Chronicles is a running record of civic participation, technical experiments, creative work, and local community life—documenting not just what I build, but what I notice, question, and contribute along the way.
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Kena Shrine: Apple Valley Shrine Club: Founder
On November 14, 2025, I traded my “Grand Poobah” hat for a seat at the organizational table. Helping found the Apple Valley Shrine Club in Front Royal has been a masterclass in nonprofit building—and a beautiful reminder of how our Masonic circles eventually close. read more
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Warren County’s Long Road to Fiscal Recovery
Warren County’s FY24 audit delay report reveals persistent accounting issues, system failures, and staffing gaps dating back years. With new leadership, an external reconciliation contract, and reform goals in motion, officials aim to restore fiscal order—and public trust—by March 2026. read more
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Christian Harvest Church: Ordained Minister
I received an ordination that arrived ready for work. From marriage certificates to a clergy parking pass and a USB drive of study materials, Christian Harvest Church provides the hardware for a hands-on ministry. read more
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American Marriage Ministries: Ordained Minister
On November 9, 2025, I joined the ranks of American Marriage Ministries. AMM champions a modern, democratic ideal: that every couple should have the right to choose who marries them—whether that’s a lifelong friend or a local leader. read more
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Christian Global Outreach Ministries: Ordained Minister
On November 9, 2025, I explored the intersection of faith and the digital age. Christian Global Outreach Ministries proves that the call to serve is global, even if Virginia’s recognition of that call remains strictly local. read more
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Heritage Day at Burwell-Morgan Mill
While volunteering at the historic Burwell-Morgan Mill, I encountered the surveying term “At Adventure’s Start.” Recognizing the symbol from my Masonic education, I was struck by the brilliant parallel between mapping the wilderness and the start of a personal journey. read more
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From Falls to Fixes: Why I Insisted on Immediate Repair of the Senior Center Floor
WE DID IT! The Senior Center floor is fixed! But this was a fight for safety. After two seniors fell and the floor continued to worsen, I fought to address this issue sooner. See the video and read why this community win matters so much to me. read more
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From Observer to Analyst: My Ongoing Work With County Financial Data
Warren County’s fiscal-year audit delays have raised new questions about oversight and transparency. In this update, I share how ongoing data analysis, FOIA requests, and community feedback are helping prepare the county for stronger, faster, and more reliable audits — building the foundation for long-term accountability and public trust. read more
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From Bricks to a Bonded Community: Front Royal LUG Builds Something Bigger
The Royal Examiner: As organizer of the Front Royal LEGO Users Group, I describe how a simple idea became a stable, inclusive community—using shared builds, public exhibits, and library-based meetings to connect people through creativity, collaboration, and a love of LEGO. read more
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Modeling Respect and Responsibility for Our Students
Royal Examiner: In this opinion piece, I advocate for stronger school board ethics, clearer communication boundaries, and digital professionalism. I propose policy updates to reinforce accountability, prevent misinformation, and model respectful leadership for students and the broader community countywide schools. read more
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The Provenance Center: Ordained Minister
On November 1, 2025, I pivoted toward the contemplative. The Provenance Center frames ministry not as a ceremony, but as an extension of personal growth and ethical grounding—reminding us that our authority is rooted in who we become. read more
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LSSU Unicorn Hunters: Unicorn Questing TBD
In a quest for the truly extraordinary, I’ve applied for my official Unicorn Quester license through Lake Superior State University. While I await my credentials, I’m brushing up on the DNU’s edicts to track the world’s most elusive, glitter-shedding beasts. read more
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Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Bear Identification
To better understand the wildlife in my own backyard, I earned the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Bear Identification certification. This training focuses on the critical anatomical markers used to distinguish between black bears and grizzlies in the wild. read more
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Christian Leaders Institute: CLI Entrance
In October 2025, I was honored with the CLI Entrance Award from the Christian Leaders Institute. This recognition marked my successful entry into formal leadership studies, reflecting my ongoing commitment to serving the Front Royal community through dedicated personal and professional growth. read more
