A word from "The Rocket" Rick Rodriguez

52nd Western States Golf Team Championship September 2009

By Rick Rodriguez

The 52nd Western States golf team championship took place in Reno, Nevada last month.  The two man best ball championship was contested over three courses.  This year the tournament was held at Lakeridge, Wolf Run, and Red Hawk golf courses.   

My partner was Mark Dunn, an avid golfer, and long time friend and co-worker.  We headed out Labor Day which is usually a travel day for this west coast tournament.  After a pleasant 3 1/2 hour drive,  we arrived in Reno, Nevada, checked in at Harrah's Hotel & Casino and proceeded to find a late night meal.  We quickly found the hotel's restaurant, scarfed down a fast dinner and turned in for the night. 

Like many Reno Hotels, Harrah's is a good place to stay especially at affordable rates that are seemingly ubiquitous around town.  If playing golf, the hotel is centrally located to courses and walking about town is a breeze, and in addition to decent sized rooms; the pool area is generous in size and workout facilities well appointed.

Lakeridge golf course is noted for its signature Par 3, an island green where the tee is perched high up on a hill.  The tee shot is seemingly a shot into the heavens and a drop down to the island green.  I hit a 4 wood, an easy one, and my shot landed over the pin but up against the bunker seen in the background.  Unfortunately, my ball landed against the first cut of rough and with an awkward lie; I ran my ball ten feet past the cup and missed the Par putt.  A slight disappointment given the pleasing tee shot: a smooth, floating arch of white circumference headed out over the blue sky background sinking towards its destiny.

The rest of the day was a paradox of good play intertwined with some missed opportunities!  Overall, I was really pleased with Lakeridge; the greens were excellent; fairways generous and difficult.  We shot a net 63 that had us tied for 4th after the 1st round.

After returning to the Hotel, we decided to head over to dinner at The Silver Legacy's Sterling Steakhouse, but prior to that we stopped at the Hospitality Suite for marvelous views and spirits as a pre-dinner warm up.  The tournament had reserved a Hospitality Suite at The Legacy in order for the players to engage in the day's game conversation, or commiserate over the round's missed opportunities.  The views and the camaraderie were as expected--excellent!  The dinner at Sterling's was just spectacular.  Mark & I had rib-eye steaks that were cooked to perfection, generous in size, and the accompaniments perfect!

Day two saw us head to Wolf Run Golf Course, an easier course in my opinion, and this showed as I got off to a quick start.   Mark, my partner, saved us at times where my Driver failed my instruction, and after basically letting the round get away from us we ended with a net 62.  Still a pretty decent day but not enough to put us anywhere near the lead.  In best ball tournaments, it's days like this day, that either puts a team in the hunt or the team falls further behind.  In our case, the latter ensued, making the final day critical to our outcome.

The final day had us playing at Red Hawk Golf Course, a sprawling two course golf complex located in Sparks, Nevada.  The practice area, clubhouse, and restaurant are impressive. The overall feeling of this place is fantastic!

As I stood looking at the wide open 1st fairway, I thought nothing of the out of bounds all along the left side of the hole; however, as soon as I launched my tee shot I knew it was out of bounds.  Fortunately, Mark made Par and saved us and also saved us on the next Par 5 hole. It wasn't until the 3rd Hole (No.1 Handicap) that I launched a crushing tee shot that left a short sand wedge to the green.  I promptly made Par and we took off from there shooting 31 on the front nine.  After a Par on 10, Mark and I each bogeyed holes 11 thru 15, ending any comeback or thoughts of coming in the money for this tournament; alas there is always another tournament to look towards. 

Chagrined somewhat from seeing our efforts go awry on the final 8 holes; nonetheless, we had an excellent time.  The tournament host put on a great event worthy of their long tenured legacy and we eagerly look forward to a return to next year's tournament. 

It had been some time since I've been up in Reno but I particularly enjoyed the ride to and from the Bay Area and to Reno.  Once past the mundane ride to Sacramento; the scenic towns of Auburn, Emigrant Gap, and Truckee ensue along with elevation and stunning California Redwoods.

