Oh no...not another rant! Yep, reading the Iowa state daily editorial page the other day, when I was shocked to discover a student has been in school for 40 years. It must be so because this editorial has appeared once annually since I've been here. The "WHY DO POLICE HASSLE INSTEAD OF PROTECT STUDENTS?" It seems another innocent student was questioned by police for no apparent reason other than boredom and a need to refresh themselves on the use of the breathalizer. He decided enough is enough and refused. The gestapo like minions of justice upheld Iowa law and incarcerated the victim, the very idea! eventually after spending a few thousand dollars, he was vindicated, found not guilty in a court of law. While not passing judgement on his character, why not the simple route, blow into the breathalizer and remove all doubt? I doubt they will erect a statue of martyrdom in your likeness on Central Campus. I would also like to remove your paranoia that a student I.D. is the equivalent of the yellow star used to mark Jews in Nazi Germany. Do a "Ride Along" with the officers some weekend night, I have, you'll get a whole new perspective.Or you could begin your next quest for justice against "The Man". Go to the Airport and refuse to remove your shoes or go through the metal detector and see how long it is before you're a "Hand Puppet" on the end of a TSA officers arm...Rant over.

Here I go again showing my age, mother nature has made it evident with a few less follicles and those that are left quite grey. That man I see in the mirror every morning looks familiar but with the bags under his eyes and wrinkled brow looks grumpier than I remember, in fact my wife says I have to smile all the time lest I look angry. There's a lot of life experience behind those eyes and pride in accomplishment. Though never a man of great wealth materially, my coffers are full of good friends and love for the community I live in. So in this moment of reflection that guy in the mirror is very fortunate and blessed with a lot to look forward to but  better get his butt in gear or he'll be late to work.

I hate CANCER! When I was growing up I was taught never to use the word hate, but I can't help it....I HATE CANCER! It's been a merciless week, first we lose little Ely and now I learn that one of the kindest, gentlest, most caring and giving man I've known has been taken. Mike Lacy, one of the founders of the Iowa State Gridiron Club passed away this morning. From the moment I first shook his han...d and witnessed that endearing smile I knew this was a special man. The partnership he helped forge with the Club and our radio station has been invaluable, the people I've met have fast become friends. As he made me aware that he was living the final chapter of his life he let me know that he was going to do it in the best way he could...He did it with class... I wouldn't expect anything less. I'll miss you my friend, be careful St. Peter your job could be in jeopardy, if ever I'm allowed in those Pearly Gates could you let Mike greet me, he had a talent of making everyone feel welcome.

This week, I lost a hero, it left me speechless which is pretty bad for a radio guy. I spent most of the day reflecting on how this short life was so inspirational to me. Remembering how I was first intoduced to Elis ongoing battle with cancer then continuing to track the situation. A life filled with peaks and valleys, an emotional roller coaster. At this posting words continue to fail me but with... all the turmoil that surrounds us places the focus on whats really important. This warrior angel is now at peace and although his battle is done, the war continues let us continue to honor him by fighting the cancers that stole him from us. Never has such a little man stood so tall in the hearts and minds of a community. He will be missed but always remembered.

When my wife decided to become a Police officer I was given several texts informing me of how to be a good and supportive wife to my spouse. (yeah, they were that old) Now we're over 10 years into her chosen line of work and you think I'd be some what immune to her coming home with blood on her uniform (her own) and assorted bruises on her body, well I'm not. Yes the arrest was made and she assures me she's fine and indeed she appears to be and is now sleeping as I can hear her loving snore. I cannot express my appreciation for the extensive training our officers go through and the support they provide for each other, these men and women and their families are very special people indeed and I'm proud to know them all. Will I continue to worry, of course, but it's a job she loves and I know her fellow officers will always have her back and I will continue to strive to be the best damn wife a cop could ever want. (I did read those books)

I never cease to be amazed at what little nuggets of obvious fall into focus in this 64 year old head. Todays subject is heroes. Veterans are the obvious righteous choice, but next in line is you, the workaday folks that grind out of bed, go to your everyday jobs to make a living to raise your families, provide shelter and food, and guidance for your children. That even when things are a little tight at home still find a little extra for someone worse off. Oh there are plenty of athletes, movie and tv stars, politicians???? to adulate, admire etc... but it's you who make them what they are, they are nothing without you. Now go out there and make this a better day than yesterday my heroes and thanks for letting me share a little portion of your life this morning.