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Christian Leaders Institute: Wedding Officiant Skills
Completed a rigorous, study-based ministerial program focused on the theology and logistics of marriage. Developed professional skills in ceremony planning, biblical message drafting, and pastoral leadership, establishing a credible academic foundation for formal ordination and recognized service as a wedding officiant. read more
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The Audit Delay, What I’ve Observed – and Why It Matters
Royal Examiner: In this opinion piece, I analyze Warren County’s FY2024 audit delay as a resident observer, outlining compliance risks, staffing and vendor breakdowns, and governance challenges—arguing that early, concrete transparency is essential to protect budgets, credibility, and public trust. read more
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The Audit Delay, What I’ve Observed – and Why It Matters
A newly-seated supervisor warned the FY24 audit will miss the budget cycle, prompting public alarm. State penalties, credit harm, and even takeover are possible. Having attended WCFAC meetings, I’ve seen the root issue is not only delay – it is the lack of transparency. read more
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When a Security Device Quietly Ages Out
I pulled out a security device I bought in 2021 and found the companion apps no longer provided the data needed to use it. Firmware updates didn’t help. Without notice, support had essentially expired – leaving six figures locked behind a product still physically intact but digitally stranded. read more
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Fuel Report Discrepancies
I’ve been sitting in on the Warren County Finance/Audit Committee meetings since May of this year. I’ve been noticing a few things, writing notes, and just observing. I decided to go ahead and start digging into something that was bugging me. The fuel reports every month had a column that reported 0 MPG for many… read more
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Fuel Reports and Falling Floors: Holding the County to Account
I challenged inaccurate meeting minutes regarding the worsening Senior Center floor and presented a detailed analysis of county fuel reports. My findings sparked a Board-level discussion on improving financial oversight and developing a more robust fuel usage policy. read more
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Church of the SubGenius: Doktorate of the Forbidden Sciences & Ordained High Priest of the Repeatership
Decades after first joining the Church of the SubGenius, I’ve re-ordered my “Salvation by Mail.” In a world of rigid rules, this ordination celebrates satire, rebellion, and the sacred, pipe-smoking pursuit of eternal Slack. read more
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Purdue University: Rat Tickling
Earned specialized certification in rat tickling techniques to improve rodent welfare. Acquired expertise in ultrasonic vocalization analysis (50 kHz “joy” markers) and positive reinforcement handling. This “Comedic Science” credential demonstrates a commitment to unique technical skill acquisition and stress-reduction protocols in animal husbandry. read more
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Open Ministry: Ordained Minister
On October 18, 2025, I joined one of the most accessible ministry platforms in the country. Open Ministry champions the idea that everyday people—not just seminary graduates—should have the power to guide life’s most meaningful moments. read more
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Kena Shrine: Grand & Glorious Order of the Hillbilly: Degree
On October 17, 2025, after two missed opportunities and a long wait, I finally made it to the “holler.” I’m proud to announce I’ve officially received the Hillbilly Degree with Clan No. 15 at the Kena Shrine! read more
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The Bard of Bizarre
AI Music Over the summer, I experimented with a few services that create music and vocals when you supply lyrics to a generative AI. I tried Sono, but had poor results. Eventually I found a service called Riffusion, which has since been renamed to Producer AI. I found it entertaining as I experimented with different… read more
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American College Surgeons Committee on Trauma: Stop the Bleed
During the latest WCSO Citizen’s Academy, I earned my “Stop the Bleed” certification. While I’ve touched on tourniquets in past First Aid classes, this specialized training provided the deep dive and hands-on skills necessary to potentially save a life. read more
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Supervisors Announce Coming Appointment of Hugh Henry to Fork District Seat, Hear More Public Criticism & Debate EDA Moves
Royal Examiner: During the October 7 meeting, I was listed among citizens offering criticism. While coverage emphasized leadership changes and EDA debates, my remarks centered on missing minutes, a PPEA policy shift, and public record integrity. read more
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Kena Klown Club: 2-Year Director
