Category: General

Veterans Day 2024 image of saluting soldier silhouette with US flag in background, generated by AI

Veterans Day 2024: Honoring Veterans

Keith Klein Leave a comment

Happy Veterans Day 2024!

Celebrating the Contributions of All, with Special Recognition of Women in the Armed Forces

On Veterans Day 2024, we unite as a nation to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of all who have served and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces. This day provides an opportunity to express gratitude to veterans and active duty members for their invaluable contributions to our nation’s safety and liberty. As we honor the achievements and resilience of all service members, we also take time to celebrate the unique contributions of women in the military—an essential and often under-recognized part of the armed forces.

The History of Veterans Day: A Day of Remembrance

Veterans Day has its roots in Armistice Day, which marked the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. Originally dedicated to honoring World War I veterans, the day evolved in 1954, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially renamed it “Veterans Day” to recognize veterans from all conflicts. Today, Veterans Day is observed every November 11, serving as a reminder of the bravery and commitment of those who defend our freedom.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) notes that Veterans Day differs from Memorial Day in that it honors both living and deceased veterans, celebrating all individuals who have served honorably in the military, whether during times of war or peace (https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/).

Women in the U.S. Armed Forces: A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice

Women have served in the U.S. military since the nation’s founding, though often in unofficial or supporting roles. During the American Revolutionary War, women worked as nurses, spies, and supporters. It was not until World War I that women began enlisting in formal roles within the armed forces. In 1917, the U.S. Navy enlisted women as Yeoman (F) — “yeomanettes” — marking the first time women officially served in a non-nursing military role (https://www.history.navy.mil).

Today, women are an integral part of the U.S. military, with more than 200,000 women serving on active duty, according to recent Department of Defense statistics. They make up roughly 17% of active duty personnel and have served in every combat zone since 9/11. Women now command at every level, breaking barriers across the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force (https://www.defense.gov).

Women soldiers in a forest photo for Veterans Day 2024 blog post. Free image from https://www.pexels.com/photo/women-soldiers-in-a-forest-15809097/ Courtesy of Jaxon Matthew WillisCelebrating Milestones: Women’s Leadership in Combat and Beyond

The role of women in the military has expanded significantly in recent decades. In 2013, the Department of Defense lifted the ban on women in combat roles, allowing them to serve in positions like infantry and special operations that had previously been restricted. Since then, women have proven themselves in these challenging roles, leading to increased opportunities for advancement and leadership within the military structure.

The significance of these changes is evident in the stories of trailblazing women like General Lori Robinson, the first female combatant commander of a major Unified Combatant Command, and General Ann E. Dunwoody, who became the first woman in U.S. military history to achieve a four-star rank. Their achievements underscore the dedication and resilience of women in uniform and inspire future generations of female service members (https://www.army.mil/womenhistory/).

Supporting Veterans and Active Duty Service Members: A National Responsibility

On Veterans Day 2024, the nation recognizes the responsibility to support veterans and active duty personnel as they transition to civilian life. Many face challenges, including securing employment, accessing healthcare, and integrating back into their communities. Organizations like the Veterans Affairs Department, the American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars work tirelessly to ensure veterans receive the care and support they deserve.

Veterans’ mental health is also a key area of focus, with studies showing that veterans are disproportionately affected by mental health issues. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, veterans face unique stressors, and efforts to provide comprehensive mental health support continue to be critical (https://www.nami.org).

Honoring Their Legacy and Embracing the Future

This Veterans Day 2024, we celebrate the accomplishments and sacrifices of all who have served and also the progress made in fostering inclusivity within the armed forces. As more women take on leadership roles and break barriers, they enrich the military’s diversity, bringing new perspectives and strengths to the defense of our country.

Whether by attending parades, sharing stories of service, or reaching out to thank a veteran, Americans can find ways to honor veterans’ legacies and contributions. Veterans Day 2024 reminds us of our enduring debt of gratitude, and our commitment to uphold the principles they fought to protect.

