Trick-Or-Treating With Autism: A Parent's Guide To A Stress-Free Halloween South Florida Sun Times Oct 15, 2025 Halloween Is Often A Time Of Joy For Many Kids, As It Is Filled With Costumes And The Excitement Of Trick-Or-Treating. However, For Some Families (Particularly Those With Children On The Autism Spectrum), Trick-Or-Treating Can Also Bring Unique Challenges. Sensory Sensitivities, Unexpected Changes In Routine, And Unfamiliar Social Interactions Can Make The Experience Overwhelming. However, With Thoughtful Preparation, Open Communication, And Flexibility, Families Can Create A Trick-Or-Treating Experience That Supports Their Child's Comfort And Enjoyment. As the CEO of Above and Beyond Therapy, where we provide personalized ABA therapy in Georgia, I have seen firsthand how practical, inclusive strategies can support Autistic children in having a more enjoyable and low-stress trick-or-treating experience. Below is a helpful guide for parents and caregivers to help make Halloween more accessible and fun for everyone. Understanding the Challenges For many children on the Autism Spectrum, the traditional elements of Halloween can present some unique challenges. For example, sensory sensitivities may be triggered by costumes made from uncomfortable fabrics, loud or unexpected sounds, flashing lights, or crowded, visually overwhelming environments. Also, social interactions like knocking on doors, engaging with unfamiliar people, or making eye contact can also feel stressful or uncomfortable. The disruption to daily routines that Halloween often brings can also increase anxiety, as many Autistic kids thrive on structure and predictability. Communication can be another barrier, whether a child is verbal or nonverbal, which makes it difficult for them to express excitement, discomfort, or a need for a break. Recognizing and understanding these potential challenges is an important first step in creating a Halloween trick-or-treating experience that feels safe, supportive, and enjoyable for your child. Planning Ahead Preparation can also make a meaningful difference in helping kids on the Autism Spectrum feel more secure and included during Halloween. For example, starting early with tools like visual schedules or social stories can be a helpful way to explain what trick-or-treating is, what to expect, and what activities your child will be participating in. Discussing each step of the process (such as putting on a costume, walking up to a door, and saying “trick or treat”) can help your child feel more confident and prepared. In addition, choosing the right time to go out (such as earlier in the evening or during daylight hours) may also reduce sensory overload and anxiety. It's also important to set clear and manageable limits, like agreeing on how many houses to visit and establishing a clear end point, to support your child's comfort and help them enjoy the experience at their own pace. Choosing the Right Costume When selecting a Halloween costume, comfort should always be the top priority (especially for children with sensory sensitivities). Opt for soft, tagless, and breathable fabrics, and avoid masks or face paint if your child is sensitive to textures or strong smells. Also empower your child by offering a few costume options to choose from, which can help them feel more in control and open to new experiences. Practicing by wearing the costume around the house in the days leading up to Halloween can also help your child adjust and feel more at ease. Remember that traditional costumes aren't the only option, as costume-themed T-shirts, favorite character pajamas, or simple accessories like hats or capes can be excellent and comfortable alternatives that still allow your child to participate in the trick-or-treating fun. Practicing Trick-or-Treating Familiarity can go a long way in helping children feel more comfortable with new experiences, and practicing ahead of time can make Halloween more manageable. For example, you can role-play at home using toys, family members, or props to simulate trick-or-treating, which can help your child understand what to expect in a low-pressure environment. Also, visual supports, such as printable cards with messages like “Trick or Treat” or “Thank you,” can be especially helpful for children who are nonverbal or who may feel anxious about speaking. If you have supportive neighbors, consider arranging a brief practice run in advance to help your child build confidence and feel more prepared for the big night. Managing Sensory Overload Being prepared for potential sensory challenges can help prevent feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, or meltdowns during Halloween. For example, bringing along sensory tools like noise-canceling headphones, fidget items, sunglasses, or calming chewable items can support self-regulation throughout the evening. It’s also helpful to choose quieter, gently decorated homes and avoid houses with strobe lights, loud sound effects, or intense visual displays. On top of this, having a plan in place for breaks (like taking a few minutes in a quiet area or resting in the car) can provide a much-needed reset if things become too stimulating. Also pack comfort items like a favorite