On October 9, 2025, I learned a very important lesson about the Kena Klown Club: if you aren’t there to defend yourself, you might just find yourself in the leadership line! read more
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Repealing the Code? Challenging the County Library Board’s Legal Pivot
I exposed a significant omission in the Warren County Library Board’s official minutes: a missing motion to bypass County Code 39 in favor of state PPEA laws—a move that fundamentally changes how public bids are shielded from FOIA requests. read more
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Pick of the Litter Ribbon-Cutting
Attended a ribbon-cutting event at Pick of the Litter Thrift Store as the store moved from South Commerce Avenue to East Main Street. Proceeds from the store support the Humane Society. read more
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Kena Klowns
Kenagram: We appear uncredited in a group photo of Kena Klowns preparing for a parade. While not a named feature, the image documents collective participation in community events and volunteer activities through the organization. read more
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A Decade in Motion: Front Royal LUG at SamiCon 2025
The Front Royal LUG took center stage at SamiCon 2025, celebrating a “Decade in Motion.” From automated Great Ball Contraptions to a LEGO replica of the town gazebo, we showcased the engineering and imagination that define our community. read more
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Warren County Sheriff’s Office: Citizen Academy
Completed a 10-week citizen academy providing in-depth exposure to law enforcement operations through instruction, demonstrations, and facility tours. Studied patrol procedures, investigations, crisis response, and public safety practices, and earned Stop the Bleed certification. read more
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Citizens Respond Aggressively to Supervisor Jamieson’s Latest Chapter of ‘I’m Right, You’re Wrong’ on Library Issues
Royal Examiner: In coverage of escalating library tensions, I was listed among citizens addressing the Supervisors. While the article emphasized conflict over defunding the Library, my remarks centered on transparency, missing minutes, public access, and accountability in county facilities. read more
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Chasing Transparency: Missing Minutes and Failing Floors
I challenged the Board on the lack of Finance Committee transparency and physical neglect at the Senior Center. While Supervisor Cullers later reported progress on the flooring issues I highlighted, the digital record remains stalled, with minutes missing since April. read more
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Family Pharmacy Ribbon-Cutting
Attended a ribbon-cutting event at Family Pharmacy Services as new ownership took over the only independent pharmacy and honored well-respected staff to cut the ribbon and continue the service the community has come to know. read more
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Let There Be Light: Small Wins and Big Questions in Warren County
Following my July request for “more light,” I returned to the Board in September to find the lamp fixed—but the transparency still dim. I challenged the Board on missing minutes, un-synced calendars, and the lack of accessible financial reports. read more
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The Trail to Chantilly: Scaling Up Our First LUG Collaboration
The Front Royal LUG made its convention debut at BrickFair Virginia 2025! We showcased our first collaborative “Trail” project, featuring four custom modules, proving that our small-town group can hold its own on the big stage. read more
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Christian Leaders Institute: Candidate, Christian Ministry Diploma
July 20, 2025 – Current. Currently pursuing a 62-unit program focused on Ministry Foundations, Biblical Surveys, and Christian Doctrine. Completed coursework in Wedding Officiant Skills. read more
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The Bard of Bizarre: re: Cubicle 13
A 16-track concept album and multimedia brand launch exploring workplace existentialism. This project integrated generative AI production, time-synced metadata, and a synchronized global release across 20+ platforms, supported by a multi-channel social campaign and a curated e-commerce merchandise line. read more
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The Church of Spiritual Humanism: Ordained Clergy Person
On July 15, 2025, I added a secular flourish to my journey. The Church of Spiritual Humanism proves that meaning doesn’t require miracles—only empathy, dignity, and a deep appreciation for the natural world we all share. read more
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The Merchants on Main Street: Clown (Christmas In July)
July 2025 – Present (annual). Serve as a costumed performer at an annual downtown community event, creating balloon art for children and families. Contribute to public engagement and festive atmosphere through invited participation, supporting local merchants and community programming during a well-attended seasonal celebration. read more
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Yule Be Sorry You Missed It: Christmas in July Dazzles Downtown
