We attempted to take a camping vacation.
Our son recently purchased a pop-up camper. It is a really nice unit that he purchased far under value. So when he brought it home last spring, our recollections of cool summer evenings by the campfire, gazing at the starlit skies, and holding hands under the moonlight caused us to make a reservation at Salt Fork State Park. Of course the day we made the reservation it was a perfect 78 degree day with about 35% humidity. It was the kind of day that doesn't last in NE Ohio.
The last few weeks have brought some really nasty weather patterns. We have had unbelievable downpours resulting in massive flooding throughout the area. We have had several days of 90+ degree days and 90+% humidity.
So as we got closer to our departure day, we joked that we would be faced with either torrential rain, or record breaking heat...
As I loaded firewood into the truck last Sunday night, the sweat poured off of me. I kept thinking...we have central air in our house.
Then, I loaded the bbq grill on to the truck, and packed the charcoal and lighter fuel and thought...Cooking outdoors without the benefit of eating indoors can be a buggy, hot, muggy nightmare...but Robin is really excited about this. Put on a sweatband Jim.
Tim, took me out and showed me how to set up the camper and make everything work. Then he told me that the trailer lights were out because the connection had dragged on the highway all the way home from Marblehead the night before. That's ok I thought, "I can work on that first thing in the morning... while it is still relatively cool out".
9:00am Temperature is already 85 degreees. Wow... the pool sure looks nice.
We planned to leave at 11am. We would have made it too, if the trailer hitch would have opened properly and locked on to the ball. Ten or fifteen minutes of jumping up and down on the hitch like the gorilla in the old Samsonite commercial, finally got it locked up...One last shower and we were on our way...to the gas station to put air in the trailer tires.
11:35am We are finally on the road. The Ranger is doing a pretty good job of pulling the trailer except for a some acceleration challenges on the highway ramps.
12:30pm We're both getting hungry already. So, a stop at Wendy's was in order. Beside, Chloe had to pee. ( oh yeah, we brought the puppy ). So while Robin went in to get food, I took Chloe out to drain. Not being accustomed to travel, she developed "public urination anxiety" and chose instead to bark and whine incessantly in the general direction she last saw Robin.
12:50pm Back on the road. Gretta the GPS lady says we'll be there by 1:37pm. Although she keeps updating her predictions based on my speed. We were picturing the GPS lady sitting at a desk with maps and calculators spread out in front of her...I named her Gretta. Robin doesn't like that name so if you can think of something better send me a comment. Until then I will continue to call her Gretta. )
1:38pm Arrival at Salt Fork State Park...
End Part I
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Road Apples
It was reported this morning that 36% of the American public believes that the US Government either planned and executed the 9/11 terrorist attacks, or at least sat by an allowed them to happen.
The news report goes on to explain that there were 1010 people interviewed to determine these results. In other words, the poll takers were able to locate 364 morons who were capable of nodding in agreement to a jaded question.
What else is wrong with this picture? Let's see, how many people are there in the U.S.? What exactly was the criteria for who was interviewed? Are these the same people that listen to late night radio and also believe that the Japanese Mob has control over global weather? Are they 364 leftist liberals who merely believe that our current national leadership is responsible for every societal ill. Did they interview kindergarten students? Did they interview nursing home altzheimer patients? Did they interview sports legends, washed up actors, you, me?
There is no doubt in my mind that there are idiots who believe that 9/11 was a government plot. The media would like us to believe the numbers are 36% of the U.S. or greater. They somehow believe that "perception is reality" even if the perception is created. If however this statistic is correct, we should be able to go outside and speak to our neighbors on either side and find that one of the households share in this ridiculous notion. Again... one in three!
I have news for the news. Perception is NOT reality. Especially when perception is created by ill-conceived malice. Perception may be some persons reality but it is NOT truth.
Give me a university sponsored grant and I gurantee I can interview 1010 people and develop a report stating that 36% of the country believes that the earth is flat.
Just try actually finding those people.
The news report goes on to explain that there were 1010 people interviewed to determine these results. In other words, the poll takers were able to locate 364 morons who were capable of nodding in agreement to a jaded question.
What else is wrong with this picture? Let's see, how many people are there in the U.S.? What exactly was the criteria for who was interviewed? Are these the same people that listen to late night radio and also believe that the Japanese Mob has control over global weather? Are they 364 leftist liberals who merely believe that our current national leadership is responsible for every societal ill. Did they interview kindergarten students? Did they interview nursing home altzheimer patients? Did they interview sports legends, washed up actors, you, me?
There is no doubt in my mind that there are idiots who believe that 9/11 was a government plot. The media would like us to believe the numbers are 36% of the U.S. or greater. They somehow believe that "perception is reality" even if the perception is created. If however this statistic is correct, we should be able to go outside and speak to our neighbors on either side and find that one of the households share in this ridiculous notion. Again... one in three!
I have news for the news. Perception is NOT reality. Especially when perception is created by ill-conceived malice. Perception may be some persons reality but it is NOT truth.
Give me a university sponsored grant and I gurantee I can interview 1010 people and develop a report stating that 36% of the country believes that the earth is flat.
