The Season Has Begun

Residing in Grass Valley, California, Robert Fettgather has been part of the adjunct faculty at Mission College in Santa Clara for more than three decades. Over his tenure, he has imparted knowledge in various subjects, including developmental psychology and abnormal psychology. Outside the academic realm, Robert Fettgather finds pleasure in keeping up with Major League Baseball (MLB).

California boasts five professional baseball teams, surpassing any other state in the nation. Los Angeles hosts both the Angels and Dodgers, while the Oakland A’s, San Diego Padres, and San Francisco Giants round out the lineup. And the season has just started again!

The Dodgers' history traces back to 1884, originating in Brooklyn until their move to Los Angeles in 1958. The relocation proved fortuitous, resulting in a World Series triumph in 1959, followed by additional titles in 1963 and 1965. The franchise has claimed six of its seven championships while based in LA. In contrast, the Angels have spent 63 seasons in Los Angeles, clinching their sole World Series victory in 2002 against the Giants.

Meanwhile, the Giants have seen success both in New York and California. Originating in New York, the Giants secured seven championship series out of 16 and added three World Series victories, along with three more appearances in the championship series after relocating to San Francisco.

Another transplant to California, the Oakland Athletics, originated as the Philadelphia Athletics in 1901. Despite their success in Philadelphia, the A's have thrived in California, winning three consecutive World Series titles from 1972 to 1974. Another three straight appearances in the World Series resulted in another championship in 1989. That was the championship played around the tragic Loma Prieta earthquake.

On the other hand, the Padres franchise, established in 1969, has yet to win a World Series championship. Maybe this year?

The Role of a Free Press in a Free Society

The Institute for Personality and Ability Testing has certified Robert Fettgather as a Stress Management Trainer, and Medical Hypnosis Seminars of the Los Gatos Institute has certified him in Clinical Hypnotherapy.  At Santa Clara University, Graduate Department of Education and Counseling Psychology, Robert Fettgather's studies included Health Education and Behavioral Medicine. He has completed Hospice Training with Hospice of the Valley. Robert Fettgather is interested in health reporting and the value of a free press.

A free press is often referred to as the fourth estate, a cornerstone of democracy that upholds transparency, accountability, and the fundamental rights of citizens. In a free society, the press serves as a watchdog, scrutinizing the actions of those in power, informing the public, and providing a platform for diverse voices and opinions. The role of a free press in safeguarding democratic principles and promoting civic engagement cannot be overstated.

A free press serves as a platform for civic discourse and debate, fostering a marketplace of ideas where diverse viewpoints can be expressed and debated. Through opinion pieces, editorial columns, and letters to the editor, the press encourages dialogue on important social, political, and cultural issues, enriching public discourse and promoting understanding and empathy among citizens with differing perspectives. By providing a forum for robust debate, the press strengthens the fabric of democracy and encourages active citizen participation in the democratic process. 

History has shown that a free press is a powerful bulwark against authoritarianism and tyranny. In countries where press freedom is restricted or suppressed, dissenting voices are silenced, and government accountability is undermined. A free press serves as a check on the concentration of power, challenging abuses of authority and defending democratic principles against encroachment. By safeguarding press freedom, society guards against the erosion of civil liberties and ensures that the voices of the people remain heard and respected.  

In a free society, a free press is not merely a luxury but a necessity, essential for the functioning of democracy and the protection of individual rights and freedoms. As the guardian of truth and accountability, the facilitator of civic discourse and debate, the protector of minority rights and freedoms, and the defender against authoritarianism and tyranny, the press plays a vital role in shaping public opinion, informing citizens, and holding those in power to account. By upholding press freedom and supporting independent journalism, society safeguards the principles of democracy and ensures a more just, transparent, and inclusive future for all.

Old Friends

Robert Fettgather has served as Special Consultant in psychometrics to the Departments of Education and holds a specialist credential in learning handicapped and community college credentials in both learning and developmental disabilities. Robert Fettgather has taught at San Jose State University, National University and Mission College in Santa Clara.  He has addressed State and National Conferences on a variety of topics.

Let's talk about old friends. Friendships are the threads that weave the tapestry of our lives, and among these, old friendships stand as resilient pillars of support and understanding. The importance of maintaining and cherishing these enduring connections cannot be overstated. As life unfolds, presenting its myriad challenges and changes, old friendships serve as an anchor, a source of comfort, and a testament to the enduring power of human connection.

As the sands of time shift and circumstances evolve, the trust and understanding embedded in old friendships become invaluable. These relationships have weathered the storms of life, and the depth of shared experiences allows for a level of understanding that is hard to replicate. The trust built over the years enables individuals to be their authentic selves, knowing that they are accepted and loved for who they are, flaws and all. Authenticity may be one of the most essential aspects to lasting friendship.

Old friendships become a wellspring of emotional support during challenging times. Whether facing personal struggles, career setbacks, or the complexities of family life, knowing that there are friends who have witnessed and shared similar experiences brings solace and strength. The shared wisdom accumulated over the years becomes a valuable resource, providing perspective and guidance when navigating life's complexities.

In the era of social media and rapid technological advancement, maintaining old friendships has become more accessible than ever. Digital platforms offer a convenient way to stay connected, share updates, and even engage in virtual gatherings. Despite the physical distances that may separate individuals, the power of technology can be harnessed to bridge the gap and sustain the flame of old friendships.