Royal Examiner: I’m mentioned as Leonardo the clown, providing balloon animals for children during Front Royal’s Christmas in July celebration. My appearance contributed to the event’s family-friendly atmosphere, adding color, laughter, and hands-on fun to a community-focused downtown festival. read more
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Kena Klown Club: Clown, Dr. Leo
On July 9, 2025, I reached two major milestones: I officially graduated to “Permanent Klown” status, and thanks to a bit of academic flair from Abide University, I officially debuted my new persona: Dr. Leo. read more
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Coconut Kalimba
A $5 coconut-shell kalimba from a Samuels Library fundraiser, valued for its deep, earthy tones and handmade character despite tuning challenges. It now serves as a bassy, experimental companion to a more practical 17-key kalimba. read more
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Reading the Grievances: A Personal Tribute to Liberty
Participating in the public reading of the Declaration of Independence was a highlight of my year. As the bell tolled for each grievance, I had the honor of reading the charges against the King regarding government overreach and military tyranny. read more
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Kena Klown Club: Second Dress-out
My second dress-out as a clown was nearly derailed by a missing makeup kit. Between a ChatGPT-assisted Walmart run and a record-breaking Virginia heatwave, I learned exactly what it takes to earn the title of a “real” clown. read more
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Orwellian Rhetoric and Short-Term Rentals: A Night of Contrasts
On July 1st, the Board reached a turning point, admitting that their zoning decisions “didn’t feel quite fair.” Between debates on “Orwellian” rhetoric and my observations of the crumbling ceiling, the night highlighted the need for administrative maintenance. read more
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Time is a Flat Liar
The first song from my debut album has been released as a music video, “Time is a Flat Liar”. Details are included about the album, lyrics, image generation, and video editing. read more
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Cuyahoga County Public Library: Appearance in Board Packet
Provided a $103.94 contribution to support general operations at the Beachwood Library during a period of public controversy, joining community donors to affirm access to information, sustain services, and demonstrate support for inclusive, resilient, public library resources in Ohio communities. read more
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Turning Mundane Mayhem into Music
Experimenting with Riffusion, I craft comedic songs about mundane life, from 80s parodies to Latin odes. My album, “The Existential Workday,” refines these, weaving humor and intricate wordplay into a cohesive, genre-shifting narrative, despite AI quirks. read more
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Samuels Public Library: Volunteer Highlight
Selected as the inaugural “Volunteer Highlight” for leadership in the Studio 330 Makerspace and Tech Tuesdays. Recognized for developing technical workshops and conducting historical research, while successfully bridging the gap between Library Trustee governance and direct community mentorship. read more
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The Audit That Never Arrives, and the Meeting That Wasn’t
Royal Examiner: In this opinion piece, I detail repeated FOIA and public-notice failures by the Warren County Finance/Audit Committee, citing missing records, canceled meetings, and procedural inconsistencies—arguing that centralized oversight and modernized record-keeping are essential to restore transparency and public trust. read more
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The First in Virginia: Dedicating the 250th Anniversary Bench
On the courthouse grounds, we honored Dr. Joseph Warren—not just as a Revolutionary hero, but as a towering figure in Masonic history. As a Grand Master who gave his life for liberty, he has left a legacy that bridges my work in both the SAR and the Craft. read more
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Flashlights and Snorkels: Navigating the Fog of the FY2026 Budget
I performed a deep dive into the FY2026 budget, exposing a “brick wall” of transparency issues—from unsearchable image-based documents to mysterious funding cuts for fire departments and the erasure of Samuels Library from the historical fiscal record. read more
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Kena Klowns
Kenagram: I’m noted as one of the Kena Klowns’ two newest members making a first parade appearance, alongside coverage of charitable fundraising, spring events, and the club’s tradition of klowning as joyful community service and family-friendly outreach. read more
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Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster: Ordained Minister
For $59 and a healthy sense of humor, I joined the ranks of the Pastafarian clergy. With embossed parchment and vinyl decals in hand, I’m exploring a faith that proves the divine can be found in a bowl of spaghetti. read more
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Routine Agenda Approvals Before Things Get Volatile During Non-Agenda Public Comments on Library and Park parking
