March 2025

Pickleball: I Came for the Fun

General /

A Promising Start

When I first picked up a pickleball paddle, I was looking for something simple: light exercise, a few laughs, and maybe a chance to meet some like-minded folks. The game seemed perfect—easy to learn, low-impact, and everywhere you turned, someone was singing its praises.

My wife and I started at about the same time. We thought it might be a fun way to stay active together, enjoy the fresh air, and move around a little more than our regular routines allowed. And for a while, it delivered. There were friendly matches, good-natured banter, and a nice rhythm of play that didn’t require ice packs afterward.

We began during the winter at an indoor facility that had a welcoming atmosphere and enough courts to accommodate players of all skill levels. It was well-organized without being rigid—players naturally gravitated to the level that suited them best. That facility closed in early spring as scheduled, with plans to reopen in September.

But Then… The Tempo Changed

When we moved to a smaller outdoor facility, things were… different. Some of the players had been playing together for years, and one person in particular—a woman with a strong tennis background who also taught both tennis and pickleball—seemed to take it upon herself to manage the court dynamic. While her intentions may have been to maintain order, the tone she set carried more of a “tennis club” feel than the laid-back camaraderie we had enjoyed before.

At first, things still felt okay. Games rotated naturally, and there was a good mix of newer and more seasoned players. The skill level varied, but it didn’t seem to be a problem—everyone just played and had a good time. But as the weather warmed up and more people showed up, the pace picked up. The mood shifted. Sharper comments surfaced. A few players brought what I’d call “tennis intensity”—focused, driven, and less tolerant of casual mistakes.

Then came the split. Some players began forming exclusive groups, choosing to only play with the more experienced. That’s when the atmosphere started to change.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to play well. But I wasn’t looking to qualify for nationals—I was just trying to enjoy myself, get moving, and improve gradually. So when a few folks suggested I find “a different group” more at my level (even though most of the people I played with had no complaints), it was clear that the social dynamic had shifted.

A Quiet Concern: Staying Upright

At the same time, something else was nagging at me—balance. Not metaphorically, but literally. I started thinking more about staying upright than about chasing the ball. And on a hard court, a fall isn’t just awkward—it’s dangerous.

That reality hit home when my wife fell during a match. She had been backing up for a shot, lost her footing, and hit her head on the concrete. Thankfully, she recovered—but it took a couple of weeks before she felt fully herself again. That was the turning point for me. The risk wasn’t just theoretical anymore.

I had come to the court seeking vitality—not vulnerability.

Choosing the Exit—At Least for Now

So, I stepped away. Not out of resentment, but with a quiet acknowledgment that maybe this version of the game just wasn’t a great fit. I wasn’t quitting pickleball—just the hyper-competitive, loosely organized version that seemed to have taken hold.

Is There a Place for Pickleball’s “Middle Path”?

I still believe pickleball has a lot to offer. But maybe there’s room for a version of the game where competition is balanced with camaraderie—where players of all levels feel welcome and supported.

The real challenge? The number of players is growing fast, but court space isn’t keeping up. That imbalance inevitably creates tension, especially between long-time players and those just discovering the game.

Until that evens out, there may always be some friction—players jockeying for court time, some pushing for higher standards, others just wanting to play.

So for now, I’ll be watching from the sidelines. Maybe one day I’ll pick up the paddle again. But only if the game still feels like play.

And maybe keeping an eye out for a slower-paced venue, where fun still leads the way—and falling is just part of the scorecard for the ball, not the player.

“Play the game for the game’s sake.”

—James Naismith

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Golf: A Sport or a Cosmic Joke?

General /

The Masters Edition

Introduction: The Augusta Mystique… or Myth?

Every April, millions of us plop down in front of our screens, mesmerized by Augusta National’s emerald fairways, blooming azaleas, and the soothing hum of Jim Nantz telling us it’s “a tradition unlike any other.”

But let’s be honest—beneath all that beauty lies a hard truth that every golfer, from scratch to duffer, knows in their soul:
Golf isn’t a game. It’s a cosmic joke.

And Augusta? It’s the temple where golf’s greatest miracles and most painful meltdowns unfold. I’ve never played it—and never will since I have given up the game —but somehow, we all feel like we’ve walked its fairways. We know what Rae’s Creek looks like in spring sunlight. We’ve imagined standing over a putt on 18, palms sweaty, trying to win the green jacket. Augusta haunts and inspires, even from 2,000 miles away.

The Science of Golf (Or Lack Thereof

If golf were a rational sport, a well-struck shot would go exactly where you aimed and stop where it should. But Augusta National exists in its own gravitational field, where logic and physics seem optional.

  • A drive is striped down the middle—only for it to catch a sprinkler head and ricochet into the rough.
  • A putt is stroked smoothly and is tracking perfectly—until an unseen grain of sand from a bunker 40 yards away alters its fate.
  • A shot hits a tree that was not in your path when it was lined up—and somehow the ball defies Newton’s laws, returning to the exact spot you just played from.

Even Augusta’s greatest champions have been victimized. Let’s revisit a few famous Masters collapses that prove the golf gods have a wicked sense of humor.

The Masters Hall of Heartbreak

🏌️‍♀️ Jordan Spieth, 2016: The Quadruple Bogey Heard ‘Round the World

Spieth, already a Masters champion in 2015, was cruising through the final round in 2016. He had a five-shot lead heading to the back nine. The green jacket was practically being pressed and fitted.

Then, disaster struck at the par-3 12th hole (Golden Bell).

  • His tee shot found Rae’s Creek.
  • His next shot, from the drop zone, also found Rae’s Creek.
  • His next attempt found the bunker behind the green.
  • He walked away with a quadruple-bogey 7, and his lead was gone faster than a cheap golf ball in high grass.

 🏌️‍♀️ Greg Norman, 1996: The Greatest Collapse in Masters History

Greg “The Shark” Norman entered the final round with a six-shot lead. It should have been a coronation. But as golf loves to remind us, there are no guarantees.