While I was somewhat familiar with the Donner Party's travails through the region, I didn't know much about the significance of Emigrant Gap.   "Emigrant Gap is a gap in a ridge on the California Trail as it crosses the Sierra Nevada, to the west of what is now known as Donner Pass. Here the cliffs are so steep that, back in the 1840s, the pioneers on their way to California had to lower their wagons on ropes in order to continue.

The Emigrant Gap was so named because it was a low gap on a ridge where the emigrants' wagons crossed from the American River drainage to the Bear River drainage. It was part of the Truckee Route, a portion of the California Trail by which pioneers, heading west, emigrated from the United States to California, which was part of Mexico until it was captured by the United States in the Mexican-American War (1846-1848)."

So, even as I put a bit of my golf history in the past, I grabbed a piece of California's, United States', and Mexico's history.  This history along with Reno golf courses, affordable accommodations and an excellent steakhouse made this short trip very worthwhile. Moreover, rekindling my interest in exploring my own backyard is always a special treat!

Seville, Spain May 1994

By Rick Rodriguez

On my first visit to Europe I visited the great country of Spain.  In a lot of ways, I felt certain that the place felt like home.  I saw lots of evidence of this as the Rodriguez name was splashed all over Seville on street names, cafes, and buildings.  The town is intersected by the Guadalupe River and in my time there I ran through the streets of Seville listening to Paul McCartney or some other great sound blaring in my ears. 

Journal Excerpt May 6, 1994  "I'm in Sevilla, Spain!  What a town!  Just a great place for a vacation. The town is historic and very European.  It is littered with quaint outdoor cafes, churches, museums, bull rings, and many great things to do.  I just walked across the Guadalupe River.  I'm sitting at the edge of the river on a stone walkway near the bridge that spans the river.  I'm looking down at a corner cafe as people pass the evening away.  I just completed a great run twice around a majestic park at river's edge.  The river is calm.  It is about 70 degrees.  This is truly Spain!"

As I mentioned in my journal excerpt, I was experiencing a great sense of calm knowing I was at the right place at the right time in my life in Spain.  It was also a goal.  I was on a mission to see the world.  Journal Excerpt  May 6, 1994 "Look at this world--Rick--you made your goal.  You may never see Seville again.  But you saw it once!"  

As I continued admiring this lovely city, I sat and drew a picture of the river and trees and church buildings in the background.  Below me, a riverside restaurant  with incredible views was the Maria Angeles Restaurant, a little background on the restaurant "It is situated on the bridge that joins Triana with Seville, it has tables from where the views are fantastic, and on its menu they offer specialties from Andalusia and from the Basque Country. Furthermore, to whet your appetite, they have a wide variety of tapas. Amongst its specialties are barbecued meat, cod, ox T-bone and the traditional fish tapas. To finish off with a sweet flavor in your mouth, try one of the home-made desserts."  While I didn't try the restaurant, next time I'm in Seville, I will have dinner there.  I had dinner earlier in the evening at a street side restaurant.  I had Salmon Mediterranean: a ubiquitous dish located at many Sevillian restaurants.

Later that night, I returned to my home for the night-- the Hotel Becquer.  Journal excerpt "I am down in the lobby area listening to the Discman.  This is a nice place.  Do I know where tomorrow leads?  To the world of the unknown.  That's better! Security is a myth.  Remember that when you seek it. Live your dreams!  Will you get another shot?  Don't forget these precious moments in your life."

Most of my thoughts at the time were focused around exploring the unknown; taking roads less traveled; and in many ways an inner discovery was taking place in me.  I guess that's why I was destined to come to Spain on my 1st adventure to Europe.  I felt at home in Spain!  Seville was a marvelous embarkation point from where I would eventually see Madrid, Lisbon, London, Dublin, Tangiers (Africa), and many smaller European cities.  Now, 15 years later, all that's left to do is to see Seville, again!

Birthdays...we get one a year!