For more information on supporting veterans, consider visiting resources like the Department of Veterans Affairs at https://www.va.gov or the Veterans of Foreign Wars at https://www.vfw.org. These organizations provide essential support to veterans and work to preserve the stories and contributions of those who have served. Another great Veterans organization is the American Legion.

Founded by an Act of Congress after World War I, The American Legion fiercely advocates for the unique needs of every generation of veterans, service members, and their families who pledge to protect our nation. Today, we are committed to destigmatizing mental health support, offering peer-to-peer resources, and empowering everyone to Be The One in the fight to end veteran suicide.

In unity and respect, let us honor all veterans and active duty service members this Veterans Day 2024, recognizing the resilience and courage that define their service.

Happy Veterans Day 2024!

Regards,

Keith Klein
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners
Founder & CEO, OnYourMark, LLC
Chief Blogger, Bloggey.com
Dealer, MainStreetOil.com

Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.

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This Veterans Day 2024 post was generated by Mark Mullarky and me with an AI assist.  Many thanks to Mark, CEO of Great Lakes Tech Services, for going out of his way to honor Vets year-round.  Please feel free to copy and share this post with attribution, including a link back to the original site it was posted on, a joint venture of Mark and me, Wisconsin Information Services eXchange.

Labor Day 2024: A Celebration of Workers and the Future of the American Workforce

Labor Day 2024: A Celebration of Workers and the Future of the American Workforce

Keith Klein Leave a comment

Labor Day 2024, celebrated on the first Monday of September – September 2nd this year – is more than just the unofficial end of summer. It’s a day dedicated to honoring the contributions of American workers who have built, sustained, and advanced the nation. As we observe Labor Day 2024, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the evolving landscape of the American workforce and consider the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The Origins of Labor Day

The origins of Labor Day can be traced back to the labor movement of the late 19th century. In the midst of the Industrial Revolution, American workers faced grueling conditions—long hours, low wages, and unsafe environments. Labor unions emerged as a powerful force advocating for workers’ rights, leading to significant reforms. The first Labor Day was celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Central Labor Union. The idea quickly spread, and by 1894, Labor Day was recognized as a national holiday.

The holiday was established to honor the “strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations” and to recognize the contributions workers made to the prosperity and well-being of the country. Today, Labor Day continues to serve as a reminder of the progress made in workers’ rights and the ongoing fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and equitable treatment.

The State of the American Workforce as of Labor Day 2024

As we celebrate Labor Day 2024, the American workforce stands at a crossroads. The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically altered how we work, accelerating trends already underway and introducing new challenges.

Remote Work and the Hybrid Model: One of the most significant changes has been the widespread adoption of remote work. What was once a perk for a select few has now become a standard option for many employees. Companies have had to adapt quickly to the demands of a remote workforce, investing in digital infrastructure and rethinking management strategies. The hybrid model, which combines in-office and remote work, has emerged as a popular solution, offering flexibility while maintaining some degree of face-to-face collaboration.

Automation and AI: The rise of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the job market. While these technologies offer the potential for increased productivity and innovation, they also pose a threat to certain types of jobs. However, automation also creates opportunities in fields like data analysis, AI development, and digital marketing. The challenge lies in ensuring that workers are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly automated economy.

The Gig Economy: The gig economy, characterized by short-term contracts and freelance work, has grown significantly in recent years. While it offers flexibility for workers, it also raises concerns about job security, benefits, and workers’ rights. As more people participate in the gig economy, there is an increasing need for policies that protect these workers while preserving the flexibility that draws people to this type of work.

Labor Unions and Workers’ Rights: Labor unions remain a vital force in advocating for workers’ rights, particularly in sectors like education, healthcare, and manufacturing. In 2024, we are seeing renewed interest in unionization efforts, particularly among younger workers in tech and service industries. This resurgence is driven by concerns over wage stagnation, job security, and workplace conditions. The future of labor unions will likely involve adapting to new industries and forms of work, while continuing to fight for fair treatment and equitable pay.