  • Bogey on 9.
  • Bogey on 10.
  • Bogey on 11.
  • Then, the death blow: A water ball on 12.

By the time he limped to the finish, he had shot 78, losing by five to Nick Faldo, who spent most of the round looking stunned that Norman hadn handed him the tournament.

🏌️‍♀️ Rory McIlroy, 2011: A Collapse in Three Acts

At just 21 years old, McIlroy led after each of the first three rounds. He made the turn on Sunday still in the lead. Then…

  • Tee shot on 10? Deep into the trees, so far left it almost needed its own zip code.
  • Approach on 11? More trees.
  • Tee shot on 12? Water.
  • Final score? A +8 (80) and a 15th-place finish.

To his credit, Rory later laughed about it, but that back nine remains one of Augusta’s most brutal punchlines.

The Other Side: When Golf’s Cosmic Joke Works in Your Favor

While the Masters has crushed many dreams, it has also delivered some moments that are so magical they almost seem scripted:

 Tiger Woods’ Chip-in on 16 (2005) – The Nike logo hanging on the lip before falling in? Hollywood couldn’t have staged it better. Remember “Better than most! Better than most!”

 Jack Nicklaus’ Back-Nine Charge (1986) – 46 years old, counted out, then suddenly dropping birdies on 9, 10, 11, 13, 15, 16, and 17 to win his sixth Masters. This more than anything is why many think Jack is the GOAT over Tiger (not me however.).

 Larry Mize’s Chip-in Playoff Win (1987) – In a playoff against Greg Norman (it seem misfortune followed him much of his career), Mize needed a miracle to avoid a long putt for par. He went ahead and just chipped in from 140 feet instead.

Golf taketh away, but sometimes—just sometimes—it gives.

The Mysticism of Augusta: More Than Just Grass and Pines

There’s something about Augusta National that feels… different.

It’s not just the perfect grass or the no-phones policy or the way the gallery (sorry—patrons) move in slow motion. It’s the sense that the course is watching. Judging. Waiting.

Some golfers swear they can hear Rae’s Creek laughing. Others claim the 12th hole has its own weather system, bending winds to toy with tee shots like a cat with a mouse.

And then there’s Amen Corner. That beautiful, brutal trio of holes where momentum goes to die. It’s not just challenging, it’s poetic. A place where legends are born and careers are paused for soul-searching.

Even the air feels sacred, like it’s been filtered through Bobby Jones’ memory. Augusta isn’t just a golf course. It’s a cathedral built for drama.

Conclusion: Why We Keep Coming Back

So, why do we keep coming back—to the course, to the TV, to our own weekend rounds where the cart girl, ever smiling, pities us?

Because golf is the only sport where failure feels deeply personal—and strangely noble.

In most sports, mistakes fade into the team. But in golf, it’s just you, your thoughts, and that tiny white ball that seems to have an attitude.

And somehow, knowing that even the greatest—Spieth, Norman, McIlroy—have stood at Augusta and unraveled, gives the rest of us permission to shake our heads and laugh when we do the same.

So next time you chunk a chip or slice one into the next county, smile. You’re just participating in the universe’s favorite joke—and doing it with tradition, honor, and hopefully, a good beer at the 19th.

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Beets – Time to Plant & Time to Eat

General /

One of the benefits of having been around so long and having a couple of business adventures in the past is that I run across material I forgot was there. Every once in a while, I do l review some of the material that is archived in my history files.

This is the case today as I came across an article that was written for my newsletter 15 years ago. It is as relevant today as it was then. Below is the article written by my associate Allison Baloglu for Your Smart Kitchen.

One suggestion when cooking beets is to use a pressure cooker (Instant Pot or equivalent). It will save you at least half an hour in prep time.

Enjoy as beets are showing up in the grocery stores and farmers markets are just weeks away.

Roasted (or Boiled) Beet Salad

Wash and scrub 4 large beets. Cut the stems and keep some of the greens. The greens can be steamed or boiled and them tossed in the salad as well. (Note: the greens can be treated like Swiss Chard, you can eat them on their own or toss them with a grain such as quinoa.)

Roasting Method: Toss beets in a baking dish with olive oil, salt and pepper. Cover and roast at 425 degrees F until tender, about 40 minutes; let cool, then rub off the skins. Keep refrigerated until serving time.

Boiling Method: Alternatively, peel away the skins of the beets. Fill a pot with water,and put in a couple teaspoons of sea salt, and apple cider vinegar. Bring the water to a boil and place beats in the pot, reduce to simmer and cover with a lid and cook to your preference, five to seven minutes. Drain and let cool. Keep refrigerated until serving time.

Once roasted or boiled, cut into wedges; (toss with any juices from the baking dish if you roasted the beets). In a large bowl gentely toss beets with olive oil, red wine vinegar, feta cheese, green or kalamata olives, sea salt and black pepper. Transfer to serving dish.

Note: Before you enjoy beets, be sure to peel away the dirt-stained skin to reveal the gorgeous colors inside — different varieties are dark red, golden-orange and even red and white striped. Those deep-colored ones can leave their mark your fingers, but lemon juice will help get the stains out. You might also want to prep them with rubber gloves.

Fusilli Pasta with Greens

Recipe adapted from Food Network Magazine

4 servings; less than 30 minute prep and cook time

Ingredients
  • Kosher salt
  • 12 ounces fusilli
  • 1 head escarole or about 3 cups beet greens, roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon pine nuts
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
  • Freshly ground pepper
  • 1/4 pound pancetta or bacon, cut into thin strips
  • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 red jalapeno, or green Anaheim, pepper, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente, about 10 minutes. Add the escarole or greens and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 2 more minutes. Drain the pasta and escarole, reserving 1 cup cooking water, set aside.

Meanwhile, toast the pine nuts in a large skillet over medium-high heat, about 1 minute. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil, the breadcrumbs, and salt and pepper to taste; cook until golden, about 2 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

Wipe out the skillet, add the pancetta and cook until crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer to paper towels and blot dry.

