September 26, 2020

Jury Duty and Ruth Bader Ginsburg

 Spent interesting 7 days on a criminal jury.  Multiple charges at different locations, and defendant had already plead guilty to one charge. 

Everyone took their responsibilities seriously. The issues were complex and everyone spoke up clearly their views and why they held them. Several people were undecided on certain positions and listened to the debate and reviewed evidence. Respect led to good decisions by the jury.

Judge O Snohomish County Superior Court was impressive how he kept order and respect. He kept testimony moving and made decisions outside the jury’s view. Also apologized for some of the inconveniences of the courtroom and Covid19 safety measures. 

Observed the prosecutor and defendant’s attorney work together with respect. Spent more time with police, bailiffs and security attending court. They treated everyone professionally and respectfully. Use to spend more time with police when use to shoot competitively, and found enjoyed their company. With all the protests, still is important to remember everyone is human.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg passing was a surprise after we were done. RBG made our law and country better by pointing out how lesser status hurt both men and women. There is room in our country for rights for everyone, and RBG’s eloquent descents often made it clear. They will be studied for years to come.

Her marriage was a supportive partnership and family. Guests and friends always welcome. Marvin Ginsburg retired as Tax Attorney with her appointment to the Supreme Court. "She doesn't talk to me about cooking, and I don't talk to her about law." 

Her friendships with people who didn’t agree with her views like Antonio ‘Nino’ Scalia are an example how to live in these times. Her life is a testament of trying to improve peoples lives and being human herself. 

Do not have the spelling nor able to pronounce last name of the judge, but think heard a Caribbean accent. He and many other judges who do not fit the old image of judges are part of RGB’s legacy.



September 5, 2020

Pandemic Labor Day

What an unusual Labor Day. 8.8% unemployment. U-6 unemployment including discouraged, marginally attached and part time is 14. 2%. Middle class who normally earn enough working visiting food banks. 4 in 10 are new clients. Those who use to help others, now need help. Newly unemployed or underemployed depending on their industry. Others may be working remotely the office.  Feels weird during the pandemic.

Parents are trying to figure out how to best educate their children, remotely or in class? How do you pay the utilities, rent or mortgage? Will they lose their home? Where can we live? Small family landlords providing affordable housing are worried they will lose properties, years of work and their hard earned money invested for their future. May see apartments converting to condos based on housing demand.

Stress on people is much higher this year. My suburban/rural county overdose deaths are up ~20%. If you feel lost or desperate, call for help. [800-273-8255 or text CONNECT to 741741] Those of us in faith know God still loves us. But we admit stress this year.

Unemployment is designed to help workers for ~6 months replacing only ~30% of prior income until you find work. Today’s uncertain world may mean many months to 2 years unemployment, taking jobs paying much less, or forced early retirement.  Unhappy both political parties cannot come up with a way to replace 70-80% of people’s income.

People who are unemployed are still as valuable as before. Successful leaders and entrepreneurs will figure out how to take advantage of the available talent to grow their business. If you are looking for a job, you have to get creative. Find your most valuable talents and skills to transfer to another industry. Gig work may have to carry you through. Downsize your home or live with roommates to lower costs.

One college friend has been searching nationwide for opportunities in his industry. In 3 month he had 2 hiring manager interviews. He is getting more interest as safety manager than chemical process engineer manager. What experiences or skills do you have that are in demand by other industries? Research where hiring is happening and see how you can help.

Be thankful for the work you have or had. Tell stories how relatives or you survived past crisis’s. Grew up with stories how my grandparents thrived during the great depression, and how hard it was for neighbors they fed. Remember former coworkers, friends and family. Reach out and remind then “This too will pass”. 

In a year or two the economy will be growing briskly. Very optimistic about where we will be in 5 years. But getting there may involve pain. Enjoy the holiday weekend.

New York Times - Minivans at the Food Pantry

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/03/us/food-pantries-hunger-us.html





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