Looking Beyond Labor Day 2024

As we look ahead, the future of the American workforce will be shaped by how we address these challenges and embrace new opportunities. Investment in education and training programs will be critical to ensuring that workers have the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing job market. Policies that support work-life balance, fair wages, and job security will be essential to maintaining a strong, vibrant workforce.

Labor Day 2024 is not just a day off; it’s a day to recognize the hard work and dedication of American workers. It’s also a time to reflect on the ongoing evolution of work in the United States and to recommit to creating a future where all workers have the opportunity to succeed. As we enjoy our barbecues and parades, let’s remember the labor that built this nation and the work that still needs to be done to ensure a fair and prosperous future for all.

Happy Labor Day 2024!

Regards,
Keith

Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs).

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This Labor Day 2024 blog post was both written and optimized by Keith Klein with an AI assist via ChatGPT.  Feel free to use this blog including attribution, via a link to this original Labor Day 2024 blog post at https://www.wisx.com/labor-day-2024-a-celebration-of-american-workforce/.

Bureau of Engraving and Printing engraved vignette of John Trumbull’s painting Declaration of Independence (c. 1818). Engraving by Frederick Girsch. Scanned from an original impression, part of a Treasury Department presentation album of portraits and vignettes (c. 1902), possibly presented to Lyman Gage. (Epson 10000XL scanner @2400dpi). For Independence Day 2024 Blog Post

Independence Day 2024: Celebrating the Foundations of Democracy

Keith Klein Leave a comment

As we gather to celebrate Independence Day 2024, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the extraordinary principles that form the bedrock of our democracy. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States are not merely historical documents; they are the living framework of a great experiment in governance, where the rule of law prevails, and no one is above it.

The Declaration of Independence: A Bold Statement of Freedom

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, a bold assertion of the American colonies’ intent to break free from British rule. Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration articulated the colonies’ grievances against King George III and proclaimed the inherent rights of individuals. The famous preamble, which states that “all men are created equal” and endowed with “unalienable Rights” including “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness,” has resonated through the ages as a powerful declaration of human rights.

The Declaration of Independence was revolutionary in asserting that government derives its power from the consent of the governed, a stark departure from the prevailing notion of the divine right of kings. This foundational idea laid the groundwork for the development of democratic governance, emphasizing that legitimacy stems from the people’s will.

The Constitution: A Framework for Democracy

Preamble_detail_from_Library_of_Congress_Dunlap_&_Claypoole_original_printing_of_the_United_States_Constitution,_1787 For Independence Day 2024 Blog PostWhile the Declaration of Independence set forth the ideals of liberty and equality, the Constitution of the United States, adopted in 1787, provided the structural framework to realize those ideals. The Constitution established a federal system of government characterized by a separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, with a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power.

The Preamble to the Constitution outlines its purposes: “to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity.” These goals reflect the Founders’ vision of a government that serves its people and protects their rights.

One of the most significant aspects of the Constitution is the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments that guarantee fundamental liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press; the right to peaceful assembly; and protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. These amendments enshrine the principle that certain rights are inviolable, even by the government.

The Rule of Law: No One Above the Law

A cornerstone of American democracy is the rule of law, which asserts that laws apply equally to all individuals, regardless of their position or status. This principle was a radical departure from the systems of governance that dominated the world in the 18th century, where monarchs and nobility often operated above the law.

The Constitution’s establishment of an independent judiciary is crucial to upholding the rule of law. The judicial branch has the authority to interpret the Constitution and to ensure that laws and executive actions comply with constitutional principles. Landmark Supreme Court cases, such as Marbury v. Madison, which established judicial review, have reinforced the judiciary’s role in maintaining the balance of power and protecting individual rights.

