How Do You Know When it is Time?

                                       

                                            How Do You Know When it is Time?

(Woodacre’s Rowdy Boy MB-CDX, OAC, OGC, NJC, VCC, TT, CGC)

In November of 2006, I had to put to sleep one of my best friends of 15 years. For me, in the final year of Rowdy’s life, I was consumed throughout each day with the question: How do I know when it will be time? And I hated that. 

For several years, from 1993 to 1999, I showed Rowdy throughout Northern California in agility, Frisbee, obedience and temperament testing. For over seven years, he was my only dog. We spent nights at training class in Santa Rosa and weekends at shows. That was our life, and we both loved it. 

I stopped training and showing him when my life changed and I had to find work at nights and weekends. We had full Utility training, but had not shown yet. He had passed a herding instinct test, and showed great promise in that field. But it never happened because I made decisions for us in another direction.

All these regrets and memories came flooding back to me daily in the last year of Rowdy’s life. Had I given him all the opportunities possible to him, or had I cut short his career for my own desires? 

I went back to his photo album from shows over the years to remember all the fun times, and all that we had accomplished. I wanted to think about those memories instead of what was occurring in front of me. I didn’t want to acknowledge that his body was giving out on him, though his mind was sharp as a pin. I wanted to remember all the agility runs and all the Frisbee throws.

In his last year, Rowdy’s health deteriorated very slowly. He became incontinent, and started to have difficulty standing and sitting, yet his will to keep going was extremely strong. I asked other friends who had dogs that had died what I should be looking for. How did I know when it was time to make that horrible final decision? I got as many different answers as there are dogs. Some said that the dog would tell you when it was time. Others said I would just know. I asked my vet who had treated Rowdy for several years, and she give me her professional opinion. Each day went by, and each time he peed or defecated inside, each time he fell over while standing, or slipped while climbing the concrete stairs to our second story apartment, and each time I woke up in the middle of the night to take him out, I asked myself, “Is it time?” The next day he would be fine, and I was grateful I could put off that decision for another day.

Regrettably, I found myself becoming angry that the decision was not being made for me. That somebody was not stepping in to resolve it for me. I wondered why the situation was not taking care of itself, which, of course, is not realistic. I began to remember as a child the times when a pet died, or suddenly was not there when I got back from school. My parents told me and my brothers and sisters a variety of stories like, “Susie went to go live on a farm.” Or “Belle went to go live with a friend of so and so.” Or “We let Charlie go in the creek near the park.” Or “Dad took care of it.” I never saw any pet die as a child. They just weren’t there anymore. I didn’t really comprehend until much later what actually happened. I never discussed it with my parents or anybody else, but each time I saw their pictures in an old photo album, I would think about what really happened, and how simple and clean it all seemed to be. 

On a parallel story, my dad was dying from a ten-year plus battle with Alzheimer’s, and passed away in June of 2006. One of the things I remember during that time was how my response changed to friends’ and other family members’ questions about my dad’s condition. “My mom has somebody to watch him at home while she is gone.” “He is now in a nursing home.” “He is in the hospital with no life support. We are just waiting.” “His services are this week.” And then finally, you talk about him in the past tense, recalling old memories. I remember, while he was still alive, being afraid of what it would be like once we, as a family, finally got to the other side. What would that feel like?

I recalled these feelings when trying to comprehend Rowdy’s state of health. I had just spent the last fifteen years of my life with this dog. We were both a bit grayer and older. What would my life be like once he had passed over? I would have to talk about him in the past tense and state the date he died in the conversation. Since I live in an apartment complex, and go for walks all over the area, I would have explain to everybody I saw why Rowdy was no longer with me. And I would have to write this article. 

I did feel guilty that his life was coming to a close, but my life was ahead of me. I still had another dog, Scout, and she was in great shape and, at ten years old, showing in Rally, Obedience and Conformation. His health was fading, but mine was excellent. We loved going for long walks and hikes and trips to the dog park, but he had difficulty keeping up. I had to start leaving him at home, which I really bothered both of us. 

I had only shown one other dog prior to Rowdy, and that was to a CD (though I was very proud of that CD with that dog!) Since we had done so much showing and competing, would all those accomplishments just fade away and be forgotten? How could I keep our lives together in the present? 

