President-elect Trump: An Expert Describes a High-Conflict Personalit

December 15, 2016

TIMES OF SAN DIEGO

By Laura Walcher

Bill Eddy is a lawyer, therapist, mediator and the President of the High Conflict Institute; also, a Certified Family Law Specialist in California and the Senior Family Mediator at the National Conflict Resolution Center in San Diego.

He developed the "High Conflict Personality" theory (HCP Theory) and is an international expert on managing disputes involving high conflict personalities and personality disorders.

Mr. Eddy is the author of numerous articles and several books, including: “Trump Bubbles: The Dramatic Rise and Fall of High-Conflict Politicians.”  “This won’t be a ‘business as usual’ four years,” he says of Trump’s upcoming term. “ We will need, “ he says, “to speak up a lot!”

So, we began: 

LW:  Bill, to begin with, please define what you mean

by “bubble.”  While your book is primarily about President-elect Trump, I presume your use of “bubble” may apply to others?

BE:  For years, people have described a “bubble” in the context of a social condition, such as the housing market bubble or the stock market bubble, both of which burst in 2008. The term “irrational exuberance” has been applied to describe the enthusiasm and belief that these social conditions will only get better and better. I define a “trump bubble” as “when emotions trump thinking in politics.” I believe that when emotions drive a politician’s success, it will inevitably lead to their fall when reality sets in.

LW:   According to your definition and discussion of “High

Conflict Personality” (HCP) people, Trump is certainly a qualifier! How unique in this respect is Trump vs. other U. S. presidents  - or other leaders?   Joseph McCarthy?  Richard Nixon?

BE:  High conflict people have four common characteristics: 1. Pre-occupation with blaming others. 2. All or nothing thinking. 3. Unmanaged emotions. 4. Extreme negative behavior.  When high conflict people gain political power, they tend to dramatically rise (based primarily on emotions) and dramatically fall when reality sets in. Examples of such “trump” bubbles have been Hitler, McCarthy, Johnson, Nixon and others. I explained six of these historical examples in my book “Trump Bubbles: The Dramatic Rise and Fall of High Conflict Politicians.” They all follow a predictable arc of rise and fall. The only question is the timing.

LW.  Could this personality be simplified as “narcissistic” or is narcissism just one element of the character? 

BE:  Not all narcissists are high conflict people. The extreme preoccupation with blaming others characteristic of HCPs when combined with narcissism and political power create a much larger problem than with an ordinary narcissist. However, in this case the co-author of Trump’s book “The Art of the Deal,” says that he is a sociopath. If this is true, it means that nothing he says can be trusted. It also means that such personalities will lack a conscience and act recklessly.

LW::  Is there any upside to this personality – especially for the president of the United States of America?

BE: Given Trump’s possible character traits, there is no long-term upside. In the short term a charismatic emotion-based leader often looks wonderful in the early stage.  We are now in the early stage; he has not yet performed on behalf of the nation. The conflicts he will create, the failures to follow through, and his inability to manage the flexibility needed for this job will create many more problems than he may solve. Yet, he will have some success by bullying people into doing what he wants. However, he will disappoint his followers much more than he helps them.

LW:  Does Trump’s flip-flopping on issues, opinions, answers –

even outright lying -  throughout the campaign conform to the personality you describe?

BE: Yes. Narcissistic HCPs like being unpredictable and beholden to no one. They hate rules and feel superior to them. So being consistent feels confining and they generally like to keep everyone else guessing. It’s rule by personality, not by logic or law. Sociopathic HCPs will say (lie) and do whatever is convenient or appealing at the time, without conscience or consistency. They like instability because it keeps everyone else off-balance. This especially can be demonstrated with a lack of loyalty to his associates, discarding them at will and turning his attention to new shiny objects and people (wives, for example). 

LW:  You write that Trump is “..potentially the most dangerous person in politics since Adolf  Hitler.”  Clearly a terrifying opinion – yet we do remember the ardent hordes of Hitler’s followers!   Explain/elaborate?

BE: There are similarities regarding how he connects with his followers, so that they become more passionately connected  when he and they are criticized. It strengthens their bond. It’s a major part of my book. In a nutshell, it’s because he uses emotions instead of logic, and uses repetition on a greater scale than most politicians since Hitler. He has conditioned his followers to his simple arguments from day one. Hitler was known for spewing ten times as many words as any other politician, and he used modern media for voice (daily speeches  on the radio) and face (movies of him speaking at his huge rallies).  These emotional media projecting face and voice are much more powerful on our brains than printed words.

