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Sunday, July 13, 2014

Inspector bullies.

So camp is full swing and kids and youth are having the time of their life. So many camps, each specialized for a specific interest or age group. Blobs, mudslides, camp fires, s'mores, mini golf, swimming and chapel. But as camp continues on their is something more sinister at work. That's right, inspectors. Fire inspectors, health inspectors, insurance inspectors and dozens other. After all with all the hazards of camp we have to keep everyone safe. I appreciate the thoughtfulness but seriously as Brad Stine jests, "put a helmet on".
Let me back up and just say I have had enough interaction with these authority hogs and self righteous inspectors to last me a lifetime. You see it in the news and you hear about it from those who get the ,uh hum, privilege of working with these people. Now I am not one to make a blanket statement and I am sure there are at least a couple of them out there that really care about those they are serving and trying to protect and keep it real. But this week I heard a story of an inspection at a camp that just drove me nuts. Kind of like a set of fingernails on a chalkboard. Today's youth missed out on that treat. Here is the way it goes, an inspector walks in rips the place apart and tells you how long you have to comply or they will come back and shut you down. This particular inspector came into camp, and has been there year after year for years, and began his inspection. During this inspection he noticed the kitchen staff wiping down the counters. He inquires what they are using to which the reply was antibacterial wipes with bleach. Oh good heavens the inspector exclaimed, you are killing to many bacteria. It is unhealthy to kill so many and so you need to just use soap and water.
Now I'm not at his pay grade but what kind of idiotic rule is that? Did he recognize that the camp was full of little bacteria vessels called campers. There is no shortage of germs I assure you. And by the way that's why these counter cleaners were made, to kill germs. Couldn't he find enough to gripe about without making stuff up? These guys are typical government bureaucratic bobcats. Make it up as they go and seemingly no conscience. I preached on self-control today and so I must be cautious what I say but let me say this. If people don't wake up and start pushing back your going to wake up with no rights, and wondering what hit you. It starts with you and with me so be bold, make them work for their pay check and show you laws they are trying to make you abide by. My guess is enough people don't want to cause waves in case there are consequences, but if you don't push back you'll never know if your truly in compliance or being set up for future failure. Why not send me a note on your experiences with inspections?
till next time
PM