By Rick Rodriguez

Every year most of us celebrate our birthday with a bang!  And, we usually celebrate the milestone birthdays even more extravagantly.  Now, looking back those birthdays stand out poignantly especially now that I am a Father!  I remember my 9th Birthday for the gift I received from my Father, an ABA Basketball; a basketball rim and net!  The net was fashioned in red, white, and blue to match evenly with the ball.  That birthday was special for me because in that moment, my life, became about basketball and that love has never left me! 

These days capturing these moments is simpler thanks to the tech world we live in.  As quick as a download, I've got my daughter's 9th birthday gifts online memorializing her gifts for posterity!  I wonder what she'll think about when she's 46 and looks back on her 9th birthday gifts.  Perhaps, she'll wonder how little she received; or how old the technology was back then (2009), or what compelled my Dad to write these silly words!  I wonder whether she'll feel like she received something as memorable as I did when I was 9? 

My hope is that when she looks back she remembers what she's given me in her short lifetime.  The love of a child: the greatest love of all!  I hope she knows that everyday of her 9 years has been a blessing to me!  I hope she knows the love she brings into the world; the smile that melts my heart, and the tears I've shed for her.  I hope she remembers the joy she has brought me on her 9th birthday.  The expressions that make her so adorable.  I hope she knows how much people admire her and are astonished by her friendliness and care for others!  Yes, my daughter, is my sweetheart, and I love her very much!  More than anything in the world (along with my boy--Justin)!  

I am not sure what compelled my Father to give me that ABA Basketball, and I bet he doesn't even know that I remember!  But, surely, somewhere hidden in that gift was the meaning that I've carried on to my kids.  Thanks Dad for the ball and teaching me about the greatest gift of all!  Happy 9th Birthday Amanda!  I love you!

Capturing the Moments of our Lives

By Rick Rodriguez

I write to capture the thoughts fleeting from my memory!  Heck, at times, yesterday's events seem to transpire as quickly as a camera flash.  Our lives are speeding by and important times are dashing by uncaptured.  As a result, I am trying to recapture and capture some of my past and present so it doesn't slip away to the archive of my mind never to resurface.  Moreover, I have spent countless hours studying history: mine, your's, and the world's.  I look for interesting stories and some times I head off in obscure directions.  I often wonder about my ancestors, grandparents, and parents.  What they know and remember?  What they did while they were here on Earth?  For instance, my Dad has often mentioned his Father, my Grandfather, who climbed Pico de Orizaba near Vera Cruz, Mexico three times; and Mt. Iztaccihuatl and Mt. Popocatepetl, 65 and 85 times, respectively.  He once slept inside the Volcanic Mount Popocatepetl in sub-zero temperatures!  All these peaks are in excess of 17,000 feet with Orizaba the tallest at 18,490: 

Here's a little history of the Mountain direct from Wikipedia:

"A regionally dominant peak, and in fact the highest peak between Columbia and the Yukon, the Pico de Orizaba is ranked 7th in the world in topographic prominence. It is the second most prominent volcanic peak in the world after Africa's Mount Kilimanjaro. Although it is about 110 km (75 miles) inland, to the west of the port of Veracruz, its peak is visible to ships approaching the port in the Gulf of Mexico, and at dawn rays of sunlight strike the Pico while Veracruz still lies in shadow. The Pico is ranked 16th in the world for topographic isolation.

The peak is one of three volcanoes that contain permanent snow and glaciers in Mexico. The others are Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl."

So, to me, it's fascinating to discover my Grandfather's alpinist adventures.  I wonder about his motivation and his physical attributes; pulling these stunts off nearly every couple of weeks.  I can only imagine what kind of shape he must have been in to endure what must have been extreme hardships.  Yet, it must have been his passion!

I can only imagine what it would be like to strike the same footsteps as my Grandfather.  Gazing before me the prodigious Pico de Orizaba would send a sense of awe and appreciation for his accomplishments that undoubtedly I would never forget. 

