The New Haven Independent published my reflections nearly a quarter of a century after attending the 1992 Democratic National Convention: “Convention Memories: Another Clinton, Another Age.”

A version, with additional photos, also appears at Medium.

Alas, violence in every city and state, not to mention atrocities abroad, can happen on a daily basis.  This blog has decried it before.

Still, it was sad to learn of the shooting deaths last week of Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, and the Dallas police officers protecting a peaceful protest.

President Obama always seems to strike the right note and balance when he makes statements under the pressures of such events, but it’s awful that he keeps having to do so. 

Friday morning, I texted a friend of mine (whose birthday had been the day before) who happens to be a police officer as well as African American.  I wrote of “terrible news this week from Baton Rouge, Minnesota, and now Dallas.”  He replied, “It surely is my friend – some individuals in society just don’t get it…”

A July 2012 (July 4) post cited a series of NPR reports on “Those Who Serve.”

The volunteer members of our military depicted in such stories merit more attention, more gratitude – not just on holidays like July 4, but every day.  Thanks to them, and to their families.