toy, blanket, or familiar object, as it can offer a sense of security and help your child feel more grounded. Safety Considerations Safety should always be a top priority on Halloween, especially with the many distractions the night can bring. Consider using identification tools such as wristbands, badges, or temporary tattoos with contact information in case your child becomes separated. Also, to enhance visibility, incorporate reflective tape, glow sticks, or LED lights into costumes and treat bags. Stick to familiar routes and consider attending sensory-friendly community events, which may be more comfortable than traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating. Regardless of your child’s level of independence, ensure a trusted adult is always nearby to provide support and supervision. Inclusive Alternatives to Traditional Trick-or-Treating If the traditional trick-or-treating experience isn’t the right fit for your child, there are many inclusive and enjoyable alternatives to consider. For example, trunk-or-treat events (often held in parking lots) typically involve less walking and offer a quieter, more structured environment. Many communities also host sensory-friendly Halloween activities specifically designed to accommodate children with developmental differences. These provide a welcoming space for all to participate. Also, home-based celebrations like candy scavenger hunts, Halloween-themed movie nights, or sensory-friendly games can be wonderful ways to create meaningful and personalized holiday traditions. Encouraging Acceptance in the Community Fostering understanding and empathy within the community can also help make Halloween more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone. For example, some families choose to use blue pumpkin buckets as a way to indicate that their child may have Autism (though this is a personal decision and not universally adopted). Others may find it helpful to use awareness cards that briefly explain their child’s communication or social needs. This allows neighbors to respond with greater compassion. Taking a moment to inform neighbors in advance through a friendly conversation or a short note can also go a long way in encouraging patience, kindness, and a more supportive environment for all trick-or-treaters. Post-Halloween Decompression Once the festivities are over, supporting your child’s transition back to their regular routine is just as important as the celebration itself. Take time to reflect on the experience together using pictures, drawings, or simple conversations to help them process what happened and how they felt. Allow for plenty of rest by avoiding additional events or overstimulating activities in the days that follow. Most importantly, celebrate the wins! Whether your child visited one house or many, acknowledge the effort, bravery, and progress they made and focus on the positive memories. Now, Go Have a Fun Halloween with Your Child! Every child deserves the chance to enjoy Halloween in a way that suits them. For children with Autism, this often means reimagining the holiday to align with their unique needs. With thoughtful planning, a flexible mindset, and a focus on comfort and joy, Halloween can be an inclusive, enriching experience for both your child and the whole family. Remember, there is no one “right” way to celebrate. A successful Halloween is one where your child feels safe, supported, and included, even if it looks a little different from the traditional version. Matt Rokowsky is the CEO at Above and Beyond Therapy in Georgia, which is dedicated to helping children with Autism Spectrum Disorder thrive and reach their fullest potential. In his role, Matt educates others on how to support Autistic individuals, challenge stigmas, and understand the unique strengths and challenges they may face. He and his experienced and compassionate team deliver personalized ABA therapy tailored to each child’s unique needs. They believe every child can succeed with the right support and guidance. Using evidence-based practices, Above and Beyond Therapy creates customized treatment plans that focus on communication, social, and academic growth. Through home, school, and center-based services, they work closely with families to ensure meaningful, lasting progress. For more information on Above and Beyond Therapy, visit: https://www.abtaba.com/ Previous Next

Don't Worry About What Other People Think Wed Mar 02 2022 05:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Birthright Israel Names Simon Amiel Executive Vice President, North America Jewish Connection News May 19, 2026 Birthright Israel Today Announced That Simon Amiel Was Appointed As The New Executive Vice President, North America, Effective Monday, June 1st, 2026. He Will Be Based In The Organization’s New York Office. A Seattle native, Amiel brings extensive experience in Jewish communal leadership, Israel education, and cross-sector partnership-building across North America and Israel. He currently serves as Executive Director of RootOne, an organization that makes it possible for thousands of North American teens to build lifelong connections to Israel through immersive travel experiences each year. His previous leadership