Just try actually finding those people.
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Driving in Strongsville
Driving around Strongsville today, I found myself behind a Green Saturn. Across the rear bumper in huge block letters was printed: " Do not tailgate, child on board".
I have seen this admonition before but usually, it says, "show dogs on board". So about the time I am thinking this woman is a whacked out over protective mother, she cuts across two lanes of traffic (without signaling)and makes a right turn on red without stopping. I witnessed a minimum of 5 other vehicles react to avoid being hit, or hitting her.
I wish I had the the time to follow her and edit her bumper to read; " Do not tailgate, IDIOT at wheel".
I really feel sorry for the child on board if it survives mom's driving, he/she is sure to have a miserable, overprotected life.
On the other hand, if you happen to see this vehicle stay back, the child on board might be the driver.
I have seen this admonition before but usually, it says, "show dogs on board". So about the time I am thinking this woman is a whacked out over protective mother, she cuts across two lanes of traffic (without signaling)and makes a right turn on red without stopping. I witnessed a minimum of 5 other vehicles react to avoid being hit, or hitting her.
I wish I had the the time to follow her and edit her bumper to read; " Do not tailgate, IDIOT at wheel".
I really feel sorry for the child on board if it survives mom's driving, he/she is sure to have a miserable, overprotected life.
On the other hand, if you happen to see this vehicle stay back, the child on board might be the driver.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
I had a great day today
I had a great day today.
I got up early this morning for a business meeting, then went to the eye doctor for a follow-up, then I met with a young couple that was purchasing a new home ( I wrote the mortgage loan for them.) None of that was what made it a great day though. I set a goal for myself today that where ever I went, I would make someone laugh...brighten up the day for someone. I did it. I complimented people for doing good work, I told jokes, I made funny comments, I smiled at people I didn't know...
It is really amazing that when you go out of your way to compliment someone, or to make someone laugh, that it really changes your outlook as well.
The day got better...If you go back to my July 2005 posts, you will find a post where I talked about running into an old friend ( Russ ) from high school. Well, he and his wife Laura are in town, and we were able to get together for dinner tonight. They were only able to stay for a couple hours, but in that time I felt so blessed to have reunited with Russ and to get to know his wife.
It is pouring down rain ( again ). With as much rain as we have had lately, it would be easy to be depresed. But I don't care...
It was a great day.
I got up early this morning for a business meeting, then went to the eye doctor for a follow-up, then I met with a young couple that was purchasing a new home ( I wrote the mortgage loan for them.) None of that was what made it a great day though. I set a goal for myself today that where ever I went, I would make someone laugh...brighten up the day for someone. I did it. I complimented people for doing good work, I told jokes, I made funny comments, I smiled at people I didn't know...
It is really amazing that when you go out of your way to compliment someone, or to make someone laugh, that it really changes your outlook as well.
The day got better...If you go back to my July 2005 posts, you will find a post where I talked about running into an old friend ( Russ ) from high school. Well, he and his wife Laura are in town, and we were able to get together for dinner tonight. They were only able to stay for a couple hours, but in that time I felt so blessed to have reunited with Russ and to get to know his wife.
It is pouring down rain ( again ). With as much rain as we have had lately, it would be easy to be depresed. But I don't care...
It was a great day.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
John and Angie celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary on July 20. The couple met at the end of World War II when John returned from service in the U.S. Navy. They were married in Cleveland on July 20, 1946. John was born in Pennsylvania and grew up in Warren, Ohio. Angie was born on Christmas Day in Cleveland and grew up on the west side.
Their first son, John A. was born in September of 1947 while the couple was living in Cleveland.
Against the advice of all their friends and relatives, John and Angie purchased their home in North Royalton in 1954. �Everyone told us it was too far out�, said John. �The only person who thought we did the right thing by moving here, was my Dad� added Angie.
Their second son, James was born in August of 1955.
John worked as a draftsman until he developed his own sign business; The business is now closed, John is retired and the couple is enjoying their home and property. The highlights of their life are entertaining friends and family at their home. The family now includes six adult grandchildren and one 5-month old great-grandson.
Recently John and Angie appeared as guest lecturers at a local college, where they spoke about John�s WWII Naval service and Angie�s experiences at home during WWII.
The couple and their family celebrated the anniversary at a local restaurant with their entire family.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Trip to the BMV... What is wrong with this system?
It is that special time that comes along every four years in the State of Ohio...
Time to renew my driver's license.
So, I made the pilgrimage to the BMV. I was pleased to find a short line. In fact, I pulled number 47, and they were already servicing 46. So with not much of a wait, I didn't have much time to people watch. I did however witness a rather troubling occurance.
