with this State. The sound of the creek, the smell of the damp pines, and the distant roar of the monsoon thunder is the perfect therapy for those of us who are having a difficult time stomaching this heat.

I will throw in a few more photos. This time from a Memorial Day trip down to Tucson. This is Sabino Canyon. It was too hot and the sun was too strong to really capture any decent photos. I'd like to revisit this place after a wet, cool Spring.

Remembering John Wooden

2010-06-05T13:13:00.000-07:00

I wasn't around to experience any of those great UCLA teams. Up until the last few years my only exposure to John Wooden came through second hand lessons taught by coaches and teachers. Up until a couple of years ago, I only knew that he was the most decorated coach of all time and that he had inspired legions of followers and practitioners of his teachings.

And than the news of his sickness and death came....the depth of my understanding of this man changed profoundly.

As I read the papers and heard the news I was inundated with stories and praise. This man was truly loved. He truly left his mark. And as more and more stories and anecdotes emerged, I realized one thing. They all dealt with his character. Sure there were references to his great success in winning games. But the majority of the time was spent on how he selflessly taught those around them how to work harder and become better people.

The athletes and coaches of our era are probably the best we've ever seen. Science and money have insured that by making athletics a very lucrative business. But behind all of the muscle and ego, there isn't much depth of character. The principles that we know are appropriate- team work, cooperation, effort- have been replaced with actions that are convenient such as greed, selfishness, and cheating. I can only imagine how Mr. Wooden felt during these last years as he watched this unfold in his beloved arena of sport. He proved that you can win the right way....only it was much harder then winning the convenient way. That is why he is so unique and singular.

Mr. Wooden, you thrived before my time. But your life and legacy is so very important to the people of my time. He was a throw back to the core principles that made us great. Maybe your passing will remind us that we've gone astray and that, to become great again, we need to look beyond ourselves.

Revenge of the Sequel

2010-05-10T15:33:00.000-07:00

Hollywood executives are spending a lot of time these days rummaging through the "attics" of their back catalog. What are they looking for? Anything that had a pulse, made a little money, is relatively cheap to make, can garner a measurable safe return, and can be turned around on the fly. Why? Because that is easy money and Hollywood is about money. If you want something ground breaking or original go watch the Sundance channel.

So in that spirit, I have decided to help these folks out with a few recommendations of my own. These are surefire winners.

Citizen Kane II, the Revenge of Rosebud: It's time we take the hammer to this iconic and innovative classic. Let's get one of the leading action directors of our day, Tony Scott or Barry Sonnenfeld, and load the sequel with every kind of cliche in the book. Yes, I did say action. We all knew that that darned Sled, Rosebud, looked like it was up to something bad. It will be unleashed in the sequel. It will be the slasher sensation of the summer box office.
Godfather IV, the boredom of running a legitimate business: We breathed a sigh of disappointment when Michael wanted to make the family business legitimate. What about the action, blood, and Sicilian justice? This one will be somewhat of a documentary, underlining the difficulties that most Italian companies have when they are required to play by the books. Should be a big hit with accountants.
Weekend at Bernie's III: Because there still so much that can be told. The Second wasn't enough, this movie franchise deserves a long life.
Golden Girls Gone Wild: It is only smart to capitalize on the hottest actress of the moment, Betty White. It's a shame this wasn't started earlier as we've only recently lost Bea Arthur and Estelle Getty. People love it when Betty uses the sexual double entendre. Let's take off the gloves and let these octogenarians blow away every social taboo that hasn't already been desecrated by people like Howard Stern.
Metrosexuals in the city: Because gays aren't the only men focused on clothes and their looks. Let's face it, we are becoming more vain. It's about time we had a movie that spoke to our vanity. Have it star David Beckham and Tom Brady. Have just enough of them to attract the female and gay audience. Have just enough action to capture the rest of us.
Clash of the Titans: Let's take a mulligan on the the remake, it was horrible. Start all over again and get back to the basics. Call Harry Hamlin if you have to. Better yet, exorcise the spirit of Laurence Olivier. I'm sure he could help. He's probably got nothing better to do.

Very Short Essay: Why I love Beulah

2010-04-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

I have never lived in a big city with a very strong urban core like New York or San Francisco. I've never been considered particularly hip. I don't attend many house parties, gallery openings, or clubs. And my artistic sensibilities are quite questionable.

But if I was hip, and I did live in one of these big cities, and I possessed a good sense of art, and I were to attend cool parties on a regular basis than I'd have to imagine that Beulah would be one of the artists on my playlist.

Listen to a couple of their songs and I'm willing to bet that you will want to join me in subletting a townhouse over in Cow Hollow.

It's a shame they are no longer with us. At least we still have the music of their former leader, Miles Kurosky.

Hollywood Dollars and Sense....not making sense to me

2010-04-16T16:16:00.000-07:00

As a kid there were few movies that really stoked the fire of my imagination. We were at an age that was brimming with adventure and ideas and we didn't need a movie to grow the flames. I can probably count the most magical movies on one hand.

Star Wars, Cloak and Dagger, Nate and Hayes, Indiana Jones, and Clash of the Titans.

Oh yes....the great Clash of the Titans. It had a sweeping story pulled from Greek mythology. It had the ability to take an already active imagination into an entirely different world and realm. The special effects were pretty cool for the time but they only played a secondary role to Perseus and his quest to save Mycenae from the Titans.

I distinctly remember the first time I watched the movie. I was at the Oldham's and we were playing outside, likely constructing the landscape for our next GI Joe battle sequence. Some of the older siblings raced inside with a VHS tape of the movie. Like Lemmings we followed the commotion. Fortunately, we were allowed to stay and partake of this cinematic manna. I was captivated and amazed. I would have to imagine that this was what Steven Spielberg felt when he was inspired to enter the trade.

Fast forward to the present day....

Like many, I had great anticipation for the release of the newest version of this epic tale. If nothing else, to see if it could capture the adventure and whimsy of the original. My love for Greek mythology has grown over the years and I am always interested to see how Hollywood interprets these stories. So with a free afternoon I joined the lines of octogenarians and waited for my own matinee marvel.

I waited...and I waited. All I got were over the top special effects, an actor who did a horrible job of portraying a great hero, no emotional connection being made, and a realization that this movie was probably nothing more than a studio cash grab. My imagination wasn't taken anywhere except to the sterile blue room that created the unimaginative creatures, sets, and back drop. There was no magic, no sense of epic adventure.

As I look at the slate of movies due out this summer all I see is more "Titan" sized disappointment. Hollywood has learned that there is big money to be made in dredging up some of the great entertainment brands of the past. GI Joe and Transformers go from being wonderful vehicles of imagination to coldly calculated machines of profit and nothing more. No fear, you only need to fool all of us once to create a blockbuster. None of these remakes, even A-Team, will be nothing more than half hearted ploys to pull at our nostalgic heart strings and extract a few extra bucks from our wallets. And that really sucks.

So I'm going to restrain from spending $10 at the movies this summer. At that price it shouldn't be too hard to do. The current Hollywood formula is trite and tired. I would rather save my money and plug in the originals. I get the magic of the first run and I don't have to spend $7.50 for a Diet Coke.

Does Arizona have it right or wrong when it comes to immigration?

2010-04-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

With the Health care issue shelved for the moment, the public discourse is allowed to move onto other viable issues, namely immigration. And Arizona once again proves that it is ground zero for immigration policy and enforcement. The latest salvo fired is the imminent passage of State Bill 1070. Check the full bill here.

For many, Arizona has become a laboratory, for good or bad, for immigration enforcement. Because of that it gets additional scrutiny from all corners of the U.S. and both sides of the political spectrum.These articles from the LA Times and Deseret News are just two recent examples.

So what does this bill do and why is it so controversial? It essentially grants law enforcement more power in determining whether or not someone is in the U.S. legally or not. So is this good or bad? Depends on who you ask.

From a left of center perspective it is a gross violation of basic human rights and an open invitation for racial profiling.
From a right of center perspective it gives law enforcement that ability to actually enforce immigration laws that are already on the book.

I certainly understand the concerns from both sides. If anything I hope that this bill, and its resulting buzz, will push the spotlight to how broken our federal immigration policy is. We need some kind of dialog. Both sides have valid points and unless there is some meaningful dialog the fringes will continue to paint the rest of us into two horrible corners.

There are so many questions that need to be addressed and answered. Questions like:

Until we get a decent national policy in place, what rights does an illegal immigrant have?
What public services should a likely non-tax paying illegal immigrant have access to?
Are local resources best spent enforcing immigration laws?
How much do economic concerns play into the immigration debate?
What should be the minimal requirements for letting someone enter the U.S.? How many people should be allowed to permanently immigrate to the U.S.? What about temporarily?

Most of the questions that need to be asked and are complex because we have a system that is crippled and manipulated for political reasons. If we were to start over we could simplify the process and make something that works. The current band aids, whether they be amnesty programs like the Bracero or ad-hoc enforcement like the minutemen, simply aren't good long term answers.

Randomizer Volume VI Series I

2010-04-09T09:30:00.000-07:00

Because sometimes its a lot easier to write in little fits and spurts than actually trying to flesh something out in great detail and craft.

I love to hate golf and I don't consider it to be anything more than a mirage for middle-aged white men who think that this hobby is a sport and that they are "athletes". I do feel, however, sympathetic for it it. Why? Because Tiger Woods absolutely owns it. With him golf gets ratings, money, and a sense of legitimacy. Without him, golf goes back to being a parochial activity for the blue bloods on a Sunday afternoon. So they are stuck with putting up with the Tiger Woods marketing bonanza machine and they are stuck having to deal with his sordid personal life. And there is nothing they can do about it. He is their deal with the devil.

I always thought it strange that Italy is the gold standard for mens business fashion. Don't get me wrong, I love Italy. I love its culture. I love its food. I love its history. I really like most of its clothes. Maybe the only reason why they go to work is so that they can look good doing so. It's kind of ironic that most of the guys that wear the Ferragamos and David Saddlers and Santonis have a quality of life that most of these Italian artisans absolutely decry.
So I'm reading some Jimmy Buffet right now and its making me question the foundation of the "American dream". 5 chapters into "A Pirate looks at 50" and I'm ready to flip the bird at stability, white picket fences, suburban living, and insurance policies. Move over Mr. Kerouac, your beatnik lifestyle has got nothing on what Mr. Buffet offers. Either way, we need to step away from our planners and enjoy a little real living.

What I Saw--And What I Missed--at SXSW - Culture - The Atlantic

2010-03-21T09:28:00.000-07:00

What I Saw--And What I Missed--at SXSW - Culture - The Atlantic

15 minutes and photoshop

2010-03-16T21:05:00.001-07:00

A statement on how I feel sometimes.

Sunday Morning Second Guess

2010-03-14T09:38:00.000-07:00

If I could redo my career selection all over again, I would choose to be an architect. The perfect blend of science and creativity. Building a legacy that stands the test of time.

If I could redo my career selection for a third time, I would choose Anthony Bourdain, post "Kitchen Confidential". Traipsing around the globe discovering new sides to the world's many cultures and sampling their culinary oddities. Far from the beaten paths of all-inclusive resorts, brochures, and the thunderous roar of the traveling herd.

That is good living. To discover the true essence of other peoples, far beyond the venal veneer that most people do not choose to look beyond. And to capture these people with such a mastery of word and craft. Well done Mr Bourdain, well done. Kind of reminds me of my cousin, Christian.

Bringing the Winter Olympics to the rest of us

2010-02-14T12:08:00.000-08:00

Every four years we are instructed by whichever network owns its broadcast rights to pay attention to the Winter Olympics. We try and pronounce the Nordic sounding names of the blond haired Europeans as they do some pretty strange stuff in the snow. (Or in the case of the Vancouver games this year, slush) Eventually we sort of pay attention to Hockey and Ice Skating and then we turn back to our regular sports that ....well, more closely resemble sports.

I am at a complete loss when it comes to some of these events. How did they evolve? Guns and cross country skiing as a competitive sport? Seriously? They are more an awkward patchwork of European elitist tradition and American styled daredevilry then anything that could really be considered a true test of athleticism. But I digress...

So instead of trying to figure out the Winter Olympics I have decided to slip into my wool turtleneck and jump right in. In fact I am going to take it a step further and actually recommend a few more events to help the Winter Olympics expand into the 9/10th of the rest of the world that doesn't experience winter or turtlenecks.

Here is my preliminary list.