LW:  Evaluating Trump as you do, do you really believe that, per his leadership,  “sooner or later we will have a war on our hands.”

BE: Here’s a short statement from the book:

“He tends to inspire violence and lack of restraint – which leads to lack of physical restraint, which leads to organized aggressive behavior – which leads inevitably to war. He will “split” the world into allies and enemies. We will have more chaos than we do now in the Middle East – and on American soil. Friends and family members will start hating each other, and school children will become disrespectful and violent towards people who look different from them.”

LW::  Given your expertise and experience, what is your prediction for  Mr. Trump’s  presidency – and its consequences for our country?  Should we be -  as many of us are – very scared?

BE: Yes. Moderate Republicans  may limit his damage and keep him tied up in procedural matters, such as conservative Republicans have done to Obama. However, the more frustrated he gets, the wilder he may get and he will potentially motivate his followers to threaten his opponents (which will especially be directed at protesters).

I expect that his presidency will look similar to Johnson’s and Nixon’s, with lots of protests, dirty tricks, violence, and a mix of good and bad policies. But ultimately his over-reaching and paranoia will cause him to fall, as Johnson did and Nixon really did.  When and how many will get hurt? I explain the steps of the fall in the book; I just don’t know the timing.

In the long run, strong protests of his actions and educating the public on issues will prevail—as it did with Johnson and Nixon.  ###

“Trump Bubbles: The Dramatic Rise and Fall of High-Conflict Politicians” is available at  Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or the publisher:  www.UnhookedBooks.com, available in paperback or as an e-book.

WHAT NOW? LIL’ BIT COIN …

Presidio Sentinel, San Diego

December, 2016

By Laura Walcher  

   I wonder what ever happened to the Humphreys, that big-city family whose outings were dedicated – yes, dedicated – to how much money they could find on a New York street?   Did it pay their rent?  Buy their groceries?  Well, it was reported that they found “thousands,” but I, as an equally obsessive loose-change seeker, figured they needed to live very long lives to acquire that much.  

I too, am simply, highly opposed to letting perfectly good money lay unclaimed in the open.  And, I’m aided by the need to take Fen, the poodle/bischonish (or, who knows/) little brat on long walks, during which I can either idly scan for coin or think great thoughts. 

(Do not hurt my feelings here.)

I rejected listening to news (heaven help us!), music or lectures.  One must be vigilant while walking Fen – not only because he may eat a disgusting sidewalk tidbit that will wind up costing us hundreds to have his stomach pumped, but because I’d miss

exultant pedestrians who must discuss his breed (?) and his adorableness - - (“ Yes,” I say, “ sometimes he’s adorable.” )

Well, I’d learned a lot from the Humphreys ; they were anything but idle.  With their two children, they embarked on serious scouting.

As for me, it’s true that I can’t quite stroll through a parking lot or pass an ATM machine without paying keen attention, but I simply never advanced –like the Humphreys -  to  searching ‘round the supermarket check-out stand, vending machine locations or  - and I’m ashamed not to have  thought of this one -  gas station pumps. The Humphreys advised restaurant seats, too.  Ick.

Well, the Humphreys were New Yorkers, where people dash through the streets whether they’re late getting to where they’re going or not.  So they’re probably far more careless in general than San Diegans, who really don’t rush to get anywhere, and are even reasonably satisfied to be a tiny bit late - like slipping into their seats just as the curtain goes up (ending how you’ve been eyeing their seats to see whether - being better than yours - you can make a quick change.)  And maybe, if New Yorkers do lose a dime here and there, they’re reluctant to recover it lest they be trampled. 

In the meantime, not long ago, during one week, I found coin every single day.  And the following week, in one day I scored a penny, a nickel, a dime – and a quarter.  A bonanza.

But, thousands?  I would ardently dispute that, and will, should I ever meet the Humphreys;   unless, of course,  I learn that they actually  put both those kids through college with that lil’ bit o’coin.  ###

WHAT NOW? JUST SAYIN’ …

Presidio Sentinel San Diego, November, 2016

By Laura Walcher

   This could have been a very, very long column.  I could have included radio and TV commentators; friends, colleagues, family.  National,  regional, local media.  International media:  The Economist (relentless!).  