Number 46 was an older gentleman also renewing his license. He was instructed to gaze into the vision testing device. After giving him instructions to watch for flashing lights on the right and left, he was asked to read from line 5A. He couldn't see it. So the agent asked him to read line 4A. He couldn't read that either, so she asked him to read 3A. Evidently, he was able to see about 50% of that line, so she gave him a hint on the rest of the line. Then she asked if he could see the flashing red light... He said; "what light?" She said, "the one on the right". He said, "No". She said, "Can you see the green flashing light on the left?" He said "yes" Then she asked if he could see the flashing light on the right, he said he could. She congratulated him on passing his vision test, then asked him to sign his license application. HE COULDN'T FIND THE SIGNATURE LINE! She politely pointed it out to him. He signed, his application, got his picture taken, and received his renewed driver's license. Yeah... I feel safe driving on the same road with this guy.
Time to renew my driver's license.
So, I made the pilgrimage to the BMV. I was pleased to find a short line. In fact, I pulled number 47, and they were already servicing 46. So with not much of a wait, I didn't have much time to people watch. I did however witness a rather troubling occurance.
Number 46 was an older gentleman also renewing his license. He was instructed to gaze into the vision testing device. After giving him instructions to watch for flashing lights on the right and left, he was asked to read from line 5A. He couldn't see it. So the agent asked him to read line 4A. He couldn't read that either, so she asked him to read 3A. Evidently, he was able to see about 50% of that line, so she gave him a hint on the rest of the line. Then she asked if he could see the flashing red light... He said; "what light?" She said, "the one on the right". He said, "No". She said, "Can you see the green flashing light on the left?" He said "yes" Then she asked if he could see the flashing light on the right, he said he could. She congratulated him on passing his vision test, then asked him to sign his license application. HE COULDN'T FIND THE SIGNATURE LINE! She politely pointed it out to him. He signed, his application, got his picture taken, and received his renewed driver's license. Yeah... I feel safe driving on the same road with this guy.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Independence Day
Our second President, John Adams wrote; Independence Day "ought to be celebrated by pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other..."
If only we could...
We do alright with the pomp and parade, we even manage to see shows, play some games, and view some sports. Bells do ring. But guns, bonfires, and illuminations?
Virtually every community in America has laws prohibitng bonfires. Many states prohibit the private use of fireworks. In the great State of Ohio, you may purchase them and possess them, just don't light them within the borders of Ohio. You may have a "campfire" in our community as long as you are cooking on it. Guns? Yeah right. If you have a CCL in Ohio you may carry it, however if it is visible you are in trouble. If it is concealed when in your car, you are in trouble. Many merchants mistakenly post "no firearms permitted" signs in their windows (thus letting the bad guys know that they are unprotected). And, there aren't too many places where you could even fire the weapon without going to jail, even if you were merely shooting at paper targets.
Tonight, every police department in Ohio will be deluged with "complaints" about fireworks. By policy, they must respond. Most cops I know, would prefer to be home lighting their own bottlerockets. But, we must be protected from ourselves. Otherwise, we will not buckle-up or wear our helmets. We will mutilate ourselves with fireworks, guns, and bonfires. We will take too many drugs, drink too much alcohol, eat too much fat, smoke too many cigarettes, etc, etc, etc.
America used to be free. When Adams, Jefferson, Franklin, and the others risked their lives and pledged their fortunes to free us from tyranny, they really didn't plan that someday we would legislate our freedoms away over time.
Don't get me wrong, I wear a seat belt all the time. I think people who ride motorcylces are idiots if they don't wear a helmet. I don't want everyone in America to carry guns. I do however believe that we all have inalienable rights that include the right to mutilate ones self with fireworks, drink too much, drive in a car without a belt, squash our brains on pavement if we so choose and when properly trained carry a gun to help protect ourselves, our families, and this great country.
Disagree with me? That's your right. Many men and women have made the ultimate sacrifice to give us all the right to voice our opinions. Let's stop watering down their efforts, by legislating away our freedom.
It is the fourth of July. The birth of the greatest nation on earth. Let's celebrate with pomp and parade, shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations. When the cops arrive, offer them a hot-dog, coke, and some apple pie.
If only we could...
We do alright with the pomp and parade, we even manage to see shows, play some games, and view some sports. Bells do ring. But guns, bonfires, and illuminations?
Virtually every community in America has laws prohibitng bonfires. Many states prohibit the private use of fireworks. In the great State of Ohio, you may purchase them and possess them, just don't light them within the borders of Ohio. You may have a "campfire" in our community as long as you are cooking on it. Guns? Yeah right. If you have a CCL in Ohio you may carry it, however if it is visible you are in trouble. If it is concealed when in your car, you are in trouble. Many merchants mistakenly post "no firearms permitted" signs in their windows (thus letting the bad guys know that they are unprotected). And, there aren't too many places where you could even fire the weapon without going to jail, even if you were merely shooting at paper targets.
Tonight, every police department in Ohio will be deluged with "complaints" about fireworks. By policy, they must respond. Most cops I know, would prefer to be home lighting their own bottlerockets. But, we must be protected from ourselves. Otherwise, we will not buckle-up or wear our helmets. We will mutilate ourselves with fireworks, guns, and bonfires. We will take too many drugs, drink too much alcohol, eat too much fat, smoke too many cigarettes, etc, etc, etc.
America used to be free. When Adams, Jefferson, Franklin, and the others risked their lives and pledged their fortunes to free us from tyranny, they really didn't plan that someday we would legislate our freedoms away over time.