World-Class Snowball Fight Extravaganza: There could be team or individual categories and rules could follow those outlined in Paintball. You want drama, stamina, and precision? This is a sure winner. And it can bring in the coveted 18-34 straight male demographic in the same way that figure skating owns the smaller yet incredibly influential 18-34 gay male demo.
Ice Sculpture: Grace and creativity combined. Plus it gives us a chance to bring chainsaws into the games. And because these events are almost exclusively attended by the white upper-class jet-set, the events provide a valuable sales opportunity for the competitors to present their art in hopes of making it into next years exclusive parties in the Hamptons and Monaco.
Stone rock/broom concept: This one came to me as I was coming down from a Lortab induced hallucination during my last toothache. But hear me out. It's weird and it defies description but I think its got potential. Teams take turns sliding polished granite stones down the ice towards a target. Two sweepers with brooms or brushes accompany each stone and use timing equipment and their best judgment, along with direction from their teammates, to help direct the stones to their resting place. Oh wait....
Ultimate Winter Endurance: Back to the need to cater to the young and lucrative demographic that drives ratings and ad revenues. Participants will strip down into their underwear and see how long they can brave a glacier fed lake. The event could even by emceed by Bear Grylls.
Soccer: I told you I would engage the interest of the rest of the world.

These events can really help to expand the appeal of the Winter Games. It also gives us a chance to put up with 10-15 more hours of Bob Costas waxing poetic about the majesty and purity of international competition.

And remember it is not silly or stupid if there is a gold medal at the end.

I might have found a political home...maybe

2010-01-15T13:31:00.000-08:00

Like many Americans I am experiencing a bit of an identity crisis. The direction and policies of the Democrats and Republicans have forced us into a wilderness of disenfranchised despair. The only thing that I can say without equivocation or hesitation is that the leadership in both parties are a bunch dipsticks. They both treat government like a giant feed trough that can be used for enriching their bank accounts, buying off key constituents, and keeping themselves employed.

This despair almost turned into complete apathy until I read Crunchy Cons by Rod Dreher. The book was a revelation and helped me understand that I am not alone. There are legions of fairly conservative people like me who are equally dismayed at the greed, superficiality, lack of direction, and pettiness of those Republican officials who squandered the last decade and lost Congress. According to the book there is a rapidly growing sub culture within the conservative movement that is quite different from the established base. Hopefully this movement will grow to the point where it can help in shaping the direction of the party.

So what is a Crunchy Con? And how is it different from your typical White, Dockers wearing, suburbanite McMansion Republican? Here are a few key differentiators.

A Crunchy Con cares about the environment but isn't a nut about it. We are the stewards of the earth and we have the responsibility to ensure its enjoyment for future generations. The earth is full of many resources for our benefit but not exploitation.
Crunchy Cons have faith but typically aren't your standard "Christian Right" variety. Read the book for a better description.
A Crunchy Con is productive and likes the good things in life but isn't as driven by money and accumulation of things, one of the traditional attributes that detractors use when describe the typical Republican. He would prefer a cottage in the city over a large house in cookie cutter suburban neighborhood because he values diversity and authenticity.
The Crunchy Con has culture and, while they love the American experiment, they see the value and beauty of the rest of the world. They value authenticity and originality over the local mall.
The Crunchy Con is a capitalist but he things Gordon Gekko is a bum. The free market is good but not perfect. Markets do need some regulation and oversight to keep the greediest lot from raping the rest of the population.

After reading the book I would say that my political views share a lot of similarities with your standard Crunchy Con. If I had to assign a U.S. figure as a standard bearer for this movement it would have to be Teddy Roosevelt. He was a good Republican figure who was also progressive on the right things.

So my apathy towards Politicians, Republicans in particular, has been slightly assuaged. I take heart in knowing that there are legions like me who see the ugliness of the state of the current party and politics in general. There are groups, like the Crunchy Cons, that I can associate with in my effort to push for positive change in our politics.

If I were Sunday School President...

2010-01-07T15:08:00.000-08:00

In this era of ADD and sensory overload there are very few things that can still manage to capture the attention of the "average Joe". The obvious exception is the top 10 list. We can come up a list, anything from best movies to most boring speeches from the 67th session of Congress, and we will be assured that it will draw the attention, ire and admiration of this attention deficient audience. The list is the equivalent of the hamburger; cheap, easy, and an object in which everyone has an opinion. And since we are all about conveniently summarizing things, such as our years, we are subject to myriad lists each December and January.

To keep with this theme I've decided to generate a 10 ten list of potential LDS Sunday School lessons. Our ward recently changed times and I rue prospect of dealing with the afternoon slot. I'm considering a move to the neighboring Lutheran congregation unless someone offers to teach one of these classes.

Top 10 Lessons not found in an LDS approved manual

Cain, the White Horse prophesy, obscure comments from Brigham Young, and the truth behind Mormon urban legends.
101 Ways to replicate the Cafe Rio menu for your next ward gathering.
Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, and the need for improved institutional oversight.
How to successfully prepare a lesson with less then three references to your mission.
Mormon Profiteering: 10 easy steps to side step trademark laws in coming up with merchandising ideas for Deseret Book.
Culture Shock: A deeper look into life in Utah County and the oddities of Mormon culture.
Awake!: How to confound a Jehovah's Witness in 4 verses or less.
Neighborly Relations: How to peacefully confront and diffuse the awkward conversation from the family in the ward who is pushing Quixtar.
Real Estate opportunities in Jackson County, Missouri.
Gerald Lund, his writings, and a case for canonizing the "Work and the Glory" series.

Did I miss anything?

Bing and Brotherhood

2009-12-14T12:53:00.000-08:00

My wonderful wife enlightens and enriches my life in so many ways. For example, her love of movie classics has exposed me the Alfred Hitchcock's, Grace Kelly's, and Clark Gable's of the world. Before her I didn't know that movies existed before Star Wars.

Anyways, as is our Christmas tradition we always set aside a quiet night for hot chocolate and a viewing of the 1954 Irving Berlin/Bing Crosby classic, "White Christmas". It is pitch perfect in its message and a healthy holiday alternative to those degenerates, myself included, who typically get their holiday fix off of "Christmas Vacation."

One of the most moving scenes is when Bing and his partner, Danny Kaye, decide to throw a surprise Christmas Eve show at the struggling ski lodge of their old General. The pair, both highly successful, went above and beyond the call of duty in supporting an old friend whom they had not seen in years. Theirs was a bond that was forged in the battle of Monte Cassino, one that wasn't to be broken easily. It was an exceptionally touching moment and it got me thinking about the type of friend I am.

I think that it is safe to say that we live in a pretty superficial time. Most of our friends are mere acquaintances and most of our gestures are nothing more then passing greetings. I can almost see a spectrum that depicts all of our friendships on a scale of commitment and importance. It would probably look something like this.

The other guy in your department: He is nothing more then someone with whom your work or church calling forces you to associate with. He gets nothing more then a fleeting hello in the elevator.
Facebook Friend: Maybe someone more important to you, at the very least because he or she boosts your friend tally on the site. You might make a passing effort to feign interest and Facebook has multiple apps and ways to do so.
Christmas Card Friend: This one requires a least minimal effort and shows that your friendship a minimum phone call to get an address. The list narrows down greatly at this point.
I'll drive out of state to your wedding Friend: This friend is invested and it shows through deeds and actions. This is a much smaller group but it is safe to say that there is a mutual affection and dedication within it.
I'll take time out of my busy schedule and throw a gathering on your behalf because life is hard friend: This type of friend, as depicted by Bing and Danny, is one in a million and is usually forged by extreme conditions like war or four years of subhuman living conditions at college. These are friends through thick and thin and they embody the full meaning of charity as it pertains to the friendship.

Watch the movie. If you have any kind of heart it will get you thinking about what kind of friend you are to those around you. I think I've got a long journey ahead of me as I strive to better serve my friends. Thanks Bing.

Good Humor (Not the Ice Cream Treat)

2009-12-09T17:20:00.000-08:00

I like to laugh. I enjoy religion. Ergo, I'm utterly fascinated at the high percentage of Jews that dominate the comedy scene. I guess it shouldn't be too surprising...they've had like 3,000 years to work on their jokes.

We Mormons, on the other hand, are mere babes when it comes to humor. We are still learning how to laugh at ourselves and there are too many cultural taboos that prevent any significant jocular investigation. The result is typically some kind of cultural introspection in the form of something like Singles Ward. I don't need a PhD from the USC School of Film to declare that everything up to this point has been a mixed bag at best. There have been some efforts, to varying degrees of success, that look into the culture and poke fun. But there have been far fewer successful attempts that have looked at the wider world through a humorous Mormon lens.

The following blog,Don't Do Dumb Things, is one of those rare exceptions. The site isn't overtly Mormon but it does a fabulous job of looking at a variety of subjects from a perspective you can relate to. The Bell brothers are in top form and I am taking this unsolicited chance to invite all 7 of my regular readers to drop by for a chuckle.

A time to be thankful

2009-11-17T13:26:00.000-08:00

During this time of year I am often reminded of a scene from one of my favorite movies, Joe Versus the Volcano. In this movie Joe, played by Tom Hanks, undergoes some life changing events. For many years he lived a boring and meaningless life. Then right as he is about to experience his “mid life” crisis he receives news that he has a mysterious brain cloud and that he only has six months to live.

A wealthy industrialist finds out about his condition and gives him an offer. “Live like a king, die like a man”. He will give Joe all the money and pleasures of life for six months if Joe will agree to jump into a volcano on a remote island in the Pacific. Joe agrees and spends the next several weeks living well and examining his life.

Eventually he must fulfill his end of the bargain and he takes a yacht down to the island. Along the way a ferocious hurricane comes and sinks his ship. Joe is stranded at sea for several days floating aimlessly on his luggage. It is this part of the movie that has the beautiful scene that I remember vividly.

Joe is desperate. He hasn’t eaten or had water for a couple of days. He has absolutely nothing and no real prospects for getting out of the ocean alive. His skin is blistered from the heat. He is wondering what he is doing. Just as he is about ready to give in the sun sets. A big, full moon rises from the dark ocean. At that moment the beautiful moon gave him pause and he said the following line. “Dear God, whose name I do not know - thank you for my life.”

Why does this scene mean so much to me, especially this time of year? Thanksgiving and Christmas is typically the time that we stop to count everything that we are thankful for. It is the time when stop worrying about what we don’t have and we can be thankful for all of the things that we do have.

We have wonderful families. We are able to get a great education. We live in a time where so much possibility is at our finger tips. Our lives are so full. Let’s spend a few moments during this time of year to remember and be grateful for all of those good things in our lives.

Sea Wolf: October 30th, 2009 at Modified Arts

2009-10-31T12:33:00.000-07:00

Music is a wonderful maize that provides a different meaning and path for each individual. Over the course of a week we experienced two completely different roadways on our quest for musical satisfaction. Last week it was 65,000 people and the pomp and circumstance of U2 at the University of Phoenix. Last night it was 150 people packed into the little box called Modified Arts for an intimate no thrills set with some of the best offerings from the land of Indie rock. Two completely different approaches, two different ends of the spectrum....but they both succeeded in providing us with a great live experience.

Sara Lov- Silky smooth vocals, earnest and soulful lyrics, and a great crowd presence. Unable to bring her band she made due with the next best thing, a vinyl recording of them providing the backing tracks. Close your eyes and let her voice take you places. Download "New York" and you'll see what I mean. Of all the performers she had the best stage presence and charisma. As far as opening acts go, she was top notch.

Port O'Brien- My first impression of the band when they took the stage was "did these guys take a semester off from the University of Alabama to tour?" Their lead singer, Van Pierszalowski, looked exactly like a southern frat boy and their sound has a definite feel of southern rock to it. The fact that they've received some pretty high praise from M. Ward ensured that I wasn't going to pass on them. Their sound was Neil Young with the youthful energy of the aforementioned southern frat boy. As their set progressed my initial impression warmed and their sound seemed to have more texture and depth. Their set was the pinnacle from a primal energy stand point. Another great supporting act and another album that we will have to purchase.

Sea Wolf- After about an hour and a half their moment came. Despite numb feet from standing for so long the show was memorable. The band sounded much tighter then I was expecting and their songs were more upbeat and loud then their album versions. Most of the set was devoted to their new album that I'm still warming to. But their early classic "Made a resolution" was the rousing crowd pleaser and the highlight of the evening. Mr. Church has an incredible ability to create some great hooks out of simple chords and to make each song an intimate and rich short story. I was glad to see them in a setting like this because I think that the inclusion of their music in the Twilight soundtrack could signal the impetus that brings them to the pop mainstream.

All in all a great evening. We definitely felt a little out of our league given that 90% of the audience was fresh out of 4th Period English. But good music is good music and good music reaches people. Whether it's an 18 year high school senior whose life revolves around the Velvet Underground or someone, like myself, whose life has increased responsibilities and pulls. We can all come together and find a certain amount of joy, meaning, context, and rest in a well crafted song. Luckily for us tonight there were three bands who fit the bill.

On location with the Three Amigos

2009-10-29T14:31:00.000-07:00

We all have our favorite movies. We feel a special connection to the characters, the story, and even the location or setting of the movie. We want to be apart of the story. One of the easiest ways to do so is to find and visit the location that these movies were filmed. A couple of years ago Jodi and I visited the location of the famous Bluth Banana Stand at Marina Del Rey. Last week we decided to take advantage of the visit of Dan and Conner to make our pilgrimage to Old Tucson studio, where a good portion of Three Amigos was filmed.

