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Reestablishing Editorial Standards: GroffMedia’s Collaborative Efforts

Benjamin1 Comment

We are currently considering a return to Flipboard Media and the possible return of content services to and from GroffMedia, benandsteve.com, 2026 TruthEndures©. The proposal is under consideration.

Groff Media ©2026 benandsteve.com Truth Endures

benandsteve.com is currently considering returning to Flipboard Media, the possible return of content services to and from GroffMedia, benandsteve.com, 2026 TruthEndures©. As stated the proposal is under consideration.

Any return arrangement would require full editorial oversight and content review authority regarding material published under the name of Benjamin Groff, GroffMedia, benandsteve.com, or any affiliated entity. The purpose behind this requirement is rooted in a growing concern over balance, accountability, and fairness in modern media reporting.

Boardroom meeting with executives and CEO discussing stalled merger news

GroffMedia’s position is that journalism should reflect principles similar to the equal broadcast standards that existed prior to their dismantling during the Reagan era in the 1980s. While modern media has evolved, we believe there remains value in restoring elements of balanced reporting — ensuring that opposing viewpoints, facts, and perspectives receive meaningful and proportional representation.

Under this approach, articles submitted for publication would be expected to demonstrate reasonable efforts toward balanced coverage. That would include presenting both supporting and opposing perspectives with equal seriousness in research, interviews, reporting effort, and editorial consideration. The goal is not censorship or restriction of opinion, but rather a commitment to responsible journalism that informs rather than inflames.

One of the largest challenges facing such an effort is determining how these standards could be maintained among the many contributors who submit material through platforms such as Flipboard. Equally important is the process of selecting content that remains timely, relevant, beneficial to readers, and consistent with the editorial principles GroffMedia seeks to uphold.

At its core, the discussion is not simply about publishing content. It is about whether modern independent media can still create an environment where fairness, depth, and accountability are valued alongside speed and public engagement.

A major question at this stage is how to ensure that contributors submitting material for consideration consistently meet these editorial standards. One approach currently being explored is the development of a national grading or evaluation system designed to identify organizations, research groups, journalism institutions, and independent sources that demonstrate strong commitments to accuracy, balance, transparency, and accountability in reporting.

The challenge is not simply identifying who publishes the most content, but determining which organizations consistently apply equal effort to fact gathering, source verification, opposing viewpoints, corrections, and editorial integrity. Any standards adopted would need to measure credibility and fairness rather than ideology or political preference.

As this effort develops, GroffMedia hopes to identify trusted resources and partnerships capable of helping guide this mission in a meaningful and measurable way. If the project moves forward as intended, additional information regarding participating organizations, evaluation methods, and publication guidelines will be made available in the near future.

If Flipboard content does return, it will be under the understanding that only providers meeting those editorial standards will be eligible for posting to affiliated accounts. One of the concerns currently under review is whether such oversight can realistically be maintained without becoming excessively time-consuming or difficult to manage.

Among the ideas being considered is limiting reposted material to news organizations and media outlets that rank above a determined threshold within a recognized national grading or credibility system. Whether that approach can provide the balance, fairness, and consistency intended remains part of the ongoing evaluation process involving accounts associated with benandsteve.com and GroffMedia.

Groff Media ©2026 benandsteve.com Truth Endures

They Call It Help. Others Call It Control. Louisiana’s Homeless Bill Raises Hard Questions.

Benjamin1 Comment

Groff Media ©2026 benandsteve.com Truth Endures

A new bill in Louisiana aims to address homelessness through enforcement and court-directed programs. Supporters call it a pathway to services. Critics warn it could blur the line between help and coercion. This piece breaks down what the law actually says—and why it raises deeper questions about how we treat the most vulnerable among us.

There is a bill moving through Louisiana right now that deserves more than a passing glance. It deserves attention—clear-eyed, fact-based, and unflinching.

Because beneath the political talking points, something real is happening.

What the Bill Actually Does

Louisiana lawmakers have advanced a measure—commonly referenced as Louisiana House Bill 211 (2026)—that targets public camping and similar activities often associated with homelessness.

In plain terms:

  • Sleeping or camping in certain public spaces could become a criminal offense
  • Violations can lead to fines or jail time
  • Courts may direct individuals into structured programs or services as part of sentencing or diversion 

Supporters argue this is about restoring order and connecting people with help. That is the stated intent.

And that part is factual.

Where the Concern Begins

Where this bill becomes controversial is not in what it says outright—but in how it operates in practice.

Critics—advocates, legal observers, and community groups—raise concerns that:

  • The “choice” between jail and programs may not feel like a choice at all 
  • Court-directed participation in treatment or services could function as coercion under threat of punishment
  • Individuals may face financial obligations tied to those programs, depending on how they are administered 

Those concerns are not invented—but they are also not fully settled facts across all interpretations of the bill.

They are warnings about what this kind of policy can become.

And history tells us those warnings are not without precedent.

The Line We Should Be Watching

There is a difference between:

  • Offering help
    and 
  • Mandating compliance under penalty of jail

That line matters.

Because once a person’s existence—where they sleep, where they sit, where they try to survive—becomes criminalized, the system is no longer just offering assistance.

It is enforcing behavior.

What This Is—and What It Is Not

Let’s be precise, because precision matters:

  • It is true this bill criminalizes certain public behaviors tied to homelessness 
  • It is true it allows courts to impose penalties, including jail 
  • It is true it routes individuals into structured programs 

It is not clearly established, based on current verified reporting, that:

  • People will universally be billed in a way that leads directly to punitive labor arrangements 
  • Or that “forced unpaid labor” exists as a clearly defined, direct provision of the bill itself 

Those claims are circulating—but they are interpretations and projections, not confirmed statutory facts.

And if we care about truth, we separate what is known from what is feared.

The Moral Question Still Stands

Even stripped down to verified facts, the question does not go away.

It becomes sharper.

What does it say about us if the primary tool we use to address homelessness is the criminal code?

What does it mean when the path to “help” runs through a courtroom?

And what happens when the least among us are told:

Comply—or face punishment.

A Final Word

You don’t have to exaggerate this bill to be troubled by it.

You don’t have to stretch facts to ask hard questions.

Because even at its most neutral reading, this legislation represents a shift—
from compassion offered freely
to compliance enforced by law.

And that is a line worth watching.

Closely.

© Benjamin H. Groff II — Truth Endures / benandsteve.com

When the Press Begins to Look Over Its Shoulder

Benjamin3 Comments

There comes a time when you have to draw a line and decide what you stand for. Because if you don’t stand for something, sooner or later you’ll fall for anything.

Groff Media ©2026 benandsteve.com Truth Endures

This week I made the next announcement:

“I have made the decision to stop any association with content connected to CBS, CBS News, CNN, FOX, and Flipboard. I can no longer, in good conscience, republish material from these organizations. I also can’t promote content from organizations that use media in ways I find troubling.“

A Change in Direction

There are moments in history when small events start to reveal a much larger shift. What has been happening inside major American media organizations lately is one of those moments. Stephen Colbert is a prominent public voice. He finds himself at the center of controversy shortly after openly criticizing corporate decisions tied to network leadership. This situation naturally raises questions. Is outspoken criticism still welcome within the walls of the companies that broadcast it?

At the same time, reports of internal conflict surrounding the newsroom at 60 Minutes have emerged. These reports involve one of the most respected investigative news teams in television. They have only deepened those concerns. Leadership changes have occurred. Public statements from newsroom figures have surfaced. Accounts of staff unease suggest that journalists inside the organization are feeling pressures. These pressures extend beyond the simple business of reporting the news.

This is where the issue becomes larger than one show, one host, or even one network. The concern is about the atmosphere surrounding journalism itself. When reporters start to sense that pursuing certain stories will carry professional consequences, the chilling effect spreads quickly. Investigative reporting depends on courage, independence, and the understanding that truth—not corporate comfort or political pressure—guides editorial decisions.

My declaration about stepping away from redistributing material from major outlets is rooted in this concern. It is not an attack on journalism. In fact, it is the opposite. It is a defense of what journalism is supposed to be. A free press only remains free when reporters and editors can pursue facts without intimidation. They must be capable of chasing stories without fear of reprisal. Reporters should not have to wonder whether the story they are chasing will upset powerful interests behind the scenes.

Journalists should never have to look over their shoulder before telling the truth. If they do, the public will lose more than just a few television programs. They will also lose newspaper columns. We will lose something far more important. We will lose the ability to trust someone. Somewhere, someone is still willing to ask the hard questions.

History teaches us that the erosion of press freedom rarely begins with a dramatic announcement. It usually starts quietly—with a decision here, a resignation there, a story that suddenly feels too risky to pursue. The public does not notice at first. But journalists do. They feel the shift in the air long before anyone else sees it. When reporters question if the truth cost them their platform, the damage has begun. They question if it risks their career or the support of their newsroom. This damage shows that fear is overshadowing press freedom. My decision to step back from amplifying certain media outlets is not born from anger. It is born from concern. A healthy democracy depends on journalists who can pursue facts without fear. If the press ever needs to seek permission to reveal the truth, the public will suffer. This greater loss impacts more than just a television program or a headline. We will have lost our watchdog.

It is up to us. The average Joe. To start doing something. What will you do?

    3 responses to “When the Press Begins to Look Over Its Shoulder”

    1. Hazel Avatar
      Hazel

      It’s one of my concerns, too. The job of journalists and reporters becomes risky now. They’re not safe if they tell the truth, especially since powerful people are involved in it. I don’t know about news these days if it’s true or just be polished to protect someone else. The media becomes chaotic, as well as politics. I don’t understand, and I dislike to hear something disgusting about it.

      Reply
      1. Benjamin Avatar
        Benjamin

        Thank you, Hazel. Many people are torn between speaking up or staying quiet and hoping things change. But dust doesn’t move unless someone disturbs it. Sometimes the only way to slow what’s happening is to challenge it. If my words inspire even one person to act, and that person inspires another, then they have done their job.

        Reply
        1. Hazel Avatar
          Hazel

          Yeah. Hopefully some are courageous enough to speak and make a change. We’ll never know. My pleasure, Benjamin. Healing vibes to you.

    What you leave today becomes someone’s answer tomorrow.

    1963: A Year Between Heartbreak and Hope

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    The Year Many Were Born And The World That Shaped It

    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2026 

    2–3 minutes

    A topic came up recently about naming the most interesting—or most defining—events from the year you were born. For me, that year was 1963, which was sixty-two years ago. It was a year that carried an unusual weight, filled with moments of deep loss alongside remarkable progress and hope.

    For fans of country music, 1963 was especially heartbreaking. In March, a plane crash claimed the lives of Patsy Cline, Hawkshaw Hawkins, Cowboy Copas, and Cline’s manager. Just a few months later, another aviation accident occurred. It took the life of Jim Reeves, one of the genre’s most beloved voices. The sorrow didn’t end there. Jack Anglin, one half of the duo Johnny & Jack, was killed in a car accident. He was driving to attend Patsy Cline’s memorial service. In a matter of months, country music lost several of its brightest stars, leaving a lasting scar on the industry.

    Nationally, the year is most remembered for tragedy. President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas, an event that stunned the nation and the world. Two days later, the man accused of the assassination, Lee Harvey Oswald, was himself shot and killed. Oswald’s murder caught on live television by the shooter Jack Ruby, a Dallas nightclub owner. Because both men died before standing trial, no jury verdict was ever rendered regarding the assassination itself. While the Warren Commission later concluded that Oswald and Ruby acted alone, lingering questions have remained for decades.

    There has also been confusion surrounding Jack Ruby’s legal fate. Ruby was convicted of murder with malice in March 1964 and sentenced to death, but that conviction did not stand. In October 1966, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals overturned the verdict. The decision was due to excessive pretrial publicity. The court ordered a new trial. Before that retrial could occur, Ruby died on January 3, 1967, from complications related to lung cancer. As a result, no final conviction was in place at the time of his death.

    Yet 1963 was not defined by tragedy alone.

    Despite its losses, the year was also marked by hope, courage, and meaningful progress. On August 28, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech during the March on Washington. The speech inspired millions. It accelerated the push toward civil rights legislation that would soon follow. In science, Valentina Tereshkova became the first woman in space, orbiting Earth aboard Vostok 6—a milestone celebrated around the globe.

    Popular culture flourished as well. The Beatles rose to international fame, bringing a sense of excitement and unity to a generation. Television, animation, and film offered families shared moments of comfort during a rapidly changing time. On the world stage, the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom signed the treaty. This treaty was the Partial Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. This treaty represented a hopeful step toward easing Cold War tensions.

    Looking back, 1963 stands as a year of contrast—one of profound sorrow and extraordinary progress. It reminds us that even in times of loss, history continues to progress. Resilience and creativity shape it. There is also the enduring hope for something better.

    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2026

    The Day Jimmy Carter Came To Town

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    One year ago former U.S. President Jimmy Carter passed away. We close this year with a celebration to his life. Recognizing his many accomplishments. Here is one, a promise he had made on the campaign trail before he was elected to office. That if he won the presidency, he would return to Elk City, Oklahoma and thank them. He upheld that promise, as well as many others he made. A man with true humility, honesty and principles. Sorely missed as an example to others. We honor a true a leader by remembering his life!

    Groff Media 2024© Truth Endures IMDbPro

    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©

    3–5 minutes

    On March 24th, 1979, President Jimmy Carter returned to Oklahoma. He came to fulfill a campaign promise he had made during his first run for office. While campaigning, he passed through Elk City, Oklahoma, and vowed that if elected, he would return as President. True to his word, he came back to this small western Oklahoma town to connect with its residents.

    By then, the memory of President Ford’s near-assassination and other threats against public figures lingered in the national consciousness. Carter was a peanut farmer from Plains, Georgia. He resonated with Oklahoma Citizens through his humility and shared values. This included his Democratic Party affiliation. First Lady Rosalynn Carter was accompanying him. Her warmth and grace complemented her husband. She left a positive impression on the locals.

    At the time, Oklahoma’s Governor George Nigh was a celebrated figure in state politics. George Nigh was elected Lieutenant Governor more times than anyone else. He briefly served as Governor multiple times. This occurred when his predecessors resigned to take other offices. Despite some legal challenges about his eligibility, the State Supreme Court affirmed his ability to serve. He was now in his first full term as Governor. His presence at Carter’s visit added to the significance of the occasion.