roles include senior positions at Hillel and City Year. Widely recognized as a thoughtful leader and strong collaborator, Amiel is deeply committed to advancing Jewish engagement. He will succeed Elizabeth “Liz” Sokolsky, who is stepping down after more than two decades of leadership at Birthright Israel and a distinguished career in Jewish communal life. “Simon is a mission-driven leader with a deep understanding of the North American Jewish landscape. His experience, relationships, and vision will be instrumental as we continue to grow our impact and strengthen connections to Israel for the next generation. We look forward to welcoming him to the team and are confident he will bring strategic vision, energy, and leadership to the role,” said Gidi Mark, International CEO of Birthright Israel. “On behalf of myself and everyone at Birthright Israel, I want to express our heartfelt thanks and deepest gratitude to Liz Sokolsky for her 26 years of visionary leadership and dedicated service to the Jewish people. Liz will remain with us through the end of the year and will help onboard Simon and support a smooth transition. We are grateful to Liz for her leadership and for her continued partnership during this period,” Mark added. Simon Amiel of Birthright Israel (Photo credit: Courtesy of Birthright Israel) Previous Next

“COPD Doesn’t Define Me”: South Florida Firefighter On A Mission To Defeat Lung Disease South Florida Sun Times Feb 27, 2025 On March 9th, South Florida firefighter/paramedic Peter Berger will suit up in turnout gear weighing more than 50 pounds to climb 1,700 stairs of loanDepot park. Berger is no stranger to the Fight For Air Climb. In the past seven years, he has raised nearly $150,000 for Lung Health Research and programming and climbed more than tens of hundreds of stairs during events and practices. In 2024, the Lung Association recognized him as the highest fundraising firefighter nationwide and South Florida Board Member of the Year. Berger, a father of three, is passionate about Lung health and safety because he knows firsthand that every breath is a gift. In 2008, at the age of 32, he was diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) from job-related Mold exposure. Thankfully, with the guidance of his healthcare team and medication, his symptoms are well-managed. Berger now serves as a Fire Inspector for Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services. “I thought I was too young to be diagnosed with COPD,” Berger recounted. “My Pulmonologist told me that Mold infiltration in the Lungs is a way to get COPD, especially for young people. Now my health is really good, and I’m rarely short of breath. I live with this disease, but it doesn’t define me.” Berger discovered the Lung Association’s Fight For Air Climb seven years ago when searching for a new physical challenge. Since then, he has led teams of cadets and EMS students up thousands of stairs to raise funds and awareness for Lung Cancer and all Lung Diseases, including COPD. He dedicates each climb to firefighters who have lost their battle with Lung Disease. In 2021, Berger deepened his commitment to Lung health by taking on the role of chair for the Miami Climb, which he continues to hold. Last year, he joined the Lung Association’s South Florida Leadership Board, where he also serves as advocacy chair. “The Lung Association’s mission means so much to me and my family, and I am proud to be a part of this organization,” said Berger. “Participation in the Fight For Air Climb saves lives. You can directly fund research, programs and services for people living with Lung Disease.” “Peter has been integral to our work to create a future free of Lung Cancer and Lung Disease,” said Hernan Milan, Chair of the Lung Association’s South Florida Leadership Board and First Vice President, Business Liaison Leader at Amerant Bank. “We are immensely grateful for his passion for Lung health and safety, as well as his many years of leadership in the Fight For Air Climb Miami.” Join Berger and hundreds of participants from across South Florida, including families, friends, first responders and corporate teams, at the 21st Annual Fight For Air Climb Miami. The Miami Climb, presented by Metro-Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403, will take place on Sunday, March 9th at loanDepot park—Home of the Miami Marlins. Participants can form a new team, join an existing team or register as an individual climber. Registration is $35, with a $100 fundraising minimum. Thank you to Metro-Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403 for serving as the Presenting Sponsor for the Fight For Air Climb Miami. Thank you to our local sponsors, including Memorial Cancer Institute, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Amerant Bank, Economos Properties, Wilen Group, Alhambra Orchestra, NSU Florida, Vogelzang Law, Northstar Financial Planners and Enterprise Mobility Foundation. Thank you to our national corporate team partner, Kindred Hospitals. Berger added: “There is no elevator to the cure. So, I’m encouraging our South Florida community to meet us on the stairs.” For more information, visit: https://ClimbMiami.org Peter Berger to lead Fight For Air Climb Miami on March 9th; Honored by American Lung Association as highest fundraising firefighter in nation. The Miami Climb, presented by Metro-Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403, will take place on Sunday, March 9th. Previous Next

