The Rest of the Story

I drove down the Phoenix last weekend for a very special purpose. To get back what was taken from me, at lest in part. If you remember when our house was broken into this time last year, you'll know the police managed to catch the thieves. Last month, the case was closed. The male burg suspect got 19 years in prison. His female accomplice got a little less. It still makes me shale my head how people think this is a good way ot make a living. Have fun in prison.

We headed down to Phoenix to retrieve what we could from evidence. We found a number of things, most of them fairly worthless. What we really headed down for was to see if our Sony SmartStick with 1500 pictures of our wedding and honeymoon pictures on it, was recovered. Alas, no luck. I'm almost starting to think the universe wanted those pictures gone. We backed them up on two computers. Both computers failed and the memory stick was stolen. Hmmm ... makes you think.

At any rate, we had an interesting trip. We stopped through Vegas to observe the worst snow storm in 35 years. Kind of a historic moment to be there. All in all, it was a good trip. We provided some closure and saw justice done. Its nice when you can work with the authorities and see the bad guys get what they deserve. It should be publicized more. Maybe people will stop being so dumb. Hey, its worth a shot.

Is your vehicle a target for thieves?

For a crime to take place, three elements must be present: (1) Desire (2) Ability and (3) Opportunity. To have a desire to commit a crime encompasses many facets of psychological human behavior. Family values, social status, education and religion all play a role in forming desire.

Ability to commit a crime is dependent upon the individual's capability to perform the crime, which varies from person to person. The capacity to alter either desire or ability is very difficult from a law enforcement perspective. Eliminating the desire to commit a crime requires education both for the perpetrator as well as the potential victim. If a person has an understanding of the consequences faced when considering committing a crime such as fines, jail, criminal record and victim's loss they might choose not to perform the illegal act. Furthermore, when a person is educated in good crime prevention techniques that they abide by, the opportunity for the perpetrator is taken out of the equation and a crime can not be committed.

Over the past several weeks, and even months, Sandy City has been plagued with theft from vehicles, or vehicle burglaries. While the Police Department is doing all they can to combat this crime, we need your help. Through education and by following the simple prevention advice you can drastically reduce your chances of becoming a victim of this all too common crime.

Vehicle burglaries are one of the most prevalent crimes not only in Sandy City, but nation wide. A vehicle burglary occurs when anything is taken out of your vehicle without your permission. This crime takes on average only 7 seconds to get in and 90 seconds to complete. It is a crime that none of us are immune to and therefore must all be aware of. Vehicle burglaries are very difficult cases for law enforcement officials to solve. The reason being there is usually very little physical evidence left behind after one has occurred. The crimes usually occur in apartment, gym, retail store, and reception center or business parking lots. However, they frequently occur on residential streets, driveways and in garages as well.

Most vehicle burglaries occur from simple negligence on each of our parts. Things such as leaving car doors unlocked and/or windows down, and keeping valuables in the car can attract a vehicle burglar. If you fit into the categories above, look out! You could be the next victim. No vehicle is secure and nothing left inside a vehicle is secure. Vehicle burglars are looking for a quick in and out. They are able to gain access quickly by breaking windows or through open doors and/or windows. Once access has been made, they look to take things such as CD's, backpacks, money, day planners and palm pilots, cell phones, clothing, laptops, purses, stereo equipment, books, packages and so forth. All of these items make for quick cash and can even lead to further crimes such as fraud, forgery and identity theft. Fraud, forgery, and identity theft can effect victims for months to come.

The biggest reason vehicle burglar's commit this crime is for the quick cash. However, according to Roy Stevens, convicted career thief "the basic answer is that I like having things…Sometimes it is easier to just steal…there is enormous thrill in the crimes…it is a hobby…it has become my way of life." These are common phrases from other perpetrators that the police department has interviewed as well.

Most recently the Sandy City Police apprehended a suspect in connection with a string of vehicle burglaries. The suspect was addicted to methamphetamine and was breaking into cars to get what ever he could to get money to buy more methamphetamine. When we apprehended this particular suspect, he had several sets of car keys, cellular telephones, check books, drivers licenses', credit cards, social security cards and other paraphernalia. He was looking for an easy target. Once these things were in his possession he would either use them to his benefit or sell them to other criminals in exchange for more methamphetamine.

Unfortunately, the above scenario is not uncommon. These types of criminals, especially those addicted to drugs, look for the easy target. They sleep during the day and are out at night. They are in your neighborhood as well as mine. Be mindful of these things and keep valuables out of the car and lock the doors!

Don't tempt criminals such as Roy Stevens and others by leaving things in your car. All items should preferably be removed or at least put in the trunk where they are out of view. If nothing is there, nothing can be taken and the burglar will move on. Also, get in the habit of always closing your windows and locking your doors. An open door or window and things left in the car are a welcome invitation to a thief.

(Article courtesy of Amy Bryant, Crime Prevention Specialist, Sandy City Police Department)

Say What You Mean

If the fictional heroes of Batman and Superman can resolve their fundamental philosophical differences to work together, surely most people can share their views and build bridges without it ending up in a shouting match. Don't cha think? And it all comes down to one simple real life skill. Conflict resolution.

How have we suddenly lost the art of conflict resolution (CR)? Its gone for 90% (that's a made up number) of the population. Remember when we could walk up to someone and say what we mean without it coming off uncomfortable, passive-aggressive or just downright aggressive? Maybe CR disappeared with chivalry, but I think its the invent of internet conversations - we'll include email in there too - that has nailed its coffin shut. As such, lets address written CR first.

Here is the problem and it happens a million times a day (another made up number). Someone writes a thought. Lets say, at the very least, its meant for response. Could be an email, an invite or maybe even a political blog. You disagree with the thought or premise, so what do you do? Well, if you are like most Americans, you go black or white.

White: No response. You don't say anything. You don't want to be rude. You don't want to cause a fuss. Fill in the blank, but you think that makes you nice.

Black: You kill a fly with a bazooka. Your response is literally meant to maim or kill someone who incidentally offended you. Sometimes this is simply a lack of commonly shared values that leads to the offensive moment, but the effect is much the same. You're that truthful person and you're proud of stating the TRUTH.

So, what is the other option? Gray. Gray is a lovely color, don't you think? So how do you answer Gray?

Gray: Lets address the "Don't Rules" of gray before we address the "do rules."

