Dan Denton wrote poetry and short stories while working in rustbelt factories, enduring addictions, homelessness, rehabs, and multiple divorces.
Video:
https://youtu.be/vbYny09MBwE
First poem published at age 34; won Toledo City Paper’s annual poetry contest at 36.
His work has appeared in zines, magazines, union trade journals, newspapers, and small press anthologies worldwide.
Voted City of Toledo’s best writer.
Spent over 25 years in the blue collar world, including a decade as a union autoworker.
Served as elected chief union steward and constitutional delegate to the UAW’s annual bargaining conventions.
Took early retirement for health reasons to focus on writing.
Lives in an old, tiny travel trailer dubbed “The Scrapes of Wrath.”
19 years California sober.
Latest novel, The Dead and the Desperate (Roadside Press, 2023), available from most booksellers.
And he is my good friend. A man who speaks truth, and allows life to be …life. A mentor in words and a carefree but emotionally, spiritually, and artistically aligned purpose in communing with what folks along the Route 66 we all are on need and want to hear. Or not. HIS LATEST
https://bit.ly/FIGHTSONGS
So, on the release of his first-ever pure “poetry”(whatever).. book, we brought along some friends to celebrate. Pontificate as poets do. Here’s a little about the guests.
*Wendy Cartwright is a poet, author, photographer, and freelance journalist who lives in Columbus, Indiana.
*Ted Jackins, poet, musician, and multidisciplinary artist from North Carolina.
Author of multiple collections and chapbooks, most recently But Did You Die? (Two Key Customs). https://etsy.me/4olIGUR
*Michele McDannold has organized and performed poetry events with free-thinking artists across the U.S., most often by road trip but also by plane, train, or chance encounters.
Produces and publishes books when not traveling in her magical Jeep.
Founder of The Literary Underground, Roadside Press, and Citizens for Decent Literature Press.
*Michael Grover, a Florida-born poet, has published over 20 books in the small press. Newest work, Fatherless Children (A Eulogy For My Father), is available from Roadside Press.
Currently lives with cancer and his dog in Dundee, Florida. Not proud of being Florida-born, but works hard to change that perception.
Then... there is me and SyD
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The Hidden Impact of PTSD on Law Enforcement and Community Safety
I'm prone to conspiracy theories in my own mind, though in many cases they reveal a hint of prescience.
My background in mental health, and addiction has made me wonder for quite some time if the uptick in violence at the hands of law enforcement is directly related possibly to untreated PTSD, especially combat related in the cops themselves. So I did a little research. Here is a condensed sampling of what I learned.
I love when I'm kind of right with no expertise!!! (disclaimer)
PTSD, Law Enforcement, and the Use of Force
Combat-related PTSD is not just a military issue—it has lasting consequences within policing. For many officers, whether their trauma stems from combat service or years of exposure to violence on the job, PTSD symptoms have a profound impact on both their mental health and their interactions with the public.
Symptoms like hypervigilance, irritability, impaired decision-making, and emotional numbing can make officers far more likely to perceive danger where there is none, and to react with excessive or inappropriate use of force in high-pressure situations.
PTSD and Policing
Research shows a strong association between PTSD symptoms and abusive policing practices—even when other trauma exposures are accounted for. Hypervigilance, for example, magnifies threat detection, causing officers to misjudge harmless behavior as threatening. And when combat veterans carry PTSD into their law enforcement careers, the risks rise even further. Cumulative trauma only makes miscalculation and escalation more likely.
The Mental Health and Stigma Barrier
Despite the risks, many officers avoid seeking help. Stigma, fears over job security, or concerns about being sidelined prevent them from ever accessing treatment. Left untreated, PTSD leads to burnout, substance misuse, impaired judgment, and aggression—conditions that not only harm officers themselves, but put communities at greater risk.
Breaking this cycle requires trauma-informed policies, accessible mental health services, and a cultural shift in policing—one that values wellness checks, peer support, and early treatment just as much as tactical readiness.