A Living Experiment

American democracy is often called a “great experiment,” a testament to its evolving nature. Over the centuries, the Constitution has been amended to address changing societal needs and to expand the rights and protections it offers. The abolition of slavery through the 13th Amendment, the extension of voting rights to women with the 19th Amendment, and the civil rights advancements of the 1960s all demonstrate the Constitution’s adaptability and enduring relevance.

Independence Day 2024

As we celebrate Independence Day 2024, we honor the visionary documents that laid the foundation for our democracy: the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. These documents embody the revolutionary idea that government should be by the people and for the people, underpinned by the rule of law and the protection of individual rights. They remind us that democracy is not static but a living experiment that requires our active participation and vigilance to uphold its principles. This Independence Day, let us recommit to the ideals of liberty, equality, and justice for all, ensuring that the great experiment of American democracy continues to thrive.

For more information on the Declaration of Independence, visit www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration. For information on the Constitution, visit www.archives.gov/founding-docs/constitution.

We share these sentiments with you:  Happy Independence Day 2024!  May the Great Experiment in government of, for, and by the people continue unabated!

Please feel free to share this post yourself, with an attribution link back to the original here: https://www.bloggey.com/independence-day-2024/  Images courtesy of Wikimedia.ORG

Regards,

Keith Klein
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners
Founder & CEO, OnYourMark, LLC
Proprietor, Main Street Oil
Chief Blogger, Bloggey.com

Thanks to our friends & clients, Paul Haut of WHaut.com and Mark Mullarky of GreatLakesTS.com who gave us the ideas for these holiday blog posts!

We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions.  Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs). As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others:

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Photo of child reaching for a US flag for post about Independence Day 2023 - Toward a more perfect union

Happy Independence Day 2023 – Toward A More Perfect Union

Keith Klein Leave a comment

The phrase “toward a more perfect union” comes from the Preamble of the United States Constitution, a document that embodies the ideals of freedom, liberty, and justice that we celebrate every 4th of July. This phrase captures the aspirational nature of the American project, an ongoing endeavor to create a nation that continually improves and refines itself, a work always in progress. It acknowledges that perfection may not be achievable, but the aspiration itself is worthy.

The 4th of July, or Independence Day, marks the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, which declared the 13 American colonies as a new nation separate from the British Empire. This declaration was a bold commitment to a set of revolutionary ideas about governance, power, and human rights. It embodies the spirit of self-determination, individual liberty, and collective effort to achieve shared goals.

Toward A More Perfect Union

 

Celebrate! And strive toward a more perfect union!

The celebration of the 4th of July is a commemoration of these founding ideals, and a moment for reflection on how far the nation has come in its pursuit of a “more perfect union.” It’s a time for citizens to consider the progress that’s been made, the challenges that persist, and the work yet to be done.

In many ways, the ongoing struggles for social justice, equality, and inclusion are the modern embodiment of that quest. They reflect the nation’s continued effort to live up to its own high standards and to ensure the freedoms declared at its inception are accessible to all of its people.

Each 4th of July is therefore not just a celebration, but also a renewal of commitment to the ideals of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, a reminder of the journey toward a more perfect union. It underscores the role every citizen plays in this journey and is an invitation to engage in the continual work of improving the nation. The fireworks, parades, and cookouts are all part of this celebration of unity, progress, and shared commitment to the democratic ideals that our nation was founded upon.

Regards,
Keith Klein & the team at OnYourMark, LLC
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners

We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions.  Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs). As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others:

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Note: Original blog post from our friends and vendors at WisX.com: inspired by Paul Haut of W. Haut Specialty Co., and Mark Mullarky of Great Lakes Tech Services, LLC.  Written by Keith Klein & the team at OnYourMark, LLC with an AI assist.