A Charles M. Blow headline, reads:  “TRUMP, THE WORST OF AMERICA.”

Next month, I’m going back to humor: 

Does this definition of a narcissist resonate?  From HEALTH MAGAZINE:  “… three hallmark signs: an exaggerated sense of self-importance; a need to be constantly admired, and a demonstrable lack of empathy towards others.”  They are..”preoccupied with thoughts of being powerful, attractive, famous and smart, even if those thoughts don’t line up with their real accomplishments.”  

NEWSWEEK HEADLINE:  The nominee’s destructive behavior has victimized cities, businesses, investors, partners and even his own family. 

MAX BOOT (LOS ANGELES TIMES):  responding Trump’s tweet after the firebombing of his campaign office in No. Carolina:  “Animals representing Hillary Clinton and Dems just firebombed our office because we are winning ….

   “Trump,” says Mr. Boot, “gives every indication of wanting to burn down America’s political house if he cannot be its leader.”

LOS ANGELES TIMES Editorial:  … “If Trump makes that claim (the election is rigged), and a significant number of his supporters believe him, a body blow will have been struck to a foundational principle of democracy:  Respect for the outcome of elections even if your candidate isn’t the winner.”

DALAI LAMA:  Trump is a threat to humanity… he is worse than Hitler …

NEW YORK TIMES:  In numerous outraged columns; Paul Krugman ..”Worthy of our contempt.”  Roger Cohen; Thomas Friedman;  Jim Rutenberg.  OK. Go Google.

    Charles M. Blow:  Mr. Blow’s dictionary must be in shreds by now, as week after week, he takes on Mr. Trump:    “ … the logical extension of misogyny, racism and privilege… “ ... the man is on a mission to demonstrate to voters the staggering magnitude of his social vulgarity …!”  “This fragile narcissist …a sort of bottomless pit of emotional need and affirmation …”

HELLO POETRY Website:  About 2,000 poems have appeared about Mr. T.  One post-debate image conjured up by a two-liner:  “Trump dumped on his rump, Hair lumped in a clump.”  (OK, I couldn’t resist it …). 

NEW YORK TIMES Editorial:  “It may be too late for the Republican Party to save itself from the rolling disaster of Donald Trump, but the part’s top leaders still have the duty to speak out and help save the country from his reckless rhetoric … they must reject bogus claims of voter fraud .. shown again and again to be virtually non-existent … never before has a major party’s presidential candidate openly encouraged this attack on the legitimacy of the electoral process;  Mr. Trump does is almost daily” (My note: see Trump tweets!).

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  To Mr. Trump:  “STOP WHINING1”

THE SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE:  Editorial Headline:  Donald Trump is Damaging to Democracy.  “Republican nominee Donald Trump’s unhinged behavior … will go down in American history as among the most wide-ranging assaults on fundamentals of democracy and civility this nation has seen from a leading politician … “

And, the conclusion:  “… A man this vindictive, this devoid of empathy, this certain of his infallibility, would be a menace as commander in chief.  … a case can be made that … this is the most ominous election in American political history.  We hope it will not prove the most consequential.”

THE WASHIINGTON POST:  Eugene Robinson.  In column after column, Mr. Robinson simply can’t believe that we – Americans – have permitted Mr. Trump this role on our normally dignified, fact-based, legitimate opposing viewpoints in national elections.  Before the third debate, he observed:  “Trump lost the first two encounters, according to every scientific poll … and Clinton could have a more meaningful policy discussion with an Irish setter.” 

   Along with the rest of us, Mr. Robinson pleads:        “Make it stop,” he begs: “Won’t somebody, please, make it stop.”    ###

WHAT NOW

Laura Walcher | October 5, 2016 | 0 Comments

Want a Ride? Need a Ride? Here’s Your Ticket!

Marilyn Greenblatt moved with her family from New York to San Diego in 2002. She joined Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) in 2003 and played an integral role in the initial launch of “Rides & Smiles,” a volunteer-based transportation program for San Diego seniors – something akin to Lyft or Uber.

Since then, the program has grown tremendously, and in 2008, “Rides & Smiles” became part of JFS’s umbrella program called “On the Go: Transportation Solutions for Older Adults.”

Currently, Marilyn is the “Rides & Smiles” manager, supervising northern and eastern San Diego and North County inland, with more than 200 volunteer drivers.

She is also the current chair of the San Diego County Volunteer Driver Coalition.