    The visit brought much excitement and preparation to Elk City, a town of about 12,000. The oil boom had not yet transformed the region. The high school’s field house was the largest venue available for the gathering. Elk City did not have an airport that accommodates Air Force One. Thus, the nearby Clinton-Sherman Airbase in Burns Flat, 15 miles east, was reactivated for the President’s arrival. A motorcade transported President Carter and his entourage to Elk City.

    The event attracted widespread attention, with media outlets from a five-state area descending on the town. Governor Nigh, Oklahoma’s First Lady, U.S. Senators, Representatives, and many state officials joined the crowd. The field house overflowed with locals eager to witness history.

    President Carter took the stage after introductions by various community leaders. His speech was marked by humility, sincerity, and a willingness to engage directly with the audience. During a question-and-answer session, a young girl boldly asked for a kiss. The President graciously obliged. This act endeared him further to the crowd.

    Unlike many politicians who have returned to the comfort of Washington, D.C., President Carter chose to stay overnight at the home of Elk City Mayor Larry Wade. While he and Rosalynn rested, Elk City police officers securely guarded their limousine. It was stored in the fire department’s bay. The fire trucks were temporarily parked on the street. This allowed room for the vehicle. The bay doors were locked to make sure its secure.

    The next morning, the Secret Service inspected and prepared the limousine for the journey back to the Clinton-Sherman Airbase. At 7:00 AM, President and Mrs. Carter were to be escorted by a motorcade that included local police and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. But the Carters had been invited to church. And to church they would go. The President’s and First Lady’s Church attendance was unannounced and brief. Two routes were used to guarantee security, though the President’s exact route remains uncertain. By 8:15 AM, all vehicles converged at the church. The Carters left church and went to the Clinton – Sherman Airfield, near Burns Flat. “Nothing is to schedule” one news reporter was noted as saying. And, for the Secret Service, they appreciated it wasn’t. The changes in the planned activity helped create enough of a distraction.

    As Air Force One prepared for departure, President Carter and Rosalynn climbed the stairway. They turned to wave goodbye to the assembled crowd. Then, they boarded the plane. Within minutes, the jet’s engines roared to life. It ascended into the blue Oklahoma sky. The departure left behind a community that felt valued and appreciated.

    Jimmy Carter’s visit to Elk City exemplified his commitment to keeping promises and connecting with everyday Americans. Years after making his pledge, he returned to this western Oklahoma town. This return reflected the integrity and personal touch that characterized his presidency.

    For A Police Officer, There Is Never A Good Dog Call

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    This Story From The Classics. Posted Originally in 2024 it is Reposted this year as part of the best of the best stories benandsteve.com are sharing at years end.

    Groff Media 2024© Truth Endures IMDbPro

    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©

    4–5 minutes

    I have driven thousands of miles in my police patrol unit. I have also answered nearly as many calls. I can attest that there are no ‘Good Dog Calls’ a police officer can be assigned to on duty.

    Getting sent to a call involving a dog always includes extra concerns that should be more welcome. Dogs can be unfriendly, mean, unruly, and generally not trustworthy.

    Case in point: I have responded to dog calls where the dog got reported missing. It was just across the street and refused to return to its owner. It came to my patrol unit and refused to get out. It insisted on staying, growling when we tried to pick it up and carry it back to its home. I can only guess why it didn’t want to go home.

    I have been to dog calls where the dog has bitten a neighbor and had to get put in confinement. The owner objected to the dog’s removal, and a brigade of officers confiscated the dog. The animal control officer was not on duty. So the dog went into the police cruiser and made a hairy mess. It took weeks to get all the fuzz out. No pun intended. Then a day later, and while patrolling through the neighborhood, you see the dog getting walked by the owner’s child. Only to discover they have broken it out of doggy jail. You also have to file more serious charges against the dog owner. Something that you wish didn’t have to happen. The dog is confused over the whole back and forth. The Canine would have been home sooner had the owners only cooperated with the city.

    Then, the next step is the crisis intervention, which is your own. It is early in the morning. And dispatch sends you to a home where a pit bull has a family trapped in their home. It will not allow them to get to their cars to leave to go to work or school. You arrive and see this dog running between the front and back doors, preventing the homeowners from exiting the house. You call your backup unit to bring the animal control unit since they are not on duty (as usual). 

    The backup officer arrives in the Animal Control Unit—the beauty of every small-town police department. You get the dog loop poles when they arrive and devise a plan. The homeowners will call the dog to the backdoor. This will allow an officer to enter the house through the front door. Then your backup partner will go in the house and go to the back door and call the dog. When he rushes to the back door he will use one of the loop poles. Slipping a loop over the dog’s head. As he does, I will come up from behind and slip a loop over the head. And we will have a two loop pole control of the dog. Then together we will be able to control the animal to get it into the animal control vehicle. As we carry out the plan, the dog fights with all it has. Trying feverishly to bite and attack us. We get it to the truck, lift it in, and slide it into a carrier. Loosening the pole loops, we leave them intact so we can use them when we get out to the shelter. So to place the animal in a pen. We close the gate and say farewell to the family that had got trapped inside their home. Waving to us, they are grateful for our service. The dog is fighting like crazy inside the truck. It sounds like we have the Tasmanian Devil inside.

    We drove six miles to the shelter, and our anxiety peaked. We were ready to take on this beast we had struggled with earlier. It is now eerily quiet. We cracked open the gate and took hold of the poles. We tightened the slack in the loops. To make sure the dog had tension around its neck so we can control it. We flipped open the gate, and ––––– NOTHING. The dog was dead. DEAD! IT WAS LIMP.

    We are dumbfounded at what the hell happened. We had put it in the back of the truck and drove six miles. An investigation indicated that the dog continued fighting even inside the truck’s cage. And either had a heart attack or choked itself while fighting within the closure. We had no choice but to take the dog to the shelter. Had we left it at large we would have had to fight the dog. And even got put in a position to shoot the animal due to its violence. We intended to try and avoid that scenario, but sadly, it ended the dog’s life anyway.

    There is never a good dog call!

    The Assignment ~ The Last Three Days ~ A Mission To Keep You Alive For 2025!

    Benjamin3 Comments

    This Story From The Classics. Posted Originally in 2024 it is Reposted this year as part of the best of the best stories benandsteve.com are sharing at years end.

    The last three days of the year often get overlooked. During this time, services go unnoticed around the average town or city. This well can be the case where you live. Police, Fire, Ambulance, and 911 Operators all do an incredible job. They work tirelessly in the build up to the New Year Eve Celebration and all the socializing involved. All the socializing is not celebratory, and the people they deal with are not all friendly.

    Groff Media 2024© Truth Endures IMDbPro

    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©

    3–5 minutes

    As the year drew close, the city was abuzz with anticipation for the New Year’s celebrations. But for the fire, police, and ambulance services, the last three days of the year were anything but quiet. These dedicated men and women often worked long shifts. They sacrificed their own celebrations. They were on the front lines, ensuring the community’s safety and well-being.

    Day One: December 29th

    The fire department received a call about a house fire in the early morning hours. Flames engulfed the old wooden structure, and the firefighters worked tirelessly to control the blaze. They managed to rescue a family trapped inside, their faces covered in soot but grateful to be alive. Investigators later determined that a faulty space heater caused the fire. This serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of winter.

    Meanwhile, the police were called to a domestic disturbance in a quiet suburban neighborhood. A heated argument escalated. Officers arrived with their professional demeanor and calm approach. They managed to defuse the situation. This ensured that both parties were safe and had a chance to cool down.

    The ambulance service was dispatched to a car accident on the icy roads. A young driver had lost control of his vehicle and skidded into a tree. Paramedics worked quickly to stabilize him and transport him to the hospital. Despite the crash’s seriousness, the driver was expected to fully recover.

    Day Two: December 30th

    The fire department responded to a call about a gas leak in an apartment building. Residents were evacuated as firefighters located the source of the leak and shut it off. Their quick response and decisive action prevented a potential explosion. This reassured the residents. They were allowed to return to their homes once it was deemed safe.

    The police were called to a robbery at a local convenience store. The suspect had fled the scene, but officers gathered evidence and track him down. The thief was apprehended and taken into custody, and the stolen goods were returned to the relieved store owner.

    The ambulance service received a call about an elderly woman who had fallen in her home. Paramedics arrived to find her in pain and incapable of moving. They carefully lifted her onto a stretcher. They transported her to the hospital. At the hospital, she was treated for a broken hip. Her family was grateful for the swift and compassionate care she received.

    Day Three: December 31st

    On New Year’s Eve, the fire department was on high alert as fireworks lit up the night sky. They responded to several small fires caused by stray sparks, but thankfully, none resulted in severe damage. Firefighters patrolled the city, ensuring that everyone enjoyed the celebrations safely despite the potential dangers they faced.

    The police were busy with calls about noise complaints and public intoxication. Officers maintained a visible presence in the city center, where crowds had gathered to watch the fireworks show. They worked to keep the peace and make sure everyone rang in the new year without incident.

    The ambulance service was called to help a young woman who had collapsed at a New Year’s party. Paramedics quickly assessed her condition and determined that she had consumed too much alcohol. They provided her with the necessary care and transported her to the hospital for further observation.

    When the clock struck midnight, the city erupted in cheers and celebrations. The fire, police, and ambulance services continued their vigilant watch, ready to respond to emergencies. For them, the end of the year was just another day. They served and protected their community. This often came at the cost of their own family celebrations.

    Remember this New Year’s Eve and throughout the Holiday Season, Do Not Drink And Drive. Party Responsibly. Stay Alive For 2025!

    The Hot Dog Santa Which Warms Children’s Hearts

    Benjamin1 Comment

    This story is pulled from the archives as a celebration for the season edition.

    7 Days Until Christmas. The Countdown Continues!

    Groff Media 2024© Truth Endures IMDbPro

    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©

    ~ When Santa Claus Stopped Coming To Town ~

    From the original Hot Dog Santa Brings Christmas Cheer to Children, originally posted on December 10, 2024, by Jenny Ashcraft

    On Christmas Day in 1921, a Swedish immigrant named Axel Bjorklund quietly pushed his hot dog cart to a corner in Boston’s North End. There, he handed out 500 steaming hot dogs to cold and hungry children, a simple act of kindness that would leave a lasting legacy.

    Axel knew what it meant to struggle. He barely scraped by himself, but his heart ached for the impoverished children he saw daily. Hundreds of children, some as young as five, lined up in their threadbare clothes that chilly Christmas morning, shivering against the cold.

    Despite their hunger and hardship, their faces lit up with joy as Axel handed each one a hot dog. Though the food quickly ran out, Axel’s resolve did not. He was determined to make this a yearly tradition. Over the next eight years, he gave away an astonishing 10,000 hot dogs before passing in 1930.

    Axel was born on August 6, 1869, in Gothenburg, Sweden. In 1889, he immigrated to America and eventually settled in Boston’s North End, a neighborhood brimming with immigrants striving to build better lives.

    Yet, poverty was rampant, especially after the devastating Spanish Flu pandemic left many families destitute and orphaned children wandering the streets. Amid this suffering, Axel’s generosity shone like a beacon of hope.

    After a brief and unhappy marriage, Axel lived alone and decided to start a hot dog stand at the busy corner of Blackstone and Hanover Streets. The simple job gave him a sense of purpose, but seeing the hunger around him determined him to do more. He vowed that no child would go hungry if he had food to offer. His first Christmas giveaway in 1921 was a success, and he expanded the effort the following year, doubling the number of hot dogs to 1,000.

    His annual giveaway grew as word of Axel’s kindness spread, eventually reaching 3,000 hot dogs yearly. The children affectionately began calling him “Hot Dog Santa.” Newspapers from across the United States and even Sweden shared his story, celebrating his selfless tradition.

    Over time, Axel moved his hot dog giveaway to New Year’s Day, but the event remained a cherished occasion for the children who eagerly awaited it. However, Axel’s health began to deteriorate. Rheumatism caused frequent hospital visits, and his financial situation worsened. Struggling to pay his rent, Axel reached out to the public for help, determined to continue his tradition despite his hardships.

    In December 1928, just before the giveaway, Axel’s landlady evicted him for failing to pay rent. The Salvation Army provided temporary support, but Axel’s circumstances grew increasingly dire. Over the next two years, he bounced between shelters, the poorhouse, and the Cambridge Home for the Aged, relying on the generosity of strangers. Even so, in 1929, he hosted one final hot dog giveaway.

    On November 10, 1930, Axel Bjorklund passed away in a Massachusetts hospital, penniless and alone. He had no family and was destined for a pauper’s grave until news of his death reached the public. Outraged by his fate, citizens rallied together to give the man they called “Hot Dog Santa” a proper burial. Axel Bjorklund’s legacy of compassion and selflessness reminds us of the power of small acts of kindness during difficult times.

    Remember, this holiday season, while times may feel joyful and bright for you, they could be challenging and somber for someone else. Offering a helping hand isn’t always a handout—it’s a gesture of humanity and compassion. Let’s take a moment to consider the needs of our fellow human beings, not just during the holidays but every day of the year.

    Read original story about the Hotdog Santa Claus Here

    Seasons Greetings! ~ Happy New Year!

    The Christmas Eve Babbs Switch School Fire

    BenjaminLeave a comment

    This story is pulled from the archives as a celebration for the season edition.

    Groff Media 2024© Truth Endures IMDbPro

    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©

    3–5 minutes

    Every year at this time, I am reminded of a harrowing story. It is deeply etched into Oklahoma’s collective memory: the Babbs Switch School Fire of Christmas Eve, 1924. It stands as a tragic lesson in safety, humanity, and resilience.

    The Fire

    On that bitterly cold night, with heavy snow and sub-zero temperatures, 200 residents gathered. They met in Babbs Switch’s one-room schoolhouse for a Christmas Eve program. The school was tightly packed with engaged couples, grandparents, mothers, fathers, and children. The building’s windows were secured with wire mesh to deter intruders from the nearby railroad tracks. The sole exit—a door that opened inward—would soon become a deadly trap.

    The program concluded with a teenage boy dressed as Santa Claus. He handed out toys and candy beneath a cedar Christmas tree. The tree was decorated with paper, tinsel, and lit candles. One of these candles brushed against the tree’s dry needles, igniting it instantly. Mrs. W.G. Boland, whose three children perished that night, later recounted the horror. 

    “I tried to beat it out with a paper sack,”

    she said, 

    “but it did no good.” 

    Initially, the crowd laughed, believing the small blaze was being contained. But within moments, the flames engulfed the tree, the ceiling, and the entire structure.

    Panic erupted.