 Or even the chance to observe "La Mujer Dormida," the sleeping lady (Mt. Iztaccihuatl) so named for it's likeness to a sleeping woman. Trekking through the unknown, and the challenge of finding myself on a trail somewhere in the world.  Wondering where my Grandfather might have set camp; his conversations, and his trail companions.  See, to me, these are stories worthy of capture and are full of intrigue!  I yearn to learn more and thankfully he saved his story for me (us) through photographs and memorabilia.  This treasure trove remains secure with the present owner, my Dad, but I've already put in my request.  I've already made sure that I capture this story so it doesn't slip deeply into the archive of my mind never to resurface again!

Leek Wooten, England July 1996

By Rick Rodriguez

Some of my most fantastic travel experiences have come from a sense of being driven toward a destination.  Figuratively speaking, I was driven to get to England in 1996, and yes that's where I ended up that summer; almost as if fate interceded and got me there!  Leek Wotten, a small town outside of Warwick (central England) and in the heartland of Shakesphere Country, is where I arrived to compete in the 10th Annual World Left-Handed Golf Championship.

The championship is held around the world every two years.  Several countries are represented and compete in a medal play golf championship.  In England, the host course was The Warwickshire Golf Club, located in the quaint town of Leek Wooten.  This is also very near the Warwick Castle, a famous tourist spot in central England!

It was my 1st trip to England and after arriving at Heathrow International Airport in London.  I rented a car and caught the M for a few hour trip North to Lemington Spa and The Courtyard Marriott.  After about 20 miles, I realized that I was in fact heading South and had to negotiate a roundabout to get on the right track!  I did, and what ensued was a pleasant trip right through central England.  I vividly recall the sense of freedom I experienced out on the open road, seeing unfamiliar terrain, and being alone in a Country knowing not a soul.  I've had this experience quite often, and only twice, have I experienced anything other than a very calm sense of being!  The other two times I was homesick in Mexico and Australia.

Once I arrived in Leek Wooten, I immediately found my hotel, got situated, and then headed downstairs to the lobby. I sat down and relaxed at the bar and met a man named Walter.  This Englander was kind enough to drive me to the golf course.  Once I got to the Warwickshire golf course, I was overwhelmed by the sense of pride I experienced seeing each participating country's flag fluttering in the wind.  I was so proud being there representing the United States as a participating player!

I played a practice round on the Warwickshire and found the course a generous lay out.  Most of that day is but a blur; I was severely jet-lagged.   So, needless to say, my golf play was uneventful save for a few memorable swings with the driver.   After befriending a man, Bill Hickey, from Montana, we had dinner at The Hilton, and I, shortly thereafter, tried in vain to get some sleep but to no avail. 

The next day I headed off to Blackpool on the west coast of England, and the site of 1996 British Open. The bus trip from Warwick took about 2.5 hours but again I was treated to some fantastic countryside.  My trip coincided with "The Open" and I had tickets to the final round of the championship.  Tom Lehman, an American, had established the lead, but was paired with England's own Nick Faldo.  Journal Excerpt Rick Rodriguez "The Open was fabulous!  I spent most of the day at holes 2, 4 & 5.  I got to see most of the stars: Couples, Pavin, Nicklaus, Norman, Crenshaw, Woods, Mediate, Singh, Faldo, and eventual championship winner Tom Lehman.  I followed Faldo and Lehman most of the way home (18th hole).  Couples made a charge.  Mark Brooks chipped in on 5.  I like him.  The roar of the gallery at The Open is unbelievable especially when Faldo birdied!  I hung out after and took a close up photo of the Claret Jug and Lehman being interviewed by Jimmy Roberts of ESPN."  It is interesting to note who the stars were in 1996.  Back then Faldo, Norman, and Couples were pretty big stars--and a relative unknown--Tiger Woods was playing in his last event as a non-professional golfer.  He turned professional shortly thereafter!