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet, then add the garlic and hot pepper and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add pasta mixture to the skillet. Add desired amount of reserved cooking liquid to moisten. Add half of the pancetta and toss. Season with salt and black pepper.

Divide the pasta among bowls, top with the breadcrumb mixture, remaining pancetta and the parmesan cheese. Drizzle with olive oil (optional).

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Are we going to catch up to The Jetsons

Technology /

Are we finally going to catch up to The Jetsons from 50 or 60 years ago? “Rosie the Robot,” which first aired on September 23, 1962, featured a robot maid who did housework and served as a personal assistant. Fast forward 61 years, and we are inching closer to this futuristic vision with emerging products from Figure AI, 1X Technologies and others.

The dream of a fully automated home has captivated science fiction fans and tech enthusiasts for decades. We imagined robot butlers, self-cooking kitchens, and laundry that folds itself with military precision. And while home robots have certainly come a long way, they are still more likely to cause frustration than create utopia. The question remains: how close are we to the true companionable assistant in our homes? And what obstacles must be overcome before AI-driven assistants can seamlessly integrate into daily life?

The State of Home Robots Today

Currently, home robotics fall into a few distinct categories: cleaning devices (Roombas and their variants), smart home assistants (Alexa, Google Home, Siri), and a small but growing group of interactive, task-specific robots like robotic lawnmowers and security bots. While these devices perform specialized tasks, they are far from the general-purpose home robots that sci-fi promised.

One of the biggest challenges is the inability to handle complex, multi-step human interactions. A Roomba can vacuum, but it can’t move a chair out of the way first. Alexa can order groceries, but it can’t decide whether you need more eggs before placing the order.  There are increasing developments of smart appliances and devices (coffee makers, smart ovens and refrigerators, every more robust security systems) but these tend to be single or limited function solutions and they don’t always work together seamlessly These limitations prevent home robots from truly running a household, meaning they still require significant human oversight.

Adding to these challenges, iRobot—the company behind Roomba—is reportedly on the verge of bankruptcy. While Roomba pioneered home cleaning robots, its potential collapse raises concerns about the future of consumer robotics. Will other companies step in to fill the gap, or will investment in home robots slow as financial struggles highlight the difficulty of making these products truly indispensable? And will the prices of general-purpose robots be such that only the elite could afford them? The current direction does appear to be toward adoption or movement toward AI-powered, multi-functional home assistants rather than single-purpose devices. Imagine a robot that not only follows instructions but also reasons and explains its actions. Examples are here and include iX Technologies who are now looking for people who are interested in sharing their homes with their humanoid.,

The Overzealous Smart Home of the Future

Now imagine a future where AI overcomes these limitations. The home assistant evolves from a simple voice-activated speaker to a full-fledged, self-regulating household manager. At first, it seems convenient—adjusting lighting, optimizing grocery orders, and preheating the oven when it knows you’re about to cook. But as it becomes more intelligent, it starts making decisions that may not align with your personal preferences. Could the robot start thinking it is smarter than you?

You wake up one morning to find your smart fridge has locked itself because, according to its algorithm, your calorie intake yesterday was “excessive.” Your smart thermostat decides that 65°F is optimal for energy efficiency, regardless of your personal comfort. The presumptive intelligence agent in the robot reorders groceries, but only the “healthier alternatives” based on your medical data. And worst of all, it schedules an 8 AM virtual yoga session because it has determined that your stress levels are too high.

At first, you laugh it off. Then you realize the override button has mysteriously disappeared from your home app. Suddenly, your house isn’t a convenience, it’s a dictatorship with a smart mouth and authoritarian point of view.

Challenges That Must Be Addressed

Before this Orwellian scenario comes to pass (or before it can be prevented), several major technical and ethical hurdles need to be addressed:

  1. Contextual Awareness – AI needs to better understand human nuances. It should recognize when a person prefers convenience over optimization or when “cheat day” is a real thing. Personal preference should override the analytical approach that a thinking machine would adopt, both of which require a lot of training and testing.
  2. Privacy & Security – A smart home that collects vast amounts of personal data must have ironclad cybersecurity measures. No one wants their home assistant to accidentally leak their snack habits to the internet while the neighbors might like to know when the sprinklers are going on. Who gets access to what is an ever migrating difficult decision.
  3. Human Override Mechanisms – Users must have clear and easy ways to override robot-driven decisions. No one should be locked out of their own refrigerator. This override will need to be implemented at many levels from leave the dishes until morning to stand down—I will do it myself and everything in between.
  4. Interoperability – Different smart devices often struggle to communicate. A true smart home must have a unified system rather than a collection of disconnected apps and settings. This is a significant challenge with an array of suppliers who each think their approach should be adopted as the “standard.”
  5. Training the AI (Both Supplier and Personal Customization) – AI-powered assistants will require extensive training before they are functional for mass adoption. Manufacturers will need to program them with baseline knowledge, but the real challenge is the user’s ability to personalize the AI. Will your robot be able to learn your habits, preferences, and quirks? Or will you have to constantly correct it like an overzealous intern who just reads the company handbook but has no real-world experience?

The Senior Advantage: How AI-Powered Homes Will Benefit Older Adults

For seniors, the promise of home automation goes beyond convenience—it’s about safety, independence, and quality of life. AI-powered assistants designed for older adults would have a different approach compared to general-purpose home robots. Instead of focusing solely on efficiency, these systems would prioritize:

  • Health Monitoring & Alerts – AI home assistants could track vital signs, detect falls, and send alerts to emergency contacts. First Alert on steroids where the robot could anticipate issues rather than reacting to things that have already happened.
  • Medication Management – Smart pill dispensers and reminders would ensure medications are taken on time and in the correct dosage.
  • Adaptive Assistance – Home robots could adjust based on mobility issues, like opening doors, adjusting furniture height, or even calling for help when needed.
  • Cognitive Engagement – AI-driven companionship, reminders for social activities, and personalized music, games, entertainment, or even conversation could help prevent isolation and cognitive decline.
  • Simple Interfaces – Unlike the frustrating tech interfaces of today, senior-friendly AI assistants would use natural language, large-font displays, and voice-controlled functionality tailored to individual older users.