1. Don't tell the other person they are wrong.
2. Don't call them stupid.
3. Don't attack them personally

I think if people just followed those three simple rules, "Do Rules" would be superfluous. But for the sake of argument, lets take a look

1. Share your opinion as if you were sharing it for the first time (instead of as a response)
2. Only say something if you'd be willing to say it with that person standing there
   
3. Comment positively on their opinion, even if its only their right to make it.

I don't want to get too deep here, but jot those down in your Citizen Hero Notebook and see how it goes. Sharing your opinion doesn't have to be confrontational or a fight. It can just be an exchange of ideas.

I always remember a quote from a church video as a kid. It said, "I'm not trying to convince you that what I think is right. I'm just sharing what works for me." Well said.

We'll make today's blog short in the hopes that more people will take it to heart and try to share more opinions with less aggravation. Share your thoughts with the world!

Say What You Mean

If the fictional heroes of Batman and Superman can resolve their fundamental philosophical differences to work together, surely most people can share their views and build bridges without it ending up in a shouting match. Don't cha think? And it all comes down to one simple real life skill. Conflict resolution.

How have we suddenly lost the art of conflict resolution (CR)? Its gone for 90% (that's a made up number) of the population. Remember when we could walk up to someone and say what we mean without it coming off uncomfortable, passive-aggressive or just downright aggressive? Maybe CR disappeared with chivalry, but I think its the invent of internet conversations - we'll include email in there too - that has nailed its coffin shut. As such, lets address written CR first.

Here is the problem and it happens a million times a day (another made up number). Someone writes a thought. Lets say, at the very least, its meant for response. Could be an email, an invite or maybe even a political blog. You disagree with the thought or premise, so what do you do? Well, if you are like most Americans, you go black or white.

White: No response. You don't say anything. You don't want to be rude. You don't want to cause a fuss. Fill in the blank, but you think that makes you nice.

Black: You kill a fly with a bazooka. Your response is literally meant to maim or kill someone who incidentally offended you. Sometimes this is simply a lack of commonly shared values that leads to the offensive moment, but the effect is much the same. You're that truthful person and you're proud of stating the TRUTH.

So, what is the other option? Gray. Gray is a lovely color, don't you think? So how do you answer Gray?

Gray: Lets address the "Don't Rules" of gray before we address the "do rules."

1. Don't tell the other person they are wrong.
2. Don't call them stupid.
3. Don't attack them personally

I think if people just followed those three simple rules, "Do Rules" would be superfluous. But for the sake of argument, lets take a look

1. Share your opinion as if you were sharing it for the first time (instead of as a response)
2. Only say something if you'd be willing to say it with that person standing there
   
3. Comment positively on their opinion, even if its only their right to make it.

I don't want to get too deep here, but jot those down in your Citizen Hero Notebook and see how it goes. Sharing your opinion doesn't have to be confrontational or a fight. It can just be an exchange of ideas.

I always remember a quote from a church video as a kid. It said, "I'm not trying to convince you that what I think is right. I'm just sharing what works for me." Well said.

We'll make today's blog short in the hopes that more people will take it to heart and try to share more opinions with less aggravation. Share your thoughts with the world!

Mormon Pot Calling the Gay Kettle Black

I stand on the side of "Don't Tread on Me" in most idealistic battles. This plays into religion, politics, culture, etc. And I hate to jump on the band wagon just because I like the music but, now that the dust has settled, I feel its a good time to say why I think we should let people marry whoever they want and then everyone (and I mean everyone) needs to quit throwing tantrums.

Its ironic, as this country was built on escaping religion oppression and we still seem stuck in pressing our own religious minutia on the whole of society. Coming from a semi-Mormon background (I no longer consider myself Mormon), I understand the issue for the religious objectors. They think the sacred institution would become less sacred if a non man/woman couple were allowed to enter into that covenant. I get it. I actually try to explain to people why they want it to be law. Yet, despite all my defense of their views, personally, I find it short sighted to press any group with my convictions. Furthermore, I find it extremely odd Mormons do, as the Mormon church was the object of so much oppression from marital freedom in years past.

Now, as I say this, its important to state, no group or person should make their point with vandalism or proactive violence over anything. I dare say most straight and gay people would agree with me. I find it sad (not to mention counter productive) a few crack pots are disabusing church houses and the like because they did not like the outcome of a political battle. And they are making their particular side look juvenile and embarrassing. Look folks, if you love the person you are with, whatever the law is, focus on that and stop all the hating. Sure, fight for your causes but don't mistake hate tactics with fighting the good fight. Its not the same thing and its not right.

So, what do I think? I think any group of consenting adults should be able to obtain legal rights equal to any other group in similar circumstances. So in short, I support gay marriage. I would also support a Mormon's right to polygamy (remember, as long as all parties were consenting adults - very important detail). Why should I hold an opinion opposed to anyone getting hitched in accordance with their beliefs. That is what religious freedom means, I think.

Hey, want to hear a really crazy opinion? I think if three or four or five people all want to marry each other, as long as they are adults of sound mind, they should be able to lead the life they want. And shouldn't my Mormon friends agree with me? Its state opposition to their out of the ordinary marital preferences that led them to dismantle their "odd marriage rituals" in times gone by. Basically, The State said they couldn't marry who they wanted. Sound familiar?

Look, I have some devoutly religious family and friends. I understand what the religious folks are saying. Yet the term "Pot calling the kettle black," always came to mind as I watched people rally against someone else's "odd" marriage preferences. I guess its just funny how looking at something differently can change your perspective on things. I suggest everyone put those two ideas in contrast and see what you make of it. Far be it from me to tell you what to think. Just thought I'd connect some dots for you.

More About The Neighborhood And Less About Watching.

Neighborhood Watches are too focused on ... well ... watching. While I am the first to say we need to watch out for each other, I feel the Watch mentality is a little too restrictive in its base meaning. I'd like to open it up. here's what I suggest.

We seek to protect ourselves and our neighbors from crime, but what a great opportunity to expend our relationship with our neighbors. Many of us live in areasd where we have, or will, establish deep roots over time. Back a few decades ago this meant we knew our neighbors and invited them over for coffee or just to talk. These days with so many wide spread communication methods, i.e., the internet, cell phones, forums, families spread across the nation, etc., how are we are looking to those people 50 away in lieu of digital friends that might never be within range of a handshake? And, for better or worse, handshakes and the other face to face realities are hard wired into our psyche. They make up who we are and enhance our relationships in ways that the internet or phone calls never can.