    The sole exit became a bottleneck as the crowd surged toward the door. Those at the back pushed forward, while the unlucky at the front got crushed in the chaos. Some attempted to pry open the wired windows, but their efforts were futile. Trapped inside, children, parents, and neighbors succumbed to the smoke and flames. Witnesses recalled the horrifying scene of people clawing at the exit. Bodies piled atop one another, and the acrid stench of burning flesh.

    The Survivors

    Among those who escaped was Lillie Biggers. She crawled out from under a desk clutching a doll she had just received. Her mother, Margaret, managed to get out but suffered severe burns to her hands and arms. Tragically, Lillie’s brothers, William, 9, and Walter, 15, did not survive. The Biggers family’s grief mirrored that of the entire community, where 36 lives were lost—half of them children. The belongings later identified the bodies of William and Walter. They carried a toy gun and a belt buckle.

    The injured and deceased were transported to Hobart, the nearest town, where makeshift morgues were set up. The community’s response, known as the “Hobart Spirit,” saw residents drop everything to give aid and comfort. Newspaper accounts likened this effort to the Oklahoma Standard that emerged decades later after the Oklahoma City bombing.

    Julie Braun with Mother
    Lillie’s Doll That Survived Fire

    The Aftermath

    The tragedy prompted a wave of reforms. Oklahoma legislators enacted fire safety laws requiring outward-opening doors, multiple exits, and accessible window screens in schools. Open flames were banned, and fire extinguishers became mandatory. The reforms eventually spread nationwide, though it would take more tragedies before they were fully adopted.

    The morning after the Babbs Switch School Fire

    A Missing Child

    The story took a strange twist that turned it into a lingering mystery. Among the victims was three-year-old Mary Edens—or so it was believed. Her aunt, Alice Noah, escaped the building. She died days later. She claimed she had handed Mary to an unknown person outside the burning building. Mary’s body was never recovered, leading her family to hope she had survived.

    In 1957, decades after the fire, a woman named Grace Reynolds came forth. She was from Barstow, California. She claimed to be the long-lost Mary. The Edens family reunited with her on Art Linkletter’s House Party television program, believing their prayers had been answered. Reynolds even wrote a book about her experiences. It is titled Mary, Child of Tragedy: The Story of the Lost Child of the 1924 Babbs Switch Fire.

    But only some were convinced. A local newspaper editor who investigated the claim questioned its validity. 

    Skeptics noted inconsistencies in Reynolds’s story, but no definitive evidence confirmed or debunked her identity. To this day, the truth remains elusive.

    Legacy

    The Babbs Switch School Fire is remembered as one of the deadliest school fires in U.S. history. A stone monument now stands where the schoolhouse once stood, a quiet marker of lives lost and lessons learned. The physical scars of the tragedy have faded. Yet, its memory endures. It serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and our enduring hope for safety and change.

    References for this writing can be found at – 

    https://blogoklahoma.us/place/394/kiowa/site-of-babbs-switch-tragic-school-fire

    https://www.thesirenspodcast.com/post/case-files-babbs-christmas-fire

    https://genealogytrails.com/oka/kiowa/babbsfire.html

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babbs_Switch_fire

    Former Zamalek Midfielder Dies in Car Accident at 51

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    Groff Media ©2025 benandsteve.com Truth Endures

    2–3 minutes

    🕊️ Mohamed Sabry (1974–2025)

    Mohamed Sabry, Former Zamalek Midfielder, Dies at 51

    Mohamed Sabry Former Zamelek Midfielder, Dead at Age 51.

    The Egyptian football community is deeply saddened to mourn the loss of Mohamed Sabry. He was the former Zamalek and Egypt national team midfielder. He died in a car accident in Cairo’s Fifth Settlement on Thursday. He was 51. Sabry’s untimely passing marks the end of a remarkable life. He dedicated his life to the sport he loved. He helped define it for a generation of fans.

    Sabry was a central figure in Zamalek’s golden era throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. This was a decade of triumphs. It cemented the club’s legacy in African football. Between 1993 and 2003, he lifted 15 major titles. These included three CAF Champions League trophies and two Egyptian Premier League championships. Known for his fierce determination, vision, and leadership on the pitch, Sabry was instrumental. He led Zamalek through some of its most celebrated victories. He earned admiration from teammates, opponents, and supporters alike.

    Mohamed Sabry

    After news of his passing, tributes poured in from across Egypt and beyond. Zamalek icon Mahmoud Abdel-Razek “Shikabala” described Sabry as “a legend of Egyptian football.” He also called him “a symbol of loyalty and devotion to his club and supporters.” His words reflected the views of many who admired Sabry for his exceptional talent. They saw him as a model of dedication and humility. Fans, former teammates, and rival clubs alike joined in remembering a man whose passion for football transcended the game’s rivalries.

    Condolences also came from key figures within Egyptian football. Hossam Hassan, the national team coach, offered his sympathy to Sabry’s family. Al Ahly president Mahmoud El Khatib also conveyed his condolences to the wider football community. Tributes continue to flow. Mohamed Sabry will be remembered as one of Zamalek’s most influential midfielders. His achievements, sportsmanship, and loyalty to his club left an indelible mark on Egyptian football history.

    Groff Media ©2025 benandsteve.com Truth Endures

    Mohamed Sabry (1974–2025): Remembering a Zamalek Legend

    You Can Read Learn Daily About Notable People Who Die Around The World  Like ~

    Former Zamalek midfielder Mohamed Sabry has died in a tragic car accident in Cairo at 51. A defining figure in Zamalek’s golden era, Sabry won 15 major titles, including three CAF Champions League crowns. Tributes from teammates, rivals, and fans recall a man of skill, loyalty, and unmatched devotion to the game.

    Read more on:

    📰 Notable Deaths — Groff Media | benandsteve.com Click Here!

    A place to honor the names and stories that shaped our world. Even in the United States Click here~!

    The Island – A Serialized Dystopian Story * Chapter Seven

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    2–3 minutes

    Haven’s Reach: The Fracture Extended

    By the time autumn winds rolled across Haven’s Reach, something in the air had shifted. The Council’s decrees were no longer whispered with unease. They were shouted from wooden platforms. The decrees were painted on walls and nailed to doors. “Obedience is Freedom,” one sign read. “Order Before All,” declared another. The rules had once been tolerated as minor irritations. Now, they pressed down like a boot on the neck of the people.

    It began with curfews. Families were ordered indoors at dusk, lanterns extinguished by the ninth bell. Then came the bans. First, there was one on foreign books. Next, gatherings of more than five were forbidden. Finally, music played in public squares was banned. One by one, pieces of life that had once defined Haven’s Reach fell away. The Council insisted it was “for safety.” But everyone knew better—fear was safer for rulers than for the ruled.

    Harper saw it most clearly when her younger brother, Eli, vanished. One evening, he was at the bakery kneading dough by her side. The next morning, his cot was empty. Blankets were folded neatly as though no one had ever lived there. Whispers reached her ears: Eli had spoken too freely about the Council in the market, and someone had reported him. Now he was “detained for questioning.” No one who had been questioned ever came home the same.

    Harper’s grief sharpened into something more complex. She began wandering beyond her bakery’s door after curfew, listening at corners, watching shadows. That’s how she stumbled across The Quiet Ones. It was a ragtag circle of neighbors, merchants, and teachers. They took it upon themselves to preserve what the Council feared most: memory. They hid forbidden books in flour sacks. They scribbled children’s rhymes on the backs of ledgers. They whispered songs under their breath in defiance.

    When Harper revealed her brother’s name, the Quiet Ones did not look away. An older man with ink-stained hands touched her shoulder and said, 

    “You’re one of us now, whether you meant to be or not. The fight isn’t about one boy. It’s about all of us.”

    The fracture had come—not just between ruler and ruled, but within the people themselves. Some chose silence and survival. Others, like Harper, chose risk and resistance. Haven’s Reach was no longer simply an island under rule. It was a tinderbox, waiting for a single spark to ignite.

    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2025

    October 10 in History: Key Milestones and Cultural Impact

    Benjamin1 Comment
    3–4 minutes
    Oct 10th a good day for history
    How history can pile up on any day of the year.

    How did we arrive at our current state? It is a question a lot of people are asking. It didn’t happen all at once. Getting to where we are, was forever in the making. Before anyone alive today was here. There have been people making decisions, some not so great. Life happens. It is a popular saying for some people. And as you can tell through this date in history. October 10th was a great day for history to be set. It doesn’t explain everything that has happened. But it does give one an idea of how history can pile up on any given day.

    Here’s an evocative image of a calendar marking October 10. It serves as a visual prompt for a day rich in history. This day includes milestone events and global observances.

    October 10: A Crossroads of History, Culture, and Global Awareness

    A Time-Honored Legacy

    1. 1845 – U.S. Naval Academy Founded
      • In Annapolis, Maryland, the Naval School opens with its first class of 50 midshipmen. This event lays the foundation for the modern U.S. Naval Academy.(1)
    2. 1911 – Wuchang Uprising Ignites Revolution This bold move sets the stage for the fall of China’s Qing dynasty. It also leads to the emergence of the Republic of China.(2)
    3. 1935 – ‘Porgy and Bess’ Debuts on Broadway
      • George Gershwin’s groundbreaking opera, featuring an all-Black cast, premieres to widespread acclaim.(3)
    4. 1964 – Tokyo Olympics Start: A Global Broadcast
      • Making history, these Summer Games are the first to be televised live worldwide.(4)
    5. 1973 – Vice-President Agnew’s Resignation
      • Spiro Agnew steps down amid tax evasion charges, a rare and dramatic political moment in U.S. history.(5)

    October 10, 1973: A Domino That Changed the Presidency

    On October 10, 1973, U.S. Vice President Spiro T. Agnew resigned in disgrace. He pleaded no contest to tax evasion charges. These charges stemmed from a bribery scandal dating back to his time as Maryland’s governor. A sitting Vice President had never stepped down under criminal accusations before. This event sent shockwaves through American politics.

    The resignation created an immediate power vacuum. Under the 25th Amendment, passed just six years earlier, President Richard Nixon was capable of nominating a new Vice President. His choice was Michigan Congressman Gerald R. Ford, a steady Republican leader respected across party lines. Congress confirmed him in December 1973, setting in motion a sequence of events no one predicted.

    Only months later, the Watergate scandal deepened. Nixon’s credibility unraveled under the weight of investigations into the cover-up of the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters. With impeachment looming, Nixon resigned on August 9, 1974—the first U.S. president to ever do so.

    In that instant, Gerald Ford became president. He told the American people in his swearing-in speech: 

    “Our long national nightmare is over.” 

    Ford’s ascent to the Oval Office was accidental. He became the only person to serve as both Vice President and president without being elected to either office.

    Looking back, it’s clear that Agnew’s resignation on October 10 wasn’t just a scandal. It was a turning point in American history. Had he remained Vice President, Agnew—not Ford—would have been next in line when Nixon resigned. The nation, already reeling from Watergate, faced the reality of a president tainted by his own corruption charges. Instead, Ford’s calm, if brief, presidency offered a bridge back to stability.

    👉 OCTOBER 10, 1973 stands as proof of how a single resignation reshaped the presidency. It altered the line of succession. It changed the course of American political history.

    October 10 is more than a date—it’s a living mosaic of pivotal moments, human emotion, progress, and remembrance. It reflects how history shapes us and how we, in turn, continue writing it.

    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2025 

    Leif Erikson Day: Honoring Exploration and Heritage and World Post Day Both From A Very Long Time Ago – Especially Now!

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    2–3 minutes

    Celebrating Connection: World Post Day & Leif Erikson Day

    October 9 is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a day rich with meaning. The day celebrates global communication. It also honors the spirit of exploration. Here are two powerful ways this day reminds us of human connection:

    1. World Post Day

    In 1874, the Universal Postal Union (UPU) was founded in Switzerland. This event marked the beginning of the modern era of global communication. Today—World Post Day—we honor the postal service’s vital role in connecting communities, families, and hearts across the globe. Post offices celebrate with stamp exhibits, open houses, and even letter-writing competitions for young people. (1)

    2. Leif Erikson Day

    Leif Erikson Day is also celebrated today. This day honors the Norse explorer. He is believed to be the first European to reach North America. Established in the early 20th century and federally recognized in the U.S. in 1935, the day is especially cherished in communities of Nordic heritage. It’s a celebration of bravery, curiosity, and the timeless call of new frontiers.(2)

    In 1929, the Wisconsin Legislature passed a bill to make 9 October “Leif Erikson Day” in the state. In the years after, several other states adopted laws to celebrate the day.[81] In 1935, legislation was introduced to the United States Congress requesting federal observance of the day. Before the legislation was passed, it was amended so that the observance would only occur in 1935. [82]  Which it was, after a proclamation that year by President President Franklin D. Roosevelt).[83] In future decades, many attempts to pass legislation were unsuccessful. They sought to have Leif Erikson Day proclaimed annually by the president.[84]Proponents eventually succeeded. In 1964, the Congress authorized and requested the president to proclaim 9 October of each year as “Leif Erikson Day”.[19]In the years since, each president has issued an annual proclamation calling for observance of the day.[85]. (3)

    A Real-Life Reminder: The Power of Connecting

    These historic observances brought to mind a personal story I experienced just last weekend:

    Visiting the grocery store, I ran into a long-forgotten neighbor—someone I’d only exchanged waves with in passing. We chatted by the fruit stand for several minutes, sharing news, laughter, and even some life advice. When I left, I carried more than groceries. I carried renewed warmth. It was a reminder that connection doesn’t have to be epic to be meaningful.

    Takeaway for Today

    • Send a letter or thank-you note—traditional or digital. Let someone know how much they matter.
    • Reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. A simple chat can rekindle connection.
    • Think about exploration—big or small. Whether learning something new, trying a recipe, or visiting a new place, celebrate the courage that brought you there.

    On this October 9, let’s honor our past. Let’s look ahead with open hearts. We will celebrate the small connections that make life rich and whole. Especially if countries around the world are shipping to America again. If not, keep an eye on history. It happened once. It will happen again. Maybe.

    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2025 

    Riding The Lie Down The Elevator

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    1–2 minutes

    The Lie in the Elevator

    It began as nothing more than a joke. A character on television—smug, ridiculous—coasted down an elevator while declaring something so absurd that everyone laughed. It was too silly to be taken seriously, too exaggerated to live beyond the moment.

    But no one challenged it. And why would they? It was just a laugh, a one-liner, a small puff of smoke that seemed harmless. Yet smoke drifts. It clings. The joke became a line repeated at dinner tables, then in office chatter, then across social media. What started as comedy grew like a weed, tangled and persistent.