Practical Consequences
When PTSD goes unaddressed, the stakes are high: more violent encounters, more community mistrust, and more shattered lives—on both sides of the badge. But with comprehensive mental health support, evidence-based therapies, and stress management training, officers can regain balance in their decision-making, reduce aggressive responses, and protect both themselves and the public.
Border Patrol and ICE Context
Border Patrol and ICE officers face the same PTSD-related risks, but in uniquely challenging environments. Remote patrols, exposure to humanitarian crises, and the moral stress of immigration enforcement all add layers of trauma. These stressors heighten hypervigilance and emotional dysregulation, increasing the risk of deadly force in contested situations.
Yet, mental health support and transparent accountability within these agencies remain limited. Without reform, PTSD not only undermines officer well-being—it fuels the cycle of violence at the border.
Combat-related PTSD is more than a personal struggle—it’s a public safety i...
If you find yourself having issues navigating today's world, look for help. It's there.
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Welcome, poets! I’m Jack Varnell—your creative guide for you today. I make no claims to being an academic or expert, nor do I always do what I suggest . in any event, Let’s talk about an underrated skill: how to actually read poetry .
Can Being Humble Make You Smarter? How to Actually Read Poetry .
Many poets from Billy Collins to Patti Smith have said the only way to become a better poet is to read more poetry.
I agree.
But it is informative to go beyond just enjoying poems—a not so secret weapon is to read like a writer. Study a book’s craft and style. Listen to its voice.
Read with intention. Notice the uses of form, pacing, and even the empty spaces on the page.
Ask yourself: what can I learn about form, voice, and structure?
When picking up a poetry book, I don’t just read the summary and move on. I always notice the publisher—indie presses have their own vibes.
Smaller yet powerful presses offering fine examples of this include Punk Hostage Press, Poetry Bus from the UK, and Collapse Press. Dig deeper than Amazon or Goodreads recomendations.
A review of the authors and guests of Social Yet Distanced will also reveal a selection of similar minded presses, poets, and artists. See the world through their eyes. We are not talking Penguin, Simon OR Schuster.
When you scan the book, I suggest you note for layout, spacing, and typography. Is the design inviting? is your cortec tingled? Does the flow , flow?
Do the poems stretch across pages or play with white space?
Are there forms or visual twists that grab your attention?
Blurbs are helpful, but don’t let them decide for you. They’re one person’s opinion—trust your own taste.
Look for excerpted poems - (broadsides) - or sample pieces online. Look for poem releases in print or web based outlets, and follow your favorite poets, artists, writers as well as the piblishers you gravitate to.
These excerpts, book releases and podcast appearances usually highlight the book’s energy.
When browsing for something new, my go to tactic is to read the first poem, the last poem, and then sample something from the middle.
It helps me get the book’s rhythm
and see if it fits what I’m searching for.
Honestly for me, it's as much the vibe as anything else, but I tend to come at things in a less than academic fashion....
Covers tell their own story—colors, imagery, symbolism. I love finding hints of what’s inside just from design.
How do you decide which books to bring home from the bookstore?
I’d love to hear your approach in the comments.
Let’s all keep reading like writers and learn together.
Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and join my Social Yet Distanced for more craft tips and over one hundred examples.
Until next time—keep those pages turning and the ideas flowing with poems springing forth !!!