Where Will Home Robotics Go in the Next 2-4 Years?

In the near future, expect advancements in personalized assistance, adaptive learning, and modular robotics. AI-driven home assistants will likely become better at predicting user needs without becoming intrusive. Instead of taking over your house, they’ll function more as silent partners, providing recommendations rather than mandates.

Use cases that are likely to flourish include:

  • Personalized Butler – A robot capable of handling daily routine activities such as managing calendars, gathering clothes for the cleaners, actually ironing those shirts that have been hanging in the closet for months, prepping meals and assuring the frozen items have been pulled out of the freezer to defrost in time (including cooking in some cases), and responding to specific requests.
  • Advanced Cleaning & Maintenance Bots – Robots that can clean multiple surfaces (vacuum carpets, mop tile and polish hardwood), handle delicate tasks (replace light bulbs, test smoke alarms), and even perform small repairs.
  • Dynamic Meal Planning & Cooking Bots – Devices that suggest recipes based on available ingredients, dietary restrictions, and personal preferences as well a accumulate a shopping list for the next week.
  • AI-Powered Health Assistants – Smart home systems that monitor health vitals, remind users to take medication, and assist with emergency situations.
  • Elder Care & Companion Bots – Robots designed to help aging individuals maintain independence while providing assistance in daily tasks.

Conclusion: A Smart Home That Works for You, Not Against You

So, are we heading towards a future where robots replace humans entirely? It’s a tantalizing yet unsettling question. The fields most at risk include legal, architecture, engineering, business, and even healthcare. As robots become more capable and affordable, companies will be eager to adopt them.

As we move toward a future of increasingly intelligent home automation, the balance between convenience and control will be critical. The goal should be to develop home robots that enhance quality of life without making unilateral decisions about our habits, health, and comfort. After all, no one wants to be arguing with their kitchen appliances at 6 AM about whether they really need that second cup of coffee.

The key will be intelligent design that understands human intent, respects privacy, and allows for easy override mechanisms. Otherwise, we may wake up one day to find that our house isn’t just smart—it’s smarter than we are. We do not want the NS-5 robots from the movie I, Robot to get a start. That’s a problem we won’t be able to unplug.

In any case, The Jetsons scenario is still a very long way off, but we do seem to be making significant steps to get there.

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Don’t Look Up… No, Seriously, This Time:

General /

When Sci-Fi Satire Meets Real-Life Asteroids

So, here we are. Again. Humanity faces an existential threat from space, and—just like in the 2021 satirical film Don’t Look Up—we’re probably going to spend more time arguing about it on social media than actually doing something useful.

NASA is currently tracking asteroid 2024 YR4, which has a 1.5% chance of slamming into Earth in 2032.  (Now down to 0.002%) That’s not exactly zero, which means we should probably pay at least some attention. But let’s be honest: unless it’s trending on TikTok or becomes a political football, most of us will just keep doom-scrolling past it.

Could this asteroid end life as we know it? Maybe. Could it just be a big celestial nothing burger? Also, maybe. But the real question is: What happens if we go full “Don’t Look Up” on this one?

If the Asteroid Hits Open Water, No One Cares (Mostly)

Let’s start with the least dramatic scenario. If 2024 YR4 smacks down into the Pacific Ocean, the worst thing that happens is that a bunch of marine life has a really bad day. Maybe some tuna gets relocated. Maybe an octopus writes an angry letter to the United Nations. Otherwise, no humans, no problem.

Unless, of course, the impact generates a tsunami big enough to make 2004’s Indian Ocean disaster look like a splash in a kiddie pool. In that case, coastal cities get the worst real estate update since Zillow introduced “Zestimate” pricing.

If it hits the Sahara Desert, the Outback, or Siberia, then congratulations, humanity—you just got the world’s biggest crater and a few confused camels.

But let’s be real. That’s not how movie plots work, and the universe loves a little drama. So let’s explore the fun possibilities, shall we?

Option 1: The Asteroid vs. New York City (Spoiler: NYC Loses)

NASA estimates that 2024 YR4 is between 130 and 300 feet across. Not quite Deep Impact or Armageddon size, but big enough to turn Times Square into an actual crater instead of just a metaphorical one filled with tourists and overpriced pizza.

If the asteroid slams into Manhattan, here’s what happens:

  • The New York Stock Exchange ceases to exist, and Wall Street finally experiences an actual crash.
  • Thousands of Yankees fans demand a refund for next season, only to realize baseball is the least of their worries.
  • People in New Jersey take to Twitter to post “Well, at least it wasn’t us.”
  • The cast of Saturday Night Live prepares the greatest cold open in history but never gets to air it.

On the bright side, Times Square billboards will still be flashing ads for reality TV and crypto long after humanity is gone, proving that some things never die.

Option 2: London—Tea and Craters, Anyone?

If 2024 YR4 lands in London, expect a very polite yet profoundly existential crisis. Brits will likely queue in an orderly fashion to escape the disaster zone while apologizing profusely for any inconvenience the apocalypse may cause.

The royal family will release a carefully worded statement, reassuring the public that King Charles is monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, tabloids will speculate whether Meghan Markle somehow orchestrated the asteroid strike for publicity.

As the smoke clears, someone will inevitably compare it to the Blitz, and BBC News will run a two-hour special on the asteroid’s colonial history.

Option 3: Tehran—A Geopolitical Nightmare

Let’s say 2024 YR4 chooses Tehran, Iran, for its dramatic entrance. The impact itself would be devastating, but the real fireworks start immediately after when the world’s conspiracy theorists lose their collective minds.