    You knew it was a lie. You knew from the very beginning. But saying something meant being the one to ruin the joke, the one to argue when everyone else was smiling. It was easier to let it go. Easier to think, Surely this will fade away.

    Except it didn’t. The lie ballooned. It threaded itself into conversations, policies, schools, and pulpits. Suddenly your neighbors were quoting it as if it explained the world. Your family repeated it without hesitation. They did not repeat it because they believed it. They found it easier than fighting for the truth.

    And now here you are. Watching as the lie isn’t just smoke anymore—it’s a fire, raging and indiscriminate, swallowing millions in its path. The streets fill with people repeating the words that started as a smirk on an elevator ride. And they look to you, because they trust you. Because they think you see what they see.

    But you don’t. You know better.

    The question is no longer whether the lie is funny. The question is whether you will stand against it now. It is late, but not too late. Otherwise, silence will make you part of it.

    What would you do?

    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2025

    Warning Signs: What Recent Shootings Reveal About America’s Pressures

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    4–6 minutes

    When Politics Turns Deadly: What Recent Shootings Reveals About America’s Pressures

    Political Violence in the U.S.: A Historical Lens Political Pressure Pots That Are Exploding

    On September 10, 2025, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University. The attack shocked audiences nationwide and revived a painful question: Is political violence becoming more common in the United States? While the details of this case continue to unfold, history offers context. The Kirk shooting is tragic, but it’s not unprecedented—political assassinations and attacks have occurred before. Understanding that history can help us prevent future violence.

    Political Violence in the U.S.: Then and Now

    Throughout U.S. history, public figures have been targeted for their beliefs, activism, or positions of power. These events—though rare—often show deep social, political, or cultural tensions. Below is a timeline of key moments, followed by how they compare to today.

    Timeline of Notable U.S. Political Murders/Assassinations

    Year / Victim / Role / Context / Motive

    On April 14, 1865, Abraham Lincoln, the U.S. President, was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth, a Confederate sympathizer.

    1901 William McKinley, U.S. President, was killed by anarchist Leon Czolgosz.

    1935 Huey Long, U.S. Senator / LA Governor, was shot by Carl Weiss amid political turmoil in Louisiana.

    1963 Medgar Evers, a Civil Rights Activist, was shot outside his home for his activism in Mississippi.

    In 1963, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated while riding in a motorcade in Dallas, Texas. Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested for the crime. He was shot and killed by Jack Ruby before standing trial. The official record names Oswald as the lone gunman. The motive has remained an issue of widespread debate and speculation for decades.

    1965 Malcolm X, a Civil Rights Leader, was killed during a public speech in Harlem.

    1968 Robert F. Kennedy, the Presidential Candidate, was shot after a campaign rally in Los Angeles.

    On April 4, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—American Baptist minister, civil rights leader, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate—was assassinated. He was standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee when it happened. James Earl Ray, an escaped convict, was arrested for the murder two months later and later pleaded guilty. Ray claimed he was part of a larger conspiracy. He later tried to recant his confession. Nonetheless, the official record names him as the assassin. The motive remains the topic of debate. King led the civil rights movement. He opposed systemic racism. These actions made him a frequent target of threats and hostility.

    1969–70s Various bombings & shootings Political & protest-related Weather Underground, far-right and far-left extremist groups.

    2011 Gabrielle Giffords (survived), U.S. Representative, was shot at a constituent event in Arizona; six others were killed.

    High profile, targeted instances of political violence

    Charlie Kirk shooting*

    Killed

    Orem, Utah

    Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at an event on the campus of Utah Valley University. Kirk was a well-known conservative activist who founded Turning Point USA.

    Sept. 2025

    *Officials have not confirmed that the shooting was politically motivated.

    *Officials have not confirmed that the shooting was politically motivated.

    Minnesota lawmaker shootings

    2 killed, 2 injured

    Minneapolis, Minnesota

    A gunman targeted several Minnesota election officials. He killed Minnesota House of Representatives member Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman in their home. State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife Yvette Hoffman were shot and injured in their home.

    June 2025

    Minnesota lawmaker shootings

    Two killed, two injured

    Minneapolis, Minnesota

    A gunman targeted several Minnesota election officials. He killed Minnesota House of Representatives member Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman in their home. State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette Hoffman were shot and injured in their home.

    June 2025

    Minnesota lawmaker shootings

    Two killed, two injured

    Minneapolis, Minnesota

    A gunman targeted several Minnesota election officials. He killed Minnesota House of Representatives member Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman in their home. State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette Hoffman were shot and injured in their home.

    June 2025

    Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s home arson

    No injuries

    Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

    The Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence was set on fire while Shapiro and his family slept inside.

    April 2025

    Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s home arson

    No injuries

    Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

    The Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence was set on fire while Shapiro and his family slept inside.

    2025 Charlie Kirk, Conservative Activist, was shot while speaking at Utah Valley University; investigation ongoing.

    Timeline of Notable Political Murders And Attacks In The U.S. (1865-2025)

    Patterns and Parallels

    • Public Rhetoric Matters: In nearly every case, rhetoric and polarization preceded the violence.
    • Violence Rarely Comes From Nowhere: These events are almost always linked to broader grievances, social tensions, or extremist ideologies.
    • Modern Amplifiers: Today’s social media, 24/7 news, and intense partisanship can supercharge grievances faster than in past eras.

    Lessons for Today

    The Kirk shooting reflects how quickly divisions can escalate. This happens when marginalized or politically active groups feel threatened. It also occurs when public discourse frames opponents as existential enemies. Left unchecked, the result can spill over from online posts and protests into public spaces and deadly attacks.

    History shows that violence rarely ends the debate—it deepens it. The antidote is not silence but inclusion, dialogue, and guardrails on how we treat one another, even when we disagree.

    Closing Thoughts

    The U.S. is not doomed to repeat its worst moments, but it does need to recognize them. Political violence grows where alienation and fear fester. The Charlie Kirk tragedy, like earlier assassinations, should not only shock but also instruct. By confronting polarization and reinforcing democratic norms, communities can prevent these cycles from repeating.

    About the Author:

    Benjamin Groff is a former police officer and radio news anchor. He has hosted programs for CNN and ABC News affiliates in Colorado and Wyoming. His career in law enforcement began in 1980 and lasted more than two decades. This gave him firsthand insight into the criminal mind and public safety. Moreover, it provided him with an understanding of the human stories that often go untold. His writing draws on these experiences, blending street-level truth with a journalist’s eye for the bigger picture.

    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | ©2025 

    The Power of Actuality Reporting in Journalism

    Benjamin2 Comments
    1–2 minutes

    I came across this news report and was genuinely impressed by its craftsmanship. The reporter doesn’t just tell the story. They show it. They use actuality reporting and a wraparound technique that gives the piece depth and authenticity. It’s the type of journalism that doesn’t just inform—it immerses you. This level of storytelling should be seen and appreciated by more people.

    Man From MRI Accident – Update

    Benjamin3 Comments

    A sad update, the man in a report here a few days ago has died.

    61‑year‑old Keith McAllister died after being violently pulled into the MRI scanner at Nassau Open MRI in Westbury, Long Island. He entered the MRI room on Wednesday, July 16, while his wife was undergoing a knee scan. McAllister wore a heavy-weight-training chain (~9–20 lb/4–9 kg) around his neck. Despite prior discussions about the chain with staff, he was allowed in.

    When he approached the machine, the strong magnetic field latched onto the chain, yanking him into the scanner. His wife and the technician attempted to free him, but he collapsed in her arms. She recounted shouting, “Turn this damn thing off! Call 911!”.

    McAllister was rushed to the hospital, where he suffered multiple heart attacks and was pronounced dead on Thursday, July 17. His wife emotionally described the moment: “He went limp in my arms… I can’t wrap my head around it”.

    The Nassau County Police Department is investigating the incident, and experts are emphasizing the critical need for strict MRI safety protocols, especially regarding metal screening. Past tragedies—including a 2001 case involving a child and an oxygen tank—highlight the grave risks of metallic objects around MRI machines.

    Summary of key points:

    Victim: Keith McAllister, 61

    Date of incident: July 16, 2025 (MRI room event)

    Date of death: July 17, 2025 (hospital)

    Cause: Pulled into MRI by heavy metal chain (~9–20 lb)

    Response: Wife and technician tried to assist; police are now investigating

    Safety concern: Highlights critical importance of enforcing metal screening protocols

    www.cnn.com/2025/07/20/health/mri-machine-death-long-island

    From the Pages of History: July 11, 1955 — “Nightfall Over Wichita”

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    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

    1–2 minutes

    Wichita, Kansas – July 11, 1955

    The heat had been unrelenting for days. By the evening of July 11th, something darker than the weather was brewing in the Kansas sky. Just after 6:30 p.m., local news reports began buzzing with concern. A fast-moving system was developing west of the city. Radar, still new technology for military meteorologists, was showing rotation in those days it wasn’t shared like it is now.

    At 7:04 p.m., a Category F4 tornado touched down near the town of Udall, Kansas. It was the same town that had been devastated just two months earlier in the deadliest tornado in state history. This one skirted the more populated areas. Still, damage was widespread. Barns were flattened, power lines twisted, and wheat fields scraped bare. Miraculously, only minor injuries were reported. Many locals said they were prepared this time, keeping radios on and basements cleared after the trauma of May 25.

    The Wichita Eagle published a late edition the next morning. The headline read

    “Twister Brushes Wichita – City Spared, Farms Not So Lucky.” 

    File Photo

    A black-and-white photo captured a twisted silo lying like a crushed can under a red-orange sunrise.

    Looking back, July 11, 1955, was a reminder that in the American Midwest, nature rarely knocks. It kicks in the door, and you learn to be ready.

    What the world needs now? Is Love Sweet Love! It isn’t too late for the United States?

    BenjaminLeave a comment

    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

    2–3 minutes

    The most significant cultural threat to occur in my lifetime is occurring as I write today. It deals with our nations stability. The threat to our democracy doesn’t come from a single event—it happens every day. It happens when we ignore what’s unfolding in our city councils, our state legislatures, and in the halls of Congress. It happens when we assume that honorable people are safeguarding our federal institutions.

    That complacency is how we arrived at the crisis point we face in 2025.


    In the early 1970s, President Richard Nixon was implicated in one of the greatest political scandals in U.S. history: Watergate. His aides admitted to orchestrating a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters. They attempted to steal information to sabotage a political opponent. The House of Representatives held impeachment hearings. Nixon was on the brink of being impeached. He resigned before the Senate took up the case. He was never prosecuted—pardoned instead by his successor, Gerald Ford. That decision set a precedent: presidents commit crimes without real consequence.


    Had Nixon faced justice, we wouldn’t be watching the unraveling of the United States today. In 2025, we are witnessing a troubling surge of pro-white nationalist influence within our government. Supremacist ideologies are fueling misinformation campaigns and choking the truth that help heal and unite our country. This is one of the most perilous chapters in our nation’s history. It spells the end of the United States as we have known it.

    Ulrich Groff I.


    Ironically, the Groff family once fled an oppressive regime in the 1850s, seeking liberty and justice in America. Now, in a cruel twist of history, a direct descendant of Ulrich Groff I —faces a difficult consideration. Will he see himself returning to the very region his ancestors left in search of freedom. Or hope for a miracle. We must not allow the hard-won promises of our democracy to slip away through silence and inaction.

    What the world—and especially the United States—needs now is love, sweet love. Not the kind that’s fleeting or sentimental. It should be the steady, courageous kind that listens more than it lectures. It seeks understanding over dominance. Our nation was once bound together by a shared belief in the promise of unity. Now, it is splintered by division. Mistrust and fear further divide us. Political rage, social distrust, and cultural isolation have made enemies of neighbors and strangers of friends.

    But love, in its truest form, has the power to mend what anger tears apart. It begins with kindness in daily life—treating others with respect, even when they disagree with us. It grows in empathy—stepping into anothers shoes rather than judging them from afar. If we can choose love over fear, we can start to heal this fractured country. Hope must prevail over hate. Connection should be preferred over separation. This healing won’t happen overnight. It will occur heart by heart, one act at a time.

    Understanding U.S. Immigration Raids: Obama vs. Trump

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    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

    2–4 minutes

    I received a question yesterday about the United States. They asked why so many people are up in arms over the current immigration raids taking place across the country. Especially after President Obama, during his term in office, removed over 3 million undocumented individuals. Many of whom they claimed never had a hearing. 

    I wanted to conduct some research to learn more about it for myself. 

    Understanding Immigration Enforcement: Obama vs. Trump

    During his eight years in office (2009–2017), President Barack Obama led an administration that deported over 3 million noncitizens. These deportations were conducted through formal removal proceedings. A formal removal involves a legal process. This process results in a court order for deportation from the United States.

    If we include “returns”, the total number of departures exceeds 5 million under the Obama administration. These returns are cases where individuals either voluntarily left the country or were denied entry at the border. They agreed to withdraw their application to enter. Many of those individuals were turned away at the border before ever entering the U.S. Because they were not formally admitted into the country, they were not entitled to a court hearing. These actions, while recorded as enforcement events, differ significantly from deportations after internal apprehensions.

    It’s important to note that Obama’s enforcement focused heavily on border security. It prioritized the removal of individuals with serious criminal records. Despite this, he faced criticism from immigrant rights advocates for the high number of deportations. At the same time, Republicans attacked him for not doing enough to secure the border.

    In contrast, the Trump administration adopted a far more aggressive and indiscriminate approach. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents under Trump routinely apprehended individuals from homes. They were also taken from workplaces, schools, churches, or even while walking with family. Many were detained without prompt access to legal counsel. They were transferred long distances from their communities. In some cases, they were deported without ever appearing before a judge. This represented a sharp departure from the enforcement priorities of earlier administrations.

    It’s worth remembering that President Obama did not pursue mass interior deportations without due process. He implemented programs like DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals). These programs offer relief to specific undocumented individuals who were brought to the U.S. as children.

    Obama never had to use the military. He deported nearly 8 million non-documented individuals. This includes those he sent back and others never allowed in through customs at airports, ports of entry and borders. He used the border patrol and immigration officials on a budget provided by Congress. Trump has spent more on advertising. He talks about what he is going to do or what he has done. This spending is more than any earlier administration spent deporting a person. He has had to send in the National Guard and Marines. As of this report, 118 immigrants have been apprehended in Los Angeles. It is true they will not get a hearing if their incarceration follows the path of others.

    I want to thank the person who asked to stay anonymous for bringing this issue to our attention. It’s vital to understand the differences in immigration enforcement approaches. While no administration is perfect, how a President handles immigration reflects not just policy but a nation’s values.