After two tournament rounds of the world tournament, I met a local named Duncan Glover; we were paired together in the 2nd round.  Since we had an off day on Wednesday, Duncan invited me to stay with him at his home in Birmingham.  Naturally, I accepted and after the round we headed down to his home.  Birmingham is a big city and somewhat industrial.  I met his wife Joan and son Ian, and then we headed out to dinner where I had my 1st Indian food experience.  I had curry and it was fabulous!  Our conversation centered on the unlikeliness that I ended up with them in their hometown, knowing not a soul but with the capacity to take a chance and make friends (years later Ian would stay with me in Danville), and now the memory is part of my history!  On Wednesday, Joan made us a nice English breakfast and we ate in their narrow backyard.  We also made it to Gordon's golf club, Moseley, and while there I got a chance to play Snooker, a billiard type game played on a larger table with smaller holes.  I don't remember the final outcome but I do know we knocked down several pints of England's finest before heading home!

The last two rounds were uneventful.  The golf club gave us an excellent send off and we enjoyed a taste of English dance along with fine cuisine.  Afterwards, I hopped in my rental car and headed back to London.  While I didn't get a chance to see much of London, I did take a city tour which covered the most famous London landmarks including Big Ben.  I almost missed my flight back to the States because I couldn't find my rental return spot.  I was so close to missing my flight that I had to leave my rental car in the short term parking area.  What an experience!  Needless to say, I was the last one to board the flight home and the airline (British Airways) had to hold the flight because my bags had already been checked earlier in the day.  Yikes!

I learned a few valuable lessons in this tournament and the trip.  Basically it comes down to rest and preparation to excel in these tournaments.  I underestimated the jet lag and didn't catch up on my sleep until mid week. I  spent hours awake gazing at the Warwick Castle and lamenting my inability to catch some ZZZZZZ's.  I also learned that I never would regret traveling abroad.  Despite some harrowing experiences!  Nothing compares to the freedom of being alone in the world and discovering new things.  Not only has this broadened my experience of life, but it has built friendships for me; given me a greater appreciation of where I'm from, and has allowed me to continue to follow my dreams!

Beyond Survival by Gerald R. Coffee

By Rick Rodriguez

I've always been attracted to stories where the element of survival is stretched to the extreme.  This book is all about that and then some.  It's the story of Captain Gerald R. Coffee, a POW, in the Vietnam War.  It's the true story of Captain Coffee's capture and fight for survival in a POW camp.  It's also the story of the human will to fight and survive under the most dire circumstances.

I first learned of Captain Coffee's story at sales retreat that I attended.  There, Mr. Coffee, entertained us with his story but also shed the light on the risks posed by those in our armed forces.  He chronicled his experiences including torture, starvation, brain-washing, and every other atrocity the mind can imagine under these hostile conditions.

Beyond Survival Gerald R. Coffee " The only real security we have is the certainty that we're equipped to handle whatever happens to us.  Too often we try to build strength through position, possessions, family and friends, social and religious rituals--all the outer trappings by which we form our identities.  Stripped of them all, we have to draw on what is left: our basic sense of identity as human beings.  From there true security is born."  Often, I think back to when I scribbled these words down in my journal (1993), and how they became important when I slipped and fell in one of the many pitfalls I confronted.  It's especially important in these times where possessions seem to be where we draw our strength from.  Strip of them all!  What's left?  Just me and frankly that's all I need.  With this knowledge, I can focus on the problem at hand and know that I've got what it takes to confront it!

I read this book in 1993.  And, I have to stay that this book along with several others I read at the time inspired me to take on new challenges and fight off others.  In some ways, through Captain Coffee's experiences, the book, forced me to take a look at my own life.  Instead of asking why me (?), I began to explore new ideas like "show me, lord?"  Beyond Survival Gerald R. Coffee "When we cannot change a situation, resolution comes through the way we choose to handle it within ourselves.  To let go is not to deny but to accept.  Letting go moves us beyond the unproductive lament of "what if?" and "why me, Lord?"  To the constructive acceptance of "what is" and "show me, lord!" 