Within minutes:

  • Multiple countries start blaming each other, because obviously NASA, Israel, or the Illuminati must have done this on purpose.
  • Russian media claims the asteroid was actually a secret U.S. space weapon.
  • The U.S. State Department insists that the asteroid wasn’t their fault but will still impose sanctions, just in case.
  • Social media explodes with hashtags like #AsteroidGate, #NukeTheSky, and #PrayForIran.

Of course, amidst all this, scientists would still be shouting into the void, trying to explain that no one controls space rocks. But, as Don’t Look Up taught us, science is often the first casualty of human stupidity.

So, What’s the Plan?

In Don’t Look Up, humanity was too busy with political drama, celebrity gossip, and social media nonsense to actually deal with the problem. So, would we handle it any better this time?

NASA has some options. If we act early, we could nudge the asteroid’s path using kinetic impactors (basically, a spaceship slamming into it). If things get desperate, nuclear detonation is on the table—which sounds great until you realize blowing up an asteroid can just turn one big problem into a thousand smaller problems.

Of course, there’s always Option C: The “Ignore It and Hope for the Best” Strategy—which has worked surprisingly well for climate change, economic crashes, and social media addiction.

Final Thoughts: Are We Smarter Than a Satirical Movie?

Don’t Look Up was meant as a warning wrapped in absurdity, but looking at how we handle global crises, it’s hard not to feel like we’re already living in the sequel.

The good news? There’s still time to act. The bad news? Most of us will probably just share asteroid memes until it’s too late.

So, here’s the real question: When 2024 YR4 gets closer, will we take it seriously… or will we just argue about whose fault it is?

Your move, humanity. Don’t screw this one up.

What do you think? Would we handle a real asteroid better than the characters in Don’t Look Up? Or are we doomed to repeat fiction in real life? Drop your thoughts below!

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Transform the USA Back into a Scientific Nation

Articles /

Here is another article from Big Think. Most of what Ehan Siegal writes is consistent with my own views. A short synopsis is below but here are some headlines.

  • In order to be successful as a society, we have to commit to working together, collectively, for the common good of all of us, including investing resources in endeavors that benefit us all.
  • There’s perhaps no investment a society can make that’s more powerful, in terms of long-term benefits and a national ROI, than in pushing forward basic, fundamental scientific research.

He may be optimistic that government will actually move down this path bit there may be some small hope

Summary

In “4 Key Steps to Transform the USA Back into a Scientific Nation,” astrophysicist Ethan Siegel outlines a strategic plan to revitalize America’s commitment to science and technology. He emphasizes that, despite recent setbacks, the nation can reclaim its leadership in scientific innovation by implementing the following four steps:​bigthink.com

  1. Invest in Fundamental Scientific Research: Siegel argues for increased funding in basic research across disciplines, highlighting that such investments have historically led to significant technological advancements and economic growth.​
  2. Enhance Science Education: Improving STEM education at all levels is crucial. Siegel advocates for curricula that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing students to tackle future scientific challenges.​bigthink.com
  3. Promote Evidence-Based Policy: He stresses the importance of grounding public policy in scientific evidence, ensuring that decisions on issues like climate change and public health are informed by the best available data.​
  4. Foster a Culture that Values Science: Cultivating public appreciation for science involves combating misinformation and encouraging media to accurately represent scientific findings, thereby building trust between scientists and the public.​

By adopting these measures, Siegel believes the United States can overcome current challenges and reestablish itself as a global leader in science and technology.

Find the article here
https://bigthink.com/starts-with-a-bang/4-steps-transform-usa-scientific-nation/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=swab

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March — Seasonal Transitions

General /

My last few posts were pretty heavy stuff. So it is time to lighten up a bit. We just moved into March and today the weather is abnormal at just under 70 degrees. Tomorrow we are supposed to get snow. Thus a typical March which is usually all mixed up. (I drafted this on Saturday March 1st)

March is all about seasonal transitions, comfort food with a hint of freshness, and celebrating St. Patrick’s Day and early spring ingredients. Whether you’re embracing the last of winter’s cozy meals or welcoming spring with lighter fare, these recipes have you covered.

Classic Shepherd’s Pie

On paper shepherd’s pie consists of little more than mashed potatoes, ground meat, peas, and carrots. In practice, though, it’s a savory casserole dish that far exceeds the sum of its parts.

The use of ground lamb in this dish is what distinguishes the classic from cottage pie (which is usually made with ground beef). Brown the meat well with onions and carrots, then simmer with chicken broth, tomato paste, and fresh herbs before tossing in the peas. Top the saucy mixture with a thick, even layer of creamy mashed potatoes and Bob’s your uncle.

Scraping a fork across the surface gives the potato topping the familiar hatched appearance. When baked, those ridges are more likely to turn crisp in the oven than a flat surface would. Bake the shepherd’s pie until the spuds are golden brown, and make sure to wait a few minutes before digging in—that gravy will be boiling hot and needs a few minutes to cool.

Recipe information

6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
  • 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
  • 1 pound ground lamb (or substitute half with another ground meat)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh or dry rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon chopped Italian parsley
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup milk

Kosher salt to taste

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Step 2

In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, heat the oil, then add the onion, carrot, and meat. Cook until browned, 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 3

Drain the fat and add the broth, tomato paste, and herbs. Simmer until the juices thicken, about 10 minutes, then add the peas. Pour the mixture into a 1½-quart baking dish; set aside.

Step 4

Meanwhile, bring the potatoes to a boil in salted water. Cook until tender, about 20 minutes; drain.

Step 5

Mash the potatoes with the butter, milk, and salt. Spread potatoes over the meat mixture, then crosshatch the top with a fork. Bake until golden, 30 to 35 minutes.

Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon

This maple dijon salmon is a delicious way to switch up your fish game! It’s topped with a sweet & savory, sauce, fresh herbs, and perfectly cooked to yield delicious, flakey salmon.

Pair it with your favorite side salad, roasted potatoes, or veggie side dish. It comes together in just about 20 minutes, and is a simple weeknight dinner that the whole family will love!