    There has to be a better way!

    When Radios Fell Silent: The 1978 Trooper Tragedy

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    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

    4–6 minutes

    The Day the Radios Fell Silent: A Personal Account of May 26, 1978

    It was a warm May morning in 1978. I was 15 years old, working the phones at my dad’s office at Camp Red Rock in western Oklahoma. For several days, law enforcement radio traffic had been intense—more active than usual, more urgent. Something serious was happening.

    An All-Points Bulletin had been issued statewide: two inmates had escaped from the Oklahoma State Prison in McAlester. They were described as extremely dangerous men, capable of committing horrific crimes. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) and local authorities launched a massive manhunt, focusing on the southeastern region of the state. While there were scattered reports from other areas, the belief was that the fugitives remained nearby and on foot.

    Trooper Houston F. “Pappy” Summers,
    Motor Vehicle Inspection (MVI) Division in Enid.

    Still, troubling reports emerged—houses broken into, firearms stolen, and even a car gone missing. An army of troopers scoured the countryside. The fugitives had to move carefully, methodically, to avoid detection. The search had only been underway for days, but it felt like weeks.

    May 26, 1978, arrived. It would become one of the darkest days in the history of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

    Although I was hundreds of miles away from the action, the search was broadcast live to my ears. The ranger office where I worked was equipped with radios that picked up all law enforcement frequencies. I heard it all: the calls, the coordination, the chaos.

    Trooper Billy G. Young, Woodward MVI detachment.

    That morning, a somber message came over the radio from Highway Patrol District Headquarters:

    “Attention all stations and units: All nets are 10-63 until further notice.”

    In plain terms, this meant that the radio network was reserved exclusively for emergency traffic related to the escapees. No unnecessary chatter. But maintaining a “10-63 net” requires constant reinforcement. Officers rotate shifts. New dispatchers come on duty. Without reminders, the rule starts to fade, and soon enough, radio traffic returns to normal. That’s exactly what happened.

    As the air unit tried to communicate with ground teams, their messages were drowned out by unrelated conversations. Then, something chilling unfolded.

    Lieutenant Pat Grimes,
    Internal Affairs.

    I listened in real time. The air unit tried to warn a team of troopers. They had approached a area. The escapees were hiding—just beyond the trees, lying in wait. The troopers, thinking it was a routine check, got out of their car casually. Suddenly, gunfire erupted. It was an ambush.

    One of the troopers managed to retreat to his vehicle and tried to call for backup. The air unit, having seen everything from above, struggled to get through. The radio frequencies were jammed with idle chatter. It was a communications nightmare that have cost lives.

    I sat there, helpless, listening to the air unit reporting the tragedy to headquarters. The dispatcher pleaded for all units to clear the net so emergency aid is dispatched. I was stunned—devastated. This moment became a lasting lesson in why radio discipline can be a matter of life and death.

    Later that day, I was shocked again—two more troopers had been shot in the same area. And then, I heard the message that signaled the manhunt was over:

    “Be advised, the search for the escapees is over. All units and stations can return to regular assignments.”

    That phrase said it all. The escapees were no longer a threat. They hadn’t been captured—they were dead. Had they been taken alive, the dispatch would have named the unit responsible for their arrest.

    The Fallen

    Three troopers lost their lives that day:

    • Trooper Houston F. “Pappy” Summers, 62, a 32-year veteran stationed with the Motor Vehicle Inspection (MVI) Division in Enid.
    • Trooper Billy G. Young, 50, with 25 years of service, attached to the Woodward MVI detachment.
    • Lieutenant Pat Grimes, 36, from Internal Affairs, nearing his 12th year with the Patrol.

    Summers and Young died in a gunfight on a rural road near Kenefic. This occurred after the escapees stole a farmer’s truck and weapons. The troopers, unaware of what they were driving into, were ambushed.

    Later that day, in the small town of Caddo, Lt. Grimes and his partner, Lt. Hoyt Hughes, were searching a residential area when they, too, came under fire. Grimes was fatally shot. Hughes was wounded but managed to exit the vehicle and return fire at close range, killing one of the fugitives.

    Just moments later, Lt. Mike Williams of the Durant detachment arrived. He fatally shot the second escapee. This action brought an end to a 34-day reign of terror that had stretched across six states.

    The two escapees caused the deaths of eight people. This number includes the three troopers. They also injured at least three others during their violent run from justice.

    Final Thoughts

    What I heard that day shaped me. During my time in the police academy, I learned something important. My account of the events closely aligned with what was eventually confirmed. The tragedy of May 26, 1978, became a case study. It highlighted the importance of radio discipline. The event also emphasized operational coordination and situational awareness.

    But for me, it was more than that. It was personal. I was there—listening. And I will never forget the sound of silence that followed.

    Jason Conti’s Impact on MLB History

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    January 27, 1975 – May 17, 2025

    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

    1–2 minutes
    Jason Conti, AZ Diamondbacks

    Stanley Jason Conti was a former Major League Baseball outfielder. He was known for his defensive prowess. He contributed to several MLB teams. Conti passed away on May 17, 2025, his cause of death has not been disclosed.

    Conti was born on January 27, 1975, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Arizona Diamondbacks drafted him in the 32nd round of the 1996 amateur draft. He came from the University of Pittsburgh. He made his highly anticipated MLB debut with the Diamondbacks on June 29, 2000, filled with excitement and promise. He played for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Milwaukee Brewers, and Texas Rangers over a five-year major league career. Known for his strong throwing arm, Conti made memorable defensive plays. He threw out Atlanta’s Brian Jordan at third base on consecutive nights. He also gunned down Chicago’s Frank Thomas at home plate in back-to-back games. He appeared in 182 MLB games, recording a .238 batting average with six home runs and 47 RBIs.

    After his time in the majors, Conti continued his baseball career in the minor leagues, even taking his talent overseas. He played in Italy for the Bologna Italieri of the Series 1-A Championship League during the 2007 season. His performance on the field showcased his skills on a global stage.

    Conti’s passion for baseball and his memorable moments on the field left a lasting impression on fans and teammates alike. He is remembered for his athletic achievements and unwavering dedication to the sport, a commitment that inspired many.

    He is survived by his family, friends, and countless fans who appreciated his contributions to baseball.


    A memorial service will honor Jason Conti’s life and career.

    Learn About The Lady In Mickey Gilley’s Song – The Girls All Get Better At Closing Time.

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    ‘I know Robert Redford, even Lola Hall…’

    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

    4–6 minutes

    Lola Hall: Oklahoma’s Weather Girl Who Became a Legend

    In the heart of America, television was becoming the central storyteller of the modern household. During this time, one woman in Oklahoma City quietly became a beloved figure. She was cherished across living rooms, farms, and small-town diners alike. Her name was Lola Hall, the poised and personable weather girl for KWTV Channel 9. Through the 1960s and 1970s, Lola transitioned from forecasting the weather. She began anchoring the morning news. She carved out a legacy of warmth, professionalism, and unexpected celebrity.

    A Humble Start on Channel 9

    Lola Hall wasn’t born into the limelight. She was raised in Oklahoma. She considered herself an ordinary woman. “I’m just a plain girl with a good work ethic,” she once said. She never imagined she would become a fixture in households across the state. She also didn’t foresee that her name would one day be immortalized in a hit country song.

    She started at KWTV in the early 1960s. Television was still finding its footing then. Local personalities were becoming stars in their own right. Initially billed as a “weather girl,” a common term at the time, Lola did more. She did more than point at cloud symbols and smile at the camera. She brought a genuine understanding of weather patterns. Her calm demeanor during storms was notable. She had a natural charisma that made viewers trust her.

    The Weather Girl also known as the Weather Lady, and Lola Hall

    Lola quickly stood out not only for her delivery but for her grounded, approachable nature. She didn’t talk down to viewers or play a character. She was simply Lola — smart, steady, and relatable.

    Rising to Anchor the Morning News

    As her popularity grew, so did her responsibilities. By the early 1970s, Lola earned a promotion to co-anchor the morning news. This was a significant achievement for a woman in broadcasting. In that early morning slot, she became the face viewers saw as they sipped coffee. People watched her while packing school lunches. They prepared for long days on the farm or at work.

    Her calm voice and natural empathy helped set the tone for the day. But it wasn’t a solo act.

    Near the end of her career, she welcomed two of Oklahoma’s most trusted newsmen. Bill Haire and Wayne Lyle joined her on the morning show. Both were widely respected for their skill in agricultural reporting — essential content for Oklahoma’s large farming population. The trio became a necessary part of daily life for rural viewers. Farmers tuned in for weather and headlines. They also relied on Bill and Wayne for dependable reports on crop forecasts. Their reports covered market conditions and farming trends.

    Lola, Bill, and Wayne worked together to form an Oklahoma morning news trifecta. They delivered information with clarity, sincerity, and a deep respect for their audience. They weren’t just broadcasters; they were neighbors.

    A Country Music Cameo

    But, Lola’s story wouldn’t be finished without an interesting twist. One of her career’s most surprising moments was an unexpected brush with country music fame.

    Lola Hall, KWTV Channel 9′s beloved weather girl and morning news anchor, pictured during a 1970s broadcast. Her calm presence and signature charm made her a household name across Oklahoma.

    During an interview with country star Mickey Gilley, Lola found herself momentarily flustered. Gilley, known for chart-topping hits and honky-tonk swagger, was in Oklahoma City promoting his music when he confessed on air.

    He told Lola that back in his younger days, he grew up in rural east Texas. KWTV Channel 9 was one of the few stations they could pick up. And Lola Hall, with her grace and good looks, was a celebrity to the local boys.

    “You were the hottest thing we’d ever seen,” 

    Gilley smiled, adding that Lola had made such an impression that he mentioned her by name in his song.

     “The Girls All Get Prettier at Closing Time.”

    For a brief moment, Lola lost her composure — laughing, blushing, and turning to the crew off-camera. It was a rare crack in her usually calm exterior, and viewers loved it. She quickly recovered, continuing the interview with her usual charm, but later admitted she was shocked.

    “I thought I was just the girl telling them to grab an umbrella,” 

    She joked.

    A Lasting Legacy

    Lola Hall stepped away from the news desk eventually. She left behind a legacy built not on flash or fame. Instead, it was built on trust, relatability, and professionalism. During an era when women in broadcasting often had to work twice as hard, Lola rose through the ranks. Her long-lasting connection with viewers stood as a quiet revolution.

    She may never have considered herself glamorous. She may not have thought of herself as remarkable. But, to thousands of Oklahomans—and at least one country legend—she was both.

    You know it each time you hear the song and Gilley sings the line,

    “I know Robert Redford even Lola Hall!”

    Lola Hall wasn’t just the weather girl. She was part of the fabric of Oklahoma life. Her name, her voice, and her smile are still remembered by those who welcomed her into their homes each morning.

    For a personal take on her career click here and be taken to an interview with Lola Hall!

    To truly dive into the story of Lola Hall and other trailblazing women of the 1950s and ’60s, prepare yourself. They were often known then as “weather girls.” Grab your favorite refreshment and settle in. This captivating podcast offers a rich glimpse into their rise to popularity. Back in the day, we just called it a recording—but whatever the name, you’re in for something special.

    From Cotton Fields to Sheriff: The Story of Jess Bowling

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    By Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

    4–5 minutes

    Sheriff Jess “Pooch” Bowling, Jr.: From Cotton Fields to County Leader

    Jess ‘Pooch’ Bowling

    Jess Bowling, Jr. was born in Binger, Oklahoma, on August 23, 1924. At just 11 years old, he left behind half his family. He also left the dusty plains of Oklahoma. He sought a new beginning in California. With his father and brother, young Jess traveled west in a weathered 1929 Buick. They finally settled in the small agricultural town of Dos Palos. His mother, two sisters, and another brother stayed behind in Oklahoma—a family split by circumstance but not by love.

    Life in California was anything but easy. Jess Jr. rose with the sun. He toiled in the cotton fields until it set. He contributed what he could to help his family survive. It was hard work—grueling and endless—but there was resilience in the struggle. Sheriff later joked, “We did live in the biggest tent in Dos Palos!”

    His father, Jess Sr., quickly became a cornerstone of the growing town. He opened a grocery store, invested in rental properties, and became active in local politics. His leadership and business savvy earned him a seat on the city council and, eventually, the title of Mayor.

    Jess Jr. worked in the family store while attending school. He graduated from Dos Palos High School with a reputation for dependability and quiet strength. Not long after, fate stepped in when he met Darlene, a young woman from Iowa visiting relatives. The two married in 1945 and raised three children—Sharlynn, Shirley, and Michael.

    The Badge and the Beat

    Simulated Photo

    Jess Bowling’s journey into law enforcement began in 1953 when he joined the Dos Palos Police Department. His first assignment? Tackling the town’s parking problem. Officer Bowling issued dozens of citations, doing so with a steady hand and a sense of duty. He even issued one to his father, the Mayor. Years later, he found that very ticket among his father’s possessions, a keepsake of humor and integrity.

    Although that first stint in law enforcement was brief, it planted a seed. After returning to the family store, Bowling joined the Atwater Police Department in 1956. In 1958, he made the move that would define his career: joining the Merced County Sheriff’s Department.

    Simulated Photo

    In 1963, Bowling became the department’s first-ever canine handler, partnered with a large, loyal German Shepherd named Jim. Together, they helped pioneer a new era of policing.

    By 1974, Jess Bowling had risen to the rank of Lieutenant when tragedy struck—the sudden passing of Sheriff Earl McKeown. In the aftermath, Bowling was appointed interim Sheriff. The people had already decided by the time the special election rolled around in May 1975. Bowling’s steady leadership and quiet competence earned him the Sheriff’s badge in his own right.

    Reformer, Leader, Trailblazer

    Sheriff Bowling led the department through six transformative years. He spearheaded major innovations that professionalized law enforcement in Merced County. Under his administration:

    • The Corrections Division was established, moving jail staffing from deputies to trained corrections officers.
    • Dispatch services were assigned to civilian professionals, freeing up sworn deputies for fieldwork.
    • He launched the county’s first-ever 24-hour patrol, marking the end of the “resident deputy” model.
    • He hired Merced’s first female deputy, breaking gender barriers in local law enforcement.
    • The department acquired its first handheld radios, enabling Bowling to reintroduce the classic “walking beat cop” in areas like Winton.

    These weren’t just administrative changes but foundational shifts that shaped the Sheriff’s Department into a modern, responsive force.