South Florida Goes Green - Broward And Miami-Dade Hotspots Hosting Lively St. Patrick’s Day Bashes By John Bernardo Mar 16, 2026 Saint Patrick’s Day Is Almost Here. An Occasion When South Florida Residents And Visitors Will Wear Green And Claim To Be Irish While They’re Dining, Drinking, Dancing, And Feeling Lucky. Hence, The Green-Themed Holiday Is Just A Few Three-Leaf Clovers Away. Once It Arrives, People Will Mingle In Pubs, Overhear Irish Bagpipers, And Munch On Corned Beef And Other Irish Delicacies While They Drink Green Beer And Other Irish Drinks. Below is a list of places in Broward and Miami-Dade counties that plan to commemorate the March 17 holiday with their guests. In Deerfield Beach, Tipperary Pub, 1540 Southeast 3rd Court, Deerfield Beach, Florida 33441 Deerfield’s oldest Irish pub, is organizing a festive St. Paddy Party. The party’s theme is “Get your Irish On” and features live music, green beer, Irish breakfast including bangers and blood pudding, and popular dishes like shepherd’s pie and Irish Dip sandwiches. The bar also offers Irish staples like Guinness, Harp, Jameson, Baileys, and Irish Car Bombs. For more information, please call: (954) 421-9769. In Lighthouse Point, Packy’s Sports Pub, 4480 North Federal Highway, Lighthouse Point, Florida 33064 will celebrate its big St. Paddy Party from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. serving corned beef & cabbage, fish n’ chips, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, Irish stew, Guinness, and more, with bagpipers performing from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. For more information, please call: (954) 657-8423. In Pompano Beach, Briny Irish Pub, 3440 East Atlantic Boulevard, Pompano Beach, Florida 33062, a neighborhood beachside tavern founded in 1945, is hosting its St. Paddy Bash from 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., featuring live music, cold pints, green beer, traditional Irish food, and Irish cheer. For more information, please call: (954) 942-3159. Another Pompano Beach bar welcoming St. Patrick’s Day is Galuppi’s, 1103 North Federal Highway, Pompano Beach, Florida 33062, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., folks will experience Irish step dancers, bagpipers, and fiddlers. They also can enjoy Irish dishes, green beer, drink specials, and holiday activities. For more information, please call: (954) 785-0226. In Coral Springs, Sharkey’s Bar and Grill, 10365 Royal Palm Boulevard, Coral Springs, Florida 33065 will begin its March 17th event at 9:00 a.m., serving corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash. Drink specials include Guinness, Jameson, and Irish Car Bomb shots. Attendees can listen to live music there too. For more information, please call: (954) 341-9990. In Fort Lauderdale, Waxy’s Irish Pub, 1095 Southeast 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316, will throw its St. Paddy Fest, March 17th, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. with an Irish breakfast, live music, green beer, pints of Guinness, and authentic Irish fare. Guests can also party outside at its beer garden. For more information, call: (954) 525-9299. Another Irish spot in Fort Lauderdale, Kelly Brothers Irish Pub, 3045 North Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33306 will have live music, drink specials, Irish-themed festivities, and Irish pub fare including: bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, corned beef sliders, and fish n’ chips. For more information, please call: (954) 630-2856. In Dania Beach, The Field Irish Pub & Eatery, 3281 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312, will “paint the town green” with an all-day, all-night shamrock-like party on March 17th. The Field offers folks Irish cuisine including: Irish breakfast, fish & chips, and shepherd’s pie, traditional Irish music, Irish dancers, and a wide range of Irish drinks, including Guinness on tap and Jameson Irish Whiskey. For more information, call: (954) 964-5979. Also in Dania Beach, Shenanigans Sports Pub, 1300 South Federal Highway, Dania Beach, Florida 33004 will salute St. Patrick’s Day with bagpipers and a wide assortment of Irish food and drinks. For more information, call: (954) 923-3008. In Hollywood, Walsh’s Pub, an Irish bar and local hangout on 2217 North Federal Highway, Hollywood, Florida 33020 will launch its St. Patrick celebration on March 17th from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m. and offer customers a good mix of Irish food, Irish drinks, and entertainment. For more information, call: (954) 920-5479. In Miami-Dade County, John Martin’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, 253 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, Florida 33134 will arrange a huge St. Patrick’s Day celebration on March 17th, starting at 4:00 p.m. Partyers can enjoy a place with an Irish atmosphere, live music, and classic Irish food and drinks. For more information, call: (305) 209-0609. In