We talked about “On the Go” and “Rides & Smiles”:

LW: “Rides & Smiles” so well recognizes the needs of seniors – even if they can’t, or no longer want to be driving, many are still “on the go!”

MG: Yes, “Rides & Smiles” not only transports seniors to medical appointments; riders also go to hair salon appointments, take educational and social classes, visit a friend or spouse in the hospital or nursing facility, go on lunch/dinner dates, attend religious services and more.

“On the Go” shuttles provide group transportation to Jewish Family Service’s Social & Wellness Centers, shopping needs and special adventures, while its excursions provide group transportation to a variety of diverse activities including entertainment, health and educational fairs, and more. The “On the Go: Silver-Premium Service” also provides individual riders for personal errands and large groups for customized outings.

LW: The program seems like an obvious solution for our times; tell us how it originated.

MG: The North County inland areas of San Diego were identified as having gaps in easy, affordable transportation, particularly for seniors. With the support of the Palomar Health District, “Rides & Smiles” was launched in March 2004 serving Poway and Rancho Bernardo. The program started with five volunteer drivers and 12 senior riders. We now have 250 volunteer drivers and provide approximately 40,000 rides a year. Since 2008, more than 4,500 older adults have enrolled in the program.

LW: Who is using it today? Is there an age criteria? Are users picked up and delivered to their homes? How do they arrange the service?

MG: “On the Go” serves older adults living in 26 different zip codes throughout San Diego County. Riders must be at least 60 years of age and live independently, but with inadequate or unavailable transportation. All riders must also be mentally alert.

Our “Rides & Smiles” and shuttle services provide door-to-door transportation for riders. Excursions provide transportation from a central meeting location, although home pick-ups can also be arranged.

Once enrolled in “On the Go,” seniors call the offices to request rides. For “Rides & Smiles,” rides must be reserved at least one week in advance. Riders may also place their requests electronically through RideScheduler, our web-based scheduling system.

LW: Big issue: Who are the “Rides & Smiles” drivers and how are they vetted? Are the seniors – the users – also vetted?

MG: Potential volunteer drivers complete an online application. JFS then conducts a phone interview and reserves the driver a spot in a “Rides & Smiles” group orientation/training. Background screenings and DMV record reports are required.

Once vetted, “Rides & Smiles” volunteers can access RideScheduler to arrange rides according to their availability. Volunteers are in complete control of their schedule, including who, when and where they drive. Drivers can volunteer once a month, once a week or several times a day – any help is a big help.

Potential riders also submit to a phone interview to determine their eligibility. Completed and signed paperwork is required along with a small enrollment fee.

Both riders and volunteers are monitored carefully by our program coordinators to ensure the experience is a good one for both.

LW: What is the cost for seniors and the pay for drivers?

MG: There is a $20 enrollment fee for “On the Go.” Our shuttles cost $4 each way, and excursion costs vary depending on the venue.

Our “Rides & Smiles” program is donation-based, depending on the distance of the ride, and our volunteers are offered a mileage re-imbursement capping rate at 47 cents per mile.

“On the Go Silver” has a schedule of costs depending on the need. For example: a one-way ride of 10 miles is $35; our two-hour package of up to 20 miles is $75.

Shuttle, excursion and Silver drivers are all JFS employees.

LW: Does JFS need to invest in expensive – or special – insurance? How many cars/vans does JFS operate for the program? Is “On the Go” a seven-day-per-week service? What are the specific hours?

MG: JFS insurance covers the entire agency and includes coverage for the riders being transported by our “Rides & Smiles” volunteers. They use their own vehicles.

Our “On the Go” fleet includes two 24-passenger buses, one 18-passenger bus, one 16-passenger bus, one seven-passenger van, plus one American and one Ford Fusion sedan. All “On the Go” vehicles are ADA compliant and lift equipped. And, our “On the Go Silver” is capable of providing wheelchair transport.

Our program provides transportation seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

LW: What have been the program’s biggest challenges? Any anticipated changes?

MG: For “Rides & Smiles,” the biggest ongoing challenge is volunteer recruitment. Volunteers are always needed to keep up with the demand.  We welcome all applicants.

Interested volunteers and drivers can visit our website, www.jfssd.org/onthego or call (858) 637-3050 (drivers) and (858) 637-3210 (new riders).

WHAT NOW? WRY NOT?