The setting is spectacular. This is the old west that we grew up watching...mainly because so many old westerns were filmed here. We pulled up to the venerable studio with high expectations. We wanted to literally walk in the foot steps of Lucky, Dusty, and Ned. We were somewhat disappointed. First, the studio does a pretty poor job of capturing the great history of the place. For the most part the visitors are left trying to piece together scenes the were filmed there. Second, the great fire of 1995 destroyed a lot sets, including several used in the filming of the Three Amigos.

Fortunately we found a tour that was headed up by a man who has spent decades there and has even been an extra in several movies. His memories of John Wayne, James Stewart, Clint Eastwood and others was absolutely lucid. The studio needs to make sure that they get all of those stories recorded for posterity. He was involved in the Three Amigos and here are some insights that he shared.

Scenes filmed at Old Tucson included: The Village with the Bar and El Guapo's fortress. The Village of Santo Poco was likely filmed in California but it wasn't confirmed.
The fire of 95' destroyed several sets used in the movie, including the bar that gave us the beloved rendition of "Little Buttercup".
The fortress of El Guapo was built specifically for the movie and was built a small distance to the Northwest of the studio. As such it fell into disrepair after the movie and was often broken into. Because of that the whole set was destroyed 4 or 5 years after the movie. Such a tragedy!
The only real visible and tangible evidence of the movie is the church (different now), one series of buildings, a piece of El Guapo's place, and the desert landscape.

Here are a few pictures.

The tubman 601 flying over the village. (It was a male plane, right?)

How that looks today.
What remains of El Guapo's fortress
The church in the movie (slightly different)

Dan and Conner in front of where the El Guapo set was

Men Win Football Games

2009-10-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

We are just over halfway through the College Football season and I've already decided to check out on BYU football. Once again sky high promises were not kept and unreal expectations hit the cold icy reality of what this team is....a decent, but not great, football team. No rose colored articles from the ever delusional Dick Harmon, no reality averting always positive remarks from Bronco Mendenhall, and no stupid slogans can give this team the needed grit to actually win a game that matters.

Here's my big beef with BYU football. They show up small in big games. By big games I mean games in which both teams have something to play for. Sure we can sneak up on Oklahoma but they obviously underestimated us. Our victories over TCU and Utah have come when they (Utah and TCU) both had nothing to play for. Our humiliating defeats have come when they both (Utah and TCU) had something to play for.

Here are my armchair observations of why we won't be a top flight team. These aren't small deficiencies and require much more then some fine tuning. We will be destined for mediocrity until we can solve these problems.

Speed: Let's face it white kids from Pleasant Grove aren't running 4.3 40's. They might be smart, team players but that doesn't cover up their obvious skill deficiencies. Our Honor Code prevents us from recruiting these speed guys.
Offensive Play calling: I'm sure that Robert Anae is a great guy and makes a wonderful home teacher but our play calling is predictable and doesn't adjust to our circumstances. Just look at how dynamic TCU was when they dismantled our defense seven different ways. We didn't have an offensive gameplan that effectively countered their pass rush. The only thing offensive about our play calling was how "offensive" it was.
Mentality: Maybe the Mormon culture just doesn't allow for a killer instinct that separates the winners from the pretenders. I think too many players and staff use this as an excuse. They can justify losing by saying that football is just not a priority compared to God, Family, and Education. I don't argue with the priorities but I also don't feel that they are mutually exclusive. Nobody on this team has attitude, leadership, or the drive to demand that others step up. This "we've got more important matters in our lives" also permeates the fan base to help justify the BYU losses to "Ute" Fan. I declare that you can have a "Killer Instinct" and still be a worthy member of the Church.
Legacy Players: The bottom half of the BYU roster is filled with Covey's, Mendenhall's, Edward's, and Lamb's....all products of past BYU players, coaches, and benefactors. The problem is that none of them are real contributors. Why don't we free up their roster spots for more worthy players. We know that we could use the depth.

I could continue but the bottom line is that we are pansies and don't show up for big games. We haven't shown any real heart. We are incredibly outcoached. We complain about a lack of respect and then we get the some media light on our program we let TCU and old man Bowden take us to task in our own stadium. The whole program should be embarrassed. No amount of excuses or silver linings or learning experiences are allowed. We've used them for far too long. It is now time to actually back up your stupid slogans.

U2 under a desert sky

2009-10-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

A U2 concert is so many different things to so many different people on so many different levels. To the casual fan of music this band represents the one of the best live performances around. On the other end of the spectrum is the true blue fan. To this group, and it is a huge group, a U2 show is a spiritual mecca that can only be experienced when you've reached out and touched Bono's hand in person. I started out as the latter and as I've aged my devotion to the band has diminished somewhat. But that still does not mean that I am no longer moved by them.

My enthusiasm for the concert was tempered somewhat. The new album, "No Line On the Horizon" just hasn't had the staying power that past works have had. And since I've already heard all of the classics several times through past tours (Zoo TV, Elevation, Vertigo) I wasn't particularly keen on having to put up with the new stuff. But that changed when I convinced my brother and his son to come down. This was to be their first show and so my missionary zeal came back. I always love sharing this band with over people.

After a splendid day with the family we made our way over to University of Phoenix stadium in Glendale. The stadium itself is great but it has quickly picked up a reputation as a below average place to hear a concert. That was my primary gripe. The sound seemed a little muffled at time. My big consolation was that in talking to people who attended the Rolling Stones concert last year this sound seemed like listening through some Bose earphones in comparison. The other gripe was with the crowd. My section did its part but the intensity of the overall stadium was pretty weak in comparison to my past U2 experiences. I've seen the boys in several different cities and Phoenix has always come in short. You would think that with their long history with the band that the crowd would be more involved. Anyways...

#1 Highlight- One followed by Amazing Grace followed by Streets. No better 10 minutes in all of Rock and Roll.
#2 Highlight- The remix version of "Crazy" that mixed some of the Pop dance club fusion with the sense of optimism of the song. I loved watching an intense Larry Mullen Jr. march around the stage with his bongos. I always love the chance to hear a song reinvented.
#1 Lowlight- "No Line on the Horizon". I think that the song is pretty good but when played after an incredible acoustic version of "Stuck in a Moment" it just killed some great momentum. They had just reeled off three classics and then they moved into this. You crowd went from ecstatic to bored in an instant.

Bono is the consummate showman. He could charm a dead snake. These guys have conquered the rock and roll world but their effort never wanes. The crowd wasn't all there tonight but that didn't affect their performance. U2 doesn't do halfhearted.

Of the six U2 shows I've been to I would probably rank this #5. The setting, sound, and new material brought it down a bit. But that ranking doesn't look so bad when you consider that of the 50 or show concerts/music festivals I've attended each of those U2 concerts is in my top 10. On a bad night U2 is still better than 95% of everything else.

Immigration and role reversal

2009-10-16T15:51:00.000-07:00

This recent LA Times article does a great job of uncovering a dynamic within the immigration debate that the average layperson usually doesn't see. I think it provides some interesting context to the Mexican position on the continued immigration discussion.

The last several decades have seen a huge swelling of immigration from Latin America, specifically Mexico. Any look at the numbers will reveal this. The Mexican government has fought for Rights of immigrants living in the United States and it tacitly, scratch that openly, approves of this illegal and unchecked northern exodus. For a blatant example view this guide that the government published to help immigrants on their journey north. From the perspective of the government, immigration relieves a measure of burden in providing for the needs of a vastly impoverished citizenry.

Keep that in mind when you read about the plight of immigrants from sub-Mexican Central America as they cross Mexico en route to a better life in America. Do I smell hypocrisy? Mexican's have a wretched history of treating these immigrants worse then the treatment that Mexican immigrants receive in America. As a missionary in Texas I met many Salvadorians or Hondurans who were far more scared of being caught by the border patrol. They weren't afraid of being caught, they were mortified of the treatment that they would receive at the hands of the Mexican's once they were dumped at the other side of the border. I've also lived in various parts of Mexico and it doesn't take long before you realize the presence of a very tangible racism that occurs between the different ethnicity groups that comprise that nation. Let's just say that the majority of the indigenous Hispanics that make up the illegal population in the U.S. are also treated like the dregs of society in Mexico as well.

I agree that everyone should be treated with a certain level of dignity, regardless of whether or not they broke the laws to get here. But next time someone from Mexico decries the treatment of illegal immigrants in the U.S. they ought to look back at their own country in shame. For their paisanos are doing a much worse job with the way they are treating their immigrant neighbors from the Honduras or Nicaragua.

Happy Hour for Mormons

2009-10-10T15:54:00.000-07:00

We Mormons have a somewhat paradoxical relationship when it comes to dietary habits and eating out. We love to trumpet the healthy results of living sober and tobacco free but point us in the direction of the nearest chuck-wagon buffet and watch us go to town on the stronganoff or meaty casserole. I think that's why certain restaurants resonate within the Latter-Day community. We devour the portions and the faux "upscale" dining experience of the Cheesecake Factory. We dive into the healthy portions of sweet pork at the Cafe Rio. We'll double up the double-double at the In-And Out. In short, we like our food, we like it in family sized portions, and we like it cheap.

Let me make a recommendation to all of you folks within the covenant. This suggestion marries the value that you crave with some tasty meals that you covet. It might require that you step outside of your meat and potato comfort zone. It will force you to leave the suburban ease of the nearest Chil's in favor of the more urban cosmopolitan haunts. But here it is. Drive into downtown and sample the happy hour cuisine of one of the local restaurants.

Happy Hour?

Yessir, you got it right. Look beyond the traditional connotation associated with the word and think with me. After I make my case you should agree with me that this is a rich culinary vein that has not really been mined by the Mormon community. Here is the simple dining formula.

Opportunity to try great new food at fancy new restaurants.
Opportunity to get that food at exceptional prices.
Get it all done early so that you don't need to pay much for your babysitter.
Wonderful opportunity for you to observe the debauchery "great and spacious" world that you can use for future Sunday School lessons.

Case in point. Jodi and I recently went to Trader Vic's in the upscale, boutique part of Scottsdale. On a typical night you would expect to pay between $30 and $60 per person. Great food, yes. But not worth the hassle when you've got to put three kids through little league soccer and Applebee's is running their "Two for $20" promotion. Enter Happy Hour. We dine at 6pm and we eat Duck, Gourmet Burger, Virgin MaiTai, and Hummus all for $18. That's how you eat.

So every week you try a new place. You get some incredible dishes. You broaden your horizons. And since you don't drink you end up getting some great deals.

Olive and Ivy is our current favorite place. Take a look at the top of menu. Now picture all of those great dishes and appetizers at $3-$8 a pop. Now we're talking.

So go ahead. Take the drive downtown. Try some fancy new dishes. Live it up. Consider it a missionary experience....no consider it a wonderful opportunity to broaden the sensibilities of your under worked palates.

Am I Man?

2009-09-22T12:57:00.000-07:00

Despite the changing times we live in a society that has pretty well established gender roles and expectations. Irregardless of whether or not you feel that the glass ceiling has been broken there is still a pretty strong consensus towards what is expected of each gender. Why all this babble about gender? Because Football season has started and I am beginning to question my ability to hold up the mantle as a "man".

Sure I love sports. I love women. I like cars. I grow body hair. But am I man as defined by the expectations of U.S. male culture? I believe that there are several characteristics that we expect of our men and I'm not sure that I pass muster. If I were to make a checklist of these expectations it would probably read something like this.

Golf: As men age and their abilities to play real sports diminishes it is expected that they take up golf and immerse themselves in its culture. This includes planning trips around golf courses, talking about things like "Big Bertha", wearing hideously boring golf shirts, and considering golf the de facto activity at every guys only events. I'm sorry but I'm more willing to shave my chest then to pay tributes to altar of golf.
Ability to quote from certain movies: Men are expected to emulate the tough guy images that hollywood gives us. It starts when we are boys with Han Solo and slowly matures to characters like Dirty Harry and whatever the heck John Wayne was in. And then to prove our manlihood we are expected to quote extensively from these movies that have come to define American Masculinity. "Godfather" anyone? Good movie, yes....but gatekeeper to the inner sanctum of manhood, hardly. I'm also expected to know every line uttered by Al Pacino, especially his so seminally violent work, "Scarface". Yes I've seen several movies by John Wayne and yes I think that James Stewart was a better actor and role model.
Meat/beer: Evidently the food pyramid doesn't apply to the man's man. It looks more like a hot dog. He is expected to eat meat in all of its glorious forms and beer is his trusted liquid companion. He is expected to ridicule those weak souls who give into such idiocy as balanced diets. On this one I will have to blame my religion. My adherence to its doctrine has singlehandedly weakened my case in becoming a real man. (Authors Note: My sobriety in no way prevents me from enjoying some of the better beer related commercials, especially those provided by the Dos Equis guy.)
Calendar Girls: A real man grew up with images of Kathy Ireland and Farrah Fawcett on their walls and has become indoctrinated in breasts and bums. Sure I am attracted to those things as well but my inability to become fixated on those things probably keeps me out of the man club. I have no desire to subscribe to Maxim despite of the fact that they have "good articles".
Cars: Of course I like cars. But a real man is expected to love cars. I should know how many pistons are under my hood. I am expected to drool when I see a finely tuned Italian or American muscle car drive by. Since I only like and don't love cars I suppose that I suck as a man.
Low Brow Humor: As a true man there a certain set of expectations when it comes to what I should find funny. I am supposed to make fun of the more cerebral comedies such as "Arrested Development" in favor of the more base works of people like Adam Sandler or Tim Allen. There is no need to think when there are still so many new ways to spin a fart, boob, or vomit joke. There are some actors/movies that straddle the fence....think Will Farrell. But a man's man will prefer his work in "Old School" and ignorantly overlook the genius exuded in "Anchorman".