“Cars on Main” 

18th Annual Car Show
SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, July 30th, 2023
See these sites for more info on this FREE event:
https://wisowners.com/cars-on-main-2023-come-join-us/

Thanks to Wisconsin Business Owners, Members, Sponsors, and our Hosts for free snacks, beverages, and music at this event:

Host: Jennifer Bartelt, Owner of Main Street Framing
Jennifer is a life-long resident of Lannon, and a business owner as well…and her Dad started this event!  Jennifer goes out of her way to help other people and businesses and has been a long-time sponsor of Wisconsin Business Owners.

Greg Vaughn, Vaughn Enterprises, Inc.
Heather Schwartz, Heather Schwartz Photography
Dave Walter, Tite-Spot Welders, Inc.
Gail Yaeger, Dove Celebration, LLC
Nate Klein, Patriot Landscape Co. LLC
Jamie Shibley, The Expressory
Tamara Burkett, Tamara Burkett Global
Mike Raber, Global View Capital Management, LTD.
Bill Sargent, Milwaukee Headshots
Moe Khaled, Luxury Auto Sales & Service
Abe Khaled, Luxury Auto Sales & Service
Maggie Mongan, Brilliant Breakthroughs, Inc.
Mark Mullarky, Great Lakes Tech Services, LLC
and yours truly, Keith Klein, Proprietor of MainStreetOil.com, Organizer of Wisconsin Business Owners, and Founder and CEO of OnYourMark, LLC

Honor the Fallen - rustic memorial day image on an American flag background https://www.publicdomainpictures.net/en/view-image.php?image=390861&picture=memorial-day-poster

Happy Memorial Day weekend – Honor the Fallen

Keith Klein Leave a comment

Memorial Day is a time to remember and “Honor the Fallen” – those who have sacrificed their lives while serving in the military.  Memorial Day is also an opportunity for families to honor and remember all their ancestors who have passed away. Recognizing the contributions and sacrifices made by those who came before us helps to deepen our understanding of our roots and strengthen our connection to our history and culture.

Many cultures around the world have unique traditions for honoring and celebrating their ancestors. By incorporating these practices into our own Memorial Day celebrations, we can create a more inclusive and meaningful event. Here are a few ways to honor all of the fallen and our ancestors during Memorial Day:

  • Visit the graves of your ancestors: Spend some time visiting the resting places of your family members who have passed away. Tidy up their gravesites, lay flowers, and share stories about their lives to keep their memory alive.  Ask the old folks in your family to share stories.
  • Create a family tree: Memorial Day can be a great time to work on creating a family tree or updating an existing one. This activity can help you learn about your family history and connect with relatives who may have information about your ancestors.
  • Host a family gathering: Bring your family together to share memories, stories, and traditions that have been passed down through the generations. This can be an opportunity to strengthen family bonds and honor those who came before you.
  • Learn about your cultural heritage: Take time to learn more about your ancestors’ culture, traditions, and history. This can provide valuable context and help you understand their lives better.
  • Light a candle: Light a candle or lantern in memory of your ancestors and the fallen heroes. This simple act can symbolize their guiding presence in your life.
  • Participate in community events: Many communities organize events on Memorial Day to honor the fallen and the ancestors. Join in these events to pay your respects and meet others who share your passion for honoring the past.

We hold in high regard those who, in Lincoln’s words, “gave their last full measure of devotion” on the battlefield simply because it is right and important to “Honor the Fallen.”  It is also important to cherish the memories of our ancestors as well as our fallen heroes, not just on Memorial Day, but every day. By incorporating these practices into our lives, we can ensure that their legacies live on and inspire future generations.

Inspired by Mark Mullarky of Great Lakes Tech Services, LLC.  Written by Keith Klein of OnYourMark, LLC with an AI assist.

Regards,
Keith Klein & the team at OnYourMark, LLC
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners

Thanks to our friends & clients, Paul Haut of WHaut.com and Mark Mullarky of GreatLakesTS.com who gave us the ideas for these holiday blog posts!