September, 2016

Presidio Sentinel San Diego

By Laura Walcher

Fen, our poodle-bichon who’s now maybe four or more, has, in his adulthood, acquired a wry way of looking at me.  I say “wry, ‘ because he knows I don’t always know all the answers.  I especially didn’t have all the answers one hot Sunday in 

the park, when we stopped to watch a small group – men, women, young, old, 

in a circle, and, directed by a cheerful leader, each person taking a turn at, ummmm:   laughing.  One guy kinda snorted; a little lady tee-hee’d.  A young man guffawed.  An old lady hiccupped. Etc. 

‘What the hey …?” proclaimed the wry dog.  Read the sign, I told him.  “ ‘ Laughter Yoga’ – see?”  Well, he didn’t see.  Nor did I.  I did think, tho, that these days, beset as we are by daily nation and world weariness, any reason to laugh – even if Fen and I didn’t actually see any Yoga going on – is a good thing.  

My office is beset, too.  Somewhere beneath the stacks are dozens of clips that I once imagined might lead to a laugh, or a semi-brilliant discourse, but now I realize––I’ve just got to get them  .. off my desk!  Samples:

Item 1:  Why I don’t make the Big Bucks:  the serious  - and probably well-paid advice from one paper’s “On the Job” section, called “10 Ways to be more active during the work day.” Get these: “Take the Stairs …”  “Move Around the Office …”  “Stand up and Stretch.”  “Fidget while you Work.”  Yawn. Thank me for not listing all 10.

Item 2:  From The Economist:  “Freudian Slip:   ‘ You Can’t Always Get What You Want, ’ Mr. Trump’s unfortunate choice of music by the ‘Stones, before introducing Mike Pence as his VP pick.”  

Item 3:  From Scott Adams’ “Dilbert” as the boss forgets to make a meeting agenda, and just goes for jargon:  “Let’s do a deep dive in the big data and drill down until we hyperlocalize some disruptive technologies.”  

Item 4:  Identify the following:  Bhumibol Adulyad.  Maha Vajiralongkorn.  Yingluck Shinawatra.  Prayuth Chan-ocha.  Thaksin Shinawatra.  

      Don’t despair:  these are the names of some of Thailand’s political leaders. D’you think  whether, in Thailand,  any correspond in simplicity to … John Doe?

Item 5:  From Bobby Jindal, former governor of Louisiana, re Mr. Trump:  “…you know why he hasn’t read the Bible?  Because he’s not in it.”  

Item 6:  The chair that  J. K. Rowling sat in while writing Harry Potter sold for $394,000 at auction.  (Dear Readers, you can have mine – it swivels! – for $8.95.  Cash.) 

Item:  7:  The Flip-Flopper:  Kenneth Star quoted about former president Bill Clinton, whom he tried hard to bury:  “Mr. Clinton is the most gifted politician of the baby boom generation.  His genuine empathy … is clean.. powerful .. palpable.. he genuinely cares.”  

In an anthropomorphic frenzy, I tried to tell Fen that, however odd it seems,  “Laughter Yoga” is a good thing – that I’d just google it and explain it to him.  That we need the laugh.  No, we need an ironic laugh.  That’s better these days.   ###

WHAT NOW? LOVE-A-BULL!!

Presidio Sentinel, August 2016

By Laura Walcher

Am I saying this right?  That Ginger,  she is one hunky girl!  Maybe she’s not quite “pure,” but she’s got enough

Pit Bull in her to send me sailing across the room with a

wave of her tail.   Her version of an apology is throwing herself into my arms and licking my – well, how bad can it be?  My face is still here.  

Well, that’s our family’s Ginger, beloved by us, yet as a Pit Bull, feared at the most, avoided at the least, by

society at large, proven by the sad number of unwanted Pits in shelters everywhere.

That is why Isabelle Walcher, Ginger’s best friend, soon to be a Junior at UC Davis, and currently tending kittens at the S.D. Humane Society, has launched a crusade, which she calls the “LoveaBull” project.  A project described, as, she says, “The life of a misjudged dog and her human advocate.”

Ms. Walcher will explain:

LW: Tell us about Ginger, your best pal!