I never really knew the purpose of writing book reviews (hand written) in my journal (s) back in the early nineties.  But now, I guess, the reasons are clear to me.  Perhaps, by re-reading what I wrote back then--I can reuse--the ideas now!  But, also I can share here in my blog. My hope is that I inspire you to read this book!  It's truly an inspiring story of true American Hero!

Acapulco, Guerrero Mexico August 1997

My trip to Acapulco, was quite frankly one of the most enjoyable trips of my life!  We stayed at Las Brisas.  A beautiful seaside resort with panoramic views of Acapulco Bay.  The steepness of its location requires motorized transport to and from the room to the lobby.  And, this unique feature along with first class service; a private pool; and ample sized rooms make staying here a pleasure!  Clearly what I remember the most is the incredible view from our room!

I was first introduced to Acapulco by my parents as a child.  Back then in early 1970's, we would make the trek to Mexico City from our home in Hayward, California via the Interstate 5.  We'd drive through  California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.  Once we got to El Paso, Texas we'd head south through Mexico.  I guess that's how I came to know towns like Flagstaff, Arizona and Albuquerque, New Mexico.  And places like Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, and Guadalajara in Mexico.  Once we arrived to Mexico City, the place to vacation for the locals was Acapulco on the west coast of Mexico.  And this is where my parents took us!

Stuffed in a car for two-thousand miles seems impossibly cumbersome.  But, I bet my folks, especially my Dad, instilled that sense of adventure in me on these trips that has stayed with me throughout my lifetime.  In fact, some of my earliest memories are of incredible lightening shows in New Mexico.  They scared the wits out of me but then again I was a kid!  But, Dad knew how to handle any on road situations including the wind gusts that often turned up in the open plains we encountered!  

Journal Excerpt Rick Rodriguez August 31, 1997 "Our activities included deep sea fishing; a ride on the Shotover Jet, and 18 holes at Tres Vidas golf course."  The day we went deep sea fishing was incredibly calm.  "Jim & Donna went on the fishing trip.  Our Captain was named Gregorio Roque.  He's a young guy.  He gave us some good insights.  The ocean is a wonderful place in calm conditions.  We enjoyed a beautiful day at sea.  We went out about twelve miles!"   Yes, and it took awhile adjusting to the idea that we were in a small boat and hours away from the shoreline; and in a relatively small boat!  We did end up catching a lone sail fish, and of the boats that went out that day our boat was the only one with a raised flag; signifying a catch for the day!  We gave the locals the fish and they readily lined up for their share!

Another highlight was a ride on the Shotover Jet.  This little adventure is a high risk boat ride that is incredibly exhilarating.  Journal excerpt "We also took a ride on the Shotover Jet. This is a high speed boat that rides over a couple of feet of water.  The jet propels through the water very fast!  Our driver's name was Polo: a highly skilled driver.  He took us onto Rio Papagallo at incredible speeds and dangerously close to the protruding rocks at rivers edge.  He showed us where parts of the movie Rambo II was filmed.  It was a great experience." I'd rank this experience pretty high on the adventure spectrum.  The only downside is the possibility of error by the boat driver.  We had to sign a waiver stating we complied with the risks associated including kissing your butt bye bye in a crash!  Yikes!!

My last treat was getting the opportunity to play the world class golf course Tres Vidas Golf course.  Journal Excerpt "Tres Vidas golf course is about the best course in Acapulco (1997).  I was fortunate to have played it.  My caddy was named Rodolfo.  A young man of twenty-three years.  We had an interesting day.  The highlight was a 4 iron I hit at a Par 3 into the ocean side Number 3 hole.  I watched the flight of the ball as it soared to the green!"  Playing golf with a caddy is always a special treat, and on this day I had a good guy.  I also played on a remarkable day with very few players on the course.  Perhaps, the $200 USD keeps players away but I'd certainly recommend playing here.  It's the 1st course I've been to that has an Olympic size swimming pool at the clubhouse.  A nice retreat after a game of golf!