We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions.  Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs). As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others:

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A-Merry-Christmas-2022-Share-Alike-via-Wikimedia-Vintage_Christmas_illustration_digitally_enhanced_by_rawpixel-com-12-scaled

Technology plus Vintage Art for a Merry Christmas 2022

Keith Klein Leave a comment

Using Technology to Add Old-Fashioned Ambience – Merry Christmas 2022

Enhance the senses and sensations for a Merry Christmas, 2022 style.  Little can beat the aromas of a Christmas dinner cooking, or the tastes of Christmas cookies – including your favorites – shared during a holiday celebration with loved ones. Kids playing add to the visual and auditory delights.  The tactile senses earn high marks with a quotient of human warmth given long overdue hugs and handshakes.   Now we have a “tech” addition to the tastes and smells, the sights, sounds and touch of the holidays – YouTube.

If you’re one of the millions who “cut the cord” on cable and got a Roku or similar device, perhaps you’ll consider adding a playlist for holiday ambiance.  We have simple instructions to do so here.

First, add the YouTube channel to your Roku (or similar device).   Next, load up and go to the YouTube channel and Login using your Gmail account (*free* at https://www.gmail.com – you can also do this on your phone, possibly making it something of a TV remote in the process).

If you have a large computer monitor, or your computer is hooked up to your TV, you may be able to simply play whatever you’d like from your computer.

At YouTube, do a search for “Christmas Art” or “Vintage Christmas Scenes.”  For large monitors, computer or TV, you’ll want to select HD or 4K, etc., to get great looking pictures on your screen.  Choose one without sound (above) if you wish to play Christmas music separately.  Of course, you can do the same for videos with music by turning the sound down.  Some (below) are made to transition songs in time with the art.  The snow falling during each slide in the series is a great touch.

 

We hope this helps you enjoy a very Merry Christmas, 2022 style.

Regards,
Keith Klein
Keith Klein & the team at OnYourMark, LLC
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners

Thanks to our friends & clients, Paul Haut of WHaut.com and Mark Mullarky of GreatLakesTS.com who gave us the ideas for these holiday blog posts!

We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions.  Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs). As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others:

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NOTE:  Videos courtesy of their creators via YouTube (who cite open source artwork & music) and featured image courtesy of the submitter at Wikimedia.Org

Thanksgiving Day Traditions

Thanksgiving Day Traditions

Keith Klein Leave a comment

Happy Thanksgiving Day Traditions

Thanksgiving Day traditions vary widely, I’m sure.  In preparation for this holiday post, I looked up a lot of them.  While they included many great traditions, some of which we practice in our home, a couple of my favorites were missing.

First, the common traditions that we practice here are no doubt among the most common across the country. Macy’s Parade starts the day, very much as a background to the cooking and last-minute calls about who’s to bring what and when they’ll be here. It’s the ‘official’ start of Christmas movies and Christmas music playing virtually non-stop through the end of the year.  Pies and bread baking in the oven, along with a 14 to 20 pound bird and plenty of savory and sweet side dishes fill the house with mouth-watering aromas.  Gift exchanges are setup and our kids enjoy getting the names of their siblings in the secret Santa drawings.

Perhaps my favorite pastime – missing from the traditions I read about – is listening to the women in the kitchen.  Since the passing of my brother-in-law, Tom, many years ago – the family matriarchy presides over the kitchen absolutely.  Tom was perhaps the best conversationalist I’d ever known, and a great listener. Now it’s purely the women running the kitchen, from my wife and daughters to my wife’s sisters, (and formerly my mother-in-law before she passed) and they dominate the conversations about things that matter. The men are relegated to a mixing drinks, a steady stream of appetizers they can have now (vs. save that for the meal!), and to taking out the trash.  Conversations among the women range from the foods being prepared to dates for family camping in the coming year, to the progress of our adult children and our grandchildren in their pursuits and more. I enjoy the life they bring to the holiday, as well as the love and food they prepare for the table.  Of course, by this time, the guys are watching A Christmas Story or Miracle on 34th Street for the 211th time, and, of course, a football game.