Are there any other critical hallmarks of a real man? Did I miss anything. As this list illustrates the standard for manliness is set pretty high and many a male has failed in trying to live up to these lofty standards.

Doing Dallas in Style

2009-09-07T10:43:00.000-07:00

I have a great group of friends but we all would be the first to admit that we come up far short when it comes to guy trips. Well we've made an effort to remedy this problem and our recent Dallas trip was the latest try.

The BYU - Oklahoma game was the impetus for the trip. While it was the reason for mobilizing us it wasn't the "reason" if you know what I mean. In all honesty, outside of Cody, we weren't expecting much of a game. If we made a priority list of the weekend it would have went something like this:

Be with friends
Paintball
Eat much meat
Visit Cowboys Stadium
Six Flags
Dealey Plaza and the Grassy Knoll to postulate alternative JFK assassination theories
Massages
BYU-Oklahoma Game
Put up with flights that connect in multiple cities

The weekend leading up to Saturday Night was excellent. The agenda was full. Thursday was movie (GI Joe to boot), BBQ, massage, steakhouse, and Ryan B losing the game he proposed (credit card roulette) and footing a $200 bill for 4 people. Friday the rest of the group arrived and we passed time with paintball, basketball, pool, JFK, and more BBQ. Saturday leading up to the game was spent at Six Flags. Mormons don't know how to tailgate but we sure know how to amuse our selves. I'm willing to bet that half of the BYU contingency spent their morning there. We lasted a couple of hours before nausea forced us back to the hotel.

And then the game....

The stadium absolutely lives up to the hype. Other then a few quibbles the place is an absolute shrine to the football gods. Everything is bigger, better, and shinier then any other stadium you've visited. That awe is soon replaced with fear as you are engulfed in a sea of Sooner red. Dallas is just down the road from Norman and we were introduced to "big boy" college football. We were still dumbfounded by the atmosphere when the kick off came. The atmosphere was electric....it was College Football energy in a luxurious NFL setting.

And then we showed up to play. Going into the game we were expecting 44-24 Sooners. By the end of the 1st Quarter it was confidence in covering the spread. By the end of the half we started to think upset. By the end of the third quarter those feelings started to form into a solid confidence. The Sooner fan base is amongst the most rabid in all of college sports and we heard them at their most loud and their most subdued. We executed the "right" game plan to near perfection. I will be the first to admit that the Sooners are probably the better and more talented team. They failed in exploiting some mistakes and some holes in our defense. But the courageous efforts of an underdog is what makes College Football what it is. BYU has tightened the noose around the neck of the status quo fools running the BCS.

After the game all we wanted to do was revel in the moment and run to the nearest sports bar to watch endless highlights of the game. We all wanted to hear if this win validated the program in the minds of the national press. En route to the sports bar we were congratulated by throngs of Sooner fans. They were absolutely classy given the circumstances. I have a new found respect for their fan base and hope they recover and run the table in the Big 12.

So in short, the game that got us together exceeded our expectations to the wildest degree. We came to catch up with friends with little realistic expectations for a victory. The game itself was the most exquisite cherry on top of an absolutely tasty weekend. My heart goes out to the true blue Cougar fans that didn't make the trip. You will be very, very hard pressed to find a BYU moment that surpasses what we experienced down at the Palace that Jerry built.

Our harsh "Reality"

2009-08-23T15:39:00.000-07:00

That last entry got me thinking about how Reality TV has accelerated the decline of television. It is a virus that is slowly corrupting our culture and turning it into an endless stream of checkout counter tabloids. The pessimist would decry this filth. I'm somewhat of an optimist. Since it is unlikely that our voyeuristic culture will ever turn on "Reality" I have to come up with a way to profit from this genre. If I can't fight'em, might as well write for them.

Here are a few show ideas...

Battle of the Religions- This is so obvious and can go in so many different directions that I'm surprised that there already aren't a handful of shows out there that are trying to capitalize on the fact that almost the entire planet believes in one religion or the other. And it would have the ultimate prize. The rest of the planet would have to convert to the religion of the victor.
Penning for Jesus- Do you ever get amused by the pithy and creative statements on the marquee of your local community church? This show will appeal to the religious right and will feature competitions in order to discover who can come up with the best traffic stopping statements.
Day Labor Wars- The Hispanic population continues to boom but there is not a reality show that acknowledges this growth. This show will be a virtual iron man that will force contestants to perform such challenges as advanced palm trimming, how to stand out in the local Home Depot parking lot, and practical survival while having no legal identity.
Pinewood Derby: The truth behind the Blue Ribbon- A candid look at the no-holds barred competition that takes place in this annual fathers and son ritual. Values and social decorum will be cast aside all in the name of collecting the blue ribbon.
Penalty Kicks- America's search for the all-American mom. A panel of judges will put a group of soccer moms through a grueling set of tests in order to find the perfect soccer mom. Such tasks will be minivan obstacle course, extreme budget grocery shopping, and creative casserole presentation.

As our culture continues its downward spiral isn't it only appropriate that we help hasten its decline? This little exercise proves that there are still plenty of great reality show ideas waiting to earn networks "cheap" ratings.

Randomizer Volume IV Series V

2009-08-23T09:43:00.001-07:00

Because I continue to have thoughts....most of them random.

I am reading some Aristotle right now and am intrigued by his thoughts regarding the middle class. Bear with me and see if his comments resonate with our current environment. He argued that a middle class was essential to a proper government. Those who possessed moderate income lacked the arrogance of the rich and the envy of the poor. Furthermore they didn't have "so much property" that they spent their time in leisure nor did they rely on the state for support. Because of this they would "ask the law should rule them." Right now it appears that America is losing it's productive "Middle Class". I agree with Aristotle that this is a very bad thing.

I watched the US-Mexico soccer game a couple of weeks ago and I am sort of glad that they lost. A US victory probably would have resulted in death, carnage, and revolution down there. This is the one thing that the Mexicans have over us and over the last 10 years it has been steadily slipping away. This article by Bill Simmons does a great job of illustrating Mexico's unhealthy relationship with a bunch of short guys who kick a soccer ball around a patch of grass.

It has been about 10 years since America was introduced to Survivor and other reality shows. As someone who tries to maintain a certain level of standards I thought that the rest of the nation was like minded and that this trend would end after Joe Millionaire. I was wrong and it looks like I will have to continue to weather the storm. One positive side effect is that it effectively reduces the amount of time that I watch TV. At the rate at which these shows proliferate I predict that everyone in the US, myself included, will have been featured on a reality program by the end of 2033.

Visit my business commentary

2009-08-17T16:01:00.000-07:00

I now write for the Examiner
as their Phoenix business journalist. Visit the site, read my articles, and embellish my pageviews.

Gentlemen Broncos

2009-08-16T19:50:00.000-07:00

After a lengthy gestation period it appears the third Jared Hess picture is finally due out. Here's to unleashing the creative force that is Ronald Chevalier.

In search of the modern day Pyrrhic victories

2009-08-11T16:47:00.000-07:00

I love history. There's much to be gained by studying the feats and failures of past generations. And I've learned that history gets better, or perhaps more exaggerated, with age. Most of my studies center around the Classical eras of Greece and Rome and I'm currently reading something about the Republican era of Rome. There is much from this era that can be applied to the USA but I want to focus this entry on one statement made by one man, King Pyrrhus.

The scene is set during the mid-Republic in southern Italy. Rome is expanding and assimilating land once occupied by Greeks, Latins, and Etruscans. Southern Italy has been Greek owned and they are trying to hold their land. King Pyrrhus is in charge of repelling the Roman onslaught and, to the casual observer he appeared to be doing so. Even though he was technically winning battles he was losing the war. After one such victory he stated that "one more such victory would utterly undo him". Historians remember this statement and situation as a "Pyrrhic Victory" or a victory that ultimately will do more harm than good.

Let's step back into the present day and attempt to apply this term to what we are currently seeing around us. Are we able to see actions and policies that seem like victories but that will ultimately lead to defeat? Do we see people that create victories for themselves that ultimately unravel the bigger whole?

Here are a few things that I could think of....

Wall Street- We are flooded with examples from Wall Street illustrating actions that benefited a select few while pillaging the general public. Bernie Madoff may have had a few years of astronomical profit for himself but he ultimately destroyed the wealth of everyone around him, causing far more harm then any good or earnings he ever created. Self interest is an important component of a free market but Wall Street has been courting the far more dangerous greed to horrible results. My recent entry regarding Goldman Sachs discusses the overwhelming tendency of these financial firms to act in a manner that brings themselves incredible earnings at the expense of the greater economy.
Politics- Government has been transformed into an ATM machine for special interests. Lobbyists and Pork Barrel projects are classic examples of political actions stepping into "Pyrrhic" territory. These politicians are focused on their individual parts or interests to the degree that the whole is less then the sum of its parts. There is a definite get in, get mine, and get out attitude in DC. Take the time to track government spending back to its roots and you can see the greedy dance that takes place between Congress and the special interests that buy their votes. This blog is one among many that highlights some of the most egregious examples.
Sports- Baseball has done a superb job of providing exhibit #1 for "Pyrrhic" victories. Steroids gave great numbers and a temporary boost in excitement for the sport but once the syringe hit the fan the sport has become illegitimate and runs the risk of permanently loosing its status as our preferred pastime. Performance enhancing drugs do a great job of providing short term gains at the expense of long term health and viability.

Unfortunately we see hundreds of examples in present day society where we are sacrificing our long term health for short term gain. Any time that someone artificially inflates profits in order to get a bigger bonus they are jeopardizing the bigger picture. For each congressman who takes a kickback in exchange for a key vote they are just kicking the crap out of the morals that built this country. Every time we let greed, self interest, or selfishness determine our actions we tear apart the fabric that serves as the binding force that keeps our communities healthy and functioning. Remember that the whole should be greater then the sum of its parts....sometimes we need remind ourselves and our actions of that truth.

Because of heat

2009-08-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

Ones loyalty to Phoenix comes into question every time this year. The memories of a 72 degree afternoon in January are all but melted away by the suffocating heat as you sweat your way home in triple digit weather. The fact that July set all kinds of heat records has really put my devotion in question.

To cope with the heat you learn to value the myriad weekend getaways that are an hour or two out of town. It's nice to know that the rest of Arizona isn't a fiery furnace.

This weekend getaway took us through Pine and Camp Verde en route to Montezuma's Castle and Well. Who knew he had both. Both are just outside of Sedona and they provided a nice, cooler change of scenery. They provided a nice understated alternative to the valley. Top off an evening at one of our famed Indian Casinos, Cliff Castle, and you've got a four star weekend.

Montezuma's Well, in particular, offered a placid and quiet place to just relax. It isn't too far off the 17 and a couple of hours there can really clear your head. It doesn't offer anything spectacular on the surface but once you settle in you find that your thoughts flow as freely as the water out of the ancient well.

Celebrity Exile: The liberation from stupidity

2009-07-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

You can't avoid them. They peer at you from the grocery store check out line. They self pontificate on TV. They are ubiquitous. And you wonder how the heck they ever got the attention and how the heck can we rid ourselves of them. They are the lot of celebrity leeches that do not seem to have any real skills other then an uncanny knack for finding a camera. You don't mind hearing about Brad Pitt, Bono, or Obama on TV....they have actual talent. But these guys? I'd like to wrap these people up in a big ball and drop them off on the farthest reaches of Sakha or somewhere equally remote.

Here are the first people I'd like to wad up....