I have worked and volunteered in animal shelters, and I have performed and witnessed hundreds of euthanasias on healthy, sick, injured and aggressive pets and wildlife. Technically, I knew exactly what to expect when an animal is euthanized. I knew the process with Rowdy would be the same, but I knew that my feelings would be different since I had known this particular animal for fifteen years and shared so many experiences. (Note: One of the reasons I no longer work in shelters is because each animal I euthanized or assisted or witnessed felt like my own pet, and I formed too much of a bond with each animal.)

Finally, the day came in November of 2006 that I scheduled with my vet. I knew it was the right thing to do, but I still resented having to make the decision. How can one life take away another? I did not want that power. What if I am making a mistake? Where was that parent that would step in and make everything better and keep you innocent and shielded? But that was the responsibility I accepted when adopting Rowdy fifteen years ago from the shelter as a six month old puppy, and I was not going to let him down now. 

One of the things I promised to Rowdy was that I would keep his life in the present for everybody to remember, so that is why I created this website (                        ) with all his photos and a history of his life. I have also decided to go back and do this with other dogs I have had to prevent their lives from being forgotten. I hope you enjoy knowing Rowdy and other dogs I have had as much as I have. 

Mixed Reviews Summer 2011, Mixed Breed Dog Club of America

 

PSC 102 – State and Local Government: State Elections Reflection Assignment , POST University July 2025

                                            Federal Elections and State Elections:  

Does the Public Follow Party Lines?  

 

Jackie Phillips 

Political Science, Post University  

PSC 102 – State and Local Government: State Elections Reflection Assignment 

Michael Ferguson 

Due Date: 11:59 p.m. EST, Sunday of Unit 2 

 

Overview: Federal politics and national issues are often what voters think most about. However, understanding issues in our states and localities are just as important. Candidates for state and local office often need to try and separate themselves from the shadow of national politics. The purpose of this assignment is to have you reflect on how state elections should be approached by voters. 

Instructions:  

You will read the article, Can You Separate Federal Issues from State Elections? by Alan Greenblatt. The article can be found in the Readings and Resources for Unit 2.  

The article discusses the challenges state candidates have while campaigning due to the prominence of federal issues on voters’ minds. Although the article is from 2012, the points being made are still true today.  

After reading the article, you are going to reflect on it by providing an overview and addressing the following questions:  

 

* Identify the main point(s) that the author is making. 

“The way people normally vote these days is by party. The electorate is highly     polarized, particularly in a presidential year.” (Greenblatt, A., 2012) 

I totally agree that people will generally stay with their party affiliation when voting     and who they focus on for their open seats. I am one of those people. Plus during a     Presidential election year, it is very important to put the right person in the white                     house.  

The elections that happen that are not in the same year as the Presidential elections are     also important because we all want the best people running our states, cities and     counties.  

 

* What are some strategies the author mentions to describe what state candidates             do to set themselves apart from national politics? Determine if you think they are             successful? 

“Most legislators will tell you that they run independent campaigns, getting to know                 their constituents as neighbors by knocking on half the doors in their district. Long                 before running for the legislature, they have established themselves as leaders in their             communities, as local elected officials or activists. They believe they have established             their own identities and are able to make their own appeals to voters.” (Greenblatt, A.,     2012) 

I can see that it would make a huge difference for state and local candidates to be going     door to door and letting people get to know them. It would also be important to set up     local booths at city events and participate in parades so that local people can meet them     face to face.  

I went to a local event in San Francisco over the weekend and half the floats and booths were by local politicians letting people get to know them. I even was able to shake the hand of the new Mayor of San Francisco since he was walking in the parade and greeting people along the side lines. Behind him were also police officers to make sure he was safe, and I was glad to see that! 

 

* Explain if there is ever an appropriate time for state candidates to embrace                     federal  issues? 

“We need to win the top of the ticket to win the bottom of the ticket,” says Matt McCoy,             another Iowa Democratic senator. “We’re totally tied together. That’s why we’re     embracing the president.” (Greenblatt, A., 2012) 

I think it is always a great idea to connect yourself to who is in the White House if you are running for a local office since it is very important who is running the country, and             this can affect your strengths and weaknesses in the future. During election time there             are a lot of TV ads and people see them every day. This keeps the elections in everyone’s         minds.  