  

San Ramon Valley Times 5/20/2009 "Assualt?" by Rick Rodriguez

By Rick Rodriguez

A few months back, Ruben Navarette, a syndicated national columnist writing for the San Diego Union, reported on a tragic death of an individual beaten to death at the hands of four white men.  The four white men were according to reports "All-American Boys on the football team that get good grades." The victim was an "illegal Mexican."  Apparently, there are contentions, according to witnesses, that the death occurred while the perpetrators shouted ethnic and racial castigations at the deceased.

Typically, these stories don't surprise me as we see these types of acts committed frequently throughout society.  And, I am not partial to any ethnicity; however, in this case, the perpetrators happen to be white and the victim is for lack of a better word Hispanic.  What puzzles and disturbs me is the continuance of these acts that wreak of ethnic hate.  Why must we continue to endure the harness of racism that envelopes our daily lives, and forms our daily perceptions.  Is or will there ever be harmony among people of different races/ethnicities?  Moreover, equally puzzling is the verdicts that juries put forth after hearing all the evidence.  Equally disturbing is how juries arrive at verdicts especially when ethnic relations are involved.

Navarette, San Ramon Valley Times 5/14/2009 P.A12 " In most parts of the country, the cowardly and hateful act of beating someone to death--while shouting racial slurs, according to witnesses--would be called by its proper name: murder.  Curiously, though in Pennsylvania's Schuylkill County, an all-white jury came up with another name for it : simple assault." 

So, of course I couldn't let that slip past me without my two cents.  Here's what I wrote to the San Ramon Valley Times and it was published in this morning's paper:

San Ramon Valley Times 5/20/2009 "Assault?" by Rick Rodriguez

"Let me get this straight (columnist Ruben Navarette Times May 14): Four white guys beat up one brown guy.  The brown guy ends up dead.  Two white guys are charged with assault.  The other two are still in trouble.  Assault?  Legal definition of assault:  "A crime that occurs when one person tries to physically harm another in a way that makes the person under attack feel immediately threatened.  Actual physical contact is not necessary; threatening gestures that would alarm any reasonable person can constitute assault."  I see.  And one brown guy ends up dead!"

Here, my argument is for the lack of justice for the deceased.  He was an illegal immigrant; something I vehemently oppose, a father of two children, and he was brutally murdered.  Of course, I was not present in the court house to hear all sides of the story; yet, somehow this verdict wreaks of injustice.  If "assault" does not have to include even an act of physical contact; how is it that these four men would only be charged with assault and not murder?  How is it that a man could be beaten to death under these circumstances and we as "Americans" are not screaming at the top of our lungs for justice?  Well, here I am "screaming at the top of my lungs" for a man I never met and for a story that never seems to end!

 

San Francisco, California China Beach May 17, 2009

As a native of the San Francisco Bay Area, it would be easy to take one of the world's greatest cities for granted, but I never do.  Often I marvel at the spectacularness of the City by the Bay, and it never disappoints.  The diversity is depicted clearly in the neighborhoods designated throughout the city.  And while I've been crossing the Bay and Golden Gate Bridges since I was a kid, I still find an undiscovered spot in the city nearly every time I visit. 

It is not untypical for us to go over to San Francisco just to ride the cable cars.  I often marvel at how many native Bay Areans skip this San Francisco Treat.  The tourists never do as evidenced by the languages spoken on board.  My kids love the ride as much as I did as a kid, and now as an adult, I can remember my folks taking us over to the city to ride the cable cars.  We usually catch the Union Square trip out to Ghirardelli Square.  And either head over to Fisherman's Wharf or the Buena Vista near the square. 

Recently, I had the pleasure of eating at Scoma's; a true depiction of an excellent seafood San Francisco restaurant.  The restaurant is slightly tucked away off the Wharf and away from the main tourist thoroughfare.  The food is excellent.  And, the venue is slightly family style dining with many seafood specialties!  The restaurant can get crowded and at times there is a wait.  But, if ever in the area, I recommend a stop at Scoma's in the city!

Today, we stopped in at China Beach near Sea Cliff.  Juxtaposed with Baker Beach (another favorite), China Beach would easily be skipped for its smallness and rocky beach.  Yet, while the crowds will flock to Baker Beach, there is always a chance that a coveted parking space might be had at China Beach.