Don't get me wrong, I wear a seat belt all the time. I think people who ride motorcylces are idiots if they don't wear a helmet. I don't want everyone in America to carry guns. I do however believe that we all have inalienable rights that include the right to mutilate ones self with fireworks, drink too much, drive in a car without a belt, squash our brains on pavement if we so choose and when properly trained carry a gun to help protect ourselves, our families, and this great country.
Disagree with me? That's your right. Many men and women have made the ultimate sacrifice to give us all the right to voice our opinions. Let's stop watering down their efforts, by legislating away our freedom.
It is the fourth of July. The birth of the greatest nation on earth. Let's celebrate with pomp and parade, shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations. When the cops arrive, offer them a hot-dog, coke, and some apple pie.
Monday, June 19, 2006
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Friday, June 09, 2006
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
DaVinci Code vs Monty Python
Our minister delivered a wonderful sermon on Sunday in which he made it quite clear that the DaVinci Code is FICTION. He further stated that anyone whose faith would be shaken by this movie must not have had much faith to begin with. I couldn't agree more.
Anyhow, the sermon prompted some discussion over dinner yesterday and got me thinking...Why was there no fuss over "The Quest For The Holy Grail" as presented by Monty Python? In it, the French claimed to all ready have one. "It's very nice."
"Bring me a shrubbery."
Anyhow, the sermon prompted some discussion over dinner yesterday and got me thinking...Why was there no fuss over "The Quest For The Holy Grail" as presented by Monty Python? In it, the French claimed to all ready have one. "It's very nice."
"Bring me a shrubbery."
Monday, May 29, 2006
Sunday, May 28, 2006
The land of the free
Once again I must apologize to my loyal readers. It has been a long time since my last post. I haven't been feeling real creative lately, so my comments tonight are pretty much limited to a catch up of everything that has been going on...
Both my aunt and uncle are having heart challenges. Aunt Ann is recovering, Uncle Arney is about to have a bypass.
My Dad has now purchased a new Chevy Impala equipped with On-Star and is very proudly driving around talking on his new hands free On-Star cell phone. Mom continues to cook.
My nephew Steve just bought his first house. By now, he should have his belongings in place. In just a few weeks he will make his first mortgage payment ( on a loan I set up for him ). Welcome Steve to the world of having a mortgage, which I believe is a word that actually means "death grip".
My kids all went to Macinac Island for the weekend. I hope they at least bring me back a cheap T-Shirt!
I attended a WMD/Haz-mat/know your terrorist training class at the Columbus Police Academy. The class was pretty good, but the best part was the tour of their state-of-the-art facility.
Robin planted our garden yesterday; tomatos, 4 types of peppers, zucchini, beans, and various herbs ( the legal kind ). I found a potato in the basement when I was looking for beach towels. It had quite a long root on it, so we planted that just for yucks.
My friend Todd just got a really great promotion. When I spoke to him about it, he paid me a wonderful compliment. Todd had worked for me at one point, and he told me that I was by far his best boss ever. That really meant alot to me.
Stefanie graduates from college on June 11. Then she will start grad school. She will not be coming home as we had thought. But she will be closer to home this summer than she has been for the last 3 summers. She did bring her truck home with about $3,000 worth of damage. It seems a brick sorority house broadsided her.
I opened our pool this weekend. The filter pump was dead so I had to buy a new one. It also seems that a family of mice took up residence in our "molly brown" floating raft. Neither us or the mice will be using it any longer.
New cars, damaged cars, college, surgery, new jobs, gardens, vacations, mortgages, and etc. All possible because somewhere in a distant part of the world, men and women sacrificed their lives so that we could enjoy the freedoms that we have. Lower your flag to half staff tomorrow until noon. Then raise it high. Take time to say a prayer for those brave souls that gave the last measure of courage. You might even sing The Star Spangled Banner.
Both my aunt and uncle are having heart challenges. Aunt Ann is recovering, Uncle Arney is about to have a bypass.
My Dad has now purchased a new Chevy Impala equipped with On-Star and is very proudly driving around talking on his new hands free On-Star cell phone. Mom continues to cook.
My nephew Steve just bought his first house. By now, he should have his belongings in place. In just a few weeks he will make his first mortgage payment ( on a loan I set up for him ). Welcome Steve to the world of having a mortgage, which I believe is a word that actually means "death grip".
My kids all went to Macinac Island for the weekend. I hope they at least bring me back a cheap T-Shirt!
I attended a WMD/Haz-mat/know your terrorist training class at the Columbus Police Academy. The class was pretty good, but the best part was the tour of their state-of-the-art facility.
Robin planted our garden yesterday; tomatos, 4 types of peppers, zucchini, beans, and various herbs ( the legal kind ). I found a potato in the basement when I was looking for beach towels. It had quite a long root on it, so we planted that just for yucks.
My friend Todd just got a really great promotion. When I spoke to him about it, he paid me a wonderful compliment. Todd had worked for me at one point, and he told me that I was by far his best boss ever. That really meant alot to me.