 

* Have you ever voted for candidates from different political parties for different                 races? If so, why did you do this? If not, would you consider doing so in the                         future? 

No. I have never voted for a candidate who was not in my designated party. California             is a heavily Democrat state and has been for a very long time. The Republicans keep whining and complaining but they get to live in a wonderful state! 

 

* What predictions do you have about the author’s concern? Will this remain a problem, or do you see signs that it is changing? 

I think that these concerns are ongoing for many reasons. First, due to the massive size            of the United States and how different the states are to one another, this will always                 create different ideas on how to be more connected to either the state government or to             the government in Washington DC.  

Second, since Washington DC is so far away from the vast majority of the country, it is         harder for these distant states to make a close connection. Citizens who are closer to the capital would have easier access and be able to make regular trips if they wanted. Living in California, it is extremely difficult to make a trip to Washington DC for any reason. Even after 61 years of age, I have personally never set foot in the capital, and I have no plans to make the trip.  

Third, running busy lives, it is easier to just follow party lines and vote for the                     candidates in your own party. It is a great first step that we share the same party, so it is             easier for me to make the decision to vote for them if I haven’t had all the time to explore         each candidate thoroughly.  

 

References 

Greenblatt, A., 2012, Governing.com, Can You Separate Federal Issues from State Elections?, https://www.governing.com/archive/gov-state-elections-federal-issue-separation.html 

PSC102 State and Local Government: Unit 2DB: Citizen Political Participation, POST University June 2025

PSC102 State and Local Government: Unit 2DB: Citizen Political Participation

Based off what you have learned in this unit, why do you think so few people participate in politics beyond the act of voting?  Think about how active you are as a political participant and why you think that is the case.   

Recent information suggests that California citizens are actively engaged in politics.  

High Political Engagement: 

California ranks as the most politically engaged state in America, according to a WalletHub study. 

This engagement is not limited to within the state; California voters, through activism and donations, are said to have influenced races beyond state borders. 

Other Forms of Civic Engagement: 

• California's State Seal of Civic Engagement initiative promotes civics education and participation among high school students, indicating an effort to foster broader civic engagement. 
• Civic education in schools includes learning about government structures, democratic processes, and methods for citizens to influence society. 
• Civic engagement activities can include attending local government meetings, participating in community organizations, and taking part in acts of civil action like rallies or protests. 

 

I think one aspect that affects people’s involvement in politics is whether they have time and resources to do more than working full time, or multiple part time jobs, and also raising a family and/or going to school. I think people start with voting and then if they become actively involved in political groups, then they gain an interest in going beyond voting.  

As you respond, consider the effectiveness that direct democracy (initiatives, popular referendums, recalls) would have on political participation.  Do you think citizens would be more active if their state has direct democracy provisions?  

Initiatives, popular referendums, and recalls significantly influence California politics by granting citizens direct involvement in lawmaking and governance.  

Initiatives, referendums, and recalls are crucial tools of direct democracy in California, giving citizens a strong voice in policymaking and governance. While they have led to important and popular policy changes, they also come with challenges and debates surrounding their use and effectiveness. These mechanisms have shaped California's political landscape significantly and continue to be a powerful force in the state.  

Our ballots are always very full with a lot of items to vote on. We receive thick booklets to read through. I think it is great that California is active in allowing citizens to put items on the ballot to vote on. California is full of very active citizens wanting to make a change if they feel it necessary.  

PSC102 State and Local Government: Unit 1DB: Balance of Government Power, POST University, June 2025

 PSC102 State and Local Government: Unit 1DB: Balance of Government Power

Discuss whether the balance of governmental power should lean more toward either the national government or the states.  Please make sure to reference material you have learned from Unit 1 to defend your position. 

I really enjoyed the PowerPoint/PDF in our readings called “American Federalism.” It really broke down the points and explained them well. My favorite slide that said it all to me was Slide #3 called “Who has the power to do what?” I loved the description between Enumerated and Implied Powers and the General Welfare Clause and the Necessary and Proper Clause 

I enjoyed the review of the 10^th and 14^th Amendments. The 10^th Amendment says, 

“The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.” (Post University, 2025) 

The 14^th Amendment says, 

“Prohibits states from depriving individuals the rights and privileges of citizenship 

Requires states to provide due process and equal protection guarantees.” (Post University, 2025) 

As a Criminology major, I am a firm believer that the states must have their own powers and then within those states, the counties and cities each have their own powers. In massive states like California, this is necessary to break down the jurisdictions so that things can get done, rather than waiting for distant state powers in Sacramento to do something. 