That Montag couple- The only time that I ever hear about these two is when TMZ is on, not a good sign. So, evidently they are celebrities because they live in the right place, look pretty, and are willing to debase themselves as long as it's on film. They embody the vacuous celebrity culture that is so many people love to gawk at.
Octomom/Plus 8 Jon and Kate- Unlike the Montags, at least these guys have something worth parading in front of the TV...their kids. Any parent who depends on their children for their livelihood or sense of self worth is no parent indeed. I don't think they mind that we are laughing at them so long as our laughter and attention leads to their checking account.
Al Sharpton- I'm sure that many years ago this man was a great crusader for the oppressed now the only thing he seems to be crusading for is another interview with anyone with a camera. The great irony is that he has probably done more to strain race relations then anyone of the last couple of decades.
Keith Olbherman/Sean Hannity- We are a very divided country at the moment and a big reason for the divide are the demagogues of hate like the two mentioned above. Hey guys, I'm more interested in solutions then in for reasons why the other guys are stupid.
Nancy Pelosi- Here is someone clearly blinded by the shine of power. She and her leadership have taken an already unpopular congress and put it in the basement of American opinion. I think she is more enamored with her own personal airtime than actually trying to forge a workable solution for the Union.

US Soccer: Still not ready for primetime?

2009-07-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

Coming off the heels of the stunning win over Spain and the Confederations Cup, US Soccer looked poise to grab the attention of the average American fan. You see our sports hours are already spread pretty thin between the major sports such as Football, Basketball, Baseball, and even Hockey. The victory marked one of the rare occasions that Soccer trumped these sports in the headlines.

Granted the tournament was played when basketball and football are on break and baseball is in the middle of the summer swoon but irregardless it was the number one news story. The average Joe was captivated by the play and his allegiance was ready for the taking. His attention was ripe for US Soccer to pick and to add to their small but growing fan base. The Gold Cup was the next event but that would feature the B Team as little was at stake. All eyes were drawn to the big match up with hated rival Mexico down in Mexico City on August 12th. Sports radio and even ESPN took notice of the import of this game and we prepared to do battle with an increased and attentive audience.

And then the predictable happened....

Just when it seemed that US Soccer was poised to turn the corner it was discovered that the game would not be televised on any of the major television stations. The new and growing audience will have no where decent to turn to watch this game. The US Soccer team could win the game but it will do so without the support of the millions of tepid fans that were beginning to warm up to the program. We will have the option of watching it online or on one of the Spanish language stations but how many casual fans will go to the effort?

So instead of gathering the friends together for pizza and intense soccer we will probably watch preseason football or catch up on a pennant race. The game might be great but it will probably only be watched by the same meager crowd that has staunchly supported this team despite of general apathy nationwide. A huge opportunity squandered by whoever is supposed to be bring US Soccer to the mainstream.

Maybe we still aren't ready for the nationwide debut. The performance today against Mexico might prove so. We are in the final in New York and our bleached blond squad got manhandled by the Tri. Our stadium was dominated by Red, White, and Green not Red, White, and Blue. Just further evidence that soccer has a long ways to go before we can really capture the imagination and attention of the US.

Change isn't going to happen over night. Eventually we will warm up to this sport. But US Soccer squandered a big opportunity to turn up the heat by not insuring that the big US-Mexico match was in easy reach of a huge audience that was prepared to give it a closer look. Until they get more assertive with their promotion of the sport it will continue to languish along the fringes with the likes of bowling, curling, and fencing. Badminton, anyone?

Goldman Sucks?

2009-07-18T07:22:00.000-07:00

The news and our neighborhoods continue to be littered with stories of unemployment, foreclosure, and uncertainty. So it came came as complete surprise when I recently read about Goldman Sachs having an incredible quarter and being poised to pay its employees $18 billion in bonuses and other compensation. Wait???? Weren't banks and speculators primary players in the recent crash? What???? Weren't these same banks and speculators the same people who were reeling and receiving government TARP funds just a few short months ago?

On the surface this seems downright evil.....evil in a greedy villain from a James Bond movie sort of way. And after reading this extraordinary piece by Matt Taibbi in the Rolling Stone my populist impulses were directing me to the nearest hardware store for a pitchfork and torch. Now I normally don't buy into this leftist crap and I normally don't buy into conspiracy theories involving uber powerful greedy, global cabals but the article was so detailed and researched.

These accusations were so incredible that you would think that, if true, they would strike a powerful chord within the American mainstream and that we could demand real change. I started with the Goldman Annual report from 2008 in search of answers. I see wild swings in profitability and cash and it all looks odd. I read more pieces from the New York Times and CNN and my blood really starts to boil. I delve deeper by reading the blog of a man who is trying to shed some public light on their deeds and who Goldman is trying to shut down. I read some counter pieces that defend Goldman from being behind the creation of the bubbles (Tech, Mortgage, Commodities, and soon- Environmental caps) but don't do much in making a defense against the claim that they deliberately profited from the expansion and destruction of those bubbles.

This is going to take a few days to really get my head around. Is this evidence of unbridled greed that needs to be reigned in for the sake of the better overall good? Is this evidence that capitalism is working again? Is it both? I plan to read arguments on both sides.

In the meantime here is what I don't understand. These bankers don't necessarily create value, they throw money behind the people who do. They're not building sky scrapers, they're not creating new innovative products, they are not growing the crops that feed our families. They just seem to gain insane profits by profiting from those who do. These investment banks don't do anything other then control the flow of vast amounts of capital and the levers on which money moves. They create fancy derivatives and securities that profit off of the comings and goings of real tangible value.

And they create incredible wealth and power for themselves. I remember at BYU when it came time for the Career Fair. The biggest lines were always for the investment banks and consulting firms. Like the pied piper they would lure away throngs of smart and ambitious grads with stories of untold wealth. There was a mention of 80 hour work weeks and the fact that you would sacrifice your first 5 or 8 years for the benefit of your career. But once you paid your dues you would have enough money to buy a golden chariot for you and your family....given that your family was still in tact after 8 years of spending every waking hour with the bank and not many moments with them.

Do I seem pretty biased at the moment? Yes. Can that change? Yes. I'm all for free markets and capitalism. But right now my gut is telling me that what some of these banks have been doing these past several years doesn't jibe with the brand of capitalism that made America the force that it once was. My head is telling me that the environment that they fostered did more to destroy value within our economy then to create it.

Time and research will tell. But in the meantime this has the makings of an incredible conspiracy theory.

California and Karma

2009-07-08T12:17:00.000-07:00

We just returned from another great weekend visiting Jodi's family in San Diego and the OC. It got me thinking that these folks and their fancy beaches and great weather have it too easy. But then I remembered the horrible malaise that this state is in and I felt a little better. Karma has its own special way of sorting things out and making things equal.

California is a great big giant stew that mixes in the best and worst of humanity. The cost of living is insane and the government has become insane in the way that it has run the state and its budget. But then the Beach Boys music starts to play and you are whisked away in visions of California Cuisine ocean side and served at dusk. This strange duality has inspired me to create a top 5/ low 5 list of the best and worst of the Golden State.

Top 5

Ground zero for the great and entertaining struggle between the salacious hordes of paparazzi and the privacy of the idiots that we have anointed as our celebrities.
Incredible coastline that spans the whole state and features some of the most mild and attractive weather this side of Kolob. (I'm assuming that Kolob has pretty sweet weather)
A veritable potpourri of sites, sounds, and attractions for every taste.
Its great history of being a breeding ground for some of the great innovations, cultural and otherwise, of the "American Century".
Disneyland.

Low 5

See #1 in "Top 5"
The absolute demolition of the middle class at the hands of special interests, excessively high cost of living, and declining public education.
Something needs to be said about a populace that elects Barbara Boxer, Nancy Pelosi, and Arnold. You guys want competent people running your government, right? This place is a great place for shouting idealogues.
Its sordid history of being a breeding ground for some of the worst innovations, cultural and otherwise, of the "American Century" and the present.
Its ridicously superficial relationship with the Lakers.

My beef with US Soccer

2009-06-28T14:08:00.000-07:00

It's becoming a ritual that takes place every 3-4 years. They tempt us. They show brief moments of brilliance. They show just enough skin to grab our attention. And then once they have it, like the elusive belly dancer, they wriggle away leaving us unfulfilled. That's how I feel about US Soccer.

Here is what I am sick of when it comes to our relationship with our soccer team.

Moral Victories
Inconsistent Play
Talking about being on the cusp of legitimacy and then getting spanked by Trinidad and Tobago.

I like soccer. I root for the US. But I've rooted for the US long enough not to be fooled by brief moments of greatness like the victory over Spain last week. In 1994 we grabbed the attention of the world by beating Colombia in our World Cup. That was followed up by in fighting and a horrible 98' showing. We then beat Brazil and start to make a major push for the 2002 cup. We beat Portugal and slap around our Mexican neighbors. We announce that we are now fixtures on the world scene. And then we disappear again. In 2006 we get manhandled in Europe. Up through last week we struggle through lesser competition and get shellacked by Italy and Brazil. And then comes Spain and our heroic first half in the finals in the Brazilian rematch. The interest from the casual fan has been rekindled again leading into the 2010 World Cup. Will we be burned again?

This is my beef with US Soccer. It is a roller coaster that goes up and down. Every sporadic and great outing is followed up by mediocrity and under performance. We will never be taken seriously until we can consistently show up against the big boys. That doesn't mean well orchestrated first halves in which we surprise a sleepy Brazilian squad. It means going toe to toe with the world class squads on their fields, on their terms, and on a consistent basis. We can't rely on surprising teams because they are now aware that we can be dangerous. We are now being called out into the open.

Like me, there are legions of potential fans who are waiting for a consistent showing. Our time is limited and in order for you to convince us to turn attention away from Football, BBQ's and Golf to soccer you need to prove to us that you are more then an occasional mirage. We've been burned too many times but we are willing to support a team that has guts, heart, effort, and talent. You proved that you have it against Spain. You demonstrated those same qualities for a half against Brazil. Now go out there and harness this momentum into South Africa next year. Get us past the first round next year and you should be able to win us over and keep us on your side.

We have talent. We have a pretty good coach. We are have a budding reputation. We have some young building blocks. It's time to take these pieces and build something that this great nation can be proud of. We will be there for you...but only when you can consistently prove that you will be there for us.

The simple and tasty joys of gardening

2009-06-27T18:32:00.000-07:00

As one ages he seeks out simple pleasures. This spring I sought this bliss in the form of a garden. To date we have harvested tomatoes, basil, cilantro, onion, beans, and eggplant. I have derived the greatest joy from discovering the exotic possibilities that can be unleashed with the great purple eggplant. I even got a nice purple shirt to commemorate my new love affair with this ancient, oriental vegetable.

Here's to pastoral living.

Michael Jackson: The last of the superstars?

2009-06-26T07:13:00.000-07:00

It was a surreal day indeed. I was still loopy from the nitrous oxide and was leaving the dentist. Groggily I checked my twitter and was greeted with news, or rather rumors, that Jackson had passed away. It would be close to an hour before the news would move from the rumor of a gossip sites to fact confirmed by the major news outlets. It was truly on of those universal "where were you when this happened" moments that was shared by us all.

With the death of Michael Jackson comes the potential end of the mega star; the type of celebrity that crossed all barriers and held universal acclaim. We live in an age of niches and it is most likely impossible for someone to have huge mass appeal. It's just too hard to control all of the various media channels that things like the internet and cable TV have spawned. For example, MJ has been mourned by everyone from Hugo Chavez to the entire nation of Korea. Does any other living human being have the power to generate that kind of global response?

His passing begs the question as to whether or not there are any true superstars remaining and, if so, who they are. The list of likely candidates is short indeed. I can only think of a worthy few who are able to dominate every headline and be recognized by everyone from my mom to the kid in rural Kenya.

Tiger Woods- He's just a golfer right? Well because of him the rest of the non-golf world is now acquainted with and is paying attention to this sport. Not only that but his celebrity spans beyond golf into the wider popular culture through video games and his army of endorsement deals.
Michael Jordan- The first and preeminent global sports superstar. Besides MJ he might be the only living African American who is universally recognized throughout the globe. His persona paved the way for someone like Woods and his reach also covered movies, the Air Jordan brand, and music.
Obama- President Obama is quickly becoming a global phenomenon. His position as leader of the free world has granted him incredible access to the world and his polished persona hopeful demeanor has endeared him to a lot of them. While it is unlikely that a politican is able to obtain superstar status he's got a certain media driven sex appeal that can put him in the argument.
Madonna- Michael's only true counterweight during the last great mass media decade, the 1980's. She was the other artist who capitalized on MTV and other media to cement her place in our collective conscience. Like MJ her career has had its share of accolades, controversy, and eccentricities.
Bono- He has a certain ubiquitous presence that is felt far beyond the stage. His work as an activist, writer, and businessman has put him in some elite and powerful company that is typically beyond the reach of your bread and butter celebrity. But in this rarefied air he might be a little out of his league.
Paul McCartney- He's a Beatle, what more needs to be said. Since then he has been able to keep a presence in the public eye. His death would probably be the only one capable of generating a kind of response that would rival Jackson's.