Stefanie graduates from college on June 11. Then she will start grad school. She will not be coming home as we had thought. But she will be closer to home this summer than she has been for the last 3 summers. She did bring her truck home with about $3,000 worth of damage. It seems a brick sorority house broadsided her.
I opened our pool this weekend. The filter pump was dead so I had to buy a new one. It also seems that a family of mice took up residence in our "molly brown" floating raft. Neither us or the mice will be using it any longer.
New cars, damaged cars, college, surgery, new jobs, gardens, vacations, mortgages, and etc. All possible because somewhere in a distant part of the world, men and women sacrificed their lives so that we could enjoy the freedoms that we have. Lower your flag to half staff tomorrow until noon. Then raise it high. Take time to say a prayer for those brave souls that gave the last measure of courage. You might even sing The Star Spangled Banner.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Too much TV
Does anybody else think that UPS has made a huge mistake in remarketing themselves as: "Brown"? It just seems to me that UPS already had tremendous equity in the name: UPS. Everyone knows who they are, what they do, and how well they do it. What kind of advertising agency decides that this type of equity should be traded in on something as bland and unidentifiable as "Brown". Am I alone on this, or does the whole concept of "Brown" conjur up something that most people don't want to discuss? Maybe they just think it is cute. I think long term UPS will regret this campaign.
Meanwhile, there was a news teaser tonight indicating that microwave popcorn contains dangerous chemicals... Here we go...
Some idiot on the east side of Cleveland went "postal" on one of the new electronic voting machines. It seems that he was frustrated with the operation of the device...I really have trouble idenifying with people who find voting so difficult. Whether it was the old written ballots, punch cards, or the new electronic machines...these things just aren't that difficult to use. Are people just getting dumber, or have our brains really been turned to "Brown" by too much TV?
Meanwhile, there was a news teaser tonight indicating that microwave popcorn contains dangerous chemicals... Here we go...
Some idiot on the east side of Cleveland went "postal" on one of the new electronic voting machines. It seems that he was frustrated with the operation of the device...I really have trouble idenifying with people who find voting so difficult. Whether it was the old written ballots, punch cards, or the new electronic machines...these things just aren't that difficult to use. Are people just getting dumber, or have our brains really been turned to "Brown" by too much TV?
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
HUA
Two more cops have been hit by an HUA driver. There are now more cops injured or killed in traffic accidents than by gunfire.
Last year Ryan Nagy of the Middleburg Hts. PD lost his leg and almost his life because of a driver crossing over two lanes of traffic and ramming into his cruiser as he wrote a traffic ticket. Earlier this year an Ohio State Trooper was hit in a similar accident. One of our guys got hit while directing traffic around an accident. He got hit by a woman who evidently didn't see the two police cars, and the two-car mva in the intersection. Now, last night two Bratenahl officers got clobbered by an 18 wheeler.
Last summer I had several close calls myself...One teenage driver didn't see the construction equipment, the police car or me in the middle of an intersection and almost clipped me. One drunk driver just shouldn't have been on the road, almost hit me. One irrate idiot aimed at me. At an accident scene one driver just didn't think he needed to slow down as he swerved around the wreck, the tow truck, the ambulance and three police cruisers. Several elderly drivers just plain got confused when they couldn't use their normal route to get to the Giant Eagle store...so far I have been lucky.
I have an idea...hang up the phone, put your make-up on at home, read the paper at your breakfast table, leave the radio alone, have sex in bed, quit smoking, and slow down. A cop's job is dangerous enough without having to worry about getting run over.
Oh yeah...HUA: Head Up Ass
Last year Ryan Nagy of the Middleburg Hts. PD lost his leg and almost his life because of a driver crossing over two lanes of traffic and ramming into his cruiser as he wrote a traffic ticket. Earlier this year an Ohio State Trooper was hit in a similar accident. One of our guys got hit while directing traffic around an accident. He got hit by a woman who evidently didn't see the two police cars, and the two-car mva in the intersection. Now, last night two Bratenahl officers got clobbered by an 18 wheeler.
Last summer I had several close calls myself...One teenage driver didn't see the construction equipment, the police car or me in the middle of an intersection and almost clipped me. One drunk driver just shouldn't have been on the road, almost hit me. One irrate idiot aimed at me. At an accident scene one driver just didn't think he needed to slow down as he swerved around the wreck, the tow truck, the ambulance and three police cruisers. Several elderly drivers just plain got confused when they couldn't use their normal route to get to the Giant Eagle store...so far I have been lucky.
I have an idea...hang up the phone, put your make-up on at home, read the paper at your breakfast table, leave the radio alone, have sex in bed, quit smoking, and slow down. A cop's job is dangerous enough without having to worry about getting run over.
Oh yeah...HUA: Head Up Ass
Monday, April 03, 2006
more news
It just keeps on keepin on...
Now TV news is reporting a study that is linking grilling meat to cancer. Of course, this is not the lead story. It is just the "tease" throughout the evening. The lead story has to do with a stray dog.
Does anyone want to send me some money to fund my study? I believe that watching TV news can lead to permanent brain atrophy.