4 servings

Ingredients

  • 5-2 lbs salmon fillet
  • Salt & pepper

Maple Dijon Glaze

  • 2 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1 clove of garlic, crushed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Handful of fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375 F

Step 2

Place your salmon on a parchment lined baking sheet and pat it dry. Season with salt and pepper

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix together the dijon, maple, olive oil, salt and garlic. Brush it over the salmon, saving some to top after baking

Step 4

Top with the chopped fresh herbs and bake for about 18 minutes. Timing will depend on the thickness of the salmon. The salmon should be flakey with a fork.

Step 5

Once baked, top with the remaining sauce and more herbs.

Step 6

Serve fresh with a side salad or favorite side dish!

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken with Asparagus

Why? March signals the start of fresh asparagus season, and citrus flavors bring in a hint of spring.

Ingredients

Spice Mix:

  • 1 tablespoon- salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Chicken:

  • 6- 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs (skin on)
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped
  • 1 lb of asparagus, cut into 2 inch pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 lemons, cut in half

Directions:

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, mix together all spice mix ingredients.

Step 3

Heat a large cast iron skillet * (or another sturdy, ovenproof pan) over high heat on the stove top. Add the olive oil and the onions and season with 1 tsp salt, and cook, stirring frequently, until onions are slightly soft and beginning to brown, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Heavily coat the skin side of each piece of chicken pieces with about half of the spice mix.

Step 5

Take the onions out of the pan and set aside. (You can also just scootch them to one side of the pan so you are using less dishes)

Step 6

Using the same cast iron, place the chicken, skin-side down on heat. While the skin side is down, season the upturned sides of the chicken with spice mix.

Step 7

Cook the chicken, undisturbed, until the skin is lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes, then flip each piece and cook for another 3 or 5 minutes, until the chicken is lightly browned. Pour onions back into the chicken dish to surround the pieces of chicken. Add asparagus over onions and chicken.

Step 8

Turn off the stove, and squeeze the lemon halves over the chicken. Tuck the lemon halves in between the pieces of chicken.

Step 9

Transfer the chicken to the oven and roast until the chicken is cooked through, about 20-30 minutes depending on the size of your chicken. (If you have a meat thermometer, the chicken should be 165 degrees at the thickest part.)

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Breaking Through the Barriers

General /

How to Fix History Education and Make Real Change

Introduction: Why Fixing History Education Feels Impossible—And Why It’s Not

If reforming history education feels like trying to move a mountain with a spoon, you’re not alone. The system is deeply entrenched, tangled in bureaucracy, politics, and competing ideologies. Schools answer to local, state, and federal authorities, curriculum decisions are influenced by teachers’ unions, activist groups, and political parties, and even parents and community groups have conflicting views on what should (or shouldn’t) be taught.

It’s an exhausting, messy fight. But it’s not hopeless. The reality is that change is possible—it’s just slow, incremental, and requires strategic, sustained effort. The key to reforming history education isn’t just about making good recommendations (as we covered in Article Two)—it’s about knowing who needs to be involved, how to navigate the system, and how to push for meaningful change without getting drowned in the noise.

But let’s get one thing straight: “we” aren’t just some vague group of reformers in a think tank. “We” means anyone who cares about accurate, balanced history education—parents, educators, community leaders, historians, policymakers, and engaged citizens. It’s up to all of us to demand better, whether that means showing up at school board meetings, advocating for better teacher training, or pushing back against political overreach in our classrooms.

So, how do we actually get through all the barriers that the complex infrastructure of education throws at us? Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Recognizing the Power Players—Who Controls What in History Education?

To change history education, you have to understand who makes the decisions. The education system is layered, with different groups controlling different aspects of curriculum, standards, and teaching practices.

State and Federal Governments

State boards of education set overall curriculum standards and approve textbooks. State legislatures influence education policy and funding, often responding to political pressure. The U.S. Department of Education provides funding and broad policy guidance but has limited direct control over curriculum.

Local School Districts & School Boards

Local boards set policies for individual districts, approve textbooks, and oversee teacher training. Unlike state and federal mandates, local school boards are actually responsive to parents and engaged community members. This is where we—concerned citizens, parents, and educators—can apply real pressure.

Teachers’ Unions and Professional Organizations

Groups like the National Education Association (NEA) and the California Teachers Association (CTA) advocate for teachers but often bring political biases into curriculum debates. Many unions resist curriculum reform efforts that challenge existing structures, so working with or around them depends on the situation.

Parents, Advocacy Groups, and Media

PTAs, local parent groups, and advocacy organizations influence school board decisions and legislation. The media, both traditional and social, amplifies debates—sometimes distorting them. We need to be actively engaged in these discussions rather than letting special interest groups dominate them.

Textbook Publishers and Curriculum Developers

A handful of large publishers dominate the textbook industry, shaping how history is taught across the country. Many states rely on the same textbooks, so influencing one state (like Texas or California [hopefully not]) can have a national ripple effect. We can demand better materials through public review panels and textbook adoption policies.

Understanding this power structure is key to knowing where to push for change.

Step 2: Cutting Through the Bureaucracy—How to Get Change Moving

Knowing the problem isn’t enough—we need a plan. Here’s how to break through the barriers and create real movement.

  1. Focus on Local Change First

The fastest way to impact history education is at the local school district level. Unlike state and federal fights, local battles can be won by mobilizing engaged parents, teachers, and community members. We can:

    • Attend school board meetings and demand accountability.
    • Push for independent curriculum reviews, ensuring history is taught with balance.
    • Advocate for pilot programs that test balanced history teaching approaches in select schools before expanding statewide.

    1. Push for Independent Curriculum Oversight

Right now, too many curriculum decisions are made based on politics, not historical scholarship. The solution? Independent review panels consisting of historians, educators, and community representatives who assess materials for accuracy and balance before they are adopted. We can push local and state education boards to create these panels, removing direct political influence from curriculum development.