So I'd like to encourage everyone to consider, along side neighborhood Watches, establishing other activites that incorporate those good folks around them. Christmas is coming up. How about a holiday social? A book club is a great addition to the neighborhood roster of fun things to do. For the young and energetic, a local free running club or whatever you and your neighbors are into.

Look, the choice is simple. We can continue to "live" behind closed blinds and through devices that make up our virtual world. Or we can invest a little time in getting to know the people (possibly the only people) we can turn to in a local crisis. Your FaceBook friends are not going to help you when you fall off your roof or lose your dog. So, invest in a neighborhood watch. And by that I mean, truly watch out for each other in positive life affirming ways. You'll be surprised how the dark elements of criminal life disappear from the light you cast on your very our main street.

Ground Breaking Week for Kid Heroes!

Kid Heroes had a very exciting week! We performed Kid Heroes for educators and law enforcement alike at a The Power of Prevention Conference last November 5th. We are teaming up with a national program called Be a HERO. Be a HERO will launch into schools this coming year and Kid Heroes we be helping each school catch the vision by kicking things off with a bang.

Show went well. Even presented to a bunch of adults (some of them armed!) it was a lot of fun for everyone! We’ll have a dedicated Kid Heroes site up the next couple of days. Things are moving along nicely.

This coming week, we’re having a Family and Friends Showcase performance on Thursday. We’ll try to videotape some highlights and post some on the site. Invite is included below just for fun.

Great things are happening! We hope to be able to bring the show to every school that has an interest. As a reminder, this is a not-for-profit production so schools don’t have to worry about shelling out a lot of money to have Kid Heroes in their school.

Gooooooo, Kid Heroes!

Responsibility and Entitlement

If you have read my past blogs, you might know my wife and I used to have three dogs. One of them was from a bad background and had temperament issues. While a very sweet dog, he would get very nervous about new people. Strangely, baseball caps made him completely nuts. As we were expecting our first child, we struggled and debated as to risk our baby to the mercurial moods of this dog and the impact of the other dogs as well. Eventually, an opportunity came to adopt all three dogs out without a danger of a humane society putting them to sleep. While this was an extremely difficult decision, it was the right one. Later on down the road, we had some complications with the pregnancy and had to live with very giving friends of my wife’s family for the last three months of our pregnancy. After that, we were able to rent out our house in Arizona and rent another place in Utah. That too would have been impossible with three dogs. In short, the right choice was the very hard choice.

Which brings me to my point (and I do have one, folks!) - responsibility and entitlement. During our years with our dogs and now, with a new baby, we are constantly stuck not being able to do certain things. It’s pretty intuitive what I’m talking about. Whether its children or animals, if we don’t have means to have someone baby sit our brood or have a “brood friendly” event, then we don’t go and (Here’s my point! Here’s my point!) we are responsible for that. During the early years with our dogs, we struggled with the sense of entitlement that comes with wanting to eat our cake and have it too. We would invite people over and have to put the dogs outside. We would want to go someplace and not be able to go as it was too long without someone checking in, or we were unable to get someone to house sit them for a bit.

With a baby, it’s about five times more challenging. Understand the life benefits far outweigh the challenges, but an event has to be baby friendly or we need to have a sitter. If those fall through, we can’t go. We are trying to remember that these are our problems. In years past, we would often struggle with the natural thoughts that the “Non-us” friendly event was someone else’s oversight, ignorance or selfishness. Truth is, it is always our issue. We choose our life and that comes with certain responsibilities. None of us, not me, not any one of us, has built in entitlements. Every day we earn what we get and need to be respectful of others. We’re never perfect so these questions should reflect inward for application.

This came up today in a very innocuous way, but I’m taking this opportunity to remind myself to remember to be self reflective on this issue. So, repeat with me. “I am responsible for my life choices. I am not entitled to impose those choices on others.” Repeat as needed.

Responsibility and Entitlement

If you have read my past blogs, you might know my wife and I used to have three dogs. One of them was from a bad background and had temperament issues. While a very sweet dog, he would get very nervous about new people. Strangely, baseball caps made him completely nuts. As we were expecting our first child, we struggled and debated as to risk our baby to the mercurial moods of this dog and the impact of the other dogs as well. Eventually, an opportunity came to adopt all three dogs out without a danger of a humane society putting them to sleep. While this was an extremely difficult decision, it was the right one. Later on down the road, we had some complications with the pregnancy and had to live with very giving friends of my wife’s family for the last three months of our pregnancy. After that, we were able to rent out our house in Arizona and rent another place in Utah. That too would have been impossible with three dogs. In short, the right choice was the very hard choice.

Which brings me to my point (and I do have one, folks!) - responsibility and entitlement. During our years with our dogs and now, with a new baby, we are constantly stuck not being able to do certain things. It’s pretty intuitive what I’m talking about. Whether its children or animals, if we don’t have means to have someone baby sit our brood or have a “brood friendly” event, then we don’t go and (Here’s my point! Here’s my point!) we are responsible for that. During the early years with our dogs, we struggled with the sense of entitlement that comes with wanting to eat our cake and have it too. We would invite people over and have to put the dogs outside. We would want to go someplace and not be able to go as it was too long without someone checking in, or we were unable to get someone to house sit them for a bit.

With a baby, it’s about five times more challenging. Understand the life benefits far outweigh the challenges, but an event has to be baby friendly or we need to have a sitter. If those fall through, we can’t go. We are trying to remember that these are our problems. In years past, we would often struggle with the natural thoughts that the “Non-us” friendly event was someone else’s oversight, ignorance or selfishness. Truth is, it is always our issue. We choose our life and that comes with certain responsibilities. None of us, not me, not any one of us, has built in entitlements. Every day we earn what we get and need to be respectful of others. We’re never perfect so these questions should reflect inward for application.

This came up today in a very innocuous way, but I’m taking this opportunity to remind myself to remember to be self reflective on this issue. So, repeat with me. “I am responsible for my life choices. I am not entitled to impose those choices on others.” Repeat as needed.

Level II

Been taking Krav Maga for a few months now (previously a practitioner of Kajukenbo and Ninjitsu) and took my Level I test today. If there was ever a martial art created for the American notion of super heroes, I think it would be Krav.