Now TV news is reporting a study that is linking grilling meat to cancer. Of course, this is not the lead story. It is just the "tease" throughout the evening. The lead story has to do with a stray dog.
Does anyone want to send me some money to fund my study? I believe that watching TV news can lead to permanent brain atrophy.
This just in...
Here we go... This evening's news report ( on Newschannel 5, or Power of 5, or whatever WEWS in Cleveland is calling itself these days) included a story reporting that people are using their cell phones.
WEWS reported that people are doing business on their cell phones, calling friends, calling for information on directions, entertainment, restaurants, etc. They reported that this is indicative of a society wide "cell phone addiction". There was a time when this was considered market saturation. Evidently, it is far more serious.
So, here is some news that I feel it is important to report...
The National Institute of Highway Safety reports that people are driving their cars from point A to point B.
The Food and Drug Administration reported today that people are utilizing refridgerators to keep food cold.
The City of Cleveland Water Treatment Plant is reporting that people are utilizing toilets as a depository for human waste.
The list goes on and it is terrifying. Duan Puelman and the I-Team better get going on this before society as we know it comes to an end.
I would like to write some more, but I have to admit, I am so addicted to using my cell phone, I am getting light headed and experiencing stomach cramps. I must get to my cell phone and dial someone, anyone...
WEWS reported that people are doing business on their cell phones, calling friends, calling for information on directions, entertainment, restaurants, etc. They reported that this is indicative of a society wide "cell phone addiction". There was a time when this was considered market saturation. Evidently, it is far more serious.
So, here is some news that I feel it is important to report...
The National Institute of Highway Safety reports that people are driving their cars from point A to point B.
The Food and Drug Administration reported today that people are utilizing refridgerators to keep food cold.
The City of Cleveland Water Treatment Plant is reporting that people are utilizing toilets as a depository for human waste.
The list goes on and it is terrifying. Duan Puelman and the I-Team better get going on this before society as we know it comes to an end.
I would like to write some more, but I have to admit, I am so addicted to using my cell phone, I am getting light headed and experiencing stomach cramps. I must get to my cell phone and dial someone, anyone...
Thursday, March 23, 2006
AAAARRRRGGGHHHHHHH!
Is it just me or are commercials getting worse?
I am really having diffuculty imagining a CEO, Owner, etc. sitting down to a presentation by their ad agency and actually agreeing to some of the crap that is being broadcast.
For instance; Burger King Corp. Do they really think that the creepy King is going to sell more burgers? How about Wendy's? Their most recent contribution features an obnoxious bimbo over-utilizing the word "sensational" as she tosses Wendy's salad...
I don't know about anybody else, but in both cases the ads have caused me to drive past both Burger King and Wendy's or just go hungry.
Wait...thank you fast food ad agencies... due to your ineptitude ( is that a word? ) I am eating healthy!!!
Anyhow, a new feature on this blog will be my reactions to various ad campaigns. If you wish to contribute, please do so through the comment area.
Hey Todd...maybe it is time for us to start that agency we always talked about???
I am really having diffuculty imagining a CEO, Owner, etc. sitting down to a presentation by their ad agency and actually agreeing to some of the crap that is being broadcast.
For instance; Burger King Corp. Do they really think that the creepy King is going to sell more burgers? How about Wendy's? Their most recent contribution features an obnoxious bimbo over-utilizing the word "sensational" as she tosses Wendy's salad...
I don't know about anybody else, but in both cases the ads have caused me to drive past both Burger King and Wendy's or just go hungry.
Wait...thank you fast food ad agencies... due to your ineptitude ( is that a word? ) I am eating healthy!!!
Anyhow, a new feature on this blog will be my reactions to various ad campaigns. If you wish to contribute, please do so through the comment area.
Hey Todd...maybe it is time for us to start that agency we always talked about???
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Welcome BABY!!
So like I said, earlier... my brother John is a Grandpa... this makes me a grand uncle? great uncle? Some have suggested monkeys uncle, but somehow that seems like a slam on the baby as oppossed to me... so let's stick with Great Uncle... 'cause I AM a GREAT uncle! Anyhow... here's my new little buddy: Connor Anthony born on March 11. Congrats to Scott and Jennifer!
What else?
So what else has been going on in the weeks that I haven’t posted…
Tim brought home a black lab puppy. Someone who deserves to be thrown from a moving car left this 10-week old puppy on the street in Lakewood, Ohio. Tim, who’s heart is “bigger than his brain” ( “I appreciate that Clark.”), brought her home with the hope that she would be a permanent resident.
Actually, if we hadn’t had such bad experiences with big dogs in the past, she would have had a chance of staying. Unfortunately when we designed our house we didn’t put in a service door from the kitchen or the garage, so the only entrance to the back yard is from our family room. In the summer when we have dry days or in the winter when the ground is frozen, this isn’t a problem. For the other 355 days of the year, the paws of a 80 lb. lab each contribute 5 lbs of mud to the carpet.
The real problem however is that Chloe, the 4 lb mini dachshund didn’t want a roomie. She intimidated the lab and spent her days with her ears down, and looking real unhappy. So, the search was on for the perfect home…
Congratulations to my brother John on the acquisition of his new dog!