Royal Examiner: I’m noted as the only public speaker during the meeting’s formal hearings, addressing the VDOT six-year road plan with a light-hearted comment about its presentation—illustrating consistent civic participation even during routine county business before tensions rose later in public comments. read more
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A Beacon of Pride: Completing the Lighthouse Speech
I returned to the podium to conclude my message on civic pride, describing the library as a “beacon of light.” I challenged the Board to move beyond being merely “affordable” to becoming a county that is truly livable and lovable. read more
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A Brother’s Stand for a Flooded Community and Its Libraries
After a flood and looming library closures, Lewis Moten traveled to speak for his sister’s community, exposing how a lack of transparency fuels fear. What followed was a rare moment of civic pressure that forced trustees to publicly keep libraries open. read more
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The Lighthouse in the Storm: Civic Pride and the Library’s Future
I shared a personal reflection on civic pride, referencing Jeff Siegler’s “Hard to Love.” I spoke on how prioritizing finance over value has harmed our community and choked up while addressing the painful human cost of the library’s political storm. read more
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Time Passing
Time has been flying lately. I’ve migrated the library news links to a new blog, but it’ll remain behind the scenes for now while I tackle a major reorganization. Today’s the final day for an RFP to manage library services for the county. The trustees have issued a press release that seems like it gives… read more
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April already?
How time flies. I’ve been heavily caught up with the “library issue” as Supervisor Jay Butler puts it. With everything going on, it’s difficult to focus on priorities. I’ve been updating the links to various news sources over the past two years about the library as I find them. I believe it’s time to separate… read more
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Supervisors Tackle Tax and Revenue Issues, Approve Comp Plan Update Option 1, Before Being Ripped Over Library
Royal Examiner: I’m mentioned during public comments addressing concerns about administrative treatment of county fire departments. When a related consent agenda item was removed, I thanked the board, noting it made me feel heard—highlighting active civic participation during a contentious meeting. read more
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Church of Gnome: Sacred Companion
Received formal recognition for canine companion Teddy as an ordained and honored companion, acknowledging his supportive presence, positive influence, and symbolic role in community minded expressions of care, reflection, and wellbeing as part of a broader exploration of ceremonial traditions. read more
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Church of Gnome: Ordained Minister
On April 1, 2025, I embraced a ministry of small wonders and humble service. Joined by my dog Teddy—now an officially recognized Sacred Companion—I’m exploring a faith that finds the divine in quiet acts and clever paws. read more
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Transparency Under Fire: Addressing Manipulated Records and Blocked Access
I challenged the Board on unethical social media practices, including the deletion of public comments and blocking of citizens. I also successfully advocated for removing outdated, inconsistent library financial data from the County’s Comprehensive Plan to ensure all nonprofits are treated equally. read more
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At Silver Tea event, Samuels supporters recall library’s history and make a plea for its future
Northern Virginia Daily: I’m mentioned as a Samuels Public Library trustee who assisted with historical research for a Silver Tea presentation, helping trace the library’s origins and community legacy while supporters gathered to advocate for its future during a period of funding uncertainty. read more
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Warren County supervisors approve more tourist rentals
Northern Virginia Daily: I’m quoted during public hearings questioning additional short-term rental permits, urging scrutiny of prior compliance, neighbor impacts, and enforcement history. I emphasized the importance of protecting long-term housing and community stability over continued expansion of tourist rentals. read more
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Agenda Hacking: Challenging the Public Comment “Timeout”
I strategically used the Board’s own agenda rules to challenge a restrictive public comment policy that pushes non-agenda topics to the end of the night. Beyond procedural fairness, I called for mandatory ethics training to address the risk of unauthorized recordings. read more
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The Power of Clubs in Community Life
Royal Examiner: In this letter to the editor, I reflect on how civic clubs strengthen communities, drawing from personal experience and the documentary Join or Die. I encourage residents to join local organizations as a meaningful way to connect, contribute, and belong. read more
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Kena Klown Club: First Dress-Out