    His achievements were not only admired—they were preserved. Jess “Pooch” Bowling’s remarkable career is documented in a collection. His family lovingly maintains it as a tribute to a life of service.

    Legacy and Final Salute

    I had the privilege of knowing the Bowling family. One of my sisters even married Jess’s nephew. Every time he returned to town, Sheriff Bowling brought a yearbook from the department he once led. He proudly pointed out the growth and accomplishments of his former team. The department’s scope, the number of divisions, and the professionalism he helped instill always struck me, as did his accomplishments.

    1974 – The first female deputy was sworn in

    1974 – First portable transceivers issued to deputies

    1974 – The first 24-hour patrol begins

    1977 – First Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) organized

    1977 – Marshal’s Office established

    1980 – Hostage negotiators were trained and included on the SERT team

    Merced County Sheriff’s Office, California

    But behind the badge was a man who never forgot where he came from. Before the titles and the accolades, Jess “Pooch” Bowling was a boy in a Buick. He was a cotton picker working under the sun. He was a young man doing what he could to help his family survive.

    After a doctor advised him to retire due to a serious heart condition, Sheriff Bowling stepped down in 1980. He lived to celebrate his 80th birthday during Merced County’s 150th anniversary in 2005. This honor was fitting for a man who helped shape its modern history.

    Jess “Pooch” Bowling passed away on April 18, 2007. He was laid to rest beside his beloved Darlene in Dos Palos Cemetery.

    His story is one of grit, integrity, and service. It is a journey from the cotton fields to the highest badge in the county.

    Sgt. Steve Mahan: A Line of Duty Sacrifice

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    Benjamin GroffMedia© | benandsteve.com | 2025 Truth Endures©

    4–6 minutes

    The Sgt. Steve Mahan Story – Elk City, Oklahoma

    Sgt. Steven L Mahan

    Steve Mahan was a laid-back guy — the sleepy type. He rarely overreacted, and getting him excited about anything was hard. One day, Sgt. Mahan responded to a bomb threat at a local school. When he found the suspicious device, he calmly picked it up. He put it in the trunk of his patrol car. Then he drove it back to the police station.

    He carried it inside without much fuss and placed it on the booking counter.

    I had never seen the top brass lose it all at the same time. The Chief, the Major, and the Captain were all upset at once. They cussed and yelled in perfect unison, ordering Mahan to promptly take the device back outside. Then they called the fire department, which, ironically, was located right next door.

    The fire department’s first response? 

    “Have him bring it over.”

    The Chief shut that idea down on the spot.

    If I remember right, Mahan took it to the shooting range. The three top brass joined him there with rifles in hand. They tried to get it to explode.

    It turned out to be a dummy.

    Thankfully, it was because I was working on the other side of that booking counter the whole time.

    Sgt. Steven Mahan was killed in the line of duty on January 5, 1983. That night, his girlfriend was working at the police department. Another female dispatcher was also there. He drove upon an armed robbery in progress at a local hotel. Unbeknownst to him, he was moving into an ambush.

    After handing over the cash, the hotel clerk ducked behind the counter and observed the unfolding scene. She promptly called the police, reporting that an officer had been shot in the head. She couldn’t recognize the unit number but noted the word “Supervisor” on the vehicle’s front panel.

    Upon realizing it was him, Sgt. Mahan’s girlfriend became understandably distraught. The other dispatcher maintained composure under extreme pressure. She coordinated response units. She relayed critical information from the hotel clerk to surrounding agencies. The suspects were taken into custody within the hour thanks to swift action and coordination.

    Sgt. Mahan had been overpowered and shot in the head with a .25 caliber pistol, then fatally shot again in the back of the head with his service weapon. The officers rushed him to the local hospital in the back of a patrol unit. Dense fog made air transport impossible. An ambulance was then dispatched for the nearly three-hour drive to the nearest trauma center. It traveled through whiteout conditions with visibility near zero.

    I arrived at the station about an hour after the shooting. I was designated as the point of contact for media outlets. They were calling nonstop. I remained in contact with the ambulance, his girlfriend, and a fellow officer riding alongside Sgt. Mahan. The driver reported struggling to reach even 35 mph on the fog-covered interstate.

    Steven L. Mahan
    Killed In The Line Of Duty – Elk City, Oklahoma

    Roughly thirty miles from the trauma hospital, I heard the ambulance driver radio for local police assistance. They needed help to reach the nearest hospital. The ambulance had to exit the highway. I knew what that meant. I called the Chief’s office. I delivered the news. We had just lost our first officer in the line of duty.

    • Official Summary –

    Bobby Lynn Ross was convicted of the 1983 murder of Elk City Police Sgt. Steve Mahan, who was 30 years old at the time. Two co-defendants were also convicted of second-degree murder in connection with the case.

    On January 5, 1983, Sgt. Mahan was conducting a routine check when he drove up to the Los Quartos Inn in Elk City, Oklahoma. Unbeknownst to him, an armed robbery was already in progress. Mahan interrupted the robbery, during which Bobby Lynn Ross had already threatened to kill the motel clerk.

    Ross disarmed Sgt. Mahan and ordered him to lie on the ground. Although the officer complied, Ross shot him multiple times at close range with a .25-caliber pistol—then took Mahan’s service weapon and shot him again.

    Ross was convicted of first-degree murder and robbery with firearms on October 21, 1983.

    During a failed clemency hearing before the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board on November 19, Ross asked for forgiveness. He addressed Mahan’s family. He claimed he had changed. Sgt. Mahan’s daughter, who was only 18 months old when her father was killed, submitted a heartfelt letter to the board:

    “I missed out on all the opportunities that most children had. My father was stolen from me before I even had a chance to know him. My father was doing his job, not out trying to disrupt people’s lives. All I ask for is justice to be served.”

    That night, Elk City police detective Jim LaFarlette sped through the darkness. His dying colleague was in the back of a patrol car. A family lost a son. A child lost her father. A community lost a hero.

    “We all under the badge were deprived of a brother,”

    LaFarlette said of the murder of Elk City police Sgt. Steven Mahan on Jan. 5, 1983. Ross was put to death by lethal injection on December 9th, 1999. Ross had lived 11 years longer than Mahan was allowed.

    It was the day of Bobby Lynn Ross’s execution. I called Elk City Police Chief Bill Putman to confirm that the execution was moving ahead. He assured me that it was. He informed me that he and Officer Jim LaFarlette would attend to witness it themselves. Indeed, they did.

    Three Impacts of a Collision Explained

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    GROFF MEDIA 2024© TRUTH ENDURES IMDBPRO

    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©s

    2–3 minutes

    Understanding the Three Impacts in a Collision

    Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

    We often think there is just one impact when imagining an accident. Be this is a fall, a bicycle crash, or a car collision. Yet, physics and medical studies, based on rigorous research and analysis, show that every crash has three distinct impacts. Each one contributes to potential injury.

    Let’s use a crash as an example, though the same principles apply to other accidents.

    Impact #1: Vehicle Collision

    This is the first crash. The moving vehicle collides with another object. Whether it is a wall or a stationary object. The force of this impact determines the severity of the accident.

    Impact #2: Body Impact

    Even after the vehicle stops or slows down, the occupants continue moving ahead due to inertia. This often causes a secondary impact. The person collides with the car’s interior, like the dashboard, windshield, airbag, or seatbelt. It’s important to note that seatbelts and airbags play a crucial role. They reduce injuries and make us feel safer on the road.

    Impact #3: Internal Organ Impact

    The most overlooked but critical impact happens within the body itself. Even after a person stops moving, their internal organs shift and collide with bones and other structures. This can lead to serious injuries like concussions, internal bleeding, and organ damage.

    Delayed Symptoms and the Body’s 

    Response Of The Body instantly after an accident, many people don’t feel the extent of their injuries. Adrenaline and shock mask the pain. The body naturally responds by triggering inflammation and swelling to protect damaged areas. Yet, once this response subsides—sometimes hours or even days later—the true severity of injuries becomes obvious.

    The Delay Between Sight and Sound in a Crash

    If you witness an accident from a distance, you notice another phenomenon. There is a delay between what you see and hear.

    Because light travels faster than sound (186,000 miles per second vs. 1,125 feet per second), you will see a crash before you hear it. This creates a lag, where the sequence of events seems different from what happened.

    Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

    For example, if a plane crashes and explodes, a witness will report hearing multiple booms and assume three separate explosions. In reality, they are hearing the first impact, secondary collisions, and final resting impact—all of which happened quickly. The delay in sound reaching the observer can create confusion, especially during traumatic or high-stress situations.

    Key Takeaways

    • Accidents involve three distinct impacts: vehicle collision, body impact, and internal organ impact.
    • Injuries are not always instantly clear, as the body’s natural mechanisms can mask symptoms.
    • Witnesses misinterpret the sequence of events because of the delay between light and sound. Hence, investigators must analyze physical evidence carefully.

    Understanding these factors can help individuals recognize the risks involved in crashes. They can then make informed decisions about safety and medical attention.

    Grassroots Movement Transforms American Politics

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    GROFF MEDIA 2024© TRUTH ENDURES IMDBPRO

    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©s

    3–4 minutes

    The Grassroots Movement for Economic and Political Justice

    Arizona Rally March 2025
    Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez mark a defining moment in American politics. Tempe, Arizona Rally 2025 Groff Media©

    The recent rallies by Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez mark a defining moment in contemporary American politics. Across five rallies in three states, tens of thousands gathered. They made a resounding call for change. This signals widespread dissatisfaction with the current political and economic systems. The overwhelming attendance at these events reveals a deep-rooted movement. It is fueled by a demand for economic fairness. There is also a call for political integrity and grassroots-driven reform.

    Greeley Colorado, Groff Media©

    One of the key takeaways from these rallies is the rejection of Trumpism, oligarchy, and authoritarianism. The presence of thousands in North Las Vegas, Tempe, Greeley, Denver, and Tucson shows collective opposition to massive income inequality. Wealth inequality has left many working-class Americans behind. This movement directly responds to a political system. In this system, billionaires hold disproportionate power. They use their wealth to influence elections and dictate policy. The rallies were not simply campaign events; they were gatherings of individuals. They were determined to reclaim democracy from corporate interests. They also wanted to challenge political elites.

    Tucson, Arizona, Groff Media©

    Moreover, the movement echoes historical struggles that have shaped the United States. Sanders draws parallels between this modern fight and past movements that have successfully challenged oppression. These include the abolitionist, labor, civil rights, and women’s rights movements. These historical precedents offer a blueprint for today’s progressive movement. They emphasize that real change arises when ordinary people organize. Real change occurs when they take action against systemic injustice.

    A critical part of this movement is grassroots organization. Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez stress the need to mobilize people in all 50 states through consistent engagement. Mobilizing thousands of people means not only attending rallies but also translating that enthusiasm into political action. Encouraging progressives to run for office at all levels is crucial. This includes positions from school boards to state legislatures. It is a core strategy to enact lasting change. Local elections, often overlooked in the national political discourse, hold immense power in shaping policies that affect daily life.

    Denver, Colorado, Groff Media©

    Additionally, the movement extends beyond electoral politics. It calls for strong communities where people support one another despite economic and social challenges. The emphasis on solidarity reflects the understanding that political change is inseparable from fostering a culture of mutual aid. It also involves building collective strength. The movement creates networks of engaged citizens. The goal is to counteract the feelings of loneliness that many experience in today’s economic landscape. It also addresses feelings of helplessness.

    This movement does not overstate the urgency. Sanders highlights the significance of this moment not only for current generations but also for future ones. Climate change, economic disparity, and political corruption are existential issues that need immediate action. The message is clear: now is the time for mobilization, not despair. The fight for a fair and just society depends on ordinary people. They must be willing to challenge entrenched power structures. They must demand a system that works for all.

    The rallies led by Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez signify a pivotal moment in U.S. politics, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with inequality and a demand for economic justice.
    Arizona, Nevada, Colorado,

    In conclusion, the rallies held across Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado exemplify the strength of a growing progressive movement in America. The record-breaking turnouts illustrate a profound discontent with the status quo and a wish for systemic change. By organizing, running for office, and building community solidarity, this movement can redefine the future of American democracy. The path ahead is not easy. History has shown that when people unite for justice, they can overcome even the most powerful obstacles.

    Remembering Slick Watts: NBA Star and Community Hero

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    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©s

    “Where you do not have to pay to read a person’s obituary.“

    2–3 minutes
    https://www.theelinetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/slick-watts.jpg

    Donald Earl “Slick” Watts (July 22, 1951 – March 15, 2025)

    Donald Earl “Slick” Watts was a beloved figure in basketball. He was also a cherished member of the Seattle community. He passed away on March 15, 2025, at 73. Slick was born on July 22, 1951, in Rolling Fork, Mississippi. His journey from humble beginnings to NBA stardom is a testament to his dedication. It also highlights his charisma and enduring spirit.

    Slick’s basketball career began at Grand View Junior College, after which he transferred to Xavier University of Louisiana in 1970. There, he played under coach Bob Hopkins and alongside future ABA and NBA star Bruce Seals. He was a leader on the court. His leadership guided the Xavier Gold Rush to consecutive NAIA District 30 Championships in 1972 and 1973.

    https://data2.nssmag.com/images/galleries/12643/slick-watts-headband-3.jpg

    Undrafted in 1973, Slick’s relentless determination earned him a spot with the Seattle SuperSonics. Known for his signature bald head and headband, he quickly became a fan favorite. In the 1975–76 season, Slick led the NBA in assists and steals, the first player to achieve this remarkable feat. His tenure in the NBA also included stints with the New Orleans Jazz and the Houston Rockets.

    Beyond his professional career, Slick’s contributions to the Seattle community were profound. He dedicated many years to education. Slick Watts shared his skills and gifts as a physical education teacher at several elementary schools. Slick also served as a basketball coach at Franklin High School. His commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting physical fitness left an indelible mark on countless students.

    In 2001, Slick faced a serious health challenge with sarcoidosis but demonstrated resilience and strength in his recovery. In April 2021, he suffered a significant stroke. He faced rehabilitation with the same determination that characterized his life on and off the court.

    Slick Watts is survived by his son, Donald Watts. Donald followed in his father’s footsteps. He played basketball at the University of Washington and later contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor. Slick’s legacy is etched in basketball history. It also lives in the hearts of those he inspired through community engagement and unwavering spirit.

    https://www.si.com/.image/c_fill%2Cw_1440%2Car_16%3A9%2Cf_auto%2Cq_auto%2Cg_auto/MTgwMjkzMDE5OTIzMTMwMjIw/slick-watts.jpg

    A public memorial service will be held in Seattle to honor Slick’s life and legacy. Details will be announced in the coming days. Instead of flowers, the family asks for donations to The Watts Foundation. This supports youth basketball programs and continues Slick’s lifelong commitment to empowering the next generation.