Virginia Gardens, a village near Miami Springs, Bryson’s Irish Pub, a longtime roadside tavern on 3790 Curtiss Parkway, Virginia Gardens, Florida 33166 will have its big green party beginning at 10:00 a.m. Once its kicks off, guests can hear Irish tunes while feasting on corned beef & cabbage and shepherd’s pie. Some of Bryson’s traditional holiday drinks include Smithwick’s Irish Ale and Irish Car Bombs. For more information, call: (305) 871-9534. In Doral, The Doral Yard, 8455 Northwest 53rd Street, Suite 106, Lauderhill, Florida 33351 will “go green” on St. Pat’s Day from noon to 11:30 p.m. offering lucky guests live music, delicious cuisine from culinary vendors, and handcrafted cocktails. Holiday drink specials include $7 green tea shots, $7 beer and a $12 shot-and-beer combo showcasing Teeling Whiskey. For more information, please call: (786) 843-5106. Meanwhile, for over four decades, Duffy’s Tavern on 2108 Southwest 57th Avenue, Miami, Florida 33155 another neighborhood Irish pub in Miami, is highlighting an “Irish green scene” on March 17th. Duffy’s will offer patrons live music, food specials including: Irish Pub Sliders & loaded pub fries and drink specials including: Duffy’s Ale, Irish Car Bombs, and Jameson Whiskey. For more information, call: (305) 264-6580. In Miami-Dade County’s Wynwood community, St. Pat’s Wynwood, located at The Wynwood Marketplace on 2250 Northwest 2nd Avenue, Miami, Florida 33127 is throwing a huge, shamrock-like block party on Tuesday, March 17th. 2026 with DJs, green beer, food vendors, and nonstop dancing; the affair runs from 6:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. For more information, please call: (305) 461-2700. Come St. Patrick’s Day in downtown Miami, The Auld Dubliner Irish Pub, 91 Northwest 1st Street, Miami, Florida 33128, will be serving classic Irish food; including an Irish breakfast, fish n’ chips, shepherd’s pie, and a special Chelsea burger with Irish bacon and a fried egg. An array of popular Irish drinks will also be available. For more information, please call: (786) 353-2339. Another downtown Miami meeting place worth mentioning is Pier 5 at Bayside Marketplace. Pier 5 will soon coordinate a multi-day St. Paddy celebration from Saturday, March 14th, 2026 - Tuesday, March 17th, 2026. And for each of the three days, Pier 5 will throw its bash from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. The “Pier Party” comes with live music, dancing, Irish beer, traditional Irish dishes including: such as corned beef n’ cabbage and pub fare including: shepherd’s pie, Irish bangers, and fish n’ chips. Additionally, partyers can buy a shot of any Irish whiskey and get a free Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, Michelob Light or Stella. For more information, please call: (305) 209-0090. Or email: hello@pier5.com . Moreover, in South Beach, Finnegan’s Way, 1344 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33139 has poured patrons pints of Guinness and Irish whiskey shots for decades. On St. Paddy’s Day, the scenery at Finnegan’s is absolutely green as visitors can enjoy traditional Irish food and drinks while dining outdoors. More information, call (305) 672-7747. Finally, in downtown Homestead, on St. Paddy’s Day, there’ll be a gathering called the Leprechaun Pub Crawl, which begins at 4:00 p.m. and will be held at the Seminole Theatre, 18 North Krome Avenue, Homestead, Florida 33030. This celebration includes a tour of multiple downtown Homestead bars and includes drink specials ($3 beers, $3 cocktails, $3 shots, and more). This “harp and clover-like party” concludes at 8:00 p.m. with an “Irish Comedy Show” at the Seminole Theatre Pub. More information, please call (786) 650-2073. Previous Next

Aventura's Adult Tennis Clinic: Tuesdays & Thursdays At Founders Park Tennis Courts August 15, 2023 Share Want to practice your Tennis skills? Sign up for our Adult Tennis Clinic today! Are you seeking a dynamic and engaging way to stay active, meet new people and unleash your inner athlete? Look no further than the City of Aventura's Adult Tennis Clinic! Held at the renowned Founders Park Tennis Courts, this exciting program offers a range of skill levels, from beginner to advanced, allowing participants to learn, improve and excel in the sport they love. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, the clinic provides an exceptional opportunity to enhance your skills while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Aventura. So, why should you sign up? Let's explore the numerous reasons that make this Tennis Clinic an absolute must for all Tennis enthusiasts. At the heart of the City of Aventura's Adult Tennis Clinic is high quality instruction. These dedicated professionals bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the program, ensuring that participants receive top-notch instruction. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the fundamentals or an advanced player seeking to refine your technique, the instructor will tailor their guidance to meet your individual needs. Their passion for the sport and commitment to your progress will undoubtedly inspire you to reach new heights. The Clinic caters to players of all skill levels, making it an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. Whether you're stepping onto the court for the first time or aiming to take your game to the next level, you'll find a suitable class. You won't get lost in the crowd, each participant will receive personalized attention and instruction as well. This diversity fosters an atmosphere of camaraderie, where you can learn from fellow players and forge lasting friendships. The City of Aventura's Adult Tennis Clinic follows a structured curriculum designed to enhance your Tennis Skills progressively. From learning the basics of grip and footwork to developing powerful strokes and strategies, each session builds upon the previous one. Your instructor will incorporate a variety of drills, exercises and practice matches to reinforce your understanding and application of the techniques taught. By following this well-rounded curriculum, you'll experience steady improvement and gain the confidence to take your game to the next level. The Founders Park Tennis Courts provide a stunning backdrop for the Clinic. Nestled in the heart of Aventura, these State-Of-The-Art courts offer a picturesque setting that enhances your overall Tennis experience. Surrounded by lush greenery and well-maintained facilities, you'll find yourself fully immersed in the sport and inspired to perform at your best. The evenings' pleasant weather adds an extra touch of enjoyment as you engage in exhilarating matches and friendly competition. The Clinic's schedule is designed to accommodate the busy lives of adult participants. Held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., it offers a convenient time slot that allows you to balance work, family and other commitments. Whether you're a nine-to-five professional, a parent with evening responsibilities, or simply someone with a packed schedule, this timing ensures that you can prioritize your passion for Tennis without compromising your other obligations. Engaging in the City of Aventura's Adult Tennis Clinic goes beyond the court. Tennis is a fantastic way to improve your overall health and well-being. The fast-paced nature of the game helps to build Cardiovascular fitness, agility and endurance. Additionally, the Clinic provides an excellent opportunity to relieve Stress and boost Mental Well-Being. As you immerse yourself in the game, the worries of the day fade away and you find yourself. For more information, contact the City of Aventura Community Services Department at: (305) 466-0183. Or via email at: parksrec@cityofaventura.com . < Previous News Next News >

George Orwell’s 1984 Has Become A Blueprint For Our Dystopian Reality By John W. Whitehead & Nisha Whitehead July 8, 2021 Share Written more than 70 years ago, 1984 was George Orwell’s chilling prophecy about the future. While 1984 has come and gone, his dystopian vision of a government that will do anything to control the narrative, is timelier than ever. “If you want a picture of the future, imagine a boot stamping on a human face — forever.”— George Orwell, 1984 Tread cautiously: the fiction of George Orwell (June 25th, 1903 - January 21st, 1950) has become an operation manual for the omnipresent, modern-day surveillance state. It’s been more than 70 years since Orwell's passing, beset by fever and bloody coughing fits, this had driven to warn against the rise of a society in which, rampant abuse of power and mass manipulation are the norm - depicted the ominous rise of ubiquitous technology, fascism and totalitarianism, in 1984. Who could have predicted that so many years after Orwell typed the final words to his dystopian novel, “He Loved Big Brother,” we would come to love Big Brother. 1984 portrays a global society of total control, in which people are not allowed to have thoughts that in any way disagree with the corporate state. There is no personal freedom and advanced technology, has become the driving force behind a surveillance-driven society. Snitches and cameras are everywhere. People are subject to the Thought Police, who deal with anyone guilty of thought crimes. The government, or “Party,” is headed by Big Brother who appears on posters everywhere with the words: “Big Brother Is Watching You.” We have arrived, way ahead of schedule, into the dystopian future, it was dreamed up, by not only Orwell, but, also such fiction writers as: Aldous Huxley, Margaret Atwood and Philip K. Dick. What once seemed futuristic, no longer occupies the realm of science fiction. Incredibly, as the various nascent technologies employed and shared by the government and corporations alike—facial recognition, iris scanners, massive databases, behavior prediction software, and so on—are incorporated into a complex, interwoven cyber network aimed at tracking our movements, predicting our thoughts and controlling our behavior, the dystopian visions of past writers, is becoming our reality, very fast. Our world is characterized by widespread surveillance, behavior prediction technologies, data mining, fusion centers, driverless cars, voice-controlled homes, facial recognition systems, cybugs, drones and predictive policing (pre-crime), which are aimed at capturing would-be criminals, before, they can do any damage. Surveillance cameras are