On March 1, 2025, I officially stepped into the oversized shoes of a hobo clown. From the chaos of a packed dressing room to dodging the Kena 500 race cars, my first dress-out was a crash course in the art of the antic. read more
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A Glimpse into My World: Volunteering, Learning, and More
There’s been a lot happening lately, from library projects to research and volunteer work. I’ve been helping out with community events, learning new things, and juggling various responsibilities. Despite feeling a bit overwhelmed, I’m managing to keep up and looking forward to sharing more of what’s been going on. read more
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County library board suggests Warren supervisors not renew contract with Samuels
Northern Virginia Daily: I’m quoted as a Samuels Public Library trustee disputing claims of FOIA violations, stating that the library delivered strong value for county funding and that its nonprofit status provides a greater return on investment while retaining lawful control of its assets. read more
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Samuels Library began in 1799 as a subscription service
Northern Virginia Daily: I’m referenced as a Samuels Public Library trustee who assisted with historical research for a public forum on the library’s origins, helping document its evolution from a 1799 subscription service into a long-standing, community-built institution. read more
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Echoes of the Past
Colleen Snyder’s Echoes of the Past traced Samuels Public Library’s story through oral history and archival research, debuting publicly during a Q&A forum before being shared again at the revived Silver Tea and in a later public presentation. read more
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12¢ vs. $1.20: Exposing the Broadband Pricing Gap
I stood before the Board to challenge the “glaring holes” in rural broadband coverage and pricing. Drawing parallels to the 1936 Rural Electrification Act, I exposed how proposed low-tier speeds fail to meet modern FCC broadband standards. read more
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Shunning
Shunning isolates individuals, forcing them into emotional exile for simply questioning or leaving the faith. It creates lasting trauma, severing connections with loved ones and stripping away personal autonomy. Despite claiming to uphold moral values, the practice undermines genuine compassion, often leaving deep scars that persist for years. read more
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Puzzles, Ribbons, Faith, and History
Many happenings: Ribbon cutting, Freemasons, Robbie Burns, Braille, Cancer Free Sister, Faith, Laser Puzzles, Tokens for hot meals, Street Organ, Research, Digitization of Historical Records, Rural Broadband, and Samuels Public Library. read more
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Concerns Raised Over Warren County Broadband Pricing
Royal Examiner: In this letter to the editor, I critique Warren County’s proposed VATI broadband pricing, arguing that high costs, poor value at lower tiers, and installation fees undermine the project’s public mission and place rural residents at a disadvantage. read more
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The Digital Divide and 1876 Newspapers: Bridging the Gap in Warren County
From coordinating with the Library of Virginia to digitize 19th-century newspapers to challenging the high costs of rural broadband, my February 4th testimony focused on ensuring Warren County stays connected—both to its rich history and to the modern world. read more
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Toysmith Harmonica
A lightweight Toysmith harmonica joined my pocket-sized clown instruments after I misplaced my original. More playful than precise, its translucent plastic body and free-reed tones invite casual, private improvisation—even if the notes wander off-key. read more
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Welcome New Members
Kenagram: In the January–February 2025 issue, I am listed among six nobles welcomed into the Kena Shriners organization, marking my formal induction and inclusion in the temple’s official membership record as documented in its house publication during early 2025 period. read more
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Maker, Personality, Faith, and Library
A recap over the past two weeks of setting up a maker space workshop, finding old photos, digitizing a school play, transcribing old documents, core memory, selling a vehicle, making braille letters, getting a phd, reflecting on childhood faith, and latest developments at the library. read more
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The Pulse of the Past: Connecting My Heart History to the Plumley Line
A deep dive into my family history packet revealed more than names—it uncovered a generations-long battle with heart disease. From ancestral “Cardiorenal Syndrome” to my own modern pacemaker, I’ve discovered that the heart is the true thread of my legacy. read more
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Color Guard Units’ Highlights! – Virginia
SAR Colorguardsman: I participated with the Colonel James Wood II Chapter in Wreaths Across America ceremonies, helping place wreaths on veterans’ graves at Prospect Hill Cemetery in Front Royal while honoring service members through musket salutes and Taps as part of a statewide remembrance effort. read more