    Slick Watts will be remembered for his exceptional basketball court skills. He profoundly affected the community and was dedicated to education. His resilience in the face of adversity inspired him.

    US Aid to Ukraine: A $114 Billion Commitment

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    2–4 minutes

    As of February 2025, the United States has committed approximately $114 billion in bilateral aid to Ukraine. This commitment has been made since the onset of Russia’s invasion in February 2022. This figure encompasses military assistance, financial support, and humanitarian aid. 

    statista.com

    It’s important to note that reported aid amounts have been discrepant. This is due to differing accounting methodologies and the inclusion of various assistance categories. For instance, President Trump claimed that the US provided $350 billion in aid to Ukraine. Yet, official figures do not support this assertion. 

    wsj.com

    The European Union and its member countries have collectively provided approximately €132 billion in aid to Ukraine. This surpasses the US contribution. 

    statista.com

    The US aid includes funds allocated for replenishing American weapon stockpiles and supporting defense manufacturing across multiple US cities. 

    cfr.org

    In summary, estimates vary slightly based on accounting practices. Still, the US has committed approximately $114 billion in aid. This aid supports Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.

    Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his representatives have consistently expressed profound gratitude. They are thankful for the United States’ unwavering support. 

    Many news media estimate that Zelenskyy made as many as 33 public appearances during wartime. He aimed to show his appreciation for the United States financial and equipment support. 

    While it is challenging to enumerate every instance of appreciation, several notable expressions stand out:

    1. December 2022 Speech to the US Congress: President Zelenskyy addressed a joint session of the US Congress. This was his first foreign visit since the war began. He thanked “every American” and highlighted Ukraine’s resilience, stating, “Against all odds, Ukraine still stands.” apnews.com
    2. December 2022 Joint Press Conference with President Biden: Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for a new defense package. He stressed its prompt importance for Ukrainian soldiers during this visit. ua.usembassy.gov
    3. July 2023 NATO Summit in Vilnius: Zelenskyy expressed his appreciation for US and NATO support before meeting with President Biden. He acknowledged the challenges faced by Ukrainians. Zelenskyy thanked Biden for standing “shoulder to shoulder” with Ukraine. bloomingtonian.com
    4. February 2025 Post-Meeting Statement: The meeting with President Trump was contentious. Zelenskyy reaffirmed his gratitude toward the American people and Congress. He also expressed gratitude toward the President. Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s pursuit of a just and lasting peace. en.wikipedia.org
    5. March 2025 London Summit: Zelenskyy expressed “unwavering gratitude” for US military and financial support after a summit with European leaders. He underscored its critical role in Ukraine’s defense. nypost.com

    These instances highlight the deep appreciation expressed by Ukrainian leadership. They value the United States’ financial assistance, military aid, and moral support throughout the conflict.

    Zelenskyy’s Expressions of Gratitude Midst Diplomatic Tensions

    The information stands in contrast to a description made by some. They called it two thugs attacking a robbery victim after he had already been beaten down. It is a sad portrayal. This is a betrayal of the executive office on show in the White House on February 28th, 2025. 

    The information referenced here documents that 350 billion dollars were not given to the Ukrainian government, contradicting what was claimed. Sadly, the United States Congress knows this. They approved the funding. They should make sure that factual statements involving tax dollars are presented to the public.

    Sources:

    nypost.com

    Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky says he still wants US minerals deal after explosive Trump talks

    Today

    people.com

    Volodymyr Zelenskyy Cancels D.C. Appearances After He’s Called ‘Disrespectful”‘” by Trump, Expresses Gratitude to Americans

    Today

    barrons.com

    Zelensky Says Ukraine Is Ready to Sign Minerals Deal but Needs ‘Security Guarantees’

    Today

    The Impact of Discrimination on Society and Human Rights

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    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©s

    2–3 minutes
    Discrimination Vs. Inclusion
    Discrimination Vs Inclusion.
    The difference between darkness and light

    Discrimination is an act rooted in fear, ignorance, and an unwillingness to accept the fundamental dignity of all people. It has profound consequences for society. Wanting to deny others housing, clothing, and respect shows a belief that some lives hold less value. Such a stance reveals a deep-seated lack of empathy. It shows an indifference to the struggles of fellow human beings and a troubling inclination toward social division. It speaks volumes about moral values. It reflects the character of those who wish to wield power to diminish the lives of others.

    The wish to remove protections that have given minority groups equal footing within society shows a disregard for historical injustices. These injustices have shaped the need for these safeguards. These protections exist not to give anyone an unfair advantage. They guarantee everyone has equal rights, opportunities, and access to resources without prejudice. Seeking to dismantle these safeguards implies a refusal to acknowledge historical injustices. It also shows a disregard for the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities. It shows a yearning for a past where exclusion was the norm. It rejects embracing a future that strives for fairness and justice.

    Moreover, those who advocate for policies that exacerbate the hardships already endured by vulnerable populations are not merely indifferent. They are complicit in their suffering. If making life more difficult for those struggling is acceptable, what does that say about one’s character? It signals a lack of compassion, an absence of moral responsibility, and a failure to grasp the interconnectedness of humanity. A society that pays no heed to suffering undermines its stability, for one group’s oppression ultimately harms the whole. This is not just a moral issue but a societal one that demands immediate attention and action.

    Most revealing is the wish to control who can join legal institutions like marriage. Love and family are not exclusive to a select few but are among the most fundamental aspects of human existence. To decide who can share in these joys is to place oneself in a position of unjust power. It denies them to others. It stems from a belief in personal superiority. It also involves a willingness to impose one’s values on others. This approach restricts their freedoms. It suggests an inability to recognize that love is universal. Love is deserving of legal and social acknowledgment. This is true regardless of the individuals involved.

    Ultimately, seeking to discriminate, exclude, and strip away rights reveals one’s insecurity, fear, and wish for control. A society is judged by how it treats its most vulnerable members. Those who work to undermine equality and fairness reveal far more about themselves. They show more about their nature than they do about those they seek to oppress. True strength is found in embracing diversity. Morality involves protecting the rights of all. Decency ensures that everyone has the dignity and respect they deserve.

    Maintaining Integrity Amidst Conflict

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    2–3 minutes

    Keeping Your Side of the Street Clean

    The smell of fresh rain lingered as Mark walked down Elm Street toward his favorite café. It was his usual morning routine, a quiet moment before the day unraveled. He reached the entrance. Then he saw him—Greg Turner. Greg was leaning against a lamppost, arms crossed. He was watching him with a smirk that dripped with disdain.

    Greg had never made it a secret that he disliked Mark. Their history goes back to a business deal gone wrong. Mark handled it ethically, but Greg saw it as a betrayal. Since then, Greg had made it his mission to smear Mark’s name. He spread rumors and whispered doubts into the ears of anyone who would listen.

    Mark adjusted his posture, exhaled slowly, and kept walking. He knew better than to engage.

    “Hey, Mark,” 

    Greg called out loud enough for people at the café’s outdoor tables to turn their heads.

    “Still fooling people into thinking you’re the good guy?”

    A few customers looked up from their coffee, eyes shifting between them, waiting for a response. Mark felt the moment’s weight pressing against his back, the temptation to defend himself bubbling under the surface.

    But he had learned something long ago—some battles weren’t worth fighting. Not in the mud. Not at the expense of his peace.

    He turned slightly, just enough to meet Greg’s gaze, and nodded.

    “Good morning, Greg.” 

    His voice was even, void of malice, but firm. Then, without another word, he stepped inside the café.

    The barista, Sarah, greeted him with a warm smile. 

    “The usual?”

    Mark nodded as he took out his wallet.

    “Yep. And maybe an extra shot of patience today.”

    Sarah chuckled as she prepared his coffee. 

    “Don’t let him get to you.”

    He shook his head. 

    “I won’t.”

    Moments later, as he stirred his coffee, he glanced outside. Greg was still there, now talking to someone else, his hands animated, spinning another version of his tired tale. Mark took a sip, savoring the rich warmth of his drink, and let the moment pass.

    There was no need to wade into the mess or wrestle with the bitterness that wasn’t his to carry. His conscience was clear. His integrity was intact.

    He walked out of the café with his head high. His side of the street was clean. Mark was guilt-free and ready to face his day. He had not gotten down to Greg’s level; even better, he showed respect for doing so. 

    Life Lessons from a Skunk: Trust and Taking Chances

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    3–5 minutes

    It was an old house on the southeast side of town. The floorboards creaked. The front porch sagged just a little in the middle. Jeb and Lorine lived there with their giant Boxer. The dog was as broad as a barrel. He was just as heavy when he flopped into your lap.

    At five years old, Tim sometimes spent his afternoons there, waiting for his dad to pick him up. He had just started kindergarten and hated school—not just kindergarten, but the whole idea for the next twelve years. The only good thing was that, for now, Tim only had to go until noon. Then, most days, he’d end up at Jeb and Lorine’s, where things were much more enjoyable.

    One thing about their house always intrigued Tim: the mysterious knocking and pounding under the floor. It was a constant occurrence as if something—or someone—was moving beneath them. Tim had been taught not to be rude and ask questions in other people’s homes. He sat quietly, but his mind was buzzing with curiosity.

    Maybe it was the bees. Jeb had a beehive in the backyard and collected honey from it. Tim imagined a massive honeycomb hidden under the house, so big that its weight made the boards creak. He pictured golden honey dripping through the cracks in the floor. But no, that didn’t explain the noise. The sound traveled, shifting from one end of the house to the other.

    One afternoon, while playing in the backyard, Tim noticed a small fence blocking off a crawl space beneath the house. It was big enough to hold an animal—maybe even a dog. But why would Jeb fence it off? Was he trying to keep something out? Or ––– keep something in?

    Curious, Tim dropped to his hands and knees, peering into a dark hole in the foundation. He squinted, trying to make sense of the shadows. Suddenly, two glassy eyes stared back at him. A jolt of surprise went through his body.

    Tim let out a startled yelp and scrambled backward his heart racing. He barely managed to stop himself from swearing in shock.

    “WHOA! HOLY COW!”

    The eyes moved closer, emerging from the darkness. Tim’s breath caught as the creature stepped into the light.

    “A SKUNK!”

    He shot to his feet and bolted inside, bursting into the living room where Jeb and Lorine sat.

    “There’s a skunk under your house!” he gasped. “You gotta get a shovel—hit it over the head! It’s living under there!”

    Jeb and Lorine burst into laughter.

    “You met Johnny,” Jeb said, shaking his head. “He’s a buddy of mine. Come on, I’ll let you hold him.”

    Tim’s eyes widened.

    “Hold him?! Are you crazy? He’ll spray us!”

    Jeb chuckled.

    “No, he won’t. Johnny had his scent glands removed when he was a baby. He can’t spray.”

    His words were like a soothing balm, calming Tim’s nerves.

    Tim hesitated, his skepticism clear.

    “How can you be so sure?”

    He asked, his voice tinged with doubt.

    “Because I raised him,” Jeb said, standing up. “Found him in my barn after his mama got hit by a car on the highway. Watched that nest for days, but she never came back. He would’ve died if I hadn’t taken him in.”

    Tim followed Jeb outside, still wary. The last thing he wanted was to go home reeking of skunk.

    Jeb knelt by the crawl space and softly said,

    “Johnny, Johnny, come on out, boy.”

    Tim tensed as the skunk waddled into view, its black-and-white fur gleaming in the afternoon sun.

    Jeb looked at Tim and grinned.

    “Son, I know what you’re thinking. Life’s about trust, taking chances, and finding things out for yourself. You can do all three right now.”

    Tim swallowed hard, debating. Does he trust this?

    Taking a deep breath, he held out his arms.

    Jeb carefully placed Johnny in his hands, and Tim braced himself for the worst. Johnny curled against his chest, nestling under his chin like a kitten. His friendly demeanor melted Tim’s apprehensions.

    Tim stood there, stiff at first, then slowly relaxed. The skunk was warm, soft, and oddly ––– pleasant.

    After a few minutes, Jeb patted Tim’s shoulder.

    “That’s good now. Johnny must return inside, and your daddy’ll be here soon.”

    Tim handed Johnny back and followed Jeb into the house. As he sat on the couch, he waited for his dad. He thought about what Jeb had said. It was about trust, taking chances, and learning things for yourself.

    When his dad pulled up, Tim climbed into the truck. As they pulled away, his father wrinkled his nose.

    “What have you been doing?”

    He asked.

    “You smell like a skunk!”

    Tim just grinned. And said –––

    “I’ve been taking a chance on trusting people and other things and learning things for myself.”

    The Evolution of Fun: From Classic TV to Modern Joys

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    2–4 minutes

    GOOD TIMES REMEMBERED

    Crosby & Hope

    For many, the good times meant youth spent without barriers. Kids rode bicycles freely around town or through the countryside. They explored wherever curiosity led. They just had to be home before dark or by 10 p.m. It was when running to a friend’s house, unannounced was safe. It felt just as natural for them to show up at yours. We all cherish that time of freedom and spontaneity.


    Your version of the good times began when you got first place as a young adult. You also got hooked up to cable television. Gone were the days of only three channels. Now, there were forty or more. Channels like MTV, HBO, and SHOWTIME offered endless entertainment. Some kept their televisions locked on MTV 24/7, not wanting to miss the latest music video premiere. The phrase “I want my MTV” wasn’t just a slogan; it was a way of life.


    Icons like Downtown Julie Brown, Max Headroom, Randy of the Redwoods, and JJ Jackson became daily companions. They guided audiences through interviews and music video countdowns. These shows entertained us and shaped our memories, creating connection and nostalgia.


    Yet, while MTV rocked for many, others fondly recall Saturday mornings. They spent time with classic cartoon characters. They watched Bugs Bunny, Elmer Fudd, Daffy Duck, and Yosemite Sam. Or they enjoyed Speedy Gonzales, the Flintstones, or the Jetsons. These beloved characters live on today, often appearing in rebranded forms and often in commercials that spark nostalgia.


    For earlier and later generations, laughter came from entertainers like Pinky Lee or Pee-wee Herman. In the 1950s, Pinky Lee brought his lively antics to television. He appeared first in a primetime variety show. Later, he starred in a children’s program sponsored by Tootsie Roll. His Emmy-nominated show paved the way for future quirky entertainers. Pee-wee Herman was one of them. His distinctive gray Glen plaid suit, red bow tie, and eccentric persona owed much to Lee’s energetic style.