I can't think of many more people that have that kind of global presence. There are plenty of television and movie stars but I don't know that any of the living stars could carry this kind of global audience. The ones with the true mass appeal have all passed on. It's just too hard these days to harness every nook and cranny of the public's attention.

Beyond Cool

2009-06-23T10:51:00.001-07:00

Three legends, three very distinct sounds, one heck of a documentary.

For the love of Pizza

2009-06-18T08:26:00.000-07:00

Ever since I laid my eyes on that first Little Caesars pizza as a youth I've held a unique fascination with the ubiquitous pie. It has come in many shapes, styles, and interpretations and I'd like to think I've tried most of them. As I've matured my tastes and pizza access have evolved. I've reached a point in my life where I feel like I've explored most of the major centers of pizza excellence and I now will take a moment to document the places that have brought me the most bliss.

So, in no particular order, are my favorite 10 pizza spots. Feel free to add in a few of your own.

Pizzeria Da Baffeto (Rome, Italy)- The gold standard. It has the history, the location, and the perfect pie. Old Man Baffeto (pictured right) has been personally serving pizza to local and foreign patrons since the early 1960's.
Pizzeria Bianco (Phoenix)- This local spot earned love from Oprah and was touted by NY Times as the best pizza in America. It's a great place but I must wonder if it is truly worth all of the accolades that are thrown upon it. Be prepared to wait and take advantage of the nearby Bar Bianco for drinks and good company. For me the dinner begins and ends with the wise guy. It is a hearty and smoky treat featuring the best fennel sausage I've ever tried.
Tomassos (San Francisco)- The place has a long and storied history and claims to have the first wood fired pizza oven on the east coast. Evidently this was a favorite of Francis Ford Coppolla as he was writing the screenplay to the Godfather. The place is small and cramped and very crowded. Deal with it and enjoy the ease at which the seasoned staff handles the throngs of pizza loving pilgrims. As expected the pizza is top notch and the salads are bounteous and flavorful.
Setebello (Salt Lake City)- A much needed boost to the dearth of quality pizza in Salt Lake. Only around for a couple of years the place has quickly established itself as the standard for quality in the area. Read the website and be impressed with the lengths that ownership goes to ensure that your pizza is as close to the Naples original as possible. The result is an incredibly smoky and light crust that is complemented by some incredibly fresh and vibrant toppings.
Great Lake (Chicago)- To be honest I don't have much history with Chicago pizza. I've only been a few times and I'm typically not a big fan of the deep dish. This is the best I've tried to date. The Mortadella is the standout. It's not the type of pizza that makes Chicago famous but it is fresh and very tasty.
Frank Pepe (New Haven)- This one is sure to be on the top of most lists. My exposure to this place was a brief stopover on as part of a business trip. It was good but I don't remember much more then that. It is one this list primarily for reputation.
Target (Rome)- This restaurant was a stones throw from our hotel and was our first exposure to good Roman cuisine. While the place was pricey and trendy it's food was able to exceed our expectations. We got a standard Margherita along with several other dishes. It was simple but every ingredient sang in perfect harmony. It is absolutely amazing to witness the beauty that involves getting an excellent flavor out of a few fresh ingredients.
Cassanova Brothers(Gilbert)- While this place might be out of it's league when paired next to Baffeto or Piazzeria Bianco it provides a great pie in the style that we grew up with. It is loaded with cheese and goodness. The ownership really makes this place standout. They are NY natives and they do a superb job of bringing the bronx to Gilbert. You will go there for their great White Pizza and you will leave like you are part of the family. A great local place that merits your patronage.
Sauce (Phoenix)- The lone chain of the bunch. This place is the gastronomic brain child of the prolific Fox Restaurant Group. They've succeed in creating a pizza that is cheap, light, and tasty. A great pizza that doesn't leave you weighted down. A great option for those of us stuck in the land of Chili's and Suburbia.
La Grande Orange (Phoenix)- This is part of the overly trendy grocery store that is located in the overly trendy part of town, Arcadia. Nonetheless the pizza lives up to the hype and crowd. The roasted corn option is incredibly unique and their take on pizza is a combination of old world technique with contemporary innovation. One more thing that the place has going for it is the fact that it is located next door to the best Gelato in town, Archellino.

You might think that the list is heavily weighted towards Phoenix. It is. Regardless, Phoenix has proven itself as a great place to get some pizza. There is so much good pizza down here that you'd think we shared a border with Italy not Mexico.

Vintage Comedy: Entry #1

2009-06-17T14:22:00.000-07:00

Man, I still miss Phil Hartman. Truth be told I kinda miss ole' Bill Clinton and his antics as well.

San Francisco Style

2009-06-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

We decided to take advantage of some buddy passes and visit the city by the Bay. We haven't been in awhile and we really wanted to compare SF to San Diego in terms of coolness, livability, and access to things we value. We enjoyed our time there but we unanimously agreed that San Diego is a better fit for our "should we ever live in California" temperament. A few impressions from the getaway.

It's always cool when you can get a deal on a great place. It's even cooler when that hotel is steeped in great American history. The Westin St. Francis fit the bill to perfection. It is located in the heart of Union Sqaure which puts it smack dab in the middle of shopping nirvana. But the history......Al Jolson died here, an assasination attempt on Gerald Ford was made here, and there are several other great stories to note. The design is classic and the walls are littered with photos of history and people that we all remember.
As expected the dining was both incredible and expensive. The options are endless. One of the highlights was eating at Tommaso's in the Little Italy area of North Beach. Like the hotel it is steeped in history and, according to lore, was the first wood stove pizza place on the West Coast. Francis Ford Coppola supposedly frequented the place while he was writing the script to the God Father. Among the other places that stood out was the House of Nanking in Chinatown. You sit down and the owner tells you what you will eat. We trusted in his judgment and were rewarded with some cuisine that was both adventurous and tasty.
Transportation was pretty spotty. Forget about renting a car and don't put much faith in the consistency of public transportation. The Cable Cars, while charming are complete crap shoot. They take on the personality and habits of the person driving them. One car our trip was slowed down so the driver could stop and pick up dinner as well as get some dry cleaning. The peninsula is big but you can cover a lot of ground and kill a lot of calories by walking.
We didn't see the sun the entire long weekend we were there. That's gotta weigh on the residents.
I got the feeling that the city tries too hard to be liberated and cosmopolitan.

Publish Post

Being destructive....but in a good way

2009-05-28T15:32:00.000-07:00

There is a theory that I remember reading about several years ago...a theory that seems to make more sense given my experiences of the last several years. This one comes from an Austrian named Joseph Schumpeter and is called Creative Destruction.

In essence it states that as economies evolve older and staid technologies and companies will be destroyed in favor of the newer ones that are more able to respond to the current circumstances. Think of it as "natural selection" but seen through the lens of business school. The theory also reminds me of the great CS Lewis story that everyone loves to tell at church....the one that talks about how God turns our little comfortable cottage into a mansion.

The theory is painful for those getting pushed out but no one can argue that the newer results aren't better then the originals. Some examples:

Polaroid cameras were cool but today's digital cameras can do so much more. Polaroid was late in seeing this and as a result suffered.
I can imagine that manufacturers of the early horse carriages must have been pretty ticked off when Henry Ford and others gave us those darn automobiles. They died but life became better.
Newspapers have diminished in importance and have given way to blogs, cable TV, and the internet. People get their news in different ways and the print media has to evolve or die.

I have seen this trend in the realm of marketing. Companies can't afford to keep large marketing teams but they still need specific marketing work. As a result they turn to trusted partners that are experts in their specific realm. This trend will only increase with time and I am trying to ensure that I am in front of the trend.

The moral of the story? Change is good if you are willing to adjust. While there are a few things that remain as solid as stone, think values, remember that most everything else is in a constant state of flux. Adapt to the change or become a doodoo. (Quite literally)

Style that howls....literally

2009-05-28T12:22:00.000-07:00

Who needs to look to the New York runway to get the latest in fashion? All you need to do is find a gas station gift shop on a lonely stretch of road to find the look that might just give a second life back to the mullet.

The vastness that is the Grand Canyon

2009-05-26T17:02:00.001-07:00

I went up to St. George to celebrate the upcoming nuptials of Norm Wahlstrom. Since I was driving alone I decided to make the most of it and visit the lonely North Rim on the way up and the South Rim on the way back. (Interesting Trivia: Did you know that the N. Rim is at 8,500 feet and gets only 400k annual visitors while the S. Rim is at 7,000 feet and gets 4.4 million annual visitors.)

The view was spectacular but it is really difficult to capture the vastness that is the Grand Canyon without a super cool wide angle lens. My attempt to stitch together several pictures to make a panorama created a shot that looked more like a patch work blanket then a seamless view of the park.

Randomizer Volume V Series II

2009-05-06T16:09:00.000-07:00

Because the thoughts keep coming and they are more then likely random. Plus I needed a breather from the immigration talk.

Here's an excerpt from "The Eight Pillars of Greek Wisdom" regarding modern distractions and how the absence of them helped make Greece great. "The absence of artificial distractions permitted the mind to focus, and the scarcity of complexity let the most essential issues stand out....life was lived on a more human scale....Entertainment did not, as it does today, constantly saturate the consciousness r assault the eye with hyper stimulation....ours is a society deprived of the chance for deep thought. Unlike the problem faced by the prisoner in Plato's cave, our problem today is not too little light, but too much, a light so glaring that we cannot see what is real." Can I get an amen?
U2 is now officially at the "Steven Spielberg" phase of their career. What do I mean? I mean that the supreme nature of their past work has granted their contemporary work a certain immunity from criticism. They once pushed the envelope and created a new paradigm. Now their work is fairly formulaic and the torch for ground breaking innovation has been passed on to another generation. We still love you but we've come to stop expecting a new Achtung Baby.
We've been watching Mad Men on Netflix. It has singlehandedly taken the golden and some naive sheen that I had of pre-Vietnam America. Evidently AMC has set out to make the "American Dream" look as self absorbed, empty, and decrepit as possible.
A few photos from the Mogollon Rim that were taken on a recent camping trip. Not many people realize this but there is some incredible country that is just an hour or so outside of Phoenix.

Mexican Immigration Post #1: Addendum: Required Reading

2009-05-01T10:21:00.001-07:00

The following are several books that help shed some light on the Mexican culture, border culture, and Mexican politics. There are several others worth noting but I've found these to be the most accessible and descriptive.

Labyrinth of Solitude, Octavio Paz: This is a classic piece of literature from the Nobel Laureate that really delves into the psyche of the Mexican people. If you can understand this you can really get a better understanding of the hopes and fears of the nation.
True Tales from Another Mexico, Sam Quinones: A great read that helps illustrate the different subcultures within Mexico through crisp chapters depicting such subject matter as Chalino Sanchez, Jesus Malverde, and mob justice.
Bordering on Chaos, Andres Oppenheimer: Though slightly dated it reads very well and allows you to look at Mexico from a more macro lens. It covers the major events that have shaped Mexican politics and culture over the last 100 years. Some of the insights into things like the Mexican Peso crisis of 1994 read as fast as anything put out by Grisham.
Distant Neighbors, Alan Riding: A slightly drier book in the same vein as "True Tales." Each chapter explains an event, culture, or mentality that is absolutely critical to understanding Mexico.
Batos, Bolillos, Pochos and Pelados, Chad Richardson: Written by a professor and former Stake President in my South Texas mission this book takes a more academic look at the impact that immigrants have had on border communities, particularly the Texas Mexico border. It is a great sociological read that helps elucidate the fascinating mosaic of people that make up border communities.

Immigration Post #1: The Mexican Perspective

2009-04-30T13:25:00.000-07:00

They brave an arduous journey across a treacherous desert with only a few possessions and the blind faith in the prospects for a better life. In their ignorance they give their meager earnings to a man, called "El Coyote", who promises to take them safely across the desert and into a community with a job and stability. In reality they become hostages to a treacherous underworld that is exacerbated by a criminal element and allowed to operate by an inept domestic legal system.

These people will live in a drop house and share a room with 5 or 6 other anonymous Mexicans who are also searching for the same stability. They are virtual hostages to the Coyotes who control the trade of human smuggling. Their families are threatened back home if they act out of line. Their conditions are deplorable. Their rights are minimal. The houses in which they live are a blight upon communities throughout the U.S. And they are more then willing to put up with all of this so that they can make $10 a day trimming the bushes in your backyard.

Who are these people?
What are their motivations?
Why do they risk so much to get so little in return?

The following numbers taken from the Pew Hispanic Center are a staggering reminder that we are literally sitting on top of a powder keg. If we are unable to answer and address those questions above we will have little luck in dealing with an issue that is becoming larger by the minute.