everywhere. Government agents listen in on our telephone calls and read our emails. Political correctness - a philosophy that discourages diversity - has become a guiding principle of modern society. The courts have shredded the Fourth Amendment’s protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. In fact, SWAT teams battering down doors without search warrants and FBI agents acting as a secret police that investigate dissenting citizens, are common occurrences in contemporary America. Bodily privacy and integrity, have been utterly eviscerated by a prevailing view that Americans have no rights over what happens to their bodies during an encounter with government officials, who are allowed to search, seize, strip, scan, spy on, probe, pat down, taser and arrest any individual, at any time or the slightest provocation. What many fail to realize, is that the government is not operating alone, it cannot and the government requires an accomplice. Thus, the increasingly complex security needs of the massive federal government, especially in the areas of defense, surveillance and data management, they have been met within the corporate sector, which has shown itself to be a powerful ally that both depends on and feeds the growth of, the governmental overreach. In fact, Big Tech wedded to Big Government, it has become Big Brother and now, we are ruled by the Corporate Elite, their tentacles, have spread worldwide, even our ability to speak and think freely is being regulated. In totalitarian regimes—a.k.a. police states—where conformity and compliance are enforced at the end of a loaded gun, the government dictates what words can and cannot be used. In countries, where the police state hides behind a benevolent mask and disguises itself as tolerance, the citizens censor themselves, policing their words and thoughts to conform to the dictates of the masses mind's. Dystopian literature shows what happens, when the populace is transformed into mindless automatons. In Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451, reading is banned and books are burned in order to suppress dissenting ideas, while televised entertainment is used to anesthetize the populace and render them easily pacified, distracted and controlled. In Huxley’s Brave New World, serious literature, scientific thinking and experimentation are banned as subversive, while critical thinking is discouraged through the use of conditioning, social taboos and inferior education. In my debut novel, The Erik Blair Diaries, the dystopian future that George Orwell predicted for 1984 has finally arrived, 100 years late and ten times as brutal. In this post-apocalyptic world, where everyone marches to the beat of the same drum and words like, “freedom” are taboo, Erik Blair—Orwell’s descendant and unwitting heir to his legacy—isn’t volunteering to be anyone’s hero. Unfortunately, life doesn’t always go according to plan. To save all that he loves, Orwell will have to travel between his future self and the past. In Orwell’s Novel, 1984, Big Brother does away with all undesirable and unnecessary words and meanings, even going so far as to routinely rewrite history and punish “thoughtcrimes.” Where we stand now is at the juncture of OldSpeak (where words have meanings and ideas, can be very dangerous), Newspeak (where only that which is “safe” and “accepted” by the majority is permitted). The power elite has made their intentions clear: they will pursue, prosecute any and all words, thoughts and expressions that challenge their authority, which is the final link in the police state chain. “Until they became conscious they will never rebel and until after they have rebelled, they cannot become conscious.”—George Orwell Having been reduced to a cowering citizenry—mute in the face of elected officials, who refuse to represent us, helpless in the face of police brutality, powerless in the face of militarized tactics and technology that treat us like enemy combatants on a battlefield, naked in the face of government surveillance that sees and hears all, is muzzled in an age where thought crimes can land you in jail, we now have nowhere, left to go and if we are to survive this ordeal, we're running out of options now. Whether you’re dealing with fact or fiction, as I make clear in Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in my new novel The Erik Blair Diaries, we’ll soon have to choose between self-indulgence (the bread-and-circus distractions offered up by the news media, politicians, sports conglomerates, the entertainment industry, etc.), self-preservation in the form of a renewed vigilance, about threats to our freedoms and active engagements, in self-governance. < Previous News Next News >