IW:  Where do I start? Ginger is a happy blockheaded, butt wiggling, French-kissing, cuddle -addicted Pit Bull! Or, she can also be described as an enthusiastic three-year-old, 55 lbs, brindle and white American Pit Bull Terrier mix who lives with our wonder mutt, 10-year-old, graceful, Ruby. Ginger is not “pure. ” We think she is either mixed with Boxer or American Bulldog. The “Pit Bull” breed actually refers to any dog with a block-shaped head, so technically Boxers, American  and English Bulldogs, American Staffordshire Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, (etc!) are considered to be  “Pit Bulls”  - similar to how Beagles and Dachshunds are considered to be a part of the Hound dog category.  Or, Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are both Retrievers. However, most think of the American Pit Bull Terrier as being the only “Pit Bull.” Yes – it’s confusing!

LW:   You’ve become a big fan of Pits! Did you start out that way?  How did Ginger come to live with you? 

IW: I didn’t even know what a Pit Bull was until I was a freshman in high school! When I was younger,  I would go through “loving”  different breeds of dogs I wanted,  “when I was older.” First, a Dachshund phase, then a Poodle phase, even a Greyhound phase.  I never imagined the breed that ultimately won my heart would be Pit Bulls!   One night, on “Animal Planet,” a new show called “Pit Bulls and Parolees” was on; I couldn’t stop watching it. Wow, in love with Pit Bulls over a television show! But it wasn’t until I started working with the dogs that I really fell for them. I didn’t understand why people thought any breed could be inherently dangerous. As a high-school freshman, I began volunteering with a local Pit Bull rescue.  By my junior year of high school, my family decided to foster underage puppies for the San Diego Humane Society. Our first foster: 5-week-old Ginger! She had been abandoned, along with her siblings. Many of her siblings were sick and unfortunately died from parvovirus – a horrible disease, deadly in puppies that have yet to develop a strong immune system. But, three years later, we still have Ginger  - one of the best decisions we’ve ever made.

LW: Was Ginger trained at all when you first got her?  How long – and how much training have you put her through - and how might that compare to other breeds?

IW: Since she was so – nearly newborn, Ginger had zero training – like,  none! Her only job was to survive and be a puppy. But we sent her into training, which Ruby also participated in when she was a puppy. Ginger stayed in puppy class  for about two months. Then, on to  a “teenage” dog class, and now,  she’s done many other classes along with my own training.   Training is a passion for me, so I loved taking Ginger even if she could already master all of the commands. All dogs should go through some training, no matter the breed. Pit Bulls, interestingly, have a wide range of personalities, from lazy to extremely active, but even at “lazy,” they should have training.  I think owners have an added responsibility of making sure their dog is a good Pit Bull “advocate.”

LW:   You’ve learned a lot about Pit Bulls by now …and you’ve become their “master” defender - -  ?

IW:    By now, I’ve worked steadily with pit bulls; I’ve  watched some great documentaries, read articles, news stories, anything to learn more about the breed and the struggles that they encounter. Also, my personal experience with Ginger has taught me a lot about Pit Bulls in general. It’s similar to racism among humans - don’t you think? Pits are banned in many cities and even countries! They aren’t allowed in most apartments; people fear and avoid them; and. they are discriminated against on a regular basis! This discrimination is based completely on their stereotypes and the way they look. But - I have a voice, even if Ginger doesn’t.

LW:    Yet, you do have to continually defend Pit Bulls?  To say they have a nasty reputation .. that’d be an understatement.  And it is sometimes based on people’s fearful experiences, so their dislike of Pits are not based wholly on their imagination.

IW: Actually, the media is probably more to blame than people’s experiences. Most people I talk to who are afraid of Pit Bulls say it’s because of all the stories of maulings that they learn from news reports. Rarely has someone actually had a negative personal experience, which leads to his or her fear.

     My goal in advocating for this breed is not for everyone to instantly fall in love with them and adopt one from their local shelter. Just to give them a fair shake, and to improve their reputation.  No, these dogs aren’t for everyone. Just like a Chihuahua – not for me, but not for any “bad” reason.

LW: Can the aggressive nature of badly-trained Pits be reversed?  Seems sad and unfair to these dogs!