The house is decorated for Thanksgiving, and the Christmas decorating begins in earnest on Thanksgiving weekend, if it hasn’t begun already.  Much like Christmas Eve, I enjoy the time after all the visitors have gone.  The time devoted to enjoying a glass of wine or a cocktail with my wife who evaluates what went well (or not), sharing some news that perhaps I hadn’t heard, and beginning plans for next year. That’s among the finest of traditions.

More Thanksgiving Day Traditions

Here are a few places to think explore more Thanksgiving Day Traditions to consider for your own family, along with a few comments.

I got a practical start to the research at a blog for International Boarding Schools, of all places.  The post, “Top 10 Thanksgiving traditions in the US” suggested this post was on the right track.

Oprah offers a nifty slide-show of 34 Unique Thanksgiving Traditions Your Family and Friends Will Adore   You may get a pop-up or two to start with, but I found the slide show easy to glide through, with nifty matching graphics and a few sentences bringing the ideas in each slide to life.

Country living shares the 30 Best Thanksgiving Traditions to Try With Your Family This Year on a single long page of “fun and unusual activities will keep the crew entertained.”

I could (maybe next Thanksgiving) do a post about Friendsgiving – a tradition I witnessed my own adult kids getting into perhaps a decade ago – and mentioned several times in the research, including the links above.  We enjoy having friends over on Thanksgiving, as well as family. I think the whole idea of Friendsgiving is a great one.  My wife has a great banner on her website, CindyCooks.com:  Treat Friends Like Family, and Family Like Friends.   The flip side of this research was learning that some traditions flat out don’t match up with what we learned about the origins of Thanksgiving, between the Pilgrims and Native Americans, in grade school. While many traditions are no doubt shared, if you Google “native american thanksgiving traditions” you may find links to “a day of mourning.”

When all is said and done, Thanksgiving to me is simply a day to celebrate our blessings and to give thanks…a shared day of celebration and thanks if you’re lucky.  Be lucky.  Happy Thanksgiving!

With all best wishes for you and yours to enjoy a Happy Thanksgiving!

Regards,

Keith Klein
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners
Founder & CEO, OnYourMark, LLC

We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions.  Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs).

As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Twitter

_____________

Thanks to our friends at OnYourMark, LLC, for preparing this post so we could share the message, and our wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving, with you.

Staff Sergeant Jeff Kazmierski, 484th Army Band, leads a former Vets Day Parade; image for a Veterans Day 2022 blog post

Veterans Day 2022 – Thank you for your service!

Keith Klein Leave a comment

Veterans Day 2022 – and every year – falls on November 11th. This is the day when you should absolutely thank a veteran. Memorial Day is to remember those who died serving. Veterans Day is for thanking those who are still with us.

This year our son, Sean “Sarge”, is a civilian. He and many like him, think they have done nothing noteworthy or deserving of recognition. I contend that the Armed Forces are huge machines, requiring large numbers of support personnel to be effective. Every cog in the machine serves a necessary function. Some are worthy of special honors. All are deserving of our recognition and worthy of our gratitude.

Milwaukee’s Veterans Day 2022 parade is Saturday the 5th at 11:00 AM.  My wife, Anne, and I went in 2018 and the weather was awful. Here’s a photo with snow on the grass. Attendance was sparse, which made me sad. We were thanked by MANY vets as they passed by. They were so appreciative of the few people who showed up.

Proud parents of a veteran will show their gratitude for all veterans at the Milwaukee Veterans Day 2022 parade.This year looks like it will be windy and rainy, with temps in the upper fifties. The parade will go on, with some older participants riding in vehicles. Others will march through the rain and wind (which probably brings back memories). If you’re able, please dress for the weather and show up to thank our vets. They deserve it.