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Learn About Cool Medical Tech You Never Knew!
https://youtu.be/yq_LvmMqXzg
for more info and a gift... text to 26786
Ann Ziegenhorn and Lillian Walker share insights on new **medical technology** trends. Learn about the latest **healthcare technology** and how **telemedicine** is used. Discover the newest **health tech** and **digital medicine**
Feeling Small? Your Words Matter More Than You Think!USING WORDS AND POETRY TO CREATE CHANGEThis video explores using **words** as a tool for change, diving into the **power of words**. It's a **motivational video** about making a positive impact and how anyone can **change the world**. This video will **inspire** you to believe in the power of your voice.- Start with your **why**.- Choose the **form** that delivers your message best.- Share it—locally, digitally, collaboratively, vocally.- And trust the **ripple effect**.The world doesn’t need perfect words, or polished manifestos—it needs authentic, courageous voices willing to speak. And that includes yours.LIKE - SUB- COMMENT - SHAREbit.ly/SyDCafeCommunitybit.ly/SocialYetDistancedPodcast bit.ly/SydVidYouTubeAs always, health maintained by BLOOM and Holistic Caring-https://holisticcaring.com/ref/Jack/ made with:https://bit.ly/HYPER-SyD
What Makes Cannabis Smell So AMAZING? The Truth About Terpenes! From @BloomHemp
Today we're exploring *terpenes**, organic compounds found in cannabis, essential oils, and various plants. Understanding **chemistry* is key to grasping their importance. The *entourage effect* sheds light on how these compounds work synergistically. As always, health maintained by BLOOM and Holistic Caring- https://holisticcaring.com/ref/Jack/This video explores *terpenes**, the **organic chemistry* compounds responsible for distinct smells and tastes. Learn about *caryophyllene* and other compounds found in cannabis, essential oils, and various plants. The presenter explains the scientific importance of *cbd* while showcasing various examples and their effects on human perception.LIKE - SUB- COMMENT - SHAREBloom Hemp: https://bloomhemp.com/ref/jackHolistic Caring:https://holisticcaring.com/ref/jackSubstack:https://thegreennurse.substack.com/***ALL CONTENT SOURCED FROM BLOOM HEMP, HOLISTIC CARING AND THE GREEN NURSE FROM MATERIALS AVAILABLE BY JOINING THE NETWORK AT HOLISTIC CARING.
EMOTIONALORPHAN MANIFESTOThe Secret Life of Someone Who Feels Invisible! Can You Relate to This Emotional Orphan Story?The video shares a personal narrative reflecting on feelings of **loneliness** and the search for **purpose**. It touches upon the struggle of feeling **lost** and the desire for **self reflection**. It may resonate with those going through a **spiritual journey**.
https://youtu.be/IfkEsmDLHdI
“Unlock the Power of Cannabinoids”
Hi, Jack Varnell from the Social Yet Distanced Podcast... You may remember this from past episodes, but did you know your body has an entire system designed just to interact with cannabis?
It’s called the Endocannabinoid System—and it helps regulate everything from stress and sleep to pain, mood, and inflammation. We have mentioned it previously, as the keys and locks and traffic cop for balance and healing.
When it’s out of balance? You feel it. Fatigue, anxiety, chronic pain—it all gets worse.
But here’s the good news: The separate components of the cannabis provide necessary balance building by using
Phytocannabinoids from hemp and cannabis—components like CBD, CBG, CBN, and CBC—can help restore that balance. They mimic your body’s own cannabinoids and get your system back on track.
Remember, not all CBD is the same.
🌿 Full Spectrum includes trace THC and the full plant profile.
🌿 Broad Spectrum has zero THC—but keeps the entourage effect.
🌿 CBD Isolate is pure and fast-acting—perfect for THC-sensitive users.
🎙️ Links:
My affiliation with Bloom, Holistic Caring, and the Green Nurse, the "Trinity" of Health" - Any and all memberships in the three entities of "changing the paradigm of health " are now opened to you through the links below and in the description.
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https://substack.com/@thegreennurse
>...........**************************
Thanks for tuning in—if this helped clarify the science a bit, hit that like button, subscribe, and let us know in the comments what cannabinoid products you’ve tried or are curious about.
Stay well—and stay balanced.
🎙️
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We take a lot of pride in standing up for the people . As a member of the Americans for Safe Access., through My Partnership with BLOOM Hemp, we joined Americans for Safe Access and other patient advocacy groups in signing a joint letter to Congress—calling on them to restore critical protections for medical cannabis patients and providers in the Department of Justice budget.