Just tested out of Level I. The test was pretty exhausting. The highlight of forty minutes of intense cardio was a toss up between sprinting to one end of the parking lot. jogging to the other corner and sprinting back and then doing these burpee-frog-leap things from hell up the hill for 50 yards - twice. And carrying a person on your back and running to every parking spot in a row and doing five squats and then running back before going onto the next one (about 10 slots in all).

Over the course of the test, three people threw up and I split a guy's lip (by accident of course).

Anyway, I passed (yay me). I am now a level II Krav Maga practioner.

Neighborhood Watch in Sandy will get a bit of a boost this month as The League of Citizen Heroes launches their first test site for The Citizen's Watch. This will be a Neighborhood Watch program testing all the extra effects that The League thinks will get more people involved in watches around the city, state and who knows.
The League of Citizen Heroes and Citizen Prime will be working in cooperation with the Sandy City Police Department and their Neighborhood Watch program. Check back often for updates on the success of our events and find out how you can bolster your Neighborhood watch with safe, fun activities.

How to Get the Word Out

I listed this little cartoon on The League's blog but it was so entertaining I thought I'd do a crossover. I've always had a hard time really getting a grip on this particular experiment and this cartoon makes it perfectly understandable. And how can I miss an opportunity to feature a real Superhero Physicist on the blog?! Watch it. It's a blast and you might just learn something.
Quantum Experiment - Funny bloopers are a click away

I encourage you to head over to The League of Citizen Heroes blog and read the rest of the story. All the effort that went into that cartoon reminded me what it takes to get people to "get" it. Take ... me ... for example. While being Citizen Prime has been a great opportunity to meet and talk to many people, it takes more than just one person in the wilderness to bring people around to what we can aspire to. It takes voices and time and effort to get the word out that good people are not going to sit idly by while Apathy, Greed and Despair take over our cities. Citizen Prime and a whole cadre of superheroes are taking to the streets and making their heroic messages heard.

In fact, a number of us superhero types have banded together to create The RLSH. It stands for The real Life Super Heroes and its a total kick in the head. If you don't know there are a number of people using the indelible impression that comics have made on society to actually do some real good in the world. Using unique superhero personas, these great people are using the power of art in life, as they go out to join, bolster and create good deeds the world over. Instead of prowling the streets looking for arch-villains, these fine folks are finding ways to bring superheroes to the light of day. The site is under construction, as of this writing, but it is a great organization. I encourage you to keep an eye on it. great things will follow.

Quantum Commitment Patterns

One of the most uncanny experiments in quantum physics proves that merely by watching something, you actually affect it. Check this out to see exactly how.
Quantum Experiment -

Cool, huh? Now. if only reporters could learn to be so smart. What am I talking about? I'm talking about the media being directly responsible for a large portion of the economic hardship we are going through. Yes, I'm talking about the media doing anything but enhancing our lives ... once again.

Sorry I don't have a fancy video for this, but its fairly easy to illustrate. Ask yourself, "How does the stock market work?" Basically, it works by opinions and rumor. People say or believe a stock will go up and everyone buys it. If people say a stock will plummet, people dump it quick.

So what happens when every news source says Wall Street and the world economy is in the tank? People go, in droves, to take their money out of play. Their observing and reporting effects reality, in spades. Quantum Reporting in action.

What is the alternative? Well, I'm not sure we are ready for the alternative as it is a little radical. To see the alternative, we have to understand why our system works as it does. We live in, what I'll term, Hyper-Time Reality. Hyper-Time Reality can be defined as reality that happens all at once to everyone (who elects to be plugged in). All at one time, you are experiencing the reality of talking with your friends, listening to the University game, checking the internet for the latest gossip and watching National News. All four are your reality. We, in essence, experience it all in the present. This is a very odd way to live as our brains were invented before we could tap secondary and tertiary sources of input.

This Hyper-Time Reality principle actually creates interference with our lives in a number of ways. We'll only go into one here but there are many others. In our example, if someone tells you and a million of your friends that a business your invested in, is failing, what do you do? You pull your money out and fast! Because you know those million other people heard it too! You don't want to be the last one to pull your money out or you'll get whatever is left over, if anything. That's how we live now. Technology has made us slaves to any variation that occurs in any of those realities in which we simultaneously exist! Trippy, huh?

So, the alternative? What if we (and I know this is even "trippy-er") promise to honor longer term commitments to our reality? Personally, we would commit to allow our resources to work for the companies we hope would make it for a set period of time, and not until times get rough or a better offer comes along. We would not walk away from mortgages because we have to tighten our belt or even get a second job to honor our commitment to the bank. And since we know we could not walk away, we would not get into short term financing structures that we can't afford when the note comes due. The bank wouldn't even offer them! In short, we would not live on money or terms we cannot afford.

As journalist, we would honor our long term commitment to a "better reality" (for lack of a better term) and report with a positive bias. They would support what we should be doing, not only what they see happening. The journalists might cry out, 'But that's not unbiased journalism!" To which I say, "Wake up, guys. There is no such thing and that flushing sound you hear is your daily unbiased reporting sending our economy down the toilet."

Reporting on an event effects that event. Those niave enough to belive otherwise need to watch the Quantum Experiment again. And all of us need to consider what we say and do, and (it stands to reason) what we think, as what is in our heads is the beginning of all action.

Quantum Commitment Patterns

One of the most uncanny experiments in quantum physics proves that merely by watching something, you actually affect it. Check this out to see exactly how.
Quantum Experiment -

Cool, huh? Now. if only reporters could learn to be so smart. What am I talking about? I'm talking about the media being directly responsible for a large portion of the economic hardship we are going through. Yes, I'm talking about the media doing anything but enhancing our lives ... once again.

Sorry I don't have a fancy video for this, but its fairly easy to illustrate. Ask yourself, "How does the stock market work?" Basically, it works by opinions and rumor. People say or believe a stock will go up and everyone buys it. If people say a stock will plummet, people dump it quick.

So what happens when every news source says Wall Street and the world economy is in the tank? People go, in droves, to take their money out of play. Their observing and reporting effects reality, in spades. Quantum Reporting in action.