Along the same line, it is necessary for states to have their own powers rather than waiting for distant Washington DC to do something. In massive countries like the US where each state is so unique based on their location and history, it is necessary for there to be separation of the states to do what is best for their own states. Then the federal government does their work to uphold the US Constitution, the basis of the country.  

 

References: 

Post University, 2025, American Federalism, PowerPoint presentation, Slide #3 “Who Has the Power to do What?” 

SOC127 Alcohol and Drugs Question #2 Final Exam, Post University, 2025

                SOC127 Alcohol and Drugs Question #2 Final Exam

Why does there appear to be a misplaced emphasis on minorities? Are there specific federal drug laws that have targeted racial and ethnic minorities? What have been some of the short term and long-term consequences of these policies?  

 

This is a very complex topic. There are several federal drugs laws that have affected groups of people throughout the country who choose to use drugs and while not mentioning specific groups of people in the laws. Again, people make the choice to use drugs based on a wide variety of socio-economic factors including where the live, who they associate with and how they were raised. I think the difference is what the law intends to be about and what people want the laws to be about. The laws are neutral, but the local populations might want them to say something else. 

The Controlled Substances Act of 1970: 

• This act placed cannabis under Schedule I, effectively outlawing all uses and setting the stage for the "War on Drugs". 
• Some critics argue that the initial targeting of cannabis was based on racist motivations, impacting Latino and Black communities disproportionately who choose to use these drugs 

The Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986: 

• This act established a 100:1 sentencing disparity between crack cocaine and powder cocaine. 
• Because crack cocaine was more prevalent in Black communities and powder cocaine in white communities, this disparity resulted in significantly longer sentences for Black individuals convicted of drug offenses. Again, they choose to use the specific drugs.  

Mandatory Minimum Sentencing: 

• Mandatory minimum sentences, often enacted in conjunction with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986, removed judicial discretion and imposed predetermined sentences based on drug type and quantity. 

SOC127 Alcohol and Drugs Question #1 Final Exam, Post University 2025

                    SOC127 Alcohol and Drugs Question #1 Final Exam

Please discuss the racial and ethnic inequalities related to drug laws. What is the research related to minorities being unfairly targeted related to drug laws, policy, and or incarceration? 

Personally, I don’t believe that certain minorities are specifically targeted by the color of their skin or ethnic background. I believe that many factors affect whether a person chooses to use drugs which include how they are raised and who they choose to associate with. People make the choice to use drugs and break the law. Others choose not to, and I don’t believe those factors are based on the color of their skin or background.  

Socio-economic Factors and Drug-Related Crime: 

Poverty and Lack of Opportunity: Poverty, lack of access to education, and limited employment opportunities can contribute to involvement in drug-related activities, both in terms of use and sale, as individuals may turn to drugs as a coping mechanism or engage in drug dealing for economic survival.  

Neighborhood Factors: Living in disadvantaged neighborhoods with high rates of poverty and crime can expose individuals to environments where drug use and trafficking are more prevalent.  

Health and Mental Health Disparities: Lack of access to affordable healthcare and mental health services can lead to substance use disorders and related criminal behavior, further exacerbating disparities 

 

The Intersection of Socio-economic Factors and Race: 

• Systemic Inequality: Historical and ongoing systemic racism has created and perpetuated economic and social disparities, placing communities of color at a disadvantage.  
• Cycle of Disadvantage: The impacts of discriminatory policies like the "War on Drugs" have disproportionately harmed communities of color, exacerbating poverty, limiting opportunities, and contributing to higher rates of drug-related arrests and incarceration.  
• Compounding Factors: Racial bias in law enforcement and the criminal justice system can compound the negative impacts of poverty and limited opportunities, leading to a cycle of disadvantage. 

SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs: Unit 8: Applying Knowledge, POST University, 2025

                     SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs: Unit 8: Applying Knowledge

 

After completing this course how will you apply your knowledge moving forward? How will you view and work with individuals who have substance abuse issues? What was the most influential topic discussed? How will the topics analyzed in this course be applied in your personal and professional life?  

