COWARDS

When faced with a threatening situation, bullies and thugs naturally default to cowardice; run, hide and save themselves.  So, it should come as no surprise that TSA is providing additional training to its Sturm Abteilung workforce.

But this training is slightly different.  TSA is teaching their thugs to save themselves, instead of protecting passengers, in an active shooter situation.

In addition to being bullies, thugs, thieves and pedophiles...TSA is adding "must inherently be a coward" requirement to their list of qualifications necessary, to work for this feckless organization.

If you haven't quite figured it out yet, the government is not there to protect you.  You are nothing more than cannon fodder and they will sacrifice you in the blink of an eye.

Dr. Sandra Grossett & Eyes In The 'Burg Support EmpowerHouse

Dr. Sandra Grossett, the staff and family members of Eyes In The 'Burg were proud sponsors of the 14th annual EmpowerHouse (formerly Rapphannock Council on Domestic Violence) Empty Bowl Event on Sunday, 27 January.  The event drew approximately 400 people, who, with their donations support survivors of domestic violence.

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used by one individual intended to exert power and control over another individual in the context of an intimate or family relationship.  It occurs in families of all races, religions, educational levels and income groups.  The abuse can take the form of physical, sexual and verbal abuse, as well as emotional and mental cruelty.  Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44 (Uniform Crime Reports, FBI) yet it is the least reported crime.

With their donation, each attendee peruses and anguishes over which one, of the hundreds of unique hand thrown bowls, from the dozen or so local Libertytown potters, they will eat from and take home with them.  It is not an easy decision.  With bowl in hand, they make their way to the tables to settle in briefly, before approaching the vast array of soups, chowders, bisque's and chili's to partake of.  Assorted breads are available (after all, how else do you clean out the bottom of your bowl?) as well as an array of drinks and desserts.

The next three hours are spent with family, friends, co-workers as they try the soups, buy raffle tickets, await the door prizes, listen to great music and most importantly, learn about EmpowerHouse, their mission, efforts and achievements.

I can think of few causes which so rightly deserve the support of their community.  Domestic violence is one.  No woman, child or man (yes, men can be victims of domestic abuse) should have to ever endure the pain and fear of domestic violence.  If you have an organization similar to RCDV in your town or city, I encourage you to support it in any manner you can, in an effort to end the abuse.

"Polishing The Turd"

I can't help but be amused at the BP commercials which have suddenly reappeared.  Touting what the company has done since the Deepwater Horizon debacle, the commercials portray all sorts of happy leaders from the Gulf Coast States saying "Come On Down! It's all good here."

No matter what BP does, no matter how much money they spend, they are only Polishing The Turd. Nothing can change the fact that Deepwater was a disaster of spectacular proportions and from moment one, it was a spin game to lay blame everywhere but where it rightfully belongs...at BP's feet.

I see the same type of spin, at times, in Fredericksburg.  A business will change its facade, throw up some paint, and/or put new signs in the windows in a failed attempt to polish their turd.  Not realizing or accepting the fact, the issue is not with how they look, it's how they treat their customers.  Horrible experiences force people to walk away.  Unprofessionalism, rudeness, uneducated and poorly trained staff and a lack of basic customer service cannot be overcome with paint and new furniture.

Frankly, these owners get what they deserve.  Until such time as they come to this realization, they will continue to lament their lot, blame others for their lost income and watch as their customers abandon them in search of a better experience.        

EYES IN THE 'BURG - THE SIGN

The sign for Eyes In The 'Burg was installed today.  Many thanks to Mike Harvey at Harvey Signs.  You guys did a spectacular job!

Hours of Business are:

Sunday-Monday:  CLOSED
Tuesday:  9 a.m - 5 p.m.
Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Thursday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday:  8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Alternating Saturdays

Call for an appointment and stop by to see Sandra L. Grossett, O.D. and her Staff at Fredericksburg's newest, warmest and most welcoming Optometric practice.

Eyes In The 'Burg is a proud sponsor of the 14th annual Empty Bowl Fundraiser for Empowerhouse (formerly Rapphannock Council on Domestic Violence).

DR. GROSSETT - EYES IN THE 'BURG, OD

Yes, it's true! Sandra L. Grossett O.D., the Fredericksburg area's premier Optometrist (I'm somewhat biased) has returned to Fredericksburg and opened her own practice, Eyes In The 'Burg, OD.

Located at 2527 Cowan Blvd in the complex behind MWH next to Virginia Partners Bank, Fitness Studio and across from Basilico's, they are taking appointments, 540-369-EITB (3482) for new and existing patients beginning 8 January.

The practice features an incredible staff, unparalleled patient care, customer service and an Optical department that will make you see (pun intended) life like never before!

Eyes In The 'Burg website www.eyesintheburg.com will be up and running within the next day or so. You will also find them on Facebook and Twitter.

To all of her existing and future patients...Have a safe and Happy New Year!