    Beyond television, the good times existed in life’s simple pleasures. One was the crackle of a baseball game on the radio during a warm summer evening. Another was the scent of fresh popcorn at a drive-in theater. The excitement of getting that first car was thrilling. Sheer will and a little duct tape held it together.


    For some, the best times were spent playing Pac-Man and Donkey Kong in arcade halls. They also glided across the roller rink beneath spinning disco lights. Others made mixtapes from the radio. They hoped the DJ wouldn’t talk over the intro of a favorite song. Others remember cruising on a Saturday night, windows down, music blasting, with no destination—just the pure joy of freedom.
    The good times were about more than the entertainment we consumed. They were about the people we shared them with. Families gathered around holiday meals. Friends packed into a car for a spur-of-the-moment road trip. Conversations under a star-filled sky became treasured late-night memories.


    Each generation has its version of the good times. These moments shape us and leave lasting impressions. They bring smiles long after they’ve passed. No matter what era you look back on, one thing is sure. The good times do not last forever. But they always roll on in our hearts. They create a sense of continuity and belonging.

    What is your favorite best-of-times recollection?

    A Journey Through Fields: Life Lessons from Uncle Neb

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    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©

    2–3 minutes

    An Uncle’s Field of Memories

    The older man rocked back and forth on the porch swing, the wood creaking under his weight. His nephew, Jake, sat cross-legged on the wooden planks, listening intently. The evening sun stretched its shadows long across the yard, the golden light flickering through the trees.

    “You ever run through a plowed field, boy?” 

    Uncle Neb asked, a slow grin spreading across his weathered face.

    Jake wrinkled his nose. 

    “Why would I do that?”

    Ole Neb chuckled.

    “Ah, you don’t know what you’re missin’. When I was your age, runnin’ through a fresh-plowed field was the best thing in the world. The dirt was soft, the furrows deep. Felt like jumpin’ across waves in the ocean—only, it was earth beneath your feet, not water.”

    Jake smirked. 

    “Sounds messy.”

    “Sure was!”

    Uncle Neb laughed. 

    “And I’d get a good whuppin’ from your grandma for trackin’ mud in the house, too.”

    He leaned back, sighing. 

    “Every spring, my daddy plowed and prepared the land to plant maize and oats. That was our winter feed for the livestock. Down at the bottom of our place, we had an alfalfa field. Grew some of the best in the county, thanks to the floods from the neighbor’s lake.”

    “Wait—you let your field flood on purpose?”

    Jake asked, wide-eyed.

    “Didn’t have a choice, boy! The heavy spring rains would swell that lake, and the water would just roll over into our land. But let me tell you, that soaked ground made the alfalfa thick and green. We never had to worry about our cattle goin’ hungry.”

    Jake traced a knot in the porch wood with his finger. 

    “You had cattle?”

    “Sure did. Horses and chickens, guineas, goats—you name it. Had a big ol’ barn on the west side of the place where we kept ’em. But there was one animal I couldn’t go near—one of our milk cows. It is the meanest thing you have ever seen. That cow would lower her head and charge at me as soon as she spotted me.”

    Jake grinned. 

    “You were scared of a cow?”

    Uncle Neb narrowed his eyes playfully. 

    “You woulda been too, boy! Kids had tormented that cow before she came to us. Made her mad as a hornet. Your grandpa had to milk her himself ’cause she wouldn’t let nobody else close.”

    Jake laughed. 

    “Sounds like she had a grudge.”

    “That she did. But that was life on the farm, son. You learned to work with what you had, respect the land, and steer clear of mad cows.”

    Ole Neb winked. 

    “Now come on, let’s go walk that field out back. Maybe you’ll see why runnin’ through dirt felt like flyin’ to a boy like me.”

    Jake hesitated, then hopped up.

    “Alright, Uncle Neb. But if I trip, you owe me ice cream.”

    Neb laughed, his voice warm as the setting sun. 

    “Deal, boy. Deal.”

    And together, they walked toward the fields, the past and gift blending with every step.

    Understanding Blue Monday and Its Cultural Impact

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    4–6 minutes

    Monday, January 20, 2025: Blue Monday – The Most Depressing Day of the Year

    Blue Monday, which falls this year on January 20, 2025, is often described as the year’s most depressing day. It occurs on the third Monday of each January. Though its scientific validity is often debated, the concept has a significant cultural impact. It resonates with people who feel gloomy and lethargic during this time, creating a shared experience. Many can relate to it.

    Several factors contribute to the widespread association of the third Monday in January with sadness and discouragement. After the holiday season, many individuals grapple with financial strain. They also face the challenge of returning to work or school routines. 

    The excitement and anticipation of the new year have faded. Some feel unfulfilled or overwhelmed by the pressures of self-improvement. Shorter daylight hours in the Northern Hemisphere can affect people. These changes can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression linked to reduced exposure to sunlight. Colder temperatures also play a role.

    Despite its ominous reputation, Blue Monday serves as a reminder to rank mental well-being. It’s a day that allows individuals to acknowledge and counter the effects of seasonal melancholy. Experts suggest regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and fostering social connections. Many organizations use the day to promote mental health awareness, empowering people to seek support and focus on self-care strategies.

    Blue Monday lacks a robust scientific foundation. Nonetheless, it serves as a reminder that mental health challenges are real and should be acknowledged. Addressing emotional well-being is crucial on Blue Monday and throughout the year. This can be done through minor lifestyle adjustments or by seeking professional help.

    A Day of Reflection and Transition: Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 20, 2025

    Photo by Chris on Pexels.com

    On January 20, 2025, the United States observes Martin Luther King Jr. Day. It is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of the civil rights leader. He championed equality and nonviolent social change. This year, the day holds extra significance. It coincides with the presidential inauguration, marking a unique reflection and political transition intersection.

    Honoring Dr. King’s Legacy

    Communities nationwide engage in various activities to commemorate Dr. King’s contributions. The King Center in Atlanta leads the annual King Holiday Observance. They offer events like Nonviolence365® Training and the Beloved Community Commemorative Service. These events align with the 2025 theme: “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence365.” The King Center

    The 48th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade in Miami is in Liberty City. It features over 100 entries, including floats, marching bands, and community groups. Then, there is a parade and a Family Festival celebrating African and Caribbean heritage. MLK Parade And Festivities

    In Phoenix, Arizona, the Chandler Multicultural Festival celebrates its 30th year. It honors the community’s diversity and Dr. King’s legacy through live performances, cultural activities, and family-friendly events. AZCentral

    Civil Rights Leaders Mobilize

    The convergence of Martin Luther King Jr. Day with the inauguration has prompted civil rights leaders and organizations to mobilize. They view the day as a critical call to action. Concerns over anticipated policies challenge progress in equality. In response, groups are organizing rallies. They also strategize with lawmakers to protect social service programs benefiting marginalized communities. Leaders emphasize the urgent need for legislative resistance and grassroots organizing, drawing parallels to historic civil rights movements. 

    Global Observances

    Beyond the United States, people worldwide will recognize the impact of Martin Luther King Jr.’s work. International events occur. Educational programs are held. Discussions consider his philosophy of nonviolence and his vision for a just society. These global observances underscore the universal relevance of Dr. King’s message and the ongoing pursuit of human rights and equality.

    A Historic Inauguration

    This year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day is particularly notable as it coincides with the presidential inauguration, a rare occurrence that last happened 28 years ago. Donald Trump will be inaugurated for his second non-consecutive term as the 47th President of the United States. This makes history as he becomes the first convicted criminal to assume the office. He is also the oldest individual to do so. The inauguration will feature attendance by international dignitaries, including China’s vice-president, marking a first in U.S. history. Trump has asked for strippers to attend inaugural celebrations after the ceremony. Financial Times

    Conclusion

    January 20, 2025, is a day of profound reflection and significant transition. As the nation honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy, it embarks on a new political chapter. This convergence is a poignant reminder of the continuous journey toward equality, justice, and democracy. It urges individuals and communities to stay vigilant and proactive in upholding these ideals.

    Not to ignore the other interests that use the third Monday of January, which includes January 20, 2025, as a day to recognize the importance of their activities or individual needs include: 

    National Cheese Lovers Day

    National DJ Day

    National Penguin Day

    Brew Monday

    Camcorder Day

    Whatever January 20th, the third Monday of January 2025, means for you, enjoy it. Celebrate its meaning and meditate on its cause. Share its reasoning with another. Share this story with others. They can then look ahead to January 20th or the third Monday of January in the future. Thank you for reading and visiting to learn more about Blue Monday.

    George  Kalinsky A Man Of Pictures 1936-2025

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    1–2 minutes
    A Man Of Pictures 1936-2025 George Kalinsky Obituary
    George Kalinsky

    George Kalinsky was born in 1936 in Hempstead, New York. He was a renowned American photographer. His work captured some of the most iconic moments in sports and entertainment history. Finding Aids

    His photography journey began serendipitously in the mid-1960s. He noticed Muhammad Ali entering the 5th Street Gym while on vacation in Miami. Intrigued, Kalinsky followed and was allowed to photograph Ali after a brief exchange with trainer Angelo Dundee. These images marked the start of his illustrious career. Interview Magazine

    In 1966, Kalinsky became the official photographer for Madison Square Garden, a position he held for nearly six decades. He documented over 10,000 events throughout his tenure. He captured legendary figures like Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and Pope John Paul II. His work has been featured in major publications like Sports Illustrated, People, Newsweek, and The New York Times. Kalinsky authored ten books. His photographs were exhibited in esteemed institutions, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. – From The Lens of George Kalinsky

    Over the years, Kalinsky has received many accolades for his contributions to photography. In 2001, the PhotoImaging Manufacturers and Distributors Association named him International Photographer of the Year. He was inducted into the New York City Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010. He received the Pratt Institute’s Legends Award in 2017. Wikipedia

    George Kalinsky passed away on January 16, 2025, at the age of 88. His legacy endures through the timeless images he captured. These images continue to inspire. They evoke memories of significant moments in sports and entertainment history. Wikipedia

    Sources

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    Robert Machray-May 4, 1945 – Jan. 12, 2025

    Benjamin3 Comments

    GROFF MEDIA 2024© TRUTH ENDURES IMDBPRO

    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©

    2–3 minutes

    Obituary: Robert Machray––– May 4, 1945 – January 12, 2025

    Robert Machray IMDb

    Robert Machray (Ward) was a talented and versatile stage and television actor. He passed away on January 12, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. He was 79 years old. Many remember him for his memorable role as Fire Marshal Captain Dobbins in the iconic sitcom Cheers. Machray left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. His career spanned more than three decades.

    Born in San Diego, California, on May 4, 1945, Machray displayed a passion for performing arts from a young age. He pursued a vibrant stage career. He brought characters to life in major productions at Shakespeare festivals. Esteemed venues like the Los Angeles Civic Light Opera, Hartford Stage, and Playwrights Horizons hosted these performances. His dedication to the craft of acting earned him respect and admiration in the theatrical community.

    In 1977, Machray transitioned to film and television, debuting in the television film Panic in Echo Park. He quickly gained recognition for his comedic timing and adaptability, leading to roles in series like Operation Petticoat. Over the years, he became a familiar face on many popular programs. These included Roseanne, Life Goes On, The Drew Carey Show, Suddenly Susan, Profiler, and Three’s Company. His film credits include Cutting Class, where he portrayed Mr. Conklin and The Master of Disguise.

    Machray’s career highlights included a summer stage production of My Fair Lady in 1983. This production showcased his vocal talents. It also highlighted his theatrical talents. In his later years, he delighted audiences with a guest appearance in the beloved satirical sitcom Parks and Recreation. He retired in 2011 after a fulfilling and impactful career.

    Outside of his professional achievements, Machray was known for his wit, kindness, and love of storytelling. He cherished time spent with friends and family, often sharing humorous anecdotes from his life in the entertainment industry.

    Robert Machray (Ward) is survived by his extended family. A wide circle of friends and colleagues will remember him fondly. They cherish his warmth, talent, and enduring contributions to the arts.

    Instead of flowers, the family asks for donations. Please contribute to organizations supporting aspiring actors and artists. This honors Robert’s lifelong dedication to nurturing creativity and performance.

    A private memorial service will be held in Los Angeles to celebrate his life and legacy.

    A Love That Endures

    Benjamin1 Comment

    GROFF MEDIA 2024© TRUTH ENDURES IMDBPRO

    Presented by benandsteve.com By: Benjamin Groff II©

    2–3 minutes

    Anna sat on the edge of her porch swing, the crisp autumn air wrapping around her like a familiar shawl. She cradled a weathered photo album filled with snapshots of a life well-lived with her husband, Thomas. Though he had passed a year ago, his presence lingered in every corner of their home. She noticed the faint scent of his aftershave in the closet. The carved wooden birdhouse he made hung by the garden. The laughter seemed to echo from the walls.

    The sun dipped below the horizon. It painted the sky in hues of orange and violet. Anna whispered, “Death have taken your body, Thomas, but you’re still here.”

    In the quiet, she remembered the words their pastor had spoken at his funeral: *Death takes the body. God takes the soul. Our minds hold the memories. Our hearts holds on to the love. Our spiritual beliefs let us know we will meet again.

    Her memories of Thomas were not just memories, they were vibrant, living moments. They replayed in her mind like a cherished movie. She saw how his eyes crinkled when he smiled. She heard his deep belly laugh. She felt the strength of his hand in hers as they danced in the kitchen.

    Though grief often pressed against her chest, her heart was not empty. It was full of love—a love that hadn’t dimmed with time. She placed a hand over her chest and smiled. She knew it was where Thomas still resided. He was a glowing ember that would never go out.

    Every Sunday, Anna would visit the little white church where they had exchanged vows so long ago. She found not just solace, but peace there, her faith bridging the earthly and the divine. She believed Thomas was in God’s care now, his soul at peace, waiting patiently for her.

    One evening, as she closed the photo album, she noticed the first star twinkling in the sky. She gazed upward and whispered, “I’ll see you again, Thomas. Until then, I’ll carry you here.” She touched her head. “Here.” She placed her hand on her chest. “And here.” She folded her hands in prayer.

    At that moment, Anna felt a warmth envelop her. It seemed like Thomas himself was reminding her. Real, enduring love that never truly is separated by time or space.

    She smiled and rocked gently on the swing, humming the melody of their favorite song. The stars above her were a quiet witness to the eternal connection between two hearts.