What is the alternative? Well, I'm not sure we are ready for the alternative as it is a little radical. To see the alternative, we have to understand why our system works as it does. We live in, what I'll term, Hyper-Time Reality. Hyper-Time Reality can be defined as reality that happens all at once to everyone (who elects to be plugged in). All at one time, you are experiencing the reality of talking with your friends, listening to the University game, checking the internet for the latest gossip and watching National News. All four are your reality. We, in essence, experience it all in the present. This is a very odd way to live as our brains were invented before we could tap secondary and tertiary sources of input.

This Hyper-Time Reality principle actually creates interference with our lives in a number of ways. We'll only go into one here but there are many others. In our example, if someone tells you and a million of your friends that a business your invested in, is failing, what do you do? You pull your money out and fast! Because you know those million other people heard it too! You don't want to be the last one to pull your money out or you'll get whatever is left over, if anything. That's how we live now. Technology has made us slaves to any variation that occurs in any of those realities in which we simultaneously exist! Trippy, huh?

So, the alternative? What if we (and I know this is even "trippy-er") promise to honor longer term commitments to our reality? Personally, we would commit to allow our resources to work for the companies we hope would make it for a set period of time, and not until times get rough or a better offer comes along. We would not walk away from mortgages because we have to tighten our belt or even get a second job to honor our commitment to the bank. And since we know we could not walk away, we would not get into short term financing structures that we can't afford when the note comes due. The bank wouldn't even offer them! In short, we would not live on money or terms we cannot afford.

As journalist, we would honor our long term commitment to a "better reality" (for lack of a better term) and report with a positive bias. They would support what we should be doing, not only what they see happening. The journalists might cry out, 'But that's not unbiased journalism!" To which I say, "Wake up, guys. There is no such thing and that flushing sound you hear is your daily unbiased reporting sending our economy down the toilet."

Reporting on an event effects that event. Those niave enough to belive otherwise need to watch the Quantum Experiment again. And all of us need to consider what we say and do, and (it stands to reason) what we think, as what is in our heads is the beginning of all action.

Will people never learn? And by that I mean me as well as the criminally minded. Let me explain. The X-Terra got broken into last night. It was sitting in the driveway in our safe neighborhood and some girl opened the door and stole my wallet. I need to learn to do the simple things. Like have Traci and I lock the doors. And not leave my wallet in the car after Krav class (a bad habit that earned me a lesson).

Now, the funny thing is, I'm pretty sure we're going to catch the thief. I already saw her on video. See, she ran to the nearest 7-11 and filled up her tank then walked inside to use the bathroom - great lighting at the 7-11 counter for that identifying video. She then bought $140 bucks of groceries at WalMart (there are camera's everywhere at WalMart!). Smart girl ...

Now, near as I can figure she broke in at 6:00 am. I get up at 6:45 and noticed. I immediately called all the credit cards and got locations where they were used. I called the police and told them I'd help track her down. They sad fine. I went to the locations and got video of the times the card was swiped. All said and done, an hour after she took my wallet, she was shut down, videotaped, and her car is now on the police watch list (we have not got a plate yet, but the police are running the video through their software and they sound optimistic.

So for $85 bucks of gas and $140 dollars of groceries this girl (yea, it was a perfectly nice looking girl) is going into a world of hurt. It just ain't worth it, guys. It just ain't. And God forbid you steal from someone like me who will spare no expense tracking you down. Please. Learn. Be smart. Sigh .... sometimes I feel like a broken record.

Calling all Kid heroes! We are on our way. We've gathered four brave heroes to help show kids the heroic values we hope will carry them through their lives.

The show is going to be much more than we could have asked for. With professional Krav Maga team SwitchKicks helping with the Jackie Chan style combat scenes and professional artist Garrick Dean involved, we know this program is going to take off.

We are already booked out for the 5th of November to perform for the Mayor of Salt Lake, the Granite School District superintendent, the Attorney General and many other local dignitaries. We are hoping to integrate further into the Granite District curriculum so more on that later, but very exciting stuff!

We are also booked into a Central City Kids Halloween Carnival. We only see this growing from here. With so much going on, its nice to see some real movement starting to take place on some of our programs.

The neat thing about Kid heroes is the way in which the kids engage with Citizen Prime and the other Superheroes on stage. the show is interactive and no two performances are every going to be the same.

More later. Just wanted to give everyone a quick update on the Kid Heroes front.

The First Person Citizen Prime primed ...

We're doing BlogTalkRadio again and it’s a lot of fun. Its especially entertaining to be “on air” with my beautiful wife, Tibcat. Last night we were talking about something that stuck with me throughout the day. I said a while ago, ‘The first person Citizen Prime primed was me!” and it was brought up again last night.

Through the last few years I’ve seen a number of things happen in this area of pro-social activity. With the costumed lot, I see a lot of potential. The best part of them/us are rational, intelligent people adopting their higher selves. And that’s what I’m talking about here.

I had a conversation with a young RLSH from England a bit ago and shared the secret to making this really work for you. Here is the gist. You have to be willing to become the hero in your own life. You must always be in the heroic mindset. It doesn’t work long term if you are professing to live by a higher law and somehow … don’t. From simple things, like public intoxication (the embarrassing kind) to threatening people you disagree with. We’re all normal people and the line between hero and non hero is a moral one. If you cross over, its difficult to cross back with the same credibility you once had. And that's why, even in the costumed community, unfortunately, not everyone is ready to be called Real Life Super Hero.

For me (if I may talk in third person) I thank god for Citizen Prime. While I’ve always tried to be good to other people, nothing keeps me as focused and motivated to being the best person I can be than knowing I have to face people, look them in the eye, and tell them to find the hero inside themselves. How could I do that if I didn't think I strove for that myself.

Being labeled a Real Life Super hero doesn't mean you are stronger, better, faster or smarter than other human beings, as being a comic book super hero does. Being called an RLSH is a mandate to live as strong and as good as people should live. Its being the best you can possibly be. Its being that person than if something looked down on the human race from afar and needed a reason not to blow us all to Kingdom Come, they might see you and go, "Humans do have goodness and nobility. Maybe we'll spare them for one more day." And who knows? Could be Someone is looking down ... possibly making that decision ... and, just maybe, they're basing their judgement on you.