There are 12.7 million Mexican immigrants in the U.S. as of 2008. They are 32% of all immigrants. The next largest group, Filipinos, trails at a distant 5%.
About 11% of everyone born in Mexico is in the U.S.
59% of all illegal immigrants are Mexican nationals. 76% of all illegal immigrants are of Hispanic descent.
The graph below visually depicts the astounding growth of this group over the recent years. No fancy regression analysis is needed to determine where that line will be in several years given current patterns.

Those numbers highlight a monumental seismic shift that is taking place in regards to the demographics of the United States. It doesn't take a high priced study to tell us this when all we need to do is drive over to the nearest home center. The Hispanic, particularly, Mexican neighborhoods are becoming an increasingly bigger part of the community. Depending on your perspective this number represents the demise of the American way of life or the fruition of the grand American dream.

That is a debate for another entry. Right now I want to focus on the Mexicans who are willing to sacrifice everything to come here and take a job that most Americans find demeaning. We are taught that to fully understand an issue we must understand the perspective of the other side. Here is the point of view from that other side.

The numbers for Mexico are more difficult to nail down. Any quoted numbers will come from the Instituto Nacional de Estadistica y Geografia (INEGI) of Mexico. This is the Mexican equivalent of our US Census Bureau. Their numbers are widely considered unreliable. I will primarily use anecdotal information and observations to color my depiction. I will use numbers, where possible, to back up observations and assertions.

Now lets move on to those questions regarding who they are and what motivates them.

To the typical US citizen "these people" are just another group of Mexicans. It is a lot easier to lump them together into one uniform group. But beneath the surface Mexico, like any other large nation, has a complex cultural and demographic milieu that should be understood. Mexico is a nation of over 106 million people, why are over 11% of their population fleeing their nation. Are they fleeing? Let's look at a few things.

Mexico is a nation of huge economic disparity. The wealthiest 10% of the nation controls around 50% of the wealth. Did you know that the richest man in the world, Carlos Slim, is Mexican? This is the land of the "Mordida" where corruption is not only rampant but an openly accepted cost of doing business. Those who are politically connected make all of the money. Those who aren't suffer and their only solace is the occasional bone thrown at them by the party in power, most notably PRI, to placate them and prevent another revolution. Credit doesn't really exist. A middle class doesn't really exist. As a Mexican you are either born into wealth, exercise corruption for a living, or you accept your lowly station in life. While there are a notable exceptions to this rule there is little infrastructure in place for the typical industrious Mexican to get a head.

Mexico is also a nation of huge racial disparity. Race and wealth go hand in hand in Mexico. The lighter your skin the better off you are. The indigenous or indian populations are among the poorest in the world. The largest concentrations of these populations are in Southern Mexico in states such as Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Chiapas. As expected these are the poorest states in Mexico. Despite superficial attempts made by the government towards greater equality these groups still languish in poverty. They are poorly educated because most children, out of necessity, are forced to work in substandard conditions in order to help sustain the essential needs of their families.

Mexico is also a nation of strong families and strong national pride. Their Catholic roots and lower economic conditions help explain the larger families. Their pride in a strange way stems from their long history with Spain and other invaders. They have long been a nation that has been exploited. Research the word "chingar" and you will have great insights into the Mexican psyche. The fact that they nationalized their oil away from US foreign corporations in the 1940's and that PEMEX is still state run in spite of economic common sense is directly attributed to their national pride and their defiance towards those foreign interests who once meddled in and sought to control their affairs.

These three characteristics go a long ways in helping us understand the circumstances behind their decision to live in these conditions on foreign soil. So a few observations that will generally be right regarding most Mexican immigrants.

They most likely are from the poorest communities in Mexico. As such there is a greater likelihood for illiteracy and low education.
They are most likely from the darker, mestizo, populations that are more predominant in Central and Southern Mexico.
A majority of the immigrants do not consider their status in the U.S. permanent. They are Mexican first and trying to work to send money home to their families. The US is a means to their financial ends.

What does the rest of Mexico think about this trend? I would venture a guess and say that they are somewhat relieved by massive emigration. Fewer mouths to feed, fewer jobs to fill, and fewer votes to buy. Since the vast majority of Mexican immigrants are poorer and uneducated there is no real concern for "brain drain". They typically aren't losing their engineers and doctors to America. They are losing a workforce for whom there is no work. Also if immigration is greatly reduced they potentially lose their 3rd largest source of income in the form of foreign remittances sent from the US to families in Mexico.

While this is a general brush stroke that barely scratches the surface of a more complex situation it does help provide a better picture to the immigration situation. Given the circumstances in Mexico I do not fault the actions of many to find work in the US. I am confident that many of us, if given a similar lot, would take a similar course. I hope to delve more into the Mexican perspective in a couple of more subsequent posts. There is still more to cover from this angle including the elusive question- Mexico has always been at an economic disadvantage to the U.S. so why have we seen such a drastic increase in Mexican immigration over the past few decades?

Understanding Immigration

2009-04-27T15:15:00.001-07:00

Immigration and our relationship with our neighbors to the South (That's Mexico for those who are geographically challenged) are, in my opinion, among the most important issues that this nation faces and will continue to face in the coming years. Forget about terrorism abroad, the economy, health care, or our horrible cultural divide. While very important in their own right they get enough attention already. Also, our immigration situation and resulting policies permeate significantly in all of those issues.

I have lived in Mexico and have great empathy and understanding for their people and issues. I have also lived in several areas (Arizona and Texas specifically) that have been negatively affected by illegal immigration so I definitely understand the concerns of long standing citizens. I also am 100% confident that our current policies and attitudes towards this issue are completely inadequate.

I am in no way an expert on immigration policy, one could argue that there are very few, but I do feel like I have a practical knowledge of the key issues that shape both sides of the issues. I will attempt to write a series of entries that attempt to frame these key perspectives and hopefully make some recommendations that could help us out of the current immigration morass that we are currently mired in. This issue is just going to grow so I figure we really need to understand it and deal with it.

Over the next couple of months I will be writing entries. Since 32% of all immigrants are Mexican and 76% of all illegal immigrants are Mexican I want to focus my efforts exclusively on the Mexican-US dilemma when it comes to immigration. Here is a rough outline of what will be covered.

A profile of the typical Mexican immigrant and their US motivations.
A profile of the typical US resident and their concerns about immigration policy.
An outline of the current immigration policies and their strengths and weaknesses.
An outline of workable solutions that could improve our current immigration situation.

This is a dicey issue to navigate. Hopefully I can bring something constructive to the subject and hopefully immigration policy can be turned from a huge weakness to a national strength.

Saturday at the White Tanks

2009-04-20T11:07:00.000-07:00

The most recent Washington Street activity had us visiting the White Tank Mountain Park about 25 miles west of Phoenix. Overall a pretty bland stretch of geography littered with granite mountains, saguaros, and assorted desert vegetation. What made the visit interesting was its history.

This area used to be one of the central settlements for the Hohokam Indian tribes that lived and thrived in the greater valley sometime between 300 and 1500 AD. Our hike passed through numerous petroglyphs depicting various facets of their culture. Evidently some of them are purportedly 10,000 years old. This lost civilization continues to play a role in Phoenix development today. Last week I attended a meeting that outlined how any new developments in the valley need to be screened for archaeological material. If anything of significance, burial ground for example, is discovered then the developer needs to pay for a team of archaeologists to work the site and to return certain materials and remains to the local native Americans.

What can Dusty Bottoms teach us about Faith?

2009-04-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

Three Amigos! is one of those movies that is a veritable treasure trove of memorable quotes and wisdom. Perhaps in 200 years it will be studied by students of literature and philosophy alike. As I was preparing for the upcoming LDS General Conference I found myself leaning once again on this venerable work. This time the subject was faith.

Let me set the scene..........

We are at the mid point of the movie and our dashing Amigos have hit a serious road block. The "INFAMOUS" El Guapo has sacked the village of Santa Poco and has made off with the fair maiden. With the stirring words of Lucky Day spurring them on they have resolved to confront the "INFAMOUS" El Guapo and defend the rights and honor of this small village. They do, however, have one huge problem. They do not know where the lair of El Guapo is and their only direction will be supplied by the "Invisible Swordsman"

A series of steps needed to be precisely followed in order to summon the swordsman and ultimately to receive the directions. While the other two faithfully recite their required lines Dusty incredulously believes this is insane. He complains and half heartedly executes (no pun intended) his requirements. We all know what the end result was. The horseman is killed because Dusty was going through the motions and not following the steps precisely. Those darn Amigos had to find another route to El Guapo.

What does this have to do with General Conference and Faith you ask?

How many of us have been given the standard "read the scriptures, obey the commandments, and pray" response when confronted with a matter of faith? I've lived my life long enough and have had my share of issues; this always seems to be the standard prescription. Sometimes this has worked and other times it has failed miserably? The big difference why? Faith my friends. I must truly believe that my actions will result in the outcome that I am righteously hoping for. Otherwise, like Dusty's assassination of the swordsman, our actions won't yield their desired fruit.

This idea is especially pertinent to me right now. Faith is something that I've been struggling with. It was under these circumstances that I prepared for Conference. And the result was fruitful. Jodi and I were both rewarded with a bevvy of talks that we feel address some of the concerns, issues, and hopes that we have right now.

I feel much better about faith right now and I offer my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Dusty Bottoms for elucidating a key aspect of it to me through the gift of Cinema. Yet another reason to love this movie.

Inisghts into the Creative Process: Ronald Chevalier

2009-04-11T08:19:00.001-07:00

Dr. Ronald Chevalier - Inspiring Oneself

Many planes in a big desert

2009-04-07T09:37:00.000-07:00

Every time my dad comes down to visit Phoenix he always brings up the fact that he hasn't visited the Airplane boneyard at the Pima Air and Space Museum. This isn't entirely true because we've been to the museum a couple of times; but both times we went the boneyard was closed. Well I got sick of the incessant whining and decided to take one for the team and take him down there.

I'm just really beginning to learn what airplanes mean to my dad. To me they are nothing more then a crowded aisle seat and a bag of peanuts that get me to Austin. But to my dad they represent the coolest thing going from his youth. He grew up during the early years of the Cold War and our Air Force was the frontline against the growing threat of Communism. The airplanes represented the best in American ingenuity and innovation. Being a pilot was the pinnacle of "coolness". There isn't a career path out there today that combines the respect, adventure, challenge, and pay of being a pilot 50 years ago.

Anyways, here are a few photos from the recent trip. Enjoy the pictures of aluminum and old planes.

The Yes List Update

2009-04-02T09:45:00.001-07:00

We have no completed 1/4th of our "Yes" Campaign for 2009. Here is an updated list that includes the Yes activities for February and March.

February:

Take up gardening- As of print we have successfully used basil, red lettuce, and cilantro in our culinary pursuits. We are still growing our onions, tomatoes, egg plant, and beans. Our thumbs are slowly turning a light shade of green.
Exotic Desserts- Given that my wife is an award winning baker, I've got the blue ribbons to prove it, I consider myself a lucky man indeed. We took a weekend to try several new and fairly complicated desserts. The additional 3lbs that I currently carry with me are testament enough of the success of this endeavor.
Anniversary Weekend- A celebration of our first anniversary by spending the weekend at a little quaint resort outside of Fountain Hills. A big YES indeed.
Biltmore Movie Night- It's always great when the community can come together, even if it is only for a free movie at the outdoor mall. We were able to catch a showing of the Hitchcock classic, Rear Window.

March:

Polynesian Festival- Because who doesn't love consuming large amounts of kahlua pork while donning a horrific floral print Reyn Spooner?
Attend local battle of the bands- There are a couple of bands worth supporting and it's always nice to see what new sounds are floating out there.
Perform some songs at Fiddlers Dream- This is listed in a previous entry. I'm glad I was able to muster a little courage and perform some of my music live.
Spring Training- We had to participate in annual spring ritual by seeing the Cubs play with some of our rabid Cubs friends. It was the White Sox-Cubs game at the new stadium in the West Valley and the inner city rivalry created some unexpected pre-season electricity.

As we move through April we continue to find new and rewarding things to see and experience. More to come and more to say yes to.

What Monty Python forgot to teach us about the Meaning of Life

2009-03-30T14:40:00.000-07:00

We were recently watching the captivating 1946 film The Razor's Edge when I came to an interesting realization. It came during an early scene in the movie.

Picture this......

It is right after World War I and the characters are all gathered at some "blue blood" country club. A few older and established people are surrounded by a group of gregarious young adults fresh from the excitement of war and college. The conversation centers on plans, positions, and who is going to arrange for so and so to get the nice position with the firm down town. Most of characters anxiously talk about the status, money, and sense of accomplishment that their new positions will offer. But there is one holdout, Larry Darrell, who seems to swim against the current. He is more concerned with deeper meanings and answers to life's questions, primarily why he his life was saved during the war and why his friend's life was taken. It is discovered that he turned down a perfectly good position in order to go to France and seek out his answers. Everyone else, particularly the older establishment, is shocked at his supposed irresponsibility and brashness in turning down such a lifestyle.