Shifting of a Legacy? By James Finck, USAO History Professor January 20, 2022 Share With Martin Luther King Day was this week, I have thought a lot about the man who, more than anyone else, historically represents the Civil Rights movement and social justice. At the same time, I have noticed something strange. Is it possible that the keepers of King’s legacy is shifting right? I am not talking about the far right but the right of today’s progressive movement and somewhere in the realm of moderate Democrats and Republicans. I’ll explain what I mean. King introduced himself to the world when he took over leadership of the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955. His charisma, talent, and message of non-violent protest quickly made him a household name and, depending on your viewpoint, became either the most famous or infamous man in the Civil Rights movement. The left claimed him as their champion as he fought to change the status quo and demanded equal rights. The right feared him and saw him as dangerous when he said things like, “Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.” To the right, especially in the South, King wanted to fight against 400 years of racial superiority. He wanted to change the only way of life they knew. King would feel the brunt of their fear as it was personified in hatred. He, his family, and friends dealt with threats, violence, prison, and even death to stand for what they believed in. Yet King never backed down from what he knew to be right while also never turning away from his belief in non-violence, or as he once said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” It is said that time heals all wounds, and that seems to be the case with the legacy of King. Moving into the 1970s and 1980s there was racial progress. Race relations were not perfect, just like they are not today, but when comparing life to the 1950s our nation has come a long way. Somewhere along that journey, King went from being a hero on the left to a national hero. By the time I began school in the early 1980s, King was being celebrated by all. I remember listening to his “I Had a Dream Speech” in school when I was a young kid in Virginia. Martin Luther King Day was signed into law in 1983 and done so by a Republican Senate and Ronald Reagan, a champion of the right. The fact that the right accepted King is not what’s surprising. It’s the idea now that many on the right are seeming to champion his cause. Think about what you see or read in the media. When groups like Black Lives Matter chant their slogan, what is the response from the right? “All lives Matter.” Then somewhere someone will undoubtably quote the most famous of King’s speeches when he said, “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character." I have thought on this a lot recently and tried to pay attention to what different people are saying. From my very unscientific survey, I have found that people on the right outnumber those on the left when citing King in arguments. Granted, most are cherry-picking his quotes, mostly from the “I have a Dream” speech. Probably few have read King’s “Mountaintop” speech where he called for wealth and power redistribution, yet King’s major message may not resonate as much with some on the left as it once did. Especially with the young and progressive wing. In the 1960s and with the older and moderates today, the goal of the left was a color-blind integrated society. For them, King’s statement of character over skin color plays perfectly. However, for others on the left today, racial goals include categorizing people into races. It’s not that progressives are wrong but are different from what King wanted. King founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with the mission statement of “one nation, under God, indivisible, together with the commitment to activate the 'strength to love' within the community of humankind.” With organizations like Black Lives Matter, their mission statement says, “to eradicate white supremacy and build local power to intervene in violence inflicted on Black communities by the state and vigilantes. By combating and countering acts of violence, creating space for Black imagination and innovation, and centering Black joy, we are winning immediate improvements in our lives.” These are minor differences but also important ones. In some ways I wonder if parts of the modern movement are more influenced by another important but lesser-known Civil Rights leader, Stokely Carmichael. Space is too limited to give his entire background, but Carmichael is worth looking up. He was a veteran of Freedom Summer and the Freedom Rides and took over leadership of SNCC. It was Carmichael who began to push the idea of “Black Power,” which called “for Black people in this country to unite, to recognize their heritage, to build a sense of community. It is a call for Black people to define their own goals, to lead their own organizations.” As for King, he did not outwardly criticize “Black Power” and said he understood where Carmichael was coming from, but ultimately opposed it. I am in no way trying to criticize either side here, right or left. It is simply an observation and historical curiosity. I also see it as incredibly positive how most on the right have embraced Dr. King as a hero. I am grateful that the entire nation can honor what Dr. King did, but, historically speaking, it does seem as if his legacy has gone through a shift from left to center. Dr. James Finck is an Associate Professor of History at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma in Chickasha. Follow Historically Speaking at www.Historicallyspeaking.blog < Previous News Next News >

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