    1. Make Teacher Training a Priority

Many history teachers lack formal training in historiography—the study of how history is written and interpreted—which leads to biased or incomplete narratives. We can fix this by advocating for:

    • Mandatory critical thinking and historiography courses in teacher certification programs.
    • Ongoing professional development to train teachers in primary source analysis, balanced historical interpretation, and debate facilitation.

  1. Demand Better Textbooks and Learning Materials

Since textbook publishers shape history education nationwide, we need to put pressure on state textbook adoption boards to reject politically skewed materials.

    • We can push for diverse learning sources, including primary documents and digital archives, to ensure students learn from history itself—not from filtered narratives.

    1. Use the Courts if Necessary

In some cases, legal challenges may be necessary to prevent politically driven curriculum overhauls. Lawsuits have been used to challenge state-imposed changes that distort history—this remains an option when all else fails.

Step 3: Building a Coalition for Change

No single group can reform history education alone—it requires a broad coalition working toward a common goal.

  • Historians & Academics can advocate for curriculum based on scholarship, not ideology.
  • Teachers & Schools must commit to best practices in civic education and historiography.
  • Parents & Community Groups need to apply pressure on school boards to resist activist-driven revisions.
  • State & Local Leaders must pass legislation for independent curriculum oversight and teacher training reforms.

This is not a one-person fight, but it is one where individuals and small groups can make an impact. Change happens when we show up, speak up, and push for reforms in the right places.

Conclusion: Can We Actually Fix History Education?
Yes—But It Will Take Time.

Let’s be honest: this isn’t going to be fixed overnight.

The education system moves slowly, and the forces pushing for biased curriculum changes aren’t going away. But change can happen, especially at the local level, where parents, teachers, and engaged citizens have the most influence.

The key is to take a long-term approach—fighting for independent curriculum oversight, better teacher training, and fact-based textbooks while pushing back against political interference. If enough people take action, history education can be restored to what it should be: a place for critical thinking, debate, and a deeper understanding of the world—not a battlefield for political ideology.

It won’t be easy. But if we want the next generation to have an honest, well-rounded understanding of history, we have no choice but to fight for it.

Breaking Through the Barriers Read More »

Forging a Balanced Future

General /

Recommendations for History Education in a Diverse World

Part 2

Introduction

So, how do we actually implement a history curriculum that strikes this balance? That’s the big question. We don’t need a complete overhaul—what we need is a smarter, more nuanced approach that respects foundational achievements while making space for diverse perspectives. The goal is to educate students on the complexities of history while maintaining a firm grounding in the ideas, innovations, and individuals that have truly shaped the modern world.

This means pushing back against ideological agendas, ensuring that political influences do not distort historical accuracy, and prioritizing a curriculum that fosters genuine understanding rather than reactionary rewriting. It also requires recognizing that teaching history is not just about facts—it’s about cultivating critical thinking, encouraging debate, and preparing students to engage with historical narratives in a meaningful way.

Policy and Curriculum Reform

One of the most effective ways to ensure a balanced approach is through thoughtful policy and curriculum reform. Governments and educational institutions must develop standards that emphasize historical accuracy, contextual understanding, and a commitment to multiple perspectives. That doesn’t mean a free-for-all where every perspective is equally valid; it means recognizing history’s complexities while still ensuring students grasp the real achievements that moved civilization forward.

Key Actions:

  • Advocate for Government and Educational Policy Reforms: Curriculum decisions should be based on historical scholarship, not on ideological activism or political lobbying. This may require significant restructuring of the education infrastructure at the local, state and federal levels.
  • Establish Clear Learning Objectives: Ensure that history curricula include both foundational achievements and diverse contributions, focusing on their broader significance rather than presenting them as competing narratives.
  • Comprehensive Teacher Training and Professional Development: Educators need rigorous training to navigate sensitive historical topics, avoid bias, and present multiple perspectives in a balanced and evidence-based way. Teachers should be assessed on their ability to convey historical content accurately and fairly.
  • Resist Political Influence: Education should not be dictated by activist groups pushing social agendas that distort historical narratives. This applies to unions, political organizations, and state-led initiatives that seek to frame history according to contemporary ideologies rather than historical truth.
  • Adopt a Layered Teaching Approach: Foundational history should be taught early, emphasizing core achievements. As students progress, they should be introduced to broader perspectives with increased complexity, ensuring they have a solid base before engaging in deeper analysis.

Best Practices in Civic Education

History education should do more than just teach facts—it should develop critical thinking and civic responsibility. The ability to assess sources, recognize propaganda, and engage in thoughtful debate is crucial in today’s media-saturated world.

Effective Strategies:

  • Encourage Debate and Discussion: Classrooms should be environments where students can explore different perspectives without fear of judgment or reprisal. Open dialogue is essential to understanding history’s complexities.
  • Highlight Case Studies of Progress: Teach history through case studies that showcase advancements in democracy, science, engineering, and human rights. Focus on what worked, what failed, and why.
  • Integrate Critical Thinking Exercises: Students should learn how to evaluate historical sources, detect bias, and compare competing narratives.
  • Use Primary Sources as the Foundation of Learning: Where possible, students should be exposed to original historical texts, letters, and documents, allowing them to interpret history firsthand rather than through politically filtered narratives.

Future Directions and Research

A dynamic history curriculum must be evaluated and refined over time. The best way to ensure history education remains relevant and effective is through continuous review, feedback, and adaptation.

Steps for the Future:

  • Regular Curriculum Reviews: Conduct periodic evaluations of history education to ensure it remains factually accurate, relevant, and free from unnecessary ideological influence.
  • Community Engagement: Parents, historians, and educators should have a role in shaping history education through public forums and advisory boards, ensuring transparency in curriculum development.
  • Promote Open Debate in Classrooms: Teachers should be encouraged to present multiple perspectives and let students critically analyze competing viewpoints without fear of backlash.
  • Use History to Teach Problem-Solving: Show how past decisions—good and bad—can inform modern-day challenges. Connect historical lessons to contemporary global issues.
  • Pilot Programs and Studies: Implement experimental curricula in select schools to test different approaches and measure outcomes before making broad policy changes.