Oh yeah, congratulations on becoming a grandpa too… ( I will cover that in another post. )
Tim brought home a black lab puppy. Someone who deserves to be thrown from a moving car left this 10-week old puppy on the street in Lakewood, Ohio. Tim, who’s heart is “bigger than his brain” ( “I appreciate that Clark.”), brought her home with the hope that she would be a permanent resident.
Actually, if we hadn’t had such bad experiences with big dogs in the past, she would have had a chance of staying. Unfortunately when we designed our house we didn’t put in a service door from the kitchen or the garage, so the only entrance to the back yard is from our family room. In the summer when we have dry days or in the winter when the ground is frozen, this isn’t a problem. For the other 355 days of the year, the paws of a 80 lb. lab each contribute 5 lbs of mud to the carpet.
The real problem however is that Chloe, the 4 lb mini dachshund didn’t want a roomie. She intimidated the lab and spent her days with her ears down, and looking real unhappy. So, the search was on for the perfect home…
Congratulations to my brother John on the acquisition of his new dog!
Oh yeah, congratulations on becoming a grandpa too… ( I will cover that in another post. )
I'm back...
I was reminded by my daughter last night that it has been a long time since I have posted. To my thousands of faithful readers; a heartfelt apology is in order.
Shortly after my last post, I learned of the passing of a dear old friend; Marge.
Marge was what Joni Mitchell would call “ a drug store truck drivin’ man”. She was the conduit to my career in entertainment marketing. She knew who she was, and who everyone else was. There was a wrong way to do things and then there was the right way; Margie’s way. She was what you would call “a character”. Despite her rough edges, you couldn’t help but love Marge.
We worked together for about 15 years. She bailed me out of some tough situations, we fought, we laughed, we plotted, and we learned. In the end, we hadn’t seen each other in about 5 years. That really bothers me. But this is what happens in life. We have good intentions to stay in touch…”we’ll do lunch sometime, call me…” But life gets in the way and we forget to live. We intend to post to our blog every day. Then “Marge” dies, and the wind is sucked out of your sails, and as hard as you try to be funny and creative, it takes days…weeks to get your senses back.
Marge is reorganizing things “upstairs” now. I’m sure of it. By the time we hook up again for that lunch, God will have learned a thing or two about how to get things done.
Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis.
Shortly after my last post, I learned of the passing of a dear old friend; Marge.
Marge was what Joni Mitchell would call “ a drug store truck drivin’ man”. She was the conduit to my career in entertainment marketing. She knew who she was, and who everyone else was. There was a wrong way to do things and then there was the right way; Margie’s way. She was what you would call “a character”. Despite her rough edges, you couldn’t help but love Marge.
We worked together for about 15 years. She bailed me out of some tough situations, we fought, we laughed, we plotted, and we learned. In the end, we hadn’t seen each other in about 5 years. That really bothers me. But this is what happens in life. We have good intentions to stay in touch…”we’ll do lunch sometime, call me…” But life gets in the way and we forget to live. We intend to post to our blog every day. Then “Marge” dies, and the wind is sucked out of your sails, and as hard as you try to be funny and creative, it takes days…weeks to get your senses back.
Marge is reorganizing things “upstairs” now. I’m sure of it. By the time we hook up again for that lunch, God will have learned a thing or two about how to get things done.
Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis.
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Why Silverbulletsandrust?
Ok...Silver bullets: another way of saying "Pearls of Wisdom", or at least "things on my mind". Where did it come from? Taken from the name of the greatest rock n roll band in history ( at least in my estimation ) Bob Seger and The Silver Bullet Band.
Rust? We're all gettin' older... and with that comes wisdom... Meanwhile, my favorite contemporary song writer; Neil Young..."Rust Never Sleeps"... There is alot of symbolism in that statement...
Why am I even writing about this??? Neil Young just released his latest CD: "Prairie Wind"... It is awesome. If you want to hear it, go to www.neilyoung.com and click on the license plate, then click on any of the tunes. I recommend; "When God Made Me".
Meanwhile, the movie "Heart of Gold" is now open...I'm going to see it Saturday night. Wanna go with me?
Rust? We're all gettin' older... and with that comes wisdom... Meanwhile, my favorite contemporary song writer; Neil Young..."Rust Never Sleeps"... There is alot of symbolism in that statement...
Why am I even writing about this??? Neil Young just released his latest CD: "Prairie Wind"... It is awesome. If you want to hear it, go to www.neilyoung.com and click on the license plate, then click on any of the tunes. I recommend; "When God Made Me".
Meanwhile, the movie "Heart of Gold" is now open...I'm going to see it Saturday night. Wanna go with me?
Monday, February 20, 2006
The family that skis together...
Yesterday was a big day for the Fam... Tim bought us all lift tickets and equipment rentals for Christmas and yesterday was the day...
Unfortunately Melissa is still having wisdom tooth extraction problems and couldn't go with us, so Stef came home from OSU, Tim's girlfriend Kate came up from Alliance, and we all packed into the "family front wheel drive sleigh" and headed off to the local slopes.