Stay strong and stay heroes,

The Great Generation

A friend of mine … well, a cyber friend … at least I consider him such … wrote a blog about the fantasy of American Values, or as he put it “a bunch of hooey.” I always enjoy his blogs, if not always agree. In fact, I highly encourage you to read it. It’s located at http://enemyblog.typepad.com/enemy_blog/. To understand this posting of mine, you really need to digest his. Meaning, I am taking issue with my friend’s dismissal of The Great Generation and the values that made America great. Now, before we get going, what cannot be denied is the fact that there is always something in every era that is a tragedy, crime, gross misconduct or blind ignorance. And while these tragedies remain exactly that – each time and era must be taken as a whole to assess its value.

Here’s the rub though. I think its folly to focus on the trees in lieu of the forest. The Great Generation, or that time during and after World War II is, by and large, esteemed to be the greatest time in American values. By everyone and for everything? Well, nothing is ever “by everyone” and certainly minority rights were still in serious trouble. But with civil rights having come so far since then, I hope that most people can agree that behavior and manners (for lack of a better word) can certainly learn a thing or three from our predecessors of the 40s and 50s. I have a dream of rebuilding the values of that era. You know the ones. Where men greet each other with a smile and tip of the hat instead of a grim nod or a look of challenge in their eye. A time when women lunched politely instead of beating each other up on YouTube. A time when parties were soirees and not a beer funnel and a police raid.

These are the values I see sorely lacking in society. These are values that exist and need to be fostered. And we need to dismiss the notion that we get the good with the bad, insinuating with all our freedom we must put up with fearing for our lives when we go out at night. There is the hooey. We are all free to pursue life, liberty and happiness. When we step on the rights of others, that freedom’s leash is reached. And this is the gist of the problem I see today. Too many people are “free” to intimidate, threaten, cajole, etc. That is not a freedom one should enjoy and it exists, in part, due to the lack of boundaries we see today.

There is a book, The Happiness Hypothesis, that describes multiple studies where total freedom ends up being the exact opposite. Without putting you through the exercise of reading the whole book (although I highly recommend it), the studies can be summed up in the following example: Take any young child outside and say, “You are free to run anywhere you want.” Most kids, proven by research will be paralyzed by the vastness of that directive. If you say, “You can play anywhere within the front yard and back yard,” they run off happily and feeling safe as kittens. Boundaries are inherent in our psyche and when they are removed completely, shows like The Sons of Anarchy come on TV, and we can all agree – no one wants that.

So, what am I saying? I’m saying we have to have common values as a society that we can look to in our pursuit of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We have to be decent men and women and we must learn how to be those things. They do not magically enter our heads. When we say things like, letting go of the past frees us to decide the future, it turns out to be nonsense, as we are the sum total of our parts. Some parts are ugly, some parts are beautiful, but they are all us. And if we fail to learn the lessons of the past, which is perhaps the good that can come out of bad situations, then we are doomed to relive them in the future.

Until next time

Stay Strong and Stay Heroes

The News is Bad For You

I'm going to put something out there and I'm not sure everyone is going to like it. Okay. Ready? Stop watching the news. There. I've said it and its a very important step to living an exciting and enlightened life.

Why stop watching the news? The simple answer is, "it's bad for you." Think about what is on the news: Murders, arson, robberies, etc.. Things you think you need to know about. Actually, you don't.

Lets walk through this together and see if you agree with me. So, you're watching the 10 o' clock news and a story comes on about a murder across town. Or better yet, lets say its in your neck of the woods. What do you do with that information? First, there is a sinking feeling that someone has lost their life. Then a moment of "I need to be careful!" Then onto the next story. So far, its really not affecting you to deeply ... or is it?

In our example, what do you do with that information? Nothing. Nor can you. If you want to know what parts of town to avoid, the news will not tell you, because it reports crimes seemingly at random. Look at spotcrime.com but even that is a pretty poor way to see where to go and not to go. So all in all the news doesn't help you in the least. Oh for the weather people out there, go to Yahoo, Google, wherever - weather reports are plentiful. Don't use that as an excuse to let them ding away at your sense of freedom and security.

Now, since the news doesn't help you, lets see how it harms you. A report in Psychology Today found out that our brains were invented before television (big news, right?) BUT, as such, our primal brains see the TV as a window not a delivery system. This means, when they are showing you a crime scene or an arson, your brain (along with the logic centers that tells you this is real and not a movie) informs you that this is a "real and present danger" to you. After all, its right outside "your" window! Really. Its true. This is how your brain works. Want proof? Talk to an old person who sits around watching the news and listen to them tell you how dangerous the world is. Or better yet, watch the news (just for this experiment, mind you) and notice the feelings you get when you see a drive by shooting. Admit it. You think, "There but for the grace of God, go I."

The pure and simple truth is, you can focus on the positive things in this life, or focus on the negative, ie, the news, but not both at the same time. The truth is, unless you are involved in a dangerous occuspation or activity (such as crime) you are not likely to be shot. Even if you are, watching a news story about someone else will not lessen your chances of being shot.

Some might say I'm advocating ignorance. On the contrary. I fully support you being aware of your surrounding, practicing safety at home and on the street, carrying a stun gun or whatever your local laws allow and generally being a very helpful and friendly citizen watch member in your community. The news cannot help you with any of these things. The news will make you scared and defensive toward your fellow men. The news is bad for you.

Now, what do you watch instead? Well, if you need to watch anything, make it entertaining or informative on a positive level. Im not advocating the avoidance of scary movies or action movies. On the contrary, for most people, these are good fun! You know those are fiction, and in fact, many studies claim they get you a good cathartic "scare" that allows your primal brain to exercise its fight or flight functions in a safe and secure environment. Or watch sit coms or ... I dunno ... go out and do something else entirely. All I know is the news is bad.

So, yea, I'm advocating not watching the news. Not only that but tell others about this if you agree. They'll agrue possibly, but in a friendly and cooperative tone, let them know why you think they might lead a happier and better life if they just watched something else.

I do have one caveat to this advice and that's morning shows. Morning shows are great. No murders, no robberies. Just what's going on in the world. That's my two cents on the news.

The News is Bad For You

I'm going to put something out there and I'm not sure everyone is going to like it. Okay. Ready? Stop watching the news. There. I've said it and its a very important step to living an exciting and enlightened life.

Why stop watching the news? The simple answer is, "it's bad for you." Think about what is on the news: Murders, arson, robberies, etc.. Things you think you need to know about. Actually, you don't.