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Universal Life Church: Ordained Minister
My journey into ministry got a bit more serious with a simple click and a sincere question: Can the state recognize a calling that starts online? With my Universal Life Church credentials in hand, I’m preparing to test the limits of Virginia law. read more
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Church of the Later-Day Dude: Ordained Dudeist Priest
If enlightenment can be found between a bowling alley and a bathrobe, I may have found my calling. My journey into ordination began with embracing calm, humor, and the Taoist-inspired philosophy of “The Dude”—proving that sometimes, the holiest act is simply abiding. read more
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Abide University & Institute: PhD in Comedic Science (Honorary)
A lighthearted credential reflecting a lifelong appreciation for humor, irony, and the “Dudeist” philosophy of keeping a balanced perspective. read more
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Art of Organ Building: Wooden Pipes
A large collection of drawings to design wooden organ pipes from an old book, The Art of Organ Building. read more
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Floating Ideas: Pianos, Crank Organs, and a Dash of Magic
I explored music and creativity, making progress on the piano and diving into the fascinating mechanics of crank organs, even considering building one. Alongside these musical pursuits, I tried a new magic trick with a floating UFO, made a balloon animal, and dreamed up a mini-golf idea for the library. read more
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Reflections on Faith, Music, and New Beginnings
In this post, I reflect on the contrasting experiences between the religion I grew up with and the church I attend today. I also share updates on my piano journey with Simply Piano, ongoing battery issues with my iPhone Xs Max, my recent Royal Arch Mason initiation, and developments at the library. read more
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Roland Digital Piano (FP-30X)
The Roland FP-30X is an 88-key weighted digital piano chosen for realistic feel, MIDI connectivity, and high-quality sound. It bridges traditional piano technique with modern learning software, turning a living room into a flexible practice studio. read more
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Royal Arch: Hiram 45
January 2025 – Present. Completed the Royal Arch degree and maintain membership in the chapter. Participation is currently limited due to overlapping civic commitments, with intent to increase involvement as schedules permit. read more
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Irish Tin Whistles
A pair of Irish tin whistles became my pocket-sized clown instrument, inspired by Celtic melodies and Lord of the Rings. Durable enough for life with Gwinn, they introduced me to octave-shifting breath control and playful, wandering tunes. read more
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From Magic Tricks to Masonic Service: My Clowning, Library, and Community Adventures
This month, I’ve juggled practicing magic tricks for my clown persona, renewing my CPR certification, and supporting my Masonic lodge’s charitable activities. I’ve also been working hard to maintain my Little Free Library, engaging with the Sons of the American Revolution, and addressing the challenges at Samuels Public Library. read more
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A Journey of Faith, Conflict, and Understanding
A local library faces pressure from anti-LGBTQ+ activists, including influential politicians, to remove LGBTQ+ content under the guise of “family values” and “age-appropriate” material. Despite legal protections, they aim to replace the library board and erase LGBTQ+ representation. This situation raises deeper questions about acceptance, values, and the true definition of community. read more
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The Struggle of Being an Outsider in a Welcoming Church
I attended church again today, and while a lot has been happening in my life lately, I found myself on autopilot. I had actually committed to visiting another church with friends—a United Methodist church—but completely forgot. My curiosity about other churches has grown because they seem so different from what I experienced growing up. The… read more
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The Oath of a Patriot: My Official SAR Induction
I officially took my oath today as a member of the Colonel James Wood II Chapter. Sharing the story of my ancestor, John Plumley, made the ceremony deeply personal, a moment captured by a fellow Mason and SAR brother. read more
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Sons of the American Revolution: Colonel James Wood II Chapter
December 2024 – Present. Participate in a patriotic and historical service organization focused on ancestry research, education, and civic remembrance. Conduct genealogical documentation, support commemorative ceremonies, and contribute to public programs honoring Revolutionary War patriots and preserving local and national historical memory. read more
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