And you know what? Our voices made a difference. The House has now included language to protect state-legal medical cannabis programs from federal interference. That’s a major step forward—a win for patients, providers, and everyone who believes in science-based, compassionate care.But let’s be clear: the fight’s not over.We joined this effort because patients deserve protection. Nurses should be able to care for them—without fear. DOJ budget decisions? They don't exist in a vacuum. They impact real people. They affect access, safety, and a nurse’s ability to provide evidence-informed cannabis care.Here’s what’s at stake.Yes, the Rohrabacher–Farr amendment was added back in.There’s a provision allowing the DOJ to enforce 21 U.S.C. 860—and that means double penalties for cannabis-related activity near schools, playgrounds, youth centers, and other community spaces. Even if those activities are completely legal under state law!The bill also tries to block efforts to reschedule marijuana. To stop federal agencies from re-evaluating cannabis policy based on current science and public health data.So here’s what we need from you:Stay alert. Follow us, follow our partners like Americans for Safe Access. Know what’s happening. Be ready—we may call on you soon. To speak out, raise your voice. Push the Senate to do better.Thank you for being part of this fight.The Win—Celebrate ProgressWe recently joined Americans for Safe Access and other advocates in urging Congress to restore key protections for medical cannabis. Our collective voice worked!!! The ThreatThe fight isn’t over. Despite restoring protections, the bill still includes serious threats:- A provision allowing the DOJ to double penalties for cannabis activity near schools or community centers—even when all state laws are followed.- This puts providers and businesses at risk of raids or shutdowns, harming patients who depend on them.- Another section blocks federal efforts to reschedule marijuana, stalling progress in cannabis policy and science.What’s at StakeThis isn’t just policy—it’s about patients and nurses. We can’t let fear or outdated laws limit access or care.Here’s how you can help:- Stay informed—follow us and groups like Americans for Safe Access.- Be ready to raise your voice. We may need your support soon to urge the Senate to fix these harmful provisions.I've included all links fore more info from Holistic Caring, Bloom Hemp and The Green Nurse on Substack. Join Us for education, and to purchase Bloom Hemp products at the best available pricing, treatment planning and ongoing education. Please visit Americans for Safe Access, for education in the seemingly daily revisions to our rights precariously balanced by powers that be. Lets remember, WE are the powers that be… Questions, comments, arguments or a hand to hold through the process, reach out to me directly.PRESS RELEASES:https://www.safeaccessnow.org/patient_organizations_hail_partial_victory_in_doj_budget_medical_cannabis_protections#gsc.tab=0CJS Letterhttps://assets.nationbuilder.com/americansforsafeaccess/pages/35472/attachments/original/1752519149/CJS_Letter.pdf?1752519149Discounted Products for Participationhttps://bloomhemp.com/ref/jackBLOOM Hemp IGhttps://www.instagram.com/bloom_hemp/Holistic Caring -Education, Treatment Planning-Communityhttps://holisticcaring.com/ref/jackThe GREEN NURSE on Substack, and Podcasthttps://thegreennurse.substack.com/SAFE ACCESS YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/SafeAccessWebsitehttps://www.safeaccessnow.org/#gsc.tab=0
A Cord Of Three Strands
Poetry by @jackvarnell @emotionalorphan and me...
A poem from the life of an emotionalorphan...
The consequences of an unfilled life.
Gene Sharp’s 198 Methods of Nonviolent Action are widely available in full online and are grouped into three main categories: Nonviolent Protest and Persuasion, Noncooperation (social, economic, political), and Nonviolent Intervention.
***apologies for the watermark, the "MAN' decided my sub expired two days early... my bad?
https://bit.ly/198Actions
to download the text.