I really enjoyed this course, and I am glad that they are considered important enough topics to talk about. I was surprised by the vast amount of information on all the topics, and I am glad to find a vast amount of information that is available to help people with drug and alcohol abuse.  

Having grown up in San Francisco and lived in the Bay Area all my life, I am completely aware of the ongoing issues of drug abuse that is associated with many issues like homelessness and criminal activity. However, I do know that drug abuse is not an issue with only people who lack money and a place to live. I have very clear memories of famous people like Janis Joplin and John Belushi and Jim Morrison who all died of drug and alcohol addiction despite ongoing attempts to help them. I am glad this course brought up that drug and alcohol abuse is also a problem with people who have everything and still choose to abuse drugs and alcohol.  

I was thrilled to read about Narcan and how accessible it is made to the public, including even through local pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS. I am glad to see that national companies are joining in to help and do their part to help with drug addiction.  

I was glad to read that Alameda County where I live is very active in working with people who need help with drug and alcohol abuse. 

SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs Unit 7: Alcohol and Tobaco Policy, POST University 2025

                 SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs Unit 7: Alcohol and Tobaco Policy

 

Alcohol and tobacco have a long history with the United States and our government.  Please discuss the social and governmental roles in the legalization and regulation of these products. Why are each of these products legalized? How are they regulated? What are some of the regulations? Are they effective?  What are the specific alcohol and tobacco laws for the state in which you reside? Please provide specific examples of how social views of alcohol and tobacco helped shape policy federally and locally. 

In California, both alcohol and drug regulations are primarily managed by state agencies. The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control regulates the manufacture, distribution, and sale of alcoholic beverages. Similarly, the California Health and Safety Code governs the possession, use, and sale of controlled substances, with schedules and penalties for different drugs. 

Alcohol Regulation: 

The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is responsible for regulating the alcohol industry. 

This includes licensing businesses that sell or manufacture alcohol, as well as enforcing laws related to alcohol consumption, including underage drinking and public intoxication. 

The ABC also handles matters related to alcohol taxes, as it was originally tasked with administering the alcohol tax laws after Prohibition. 

Drug Regulation: 

The California Health and Safety Code outlines the legal status of various drugs, including Schedule 1, 2, and other categories. 

For example, heroin is considered a Schedule 1 substance, making it illegal to possess. 

Possession of certain drugs can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or felony, with varying penalties based on the quantity and nature of the drug. 

There are also laws regarding the sale and trafficking of controlled substances, with stiffer penalties for those activities. 

Penalties for drug offenses can include fines, probation, and prison sentences, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. 

In California, public opinion on alcohol and drug regulation is complex and varies across different aspects, from recreational use to driving under the influence (DUI). While there's a general support for regulations aimed at public safety, like DUI laws, there's also a debate around the legalization and regulation of recreational marijuana. 

The public views on alcohol and drug regulation are multifaceted, with some aspects being widely supported (like DUI laws) and others being more divisive (like the legalization of recreational marijuana). There's a general desire for regulations that prioritize public safety and minimize harm, but also a need to balance those concerns with individual rights and the potential economic benefits of legalization. 

I personally believe that the difference in opinions on drugs and alcohol, which also helps to regulate the government, is whether someone is going to make money off the sale of the products. If they will make money through taxes or direct sales, they will, of course, want to support the sale. If you are on another end like the police, social services and hospitals, you are the ones cleaning up all the messes left by the use of drugs and alcohol.  

“Drinking in Public California – Is it illegal? 

It is generally illegal to drink in public in California outside of a licensed venue such as a bar, restaurant or tavern. 

State and local laws make it an infraction to possess an open container of alcohol in public and a misdemeanor for a minor to possess any alcohol in public. It is also a misdemeanor to be so intoxicated that you are unable to care for your own safety. 

However now that Senate Bill 969 passed, California cities and counties will be allowed in 2025 to designate local “entertainment zones” in which you could drink on public streets and sidewalks.” (Shouse, N., 2024) 

 

References: 

Shouse, N., 2024, Shouse California Law Group, Drinking in Public California. Is it Legal, https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/blog/drinking-in-public-california/