IW:  Yes!! The best examples are the dogs that were rescued and rehabilitated from Michael Vick’s fighting ring bust - The “Vicktory” dogs. Forty-eight dogs were confiscated from Michael Vick’s fighting operation, and sent to different rescues across the country.  But the most difficult ones were taken to “Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.” Two of the 22 dogs were court- ordered to live out their lives there. The other 20 were rehabilitated and learned what it meant to be loved! Most of these dogs had been in the fighting ring, and many came to love other dogs and humans alike. This was a major turning point for the Pit Bull breed. To see how the most “damaged” of dogs could overcome torture and come to love the very species that condemned them to their fate! It’s truly amazing. This is just one major story, but I’ve met and read about many former fighting dogs that became great family pets. It’s also a misconception to believe their hostility is,  “how they’re raised.” I used to use that phrase to defend the breed on a regular basis. Then I read about a former fighting dog who, with its owner, was behaving beautifully. A neighbor noted that the owner must have raised him well! Imagine, But, the neighbor didn’t know about the dog’s aggressive history:   not raised by the owner, not brought up by “good” people. Yet, clearly, he proved that he could  live with other dogs, and love his humans. I think it’s really how the dogs are treated in the moment, not in the past.

LW:    What realistic expectations should people have when they consider adopting a Pit?  Training? Energy/activity?

IW:  One of the reasons I love this breed is how different they all are. I’ve met some that are very - some might say - “lazy. ” They only seem to  need a few walks around the block any day – then, off to the couch! They may be good for someone who’s not as active or doesn’t have a yard. I’ve also met some Pit Bulls that need at least 3, 10-mile runs or walks a day! Now, I exaggerate a bit, but they have a lot of energy. Generally, most Pits have a medium-high energy level;  they need exercise  multiple times a day,  along with some mental stimulation like training or a toy. Training really depends on the dog, but they should learn basic obedience. I’ve found that most are motivated by treats or toys; that makes them easier to train, and most seem to really enjoy it!

LW:   Are Pits still the most populous animal in San Diego’s Humane Society?

IW: There definitely are too many (!) at the Humane Society.  And, even more in county shelters. It’s heart-breaking –to see them in cage after cage!  The shelters do all they can to find homes for their dogs; they even use social media to show how good this breed can be!

See more of Ginger & Pit Bulls on Ms.Walcher’s sites:

Instagram: @loveabull.ginger

Facebook:  Ginger the Loveabull

Email:  loveabull.ginger@gmail.com

STUMBLE-BUMMERY

TIMES OF SAN DIEGO

July 25, 2016

By Laura Walcher

The irony of Melania Trump echoing the words of Michelle Obama may be slightly enjoyable, but that’s where

the humor ends in this very un-enjoyable political season.   

Terrifyingly, it reveals yet another Trump stumble in his team’s discourse, where leaders have consistently either ignored – or worse, been unaware of - the basic rules of crises communication. 

As a long-time publicist, I generously offer

the Trump coalition the basic rules of crises communication. 

1.  Media Will Kill You If It Can .... so when you’re facing a crises, begin by keeping your mouth shut.

Indelicate, sorry.  

The star of this practice was Jesse Jackson.  When it was revealed that he fathered a child outside of his marriage, he issued a single apology, and never said another public word about it. 

And the fact that you don’t remember this, proves my point. 

You may be certain that if you - or your company - face a crises, you will have abundant media attention - - strengthened (and exploited!) in the web-world today by the prevalence and speed of Twitter, Face Book, MySpace, UTube and more - - to say nothing of everyday Joe-sadists who take supreme pleasure is distributing and deepening your troubles.  Count on it. 

When a crises hits you, hit control   -  fast: 

1. Identify your spokesperson. Consider the best- informed, coolest, most authoritative head. Your top executive may not be the most appropriate.   

2. Inform staff and employees, that all media inquiries on the situation will be handled by the designated spokesperson.  

  

 3. Don’t pick up that phone! No tweets! No rapid response to emails!  The spokesperson should never accept calls from the media without meticulous preparation.  Instead, designate an assistant to first find out: 

   - the name of the reporter and media

   - the reporter’s specific questions, if possible , and 

   - the reporter's deadline 

This assistant should assure the reporter of a callback as soon as possible, in time to meet a deadline. 

 4. Based on this information, write your statement, crafted as closely as possible to the reporter’s questions.  Use declarative sentences with few or no clauses  - less chance of being edited.    

Your statements should be prepared so that they:  

- can be read verbatim

- maintain consistency of your position

- prevent distorted quotes or quotes out of context

- prevent spontaneous comments

Whoever returns the call must read the answer verbatim from the prepared statement

Then, stick to the message.

If you are being sought by more than one media outlet, issue this statement in writing, to all, equally.  This will decrease the possibility of interpretation.  Update statements as needed, and keep media and personnel informed re new developments.  