(https://buymeacoffee.com/socialyetdistanced/e/424189)
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Influenced by post punk, industrial music and evolving out of a hidden desire to create anything, Christopher Owens exists in that moment between conscience and sub conscience.
And, after all, the two years leading up to the apocalypse needs documented.
He is the author of “dethrone God” and A Vortex of
Securocrats and has been published in Belfast, Punk Noir Magazine and Outcast Press as well as authoring reviews for The Pensive Quill, Metal Ireland, Chordblossom and The Quietus
soineanta maskirovka
https://bookshop.org/a/103605/9798304633994
Freshly retired, Gilbert Hood fills his days by reminiscing about the past.
But what happens whenever deeply held beliefs turn out to be contested?
And why is there a desecrated skull in the nearby abandoned hospital?
https://youtu.be/VdQQ87m47rM for the video
A Minute with Roque Dalton
Everything Must Go: Dan Flore
https://amzn.to/43pExGv
Everything Must Go Paperback – February 2, 2025
by Dan Flore III (Author), Cajun Mutt Press (Editor)
Praise for Everything Must Go:
Dan Flore's poetry isn't afraid to be lascivious, desperate or nostalgic. I guess that's a lot like life.
—Chris Dusterhoff
Do you like energy drinks and ass? Do you have anxiety?
If the answer is “No”, then it’ll turn into a “Yes” after reading “Everything Must Go”. Dan’s open and honest no-holds-barred style of writing is a kick in the teeth. “You could use the taste of cement. Might rattle you back to yourself.”
—Michael E. Duckwall
I've been happy to publish Dan Flore's work on Open Arts Forum for the better part of 5 years, and this collection of short fiction amply demonstrates why. From the insanity of navigating bureaucracy to the surrealism of existential dread, Flore's tales offer a satirical mirror reflecting the absurdity of our reality. Prepare to laugh, cringe, and contemplate the fine line between madness and sanity in this mesmerizing journey through the mind of a master storyteller.
—Jay Dougherty, editor and publisher
OpenArtsForum.com
Dan Flore III is a biographer of the transience of moments. He paints a discerning undercurrent of poetic strokes that leave lasting impressions even though he lays open for us that Everything Must Go.
—silent lotus
this life...
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An Emotional Orphan Manifesto Part 1
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EQUIVALENCY EXAM: A POEM
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#podcast #video #art #books #literature #poetry #poets #socialyetdistanced #poetry #poem #poet
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The Writer's Guide to Finding CREATIVITY in the Desert- iNTERVIEW WITH CHRISTIAN ALVAREZ
We may have gone a little long on this one. Anyone who knows Christian Alvarez ubderstands that. He has been a friend for a long time (#warandradio #BTR) and as we do, communication wanes sometimes from the rhythm of the world. Take some time, get to know him and drink in the beauty of a little frank conversation, rooted in surviving the battles in both the world, and by our mis-perceptions. Christian is one of those guys that gets the point. Its all for naught if my drive is to take. Rewards are much bigger when you thrive through a little giving....check it out. Take small chunks if you must, but all my life it was suggested I clean my plate. I'd sit at the table until I did. Today? I say get your fork. Christian can show you what to do with it.
he is a chef afterall...
ALL BOOKS FROM CHRISTIAN ALVAREZ
https://amzn.to/4k5zG4W
Christian Lawrence Alvarez
Current whereabouts unknown
Last seen in the Mojave Desert pulling words out of his mouth letter by letter
They wait in the small cuts for that right time
when excuses are to be made or
love is in the air
Christian has toured and performed with a zoo of different Musicians and Writers
A member of the ShoeBoxVolumeKnob Press this year will begin a stage role as well as performance dates to support the newest title in his poetic collection "Kinds of Black A West Side Story"
IG is @thebeatpoet760
@christianalvarez is Threads
Facebook author Page is
The Beat Poetry Flash by Christian Alvarez
ALL BOOKS FROM CHRISTIAN ALVAREZ
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