Nestled below the mansions of the Sea Cliff neighborhood, China Beach is a land mark of San Francisco history, and a great place to cool off on a summer day.  The views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands are some of the best in the city.   Of course, if sand is what you are looking for you might be better off heading to Ocean or Baker Beach.  China Beach has some rocky outcroppings probably due to its proximity to the entrance to the Golden Gate.  There is a nice set of steps that facilitate the descent to the beach, and not a lot of room for large crowds.  So, this is an excellent option in order to avoid the crowds when a day in San Francisco calls for a day at the beach!

San Francisco, for me, is quite easy to figure out and I could drive aimlessly throughout the city and never get lost; eventually I'll run out of land except in the southerly direction.  So, most of the major streets are laid out in north/south and east/west directions.  At least, that is what I've come to know it as in all my years visiting.  And, while there are treasures to be found in every city, these few have brought many a happy memories for my family, and me!  I hope they do the same for you, too!

Lincoln on Leadership by Donald T. Phillips

By Rick Rodriguez

The American Civil War was arguably one of the most chaotic periods in our history. Yet through it all, Abraham Lincoln managed to keep the Union together and victorious. I read this this fascinating and insightful book back in 1993, and on occasion I harken back to its lessons when I get off track. The book reads like an instruction manual on anecdotes of what people will migrate to in times of turmoil or rather should at most any time.  Our current leader, Barack Obama, is clearly demonstrating these qualities as he moves us forward, or rather tries to move us forward!  Nonetheless, what appears painfully missing in some segments of our society is the leadership qualities demonstrated by our 16th President--Abraham Lincoln!

Journal Excerpt 2/8/1993 Rick Rodriguez paraphrased from Lincoln on Leadership by Donald T. Phillips "Some single mind must be master, else there will be no agreement in anything. Compromise need not be cowardice. He was not insecure or felt threatened by others.  He thirsted and burned for distinction! He was driven! He was reliable and tirelessly persistent! His vision was simple and he often preached it."

One of the most important lessons I learned from this book was to get out and circulate among the troops.  In other words, get out and talk to people, make new friends and build new relationships!  How about that in this age of social networking? Lincoln of Leadership by Donald T. Phillips (1992 P. 25) "One of the most effective ways to gain acceptance of a philosophy is to show it in your daily actions. In order to stage your leadership style, you must have an audience. By entering your subordinate's environment--by establishing frequent contact--you create a sense of commitment, collaboration, and community.  You also gain access to vital information to make effective decisions." This was a particularly valuable lesson for me as it compelled me to get out of the office and get in front of as many clients as possible!  I'm not fond of the word subordinate but it was used that way in the book. This lesson took a bit of courage, commitment, and perseverance.  Later, however, these steps paid dividends in many areas of my life!

Often in life unjust criticism comes our way, and undoubtedly it is difficult to deal with it separately without taking it personally. Lincoln on Leadership Donald T. Phillips (1992 P. 66-72) "But every man of courage must, sooner or later, deal with unjust criticism.  Throughout his life, Lincoln was the object of jealousy, envy, and malice.  This was largely the result of his burning desire for achievement, which motivated him to excel. When a man hears himself somewhat misrepresented, it provokes him--at least, I find it so with myself; but when the misrepresentation becomes very gross and palpable, it is more apt to amuse him."  Yes, Mr. Lincoln, just laughed it off. And, of course, in our own lives that's a very difficult lesson to apply; however, I will say that I've learned that in addition to success being the best revenge.  Forgiveness is the ultimate compliment paid to a trespasser! 

Donald T. Phillips reveals the strategies and tactics Lincoln employed, and offers ways that leaders can use those same strategies to make their businesses successful in these tough economic times.

I purchased Lincoln on Leadership in Cambridge, Massachusetts.  Ironically, a focal point of the American Revolution.  Lincoln on Leadership is 173 pages.  I read it in February of 1993.