The movie spans several years and follows several characters. In the end Larry experiences the greatest calm and satisfaction while the others experience several ups and downs due to their lifestyles and materialism. At the end of the day position, money, and status did little to quench the human yearnings that all of us face.

Back to the present....

This is a scene that has probably played out in our very lives. Sometimes we fail to determine what things really do lead to the most fulfillment. Do we equate the safe job in the accepted community as the ultimate end to our quest or is there more? Where does the family fit into the entire quest for personal satisfaction? Do we short change ourselves by falling in line with societies expectations for our lives? What happens whenthe expectations of our community and own own personal ambitions don't align? Meaty questions indeed.

That scene stuck with me through most of the weekend. As I continued to mull over my satisfaction with my own life I recalled a book that I had recently read. It is titled the "Eight Pillars of Greek Wisdom" and I think I picked it up off the super, heavily discounted rack at the local bookstore. The author attempts to summarize the collective wisdom of ancient Greek thought into eight simple principles or truths.

I will share these principles. You can decide what role that they should play in your life. You can decide how important they are to you.

Humanism- The whole notion that humans have divine qualities. The fact that in Greek mythology the humans and Gods are so interdependent demonstrates their prevalent belief that human kind has incredible potential. Carpe diem man.
Pursuit of Excellence- A no brainer coming from the guys that gave us the Olympics. This principle goes hand in hand with #1. We have incredible capacity therefore everyday should be spent pushing ourselves to new heights.
Moderation- The fact that the phrase "Nothing in excess" was inscribed on the sacred sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi tells us of the importance that Ancient Greece placed upon this principle. We can see the wisdom of this idea today by simply looking around. Alcoholism, Addiction, Greed, Jingoism, Fanaticism, and Vanity are just a few of the dirty by-products of somewhat normal and noble things taken to the far extreme.
Self-Knowledge- Have you ever watched an episode of "American Idol" and seen one of those delusional kids trying to sing a pop song four keys and a pitch away from where it should be only to get blindsided by Mr. Simon Cowell's brutal honesty? While self-confidence is important it is downright unhelpful if it isn't tempered with a little self awareness. I do myself no favors by thinking that I have a realistic shot at becoming a cornerback for the Cowboys. Take stock of your strengths and weaknesses and focus on those things that you are good at.
Rationalism- You got to hand it to the Greeks, they gave us both passion and reason. Let us all learn from Athena's example and govern our decisions with sound reason and fact.
Restless Curiosity- Remember when you were a kid and anything was possible? I remember drafting a blueprint of my dream house, build a tunnel village in the backyard, writing a Congressman, and dredging for Gold all before the age of eight. Unfortunately age usually dulls that zeal by convincing us that it's just to difficult or impractical. To that the Greeks say get off your stupid couch and take notice of the world around you. Read a book on a new subject or try something new. They would definitely be strong proponents of our "Yes" list.
Love of Freedom- We need to be free to think and act for ourselves. None of the preceding virtues would really be possible if were not free to pursue them in our own ways. Freedom is one of the core values of the "American" way of life and many would argue the reason for why became great.
Individualism- The Greeks were the first to teach that the individual had power and worth, that the individual wasn't a subservient pawn in the hands of the state. To that end you should pursue your passions and interests, be true to thyself my friend.

These are incredible ideas. You've probably heard them in some form or another at a seminar or "self help" book. But they hold true. And when properly applied they help make our decisions more meaningful. Because it's one thing to become a doctor because of the status and income but it's something fully different to become one because it represents your passions and desire to help others. Because at the end of the day fulfillment comes not from a bank account or social standing but from a life lived with meaning.

Performing Live

2009-03-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

Jodi and I have declared this the year of "Yes". Each week we seek out to do something new, challenging, and out of our comfort zone. It has gone well and provided a new and more colorful texture to the daily grind.

I've had something I've wanted to do for a long while....perform some of my music to a live audience, or at least one that wasn't a reflection of myself in the mirror. I've written several songs and even made an attempt to record some of the simpler ones. But I have never really performed them in front of a group of living and breathing people. This past Thursday I mustered up the guts to do just that at the Fiddlers Dream.

A few things about the selection of the Fiddlers Dream for the performance:

It is affiliated with the Quakers so I figured that this would be a very tolerant and accepting place.
It's main patrons are ex-Hippies in their middle ages. Once again a very open, accepting, and "mellow" group.
It is basically a big wooden shack behind the Quaker compound....making it a far cooler venue then some random Coffee House or Book Store.

It's a pretty straight forward affair. Every Thursday night they have an open mic type of thing. The first 20 people put their names in a hat and the order is randomly selected. You have 8 minutes or two songs and the whole thing lasts a couple of hours. As expected I was one of the very last people in the rotation. That gave me ample time to second guess myself and for my nerves to turn soft and gooey.

Most performing and in attendance were veterans of the scene. This is their little club and they all had their following and routine down. About half of the performers also do this semi-professionally by doing festivals or concerts throughout the valley and region. There was one dude, think Caucasian Tommy Chong, who broke up the performances with a bit of stand up.

Eventually my time came. The crowd, knowing that I was a 'first-timer' was especially supportive. I took my place on the stage, introduced myself, and tried to focus on the songs and not the crowd. Strangely enough it worked. I sang "Peace Comes in the Morning" and "What I'd Say". My biggest concern was my voice and the high notes of the song. Fortunately I was able to get that down without killing the key. The only thing I wish I could have changed was the tempo. My nerves were still gangly and the pace of the songs sped up to match the thunderous beat of my heart.

I got the two songs done in the allotted amount of time and received a great response. I'm sure most of it was a courtesy response but I'd like to think that a couple of people enjoyed what I had to play. I left the stage satisfied that I finally did something that I had wanted to do for a long time.

I'm realistic and realize that my music will probably never be played by anyone other then myself. But that's not really the point. This music means something to me and I have felt a sort of obligation to write it and record it. It would just suck to have all of those songs sit there on the tip of my tongue without trying to record and bring them to life. The performance was an icing on the cake to prove to myself that I have the fortitude to do it.

I don't know if I will try many more live performances but I'm glad I said "yes" to the challenge and stepped on to the stage. If anything I learned that the greatest stuff in life comes by stepping beyond your normal self.

Randomizer Volume V Series I

2009-03-19T14:39:00.000-07:00

Because life just continues to get more and more random.

I just finished the Malcom Gladwell best seller "Outliers". The book seeks to uncover the complete circumstances surrounding outstanding events or people. It is a great and quick read in the same vein as Freakonomics. Anyways, at the essence of the book is the fact that most succcesful people, or outliers, had a series of fortunate events or circumstances that made their path to greatness that much easier. Whether it was Bill Gates happening to grow up at a time in which the computer was just begining to take shape and in a town that happened to have one of the finest and most accessible super computers or the fact that most of the top Canadian hockey players happen to be born at the beginning of the year in order to make team cut offs; success is as much surendipity as it is effort and talent. Upon reading it you will want to take account of your own life and see if you perhaps missed out on an opportunity or relationship that could have drastically taken your life in a different course.
There's an old man named John that I run into at the gym whenever I work out in the morning. He's a stocky old marine with a bright, white flat top. He wears a pair of sturdy support stockings that make him stick out from the traditional crowd. He has left an indelible mark on me. In the past month of observing him I've noticed that he has the most consistent and cheerful demeanor. I've seen him struggle with a few things but those challenges never dull his smile. On my way out today he saw me and motioned me over to his car. He had a trunk full of lemons from his tree. He offered me a few as well as a great recipe for lemonade. I could learn a lot from him and hope to ask him out for lunch next time our paths cross.
I've been told that Ulysses by James Joyce is one of the classics of the 20th century. I remember trying to read it in high school after I heard Bono mention his name once in an interview. It was impossible to read and I soon gave up. Every few years I make a feeble attempt to it up and every time I quickly close it back up. I'm going to try once again. Maybe this time I can make it past Chapter 3.

Distinguishing between Greed and Capitalism

2009-03-13T11:17:00.003-07:00

It hasn't been a good several months for proponents of free markets, minimal government intervention, and deregulation. According to the pundits the current economic malaise that we are mired in is a direct result of a system that was unchecked and corrupt. Take a look around you and you are literally awash in examples of individual greed, corporate irresponsibility, and short sightedness. Here are just a few:

Mr. Bernie Madoff creates an elaborate hedge fund that is nothing more then a Ponzi Scheme. He manages to to destroy $50 billion dollars and the financial security of thousands of lives before anyone is able investigate.
The tarnished titans on Wall-Street who led the way in rampant risk taking accept government money and then continue to their lavish ways (bonuses, retreats, etc...) as if they were still living in 1999.
Government officials and lobbyists beholden to the siren song of Saudi dollars. (Read "Sleeping with the Devil" for details)The very people on Capital Hill who condemn the acts of greed that take place on Wall Street are themselves getting kick backs from the special interests who pay for their votes.

We could literally fill up pages of stories like this. Tales of Enron only make it that much easier for the jaded public to accept possibilities of increased government intervention and populism. As someone who heeds the capitalist way I have to admit that these astonishing tales of corruption make me openly wonder if I should replace the pin stripes of those Brothers Brooks for the working man's trousers of the people.

I think that it is important that we all take a deep breath and not over react. I think we need to determine whether or not it is possible to separate the pillars of capitalism from its deranged brother-in-law, greed. Adam Smith taught us that it is the thousands of independent self interested people working to better their station that forms the invisible hand.

Is it wrong to want to take care of your family and get ahead?
Are there acceptable limits to greed?
Should we be compelled to share our abundancy with others?
What role should the government play in managing wealth distribution?

I don't know what to think. I know that I don't want half of my pay check going to a government that might use my money on programs that I don't agree with. I also think that corporate greed needs to be reigned in. It can safely be assumed that corporate ethics are a thing of the past. Short sighted self interest is a trait that is here to stay and firmly entrenched in our psyche. It's all about getting in getting rich and getting out. I even saw this tendency at BYU as hundreds of grads would line up to worship before the Gods of Goldman, Lehman, and Bain. The invisible hand of Mr. Smith has grown some serious nails that have become rather sharp and need to be trimmed.

So I humbly ask what needs to change in order for capitalism to be fixed? Can it be fixed or should we rely on government to reign in greed? But then again who is to say that the government doesn't become too greedy with its power?

I'm a fan of history and there's one thing that has remained constant. You truly can buy anything in this world with money. Everyone has a price. Best intentions can always be justified for the right pay off. Greed isn't just the American way, it's human nature.But greed has an especially firm grip on our nation right now. Right now it appears that individual Americans and entities are in the stranglehold. Since we can't trust government to loosen the grip are we capable of doing it ourselves?

These next few years will be very telling. It's a shame that I don't have a number for any good oracles because I'm anxious to see how this thing plays out. Thanks a lot Gordon Gekko. You suck. You've paved the way for another Wesley Mouch.

Phoenix from some new perspectives

2009-03-03T13:47:00.000-08:00

According to my photography books the best pictures are taken in the early morning. Here are a couple of pictures taken at dawn just outside of Fountain Hills followed by a couple of panoramic pictures taken from Camelback Mountain.

Fountain Hills

Camelback

Unfounded, untested, and possibly wrong observations (Part II)

2009-02-24T11:18:00.000-08:00

Here are some more observations that might be on the money or might be insane, incoherent, ideas.

Homemade millionaires trend Republican while inherited family wealth goes Democrat- It makes sense that the entrepreneur would favor less government intrusion, taxation, and want to keep as much of his hard earned money as possible. The person coming from wealth hasn't had to put in the requisite effort that grandpa did and they might feel guilt associated with the largess of their lifestyle. They can afford to push more social causes because their money is tucked away in a trust.

Hollywood is unabashedly liberal and is making a concerted effort to "liberalize" main-stream America- I hear the pundits on the right talk and you think that Hollywood is out to deliberately destroy values and tradition. You listen to the left and Hollywood is only out to offer different points of view. So what is it? Are the Hollywood elite a nefarious and elitist cabal ought to destroy religion and American values? Or are they more benign- just concerned about making a buck and coming up with entertainment.

The internet will ultimately make the next generation of American kids less competitive- The internet deludes us, and most notably kids, in thinking that the answer is always just a click away. No hard work or research is necessary when you can find a half-baked site via Google. The internet also kills attention span by creating a sensory overload. This inherent laziness will kill our kids when it comes to math and science. We will have a generation of kids who are brilliant at creating fun and zany websites but who can't communicate and solve serious problems. Please prove me wrong.

The less lawyers the better the America- Why do we have lawyers? Because people can't trust one another. If there was inherent trust then all deals would be sealed with a handshake and there would be no worries about being hoodwinked. So is there is a direct relationship between the amount of lawyers in America and the state of our Country? The more there are the worse off we are?