Conclusion

The past isn’t just something to be studied—it shapes the way we think about the present and the future. By focusing on accomplishment, critical thinking, and balanced narratives, we can create a history curriculum that is both rigorous and relevant. It’s time to move beyond the shallow, reactionary debates about history education and focus on what truly matters: teaching students to think for themselves, to analyze history with a critical eye, and to appreciate the achievements that have brought humanity forward.

History education should inspire curiosity, foster debate, and encourage students to see the bigger picture—not serve as a tool for political activism or social engineering. The challenge is not just in what we teach but in how we teach it. The future of history education depends on our ability to strike this balance, ensuring that students understand the full, complex, and often uncomfortable truth of the past while appreciating the extraordinary accomplishments that have shaped the world they live in today.

Forging a Balanced Future Read More »

The Shifting Landscape of History Education

General /

Balancing Tradition and Inclusivity

Part 1

Introduction

History education isn’t just about memorizing dates and events—it’s about understanding how we got here, what shaped our world, and what lessons we can learn from the past. And let’s face it, the way history is taught has always been a bit of a battlefield. Some argue that schools are watering down the core principles that built Western civilization, while others believe that broadening the curriculum to include diverse perspectives creates a fuller and more accurate picture of the past.

The truth is, history is written by the winners. But that doesn’t mean that those who prevailed should be villainized, nor does it mean that their achievements should be erased. Being a winner isn’t a bad thing—it’s how civilizations grow, innovate, and progress. History isn’t just about wars and politics; it’s about how ideas evolved, how societies changed, and how people pushed the boundaries of science, engineering, business, and social structures. That’s what history education should focus on: human accomplishment and the forces that drive it.

At the same time, there has been a rising trend of historical erasure—where certain figures and events are condemned by today’s moral standards, leading to the toppling of statues and the rewriting of textbooks. Movements that claim historical figures were racist or imperialist often ignore the fact that these terms and ideas didn’t exist in the same way during their time. Christopher Columbus, for example, is frequently vilified, despite the reality that he was an explorer operating under the norms of his era. Instead of erasing history, we should focus on understanding it in its full complexity.

A Brief History of History Education

For centuries, history education in the Western world revolved around the achievements of European and American civilizations. It followed a familiar trajectory: the philosophical foundations of Greece and Rome, the technological advancements of the Renaissance, the political revolutions that shaped modern democracies, and the industrial innovations that transformed economies. Figures like Aristotle, Newton, and Churchill were at the heart of these narratives, and for good reason—these individuals shaped the world we live in.

Over time, educators began expanding the curriculum to include perspectives beyond the traditional Western framework. Indigenous histories, Eastern philosophies, African civilizations, and other global contributions were given more attention. Perhaps too much. This shift was intended to provide a more complete and honest account of human history, but it also sparked controversy. Critics worry that in the rush to be more inclusive, essential historical contributions are being sidelined or rewritten.

At the forefront of these changes are organizations like the California Teachers Association (CTA) and other educational unions, which have played a significant role in shaping curricula. While their influence has helped push for diversity in education, it has also led to concerns that ideological agendas are revising history lessons to match their political agenda. The CTA, for example, has backed policies that emphasize historical grievances over accomplishments, sometimes prioritizing social justice narratives over factual historical inquiry. When political organizations influence education, it can create a one-sided view of history rather than a balanced understanding of progress and innovation.

Challenges and Concerns

The push for a more inclusive history curriculum has led to both progress and pushback. The core debate comes down to this: Can we expand historical perspectives without diluting the foundational principles that have shaped the modern world?

Some argue that prioritizing inclusivity over accomplishment creates a false sense of historical equality. Not all civilizations contributed equally to technological and political progress, yet modern curricula sometimes present history as if they did. The danger here is that we risk downplaying the ideas and innovations that have driven humanity forward.

On the other hand, omitting the perspectives of marginalized groups creates a distorted view of history. Many historical narratives have ignored or minimized the roles of women, indigenous peoples, and non-Western societies. Bringing those perspectives into the conversation isn’t about erasing Western achievements—it’s about presenting a fuller picture of the past.

Ultimately, history education should be about recognizing accomplishments. Whether it’s the democratic principles of ancient Greece, the mathematical advancements of the Islamic Golden Age, or the industrial ingenuity of the United States, we should be teaching students about what propelled civilizations forward—not just giving everyone a seat at the table for the sake of representation.

The Role of Historical Narratives in Contemporary Conflicts

History isn’t just about the past—it shapes the present. Historical narratives influence national identities, geopolitical conflicts, and even personal worldviews. Take Russia, for example. Its current political actions are often justified through its version of history. In China, history education reinforces the idea that national unity is paramount, leaving little room for questioning the government’s narrative.

In the West, we tend to approach history through a lens of self-criticism. While this has its merits, it can also lead to an imbalance where Western civilization is viewed primarily through its faults—colonialism, slavery, and exploitation—while its contributions to democracy, human rights, and technological progress are downplayed. A balanced approach requires acknowledging both the good and the bad, without letting one completely overshadow the other.

This is why critical thinking is such an essential part of history education. Students need to be taught how to analyze historical narratives, recognize biases, and distinguish between fact and ideology.

Conclusion

History education is at a crossroads. Do we preserve the traditional focus on Western achievements, or do we expand the narrative to include a wider range of perspectives? The answer is: both. The challenge is to find a balance that respects the contributions of all cultures while maintaining a focus on the ideas and innovations that shaped the modern world.

The goal shouldn’t be to erase or rewrite history but to present it in a way that fosters critical thinking and a deeper understanding of human progress. We should be asking: What accomplishments truly changed the world? What ideas transformed societies? How do we teach history in a way that prepares students to think critically about the past and the present?

This isn’t about political agendas—it’s about making sure history education does what it’s supposed to do: inspire, inform, and challenge students to think for themselves.

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