Lets walk through this together and see if you agree with me. So, you're watching the 10 o' clock news and a story comes on about a murder across town. Or better yet, lets say its in your neck of the woods. What do you do with that information? First, there is a sinking feeling that someone has lost their life. Then a moment of "I need to be careful!" Then onto the next story. So far, its really not affecting you to deeply ... or is it?

In our example, what do you do with that information? Nothing. Nor can you. If you want to know what parts of town to avoid, the news will not tell you, because it reports crimes seemingly at random. Look at spotcrime.com but even that is a pretty poor way to see where to go and not to go. So all in all the news doesn't help you in the least. Oh for the weather people out there, go to Yahoo, Google, wherever - weather reports are plentiful. Don't use that as an excuse to let them ding away at your sense of freedom and security.

Now, since the news doesn't help you, lets see how it harms you. A report in Psychology Today found out that our brains were invented before television (big news, right?) BUT, as such, our primal brains see the TV as a window not a delivery system. This means, when they are showing you a crime scene or an arson, your brain (along with the logic centers that tells you this is real and not a movie) informs you that this is a "real and present danger" to you. After all, its right outside "your" window! Really. Its true. This is how your brain works. Want proof? Talk to an old person who sits around watching the news and listen to them tell you how dangerous the world is. Or better yet, watch the news (just for this experiment, mind you) and notice the feelings you get when you see a drive by shooting. Admit it. You think, "There but for the grace of God, go I."

The pure and simple truth is, you can focus on the positive things in this life, or focus on the negative, ie, the news, but not both at the same time. The truth is, unless you are involved in a dangerous occuspation or activity (such as crime) you are not likely to be shot. Even if you are, watching a news story about someone else will not lessen your chances of being shot.

Some might say I'm advocating ignorance. On the contrary. I fully support you being aware of your surrounding, practicing safety at home and on the street, carrying a stun gun or whatever your local laws allow and generally being a very helpful and friendly citizen watch member in your community. The news cannot help you with any of these things. The news will make you scared and defensive toward your fellow men. The news is bad for you.

Now, what do you watch instead? Well, if you need to watch anything, make it entertaining or informative on a positive level. Im not advocating the avoidance of scary movies or action movies. On the contrary, for most people, these are good fun! You know those are fiction, and in fact, many studies claim they get you a good cathartic "scare" that allows your primal brain to exercise its fight or flight functions in a safe and secure environment. Or watch sit coms or ... I dunno ... go out and do something else entirely. All I know is the news is bad.

So, yea, I'm advocating not watching the news. Not only that but tell others about this if you agree. They'll agrue possibly, but in a friendly and cooperative tone, let them know why you think they might lead a happier and better life if they just watched something else.

I do have one caveat to this advice and that's morning shows. Morning shows are great. No murders, no robberies. Just what's going on in the world. That's my two cents on the news.

Went camping this last weekend with extended family. We all had a great time. Coming back and participating in family outtings is an eye opening experience. You are hanging out with people who know you are Citizen Prime. I say "eye opening" as the conversations (and non-conversations) ranged from "I'm going to pretend you're not doing that" to "Dude, you should put on the Prime Armor and we'll run through the campsite stunning people who don't pick up there trash!" to "I saw your Father's Day YouTube and thought it was helarious." And you start to realize you're making an impression on many levels.

On one level, the "I'm going to pretend you're not doing that" crowd finds it somewhat silly. And that's okay. I've always said, If I can get your attention, half my job is done. The other half is communicating the message, but that's for another blog.

On another level, I find it good for your character to be a real life super hero. Its constantly standing in the face of social norms and not being afraid to stand out for the right reasons. Too many people are uncomfortable with standing up for what's right. The other day, I was talking with a work colleague of mine, who said, "Hey, good for you, dude. I just go home, sit on the couch and eat nachos after work." I said, "All evil needs to win is for good peeople to do nothing." With crime encroaching on every city, I see far too many good people doing nothing.

And finally, I'll bring another level to bear. My sister-in-law was dismissing Prime and finally I said, "You know, family takes this a little too seriously." And perhaps society in general (and even some real life super heroes out there) take this too seriously. Here's the thing. Real Life Super Heroes and Prime are about raising awareness and excitement, not taking down criminals. Police do that. True, I'm working on forming connections with the local police to do that as well, but the Superheroic persona is about opeing minds and creating fun.

So for everyone who thinks this is silly, non-conformist and too serious, I say, "When you get up from eatting nachos and start living your dreams, let me know. I'll be there for you." And, I have to admit ... some part of me wants the same in return.

Until Next Time,

Stay Strong and Stay Heroes!

Auditions!!!!

Finally! We are holding auditions this Saturday at Millcreek Recreational Center located at 2230 Evergreen Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84109 at 1:00 pm.. With so much going on over the last three months, its good to know we are still able to move forward with this heroic endevour.

For those interested in auditioning, come on down and be prepared to read from our Kid Heroes script as well as perform in a number of improvs. We're not only looking for actors with lots of theatrical and musical range but people who are capable of some physical training and minor stunt work. Age wise, we're looking for actors between the ages of 18-30-ish as the actors will be performing "Kid Hero" roles.

Some people have asked what's the difference between this program and a typical Kid Safety program. Its a good question and the answers lies in the principles of Light. Imagine you're in a dark room. What do you see? Nothing, right. Or more exactly - darkness. Now ... turn on the light. Boom! Notice how darkness has no choice but to flee to the far edges. We think this principle applies to people, as well.

More to the point, Kid Heroes infuses kids with positive values and, in turn, banishes the dark enfluences around them. It actually works for adults too, but we're focusing on the kids in this program.

Kid Heroes incorporates Helping Others, Encouraging Others, Respecting all people, Obeying the Laws of the Land, Enthusiam for Your Goals, and Speaking Up! We do talk about how to handle bullies, but we think you can make them part of the solution. Crazy, uh? Well, come see for yourself. Its the positive pychology that makes it a home run.

So if you're interested in seeing how this all works, leave a comment or, better yet, head down to the auditions. Maybe you're the hero we're looking for.

Until next time - Stay Strong and Stay Heroes!

Just an ironic thought... Rappers like 50 Cents and Ice T have been using nicknames for decades without so much as a casual mention of their real names, yet the new Real Life Super Heroes are often called into question as to why they choose names that, in reality, often have more meaning than just a cool nickname for the front of their grill.