5. Learn the art of deflection.  If necessary, deflect questions in order to respond with the written statement.   (“As I’ve said ...”  or, “To repeat ...” . (Warning:  “deflection” is the evil stepbrother of the lie.  You must absolutely never, but never lie.  The goal is damage control, not deception.   You will always be found out.)

6.  "No comment" is a no-no.  It antagonizes the media and the public and creates suspicion.  Retreats usually trigger a rash of negative news reports.  In a fluid situation, conduct constant research and monitoring so you know every aspect of the problem ahead of the media.

You may say that you're investigating the problem, or that you'll comment on a particular aspect at a designated time (after careful preparation, see #4). In a situation in which you or your company is at fault, be human!  Express your regret, your sorrow, etc., but always couple such acknowledgments with assurance of remedial action you intend to take. 

In a crisis, your reputation is at stake.  As you prepare your responses to media, consider others you need to communicate with: employees, shareholders, etc., and craft specific statements for each as needed.  

Finally, ask yourself these questions:  

-How will our decisions and actions affect news coverage?

 -How will our decisions and actions affect our reputation?

-How will news coverage affect our reputation?

 Poor Melania!  She’s been the victim of an incompetent team.  From rage, to several stabs at weak justifications, explanations and dismissive sneers, the Trumpsters

finally landed on an apologetic speechwriter,

but not before they suffered - and will likely continue to suffer – the consequences of ignoring basic crises communication, and the realization that …  media will kill you if it can.  

#  #  #

Laura Walcher is Principal PR Consultant to JWalcher Communications. www.jwalcher.com

ADJECTIVITY, VOCABULARITY, OF OUR TIME

Presidio Sentinel, July 2016

By Laura Walcher

We really like Thomas Jefferson.  Smart guy.  If you can’t remember anything about him, make sure you see “Hamilton,” once you can afford it.  One piece of Jeffersonian wisdom …” the most valuable of all talents is that of never using two words when one will do, ” is a directive I treasure.  But in this stage of Trump, I can’t help … sharing  ‘way more than two words:  Yet, it’s still a short list.  Here they are, the adjectives endlessly voiced, published, repeated,  describing the Trumpster:

Graceless. Divisive. Complete Idiot (Rove):   Misogynist Pig (Mallard Fillmore).  Dangerously incoherent.  Maintains personal feuds.  Temperamentally unfit.  Reprehensible. Inflammatory.  Insulting. Belligerent. Casually cruel.  Incoherent.  Great Excommunicator.  Humpty Trumpty (David Horsey, LA Times). Whiny. Thin-skinned bully (Kareen Abdul Jabbar):  Petty. Childish. Erratic narcissist.  Con-man. Demigod. Abuser. Fraud. Scam-artist. Unfit. Hypocrite.  Unfiltered. Whiner. Nasty tantrums. Serial non-apologizer.

Etc. 

Bill Maher asked, “,,, was it something he said? “

It ‘s not that one can’t find any positives; it’s just that they’re few, far-between.  And most issued by those to whom he owes money.

From Germany, a friend writes of Trump’s campaign:  "… before now, it had just been funny in a painful way. But now we see it, it'd be like voting for Hitler! This is when the chill hits! We’ve had the experience of a government going totally crazy - the darkest part of our history. Back then, nobody took Hitler seriously!”

Well, I have my own problems.  It was Father’s Day, and in the spirit of the family dads plus fear of Trump, I looked high and low for T-shirts for the guys that either said, or on which I could write “Dump Trump!” Good ring to it, right?  That didn’t work; with a little explanation, I “had” to settle for Nike tees with (at least) the logo

in the right spirit: “Just Do It!”

I’m beginning to feel a little cheerier per the latest research – post Orlando – that shows

his numbers falling – at last - !  But let’s not go celebrating; writer Robert Draper says that Mr. T. is “compulsively superstitious.”  He’s been seen, said Draper, tossing a few granules of salt over his left shoulder after eating.   This is in the “what the h--- do we know?” category of life.  The salt trick may be entirely responsible for his luck thus far.

Just think!  If Trump becomes our president, every writer in the world will come up with his/her own list or researched – or original – adjectives. Foreigners might not quite understand  the descriptions  issued by Barry Goldwater’s wife, appalled by the notion that her husband would have approved of the candidate likening himself to the Senator.  She seriously, if colorfully, rejected Mr T with an ardent,  “UGH!  YECH!”   ###