Au Cochonnet Marin

With only two weeks left until Elections Day, we are finally approaching the finish line—and not a moment too soon.

This will be a crucial day, and I fear that many do not grasp the magnitude of its consequences. On November 5, we will decide not just America’s future but the world’s fate. And it might take just one tiny man to throw our planet off balance.

Let us not forget the words of George Santayana: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

It wasn’t so long ago that we faced a similar crossroads, and the aftermath of WWII was devastating—the loss of 50 to 56 million lives.

“On January 30, 1933, President Paul von Hindenburg appointed Hitler the chancellor of Germany. The Reichstag fire on February 27, erroneously believed to have been set by representatives of the German Communist Party (KPD), allowed Hitler a further opportunity to warn Germans of an impending socialist revolution that would destroy the German Fatherland.

 With heavy pressure from Hitler, Hindenburg then issued an emergency decree “for the Protection of People and State” that restricted personal liberties, extended the government’s legal ability to obtain warrants for house searches, confiscate private property, and monitor citizens’ postal and electronic communications, and allowed all KPD Reichstag members and other leading anti-Nazis to be arrested.

 In March 1933, the Reichstag approved the implementation of the Enabling Act that granted Hitler dictatorial powers for four years and officially destroyed the Weimar Constitution. A plebiscite in late 1933 confirmed the Nazis’ control and, with Hindenburg’s death in August 1934, Hitler became Germany’s new führer.”

I’m weary of politics, but it’s impossible to ignore the echoes of the candidates’ platforms. And what I hear from the Trump barracks is ominous and alarming.

No rational person wants a “strongman”—whether a Führer, Duce, Caudillo, or dictator—to rule their nation. And yet, the rhetoric across the Potomac suggests that’s exactly what one candidate has in mind.

On November 5, vote. And if you value our precious freedom, vote with a cool head—not with some anger tainted with spite.

Alain

I just finished writing a summary of yesterday’s happening in Sonoma, and Tarnation, I misplaced the document and I feel too tired to rewrite it again.

In a few words… Yesterday when I came to Sonoma, I arrived early and left early. I managed to take around 100 pictures, and my left arm aching, I packed my gear and went home.

Fortunately, Bleys Rose stayed behind and managed to take pictures of the winners and the ensuing celebration.

One more time, I apologize for my mistake.

Alain

PS: Watch both albums as usual. Thank you

Due to some uncooperative body parts, I have abstained from participating in recent tournaments. However, since I can still wield a camera with my other arm, I was able to document my experience at the Marin pétanque field yesterday.

Upon my late arrival, I was surprised by the sparse attendance. Despite Mother Nature providing perfect pétanque weather, only ten “doublettes” (20 players) showed up to compete. Although there were some excellent players present, it was a bit disappointing. It is high time we reintroduced the pom-pom girls (or pom-pom guys) to energize our events and boost attendance.

The format of this tournament was somewhat unconventional, with all teams playing five games and with no eliminations. There were no separate Concours or Consolante events; winners were determined based on the number of wins and points accumulated.

As a photographer, I aimed to cover as much ground as possible, but I inevitably found myself lingering where the most interesting action unfolded. Yesterday, that meant watching my wife’s fourth game.

She played alongside Mark Luria, a relatively inexperienced player. After losing three games in a row, they were eager to salvage the day with at least one win. However, they faced two determined and seasoned opponents: Lynn Bell and Caitlin Woodbury.

The game began well for the home team, and soon they were leading 8-0. A smile began to blossom on Tamara’s face as she glimpsed the light at the end of a frustrating day.

But, as in any endeavor, it’s crucial not to coast before crossing the finish line. Fueled by desperation, Lynn and Caitlin fought back and began to score points. They finally chalked up four points, igniting a slow but powerful comeback.

Their secret weapon was Lynn’s calm, precise pointing, complemented by Caitlin’s explosive shooting. Unfortunately, the other side had little artillery, despite Tamara delivering some impressive shots.

As the game neared its conclusion, Tamara’s team held a 12-11 lead but struggled to seal the deal. In a dramatic twist, they lost 12-13.

For the record, Tamara and Mark also lost their fifth game, and it didn’t improve the mood. Yes, folks, it was a tough day at the OK Corral, and that night I ended up without dinner.

Final results:

1st place: Bernard Passemar & John Morrison
2nd place: Sandra Shirkey & Bleys Rose
3rd place: Lynn Bell & Caitlin Woodbury

Alain

PS: watch pictures on iPad or computer for best viewing