In fact, thinking about it a little further, pilots have been using Call Signs with similar effect for many more years that represents who they are. So, where is this going? Well, I’ve thought for a long time that we should really embrace these names we find for ourselves later in life. And a reminder to find a name that fits who you want to be. Superheroes use them to announce what they are or stand for. Captain America. Dare Devil. Dr. Fate. I say we take the same care to pick a name that makes us stand up for what we want and tells the world who we are.

So, my given name is James but that’s only because my grandfather’s name was James. It represents who I am as much as Hank or Steve or Jeff. Yet, there is it. I’m James, or Jim if you will.

The real question we should all ask ourselves is, “Who do I want to be?” K, I’ll start. Although I’m often far from it, I’d like to be a good role model for people, as opposed to the other nickname using members of our society, such as Snoop Dogg or Biggy. Okay, okay … I’ll admit Snoop has come a long way since becoming a dad.

So, I say we all embrace our Call Signs as who we want to be. It’s a constant reminder to be our best selves and a constant challenge to live up to those names.

Hello. My name is Citizen Prime. What’s yours?

Kid Heroes!

The League of Citizen Heroes (LOCH), is dedicated to helping people of all ages be the heroes in their own lives through three foundational principles. First, we believe all people have the Heart of a Hero if allowed to show it. Second, we think communities should help police themselves in a responsible and affirmative fashion. And third, we believe children need positive role models rooted in their areas of interests. All of our energies are aimed at priming people to fulfill these goals for the liberty and happiness of their families, their friends and their communities.

Kid Heroes (Finding the hero inside): With so many negative values and choices in the world competing for our kid’s attention, LOCH thinks it is vitally important to encourage an enthusiasm and excitement for true heroism in the hearts and minds of our future generations.

We are engaged in passing on those heroic ideals that made this country great through Kid Heroes assemblies and visits. Kid Heroes takes the fun and energy of superheroes and brings that to kids with a real life superhero, Citizen Prime! Citizen Prime stands for courage, good citizenship, and always having hope. His message is to inspire those qualities in every child.

We all know that our kids are naturally drawn to the exciting fiction of their favorite superheroes. LOCH takes that super-enthusiasm and applies it to school and community assemblies that help present choices and deeds that are in line with a heroic heart and mind.

The Citizen's Watch Program

The League of Citizen Heroes (LOCH), is dedicated to helping people of all ages be the heroes in their own lives through three foundational principles. First, we believe all people have the Heart of a Hero if allowed to show it. Second, we think communities should help police themselves in a responsible and affirmative fashion. And third, we believe children need positive role models rooted in their areas of interests. All of our energies are aimed at priming people to fulfill these goals for the liberty and happiness of their families, their friends and their communities.

The Citizen Watch (Reach out, Inform and Remain Present): LOCH recognizing that community policing programs out currently in our neighborhoods and we respect and honor those inspiring programs.

The Citizen’s Watch is a like minded program with one differentiator: we bring the fun in.

Part of LOCH’s philosophy is that communities that play together, stay together and The Citizen Watch brings communities together both in real life and in the virtual world.

Besides a patrol schedule and cooperating with our local law enforcement agencies, we hold get together and block parties, creating a synergy of good will. The Citizen Watch utilizes that good will to reach out, connect, and be there for each other. Some of our projects include supporting logistics at public events, personalized community watch programs, self defense and personal awareness seminars and seeking out everyday folks who need a little help.

What is The League of Citizen Heroes

Many people have asks what is the basis for The League of Citizen Heroes. To this end, we have started a blog and we'll do our best to answer your questions. Starting with the very basics which will be this post. Enjoy!

The League of Citizen Heroes (LOCH) has developed an exciting and positive approach to community involvement centered around the inspiration and ideals of superheroes! Superheroes are instrumental in our story telling, and our view of right and wrong. They have infused their reality into our cultural mindset. LOCH is the next step in this evolution and breaks the comic barrier, bringing heroism to the street in the form of programs geared around the concept of super heroic service. The programs created by LOCH are impactful, wide-ranging and a lot of fun to be involved with. LOCH’s three basic principles translate directly into our grassroots programs.

First, we believe all people have the Heart of a Hero if allowed to show it. This principle is the cornerstone of all Citizen Heroes programs. All our projects are driven primarily from this simple concept, and the more we know, the more we are sure this is true.

Second, we think communities should help police themselves in a responsible and affirmative fashion. We take this principle to the streets with one of our programs, The Citizen Watch, our community policing effort. The Citizen Watch is the next advancement in a watch program. It differentiates itself by the unique access to social networking and community awareness resources, such as promoting block parties, having web access to your local Citizen Watch logs, etc...

Third, we believe children need positive role models rooted in their areas of interests. Our Kid Heroes program capitalizes upon our unique position by demonstrating the “right thing to do” using real life super heroes! Kid Heroes hits schools and community programs with assemblies showing kids the great benefits to living with the Heart of a Hero everyday. Every group of Kid Heroes consists of four to six actors and a genuine, inspirational superhero.

And to bring it all together, we have a social organization within LOCH. We call it Company C. Company C brings block parties, social engagements, and community opportunities to each and every program in a way that amplifies its affect. Citizen Watch programs receive organizational help to assemble block parties. Citizen Heroes can meet and swap stories at one of our Citizen Hero get-togethers. Kid Heroes can participate in fund raisers and other opportunities to show their Heart of a Hero.

One of the keys to the excitement surrounding LOCH is Citizen Prime – LOCH’s unique real life superhero. He represents you, me, and every good citizen. His armor, mask and cape help us identify the Heart of a Hero within ourselves. As a super heroic presence Citizen Prime, along with The League of Citizen Heroes, makes the world a more colorful, exciting place to live.
Another way LOCH is different form your standard non profit is LOCH is very in tune with the ideas and proposals of its members. Programs are being established involving our Citizen Hero’s own unique talents and interests. One example is fictional webisodes and graphic novels. These are based on an alternate “Prime-Verse” where Citizen Prime and his allies have real super powers!

All our LOCH programs are freely available to anyone who feels they might have The Heart of a Hero. To date, no other organization has created such a fun and inspirational way to get people of all ages involved in volunteerism. Although, superheroes are uniquely American in origin, they have spread across the world and inspired millions of people through books, movies and radio. Finally, superheroes have broken the comic barrier and we can use their inspiration to identify the Citizen Heroes among us.