Like Forrest Gump, I'm not a smart man. I only know what I know. Other than in a congressional nomination to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point when I was 17 years old (thank you, Congressman Bill Harsha), I cannot think of any time in my life when anyone – even remotely – suggested that I possessed any measure of intelligence. That's OK, too. It is what it is.

Until this morning, I had not thought much about "Life of Brian" for many years. This morning, I read a city of Hillsboro administrative mandate which, in essence, boils down to this (thank you, Brandy Chandler): "By order of the mayor of Hillsboro, all city employees have been ordered not to use the phrase 'by order of the mayor of Hillsboro.'" Got that?

Until this morning, I had not thought much about "Life of Brian" for many years. This morning, I read a city of Hillsboro administrative mandate which, in essence, boils down to this (thank you, Brandy Chandler): "By order of the mayor of Hillsboro, all city employees have been ordered not to use the phrase 'by order of the mayor of Hillsboro.'" Got that?

A conversation the other day brought up a rather unusual topic. I was asked if there's anyone in the world, upon first meeting, of whom I would be in awe. My initial reaction was this: Since John Wayne and Ted Williams have died, no, I cannot think of anyone who impresses me to the point of reverential respect.

In fact, if our great experiment of a self-governing republic (our government form is, indeed, a republic – if we can keep it) is to continue, it is up to the younger generations to take the political and governmental leadership reins. This is your government. Take ownership of it. The sooner, the better.

Have fun, but be careful. Did you ever have one of those days that made you pause and think: That's pretty good unsolicited advice? Me, neither. That is, until this weekend.

Have fun, but be careful. Did you ever have one of those days that made you pause and think: That's pretty good unsolicited advice? Me, neither. That is, until this weekend.

When I grow up, I want to be a Boolean operator. And live in a "right-to-work" state. I want the right to join a union. And I want the right to reject union membership – without fear of repercussions (those either committed against me, or by me against other Boolean operators.)

We'll not stop loving you today – or anytime soon. Rest in peace, George. But play some music in heaven, too. Nobody sings "Amazing Grace," with anymore soul and inspiration than you.