 

 

 

 

 

Support the Veterans Day 2022 Parade

Support for the Wisconsin Veterans Day 2022 Celebration comes from the generous support of our supporters and sponsors. All proceeds from the Wisconsin Veterans Day Parade cover costs associated with the parade planning, promotion, and execution, and remaining proceeds are donated to the Wisconsin Veterans Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to supporting service providers and community organizations addressing critical needs of Wisconsin veterans, service members, and their families. Sponsorship inquiries can be directed to .

Details for the Wisconsin Veterans Day 2022 parade are here at https://wiveteransday.org/wivetsparade

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Thanks to our friend and vendor, Mark Mullarky of Great Lakes Tech Services, LLC for posting this originally, and sharing it with us – to share with you.

We share his sentiments:  Happy Veterans Day!  Thank you for your service!

Regards,

Keith Klein
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners
Founder & CEO, OnYourMark, LLC

We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions.  Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs).  As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others:
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The Grand Experiment Liberty Bell https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?search=liberty+bell&title=Special:MediaSearch&go=Go&type=image&haslicense=attribution-same-license

Long Live The Grand Experiment: Happy Independence Day 2022!

Keith Klein Leave a comment

Long Live “The Grand Experiment!”  Happy Independence Day!

Allow us to share original thoughts of some great Americans to celebrate the 4th of July, the anniversary of the American Experiment; The Grand Experiment.

“No experiment can be more interesting than that we are now trying, and which we trust will end in establishing the fact, that man may be governed by reason and truth. Our first object should therefore be, to leave open to him all the avenues to truth. The most effectual hitherto found, is the freedom of the press. It is therefore, the first shut up by those who fear the investigation of their actions.”

Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) US President (1801-09)
Letter to John Tyler Washington (28 Jun 1804)

The U.S. Bill of Rights

Note: The following text is a transcription of the first ten amendments to the ConstitutionFor the Grand Experiment, an image of The Bill of Rights from https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bill_of_Rights_Memorial-2.jpg
in their original form. These amendments were ratified December 15, 1791, and form what is known as the “Bill of Rights.”  [This text and the text below are from https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/bill-of-rights-transcript

Amendment I

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Amendment II

A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.

Amendment III

No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.

Amendment IV

The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.

Amendment V

No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.

Amendment VI

In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defence.

Amendment VII

In Suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any Court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.

Amendment VIII

Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.

Amendment IX

The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.

Amendment X

The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.

 

The Gettysburg Address

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
November 19, 1863

Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate — we can not consecrate — we can not hallow — this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

Abraham Lincoln
November 19, 1863

John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address

The following is from a lesson plan for 3rd to 6th Graders at https://www.jfklibrary.org/learn/education/teachers/curricular-resources/elementary-school-curricular-resources/ask-not-what-your-country-can-do-for-you:

Goals/Rationale

John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address inspired children and adults to see the importance of civic action and public service. His historic words, “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country,” challenged every American to contribute in some way to the public good. In this lesson, students learn about a theme in President Kennedy’s inaugural address, civic action, and consider how it applies to their own lives.

Essential Question: How does a leader inspire a nation or a group of people?

 

The Grand Experiment – The American Experiment

I am grateful and proud to live in a country that established the Grand Experiment – the American Experiment, the fist and longest-lived democracy in the world, imbued with ideals, like The Rule of Law under Constitutional, Representative Government.  We need to keep vigil, to work endlessly and tirelessly on the Grand Experiment…relentless work toward a more perfect Union.

This post was first posted on my personal site, at KeithKlein.me

Regards,

Keith Klein
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners
Founder & CEO, OnYourMark, LLC

We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions.  Please contact us with questions.  Best to call, email or visit our site for the best response.  We do invite you to engage with us on social media (just not for immediate needs).  As always, if you like, you will find us on the following social media sites, among many others:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Twitter