Robin and I were proficient skiers for years, but that was pre-children. For the past 21 years our ski money has been going to dance lessons, guitar lessons, ice-skating lessons, summer camps, and more recently college tuition. With Tim's gift however we realized how much we missed skiing. So effective Feb. 19, 2006 we are back in the realm of the downhill skier world.
There are no real ski slopes in Ohio, so last night was a good re-intro to the sport. We are now foaming at the mouth to get back to Colorado. It is like riding a bike...once you know how, you know how.
Now for Tim, Stef, and Kate...
Tim decided to snowboard. He was on his own, cause I don't know anything about snowboarding. Consequently, he spent alot of time doing inverted aerial manuevers. Of course these manuevers are expressly forbidden by the ski area management, unless like Tim you are not doing them on purpose.
Kate just doesn't know me well enough to trust my skiing instructions. So while she said she had a good time, she stayed on the bunniest of the bunny slopes.
After some coaxing, cajoling, and out and out lying, I convinced Stef to come with me to the top of the slopes then worked with her all the way down. Once she gave up trying to utilize her ski poles ( a worthless item by the way unless you are skiing moguls and/or racing in a slolom. ), she really was doing pretty good.
How ironic that I e-bayed my skis on the same day we started skiing again...I guess now I'll just have to go by some new ones....OHHHRAHHHH!
Unfortunately Melissa is still having wisdom tooth extraction problems and couldn't go with us, so Stef came home from OSU, Tim's girlfriend Kate came up from Alliance, and we all packed into the "family front wheel drive sleigh" and headed off to the local slopes.
Robin and I were proficient skiers for years, but that was pre-children. For the past 21 years our ski money has been going to dance lessons, guitar lessons, ice-skating lessons, summer camps, and more recently college tuition. With Tim's gift however we realized how much we missed skiing. So effective Feb. 19, 2006 we are back in the realm of the downhill skier world.
There are no real ski slopes in Ohio, so last night was a good re-intro to the sport. We are now foaming at the mouth to get back to Colorado. It is like riding a bike...once you know how, you know how.
Now for Tim, Stef, and Kate...
Tim decided to snowboard. He was on his own, cause I don't know anything about snowboarding. Consequently, he spent alot of time doing inverted aerial manuevers. Of course these manuevers are expressly forbidden by the ski area management, unless like Tim you are not doing them on purpose.
Kate just doesn't know me well enough to trust my skiing instructions. So while she said she had a good time, she stayed on the bunniest of the bunny slopes.
After some coaxing, cajoling, and out and out lying, I convinced Stef to come with me to the top of the slopes then worked with her all the way down. Once she gave up trying to utilize her ski poles ( a worthless item by the way unless you are skiing moguls and/or racing in a slolom. ), she really was doing pretty good.
How ironic that I e-bayed my skis on the same day we started skiing again...I guess now I'll just have to go by some new ones....OHHHRAHHHH!
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Goodnight my little Roseanne Roseannadanna
In the words of Roseanne Roseannadanna..." I thought I was gonna die..."
Last night, I had an appointment with a mortgage client. He asked to meet me in my office at 6pm. I usually go to their homes, but because of his job schedule and where he worked he said it would be easier to meet me at my office.
Of course by 6pm everyone else is gone, not only in our office, but in our entire office condo.
"George" came in looking rather depressed. I had a solution for his financial woes, so I thought he would cheer up as I explained it to him. Instead, he became more depressed, so much so that he just stared down at the conference table in silence for what seemed like eternity. Even though I was speaking to him he wasn't responding. Then all of a sudden he started to twitch. That's when I thought I was gonna die. He just had this look of a guy who was at the end of his rope.
Maybe I have seen too many CSI episodes, but I was beginning to imagine the headlines... "Loan Officer Found Dead With Client". I could just see this guy going off the deep end, pulling out a cheap 38 and plugging me then blowing out his own brains. YIKES! I was taking inventory of the area, and planning my moves as to how I would disarm him before he had a chance to draw on me ( of course, I had nothing but my pocket knife, a pencil, and a financial calculator at my disposal ).
So I continue talking to him about how great my solutions were, and that he would be so much better off financially if he would just take my advice... his problems would be over. He wasn't buying it however... he just kept twitching... then he started to speak, only now he was stuttering about how we just not going to do anything... just accept his situation as hopeless...etc... Damn CSI, Law & Order, Criminal Intent, all of you... This guy is about to self destruct, and after all the goofy stuff I've been up against... I'm going to buy it, in this stupid mortgage office... not even a glorious, heroic way to go...
Then, just as strangely as the whole thing started... he stopped twitching, stopped stuttering...he actually smiled, thanked me for my help, and left.
And if you are under 21, you are saying..."Who the hell is Roseanne Roseannadanna?"
Last night, I had an appointment with a mortgage client. He asked to meet me in my office at 6pm. I usually go to their homes, but because of his job schedule and where he worked he said it would be easier to meet me at my office.
Of course by 6pm everyone else is gone, not only in our office, but in our entire office condo.
"George" came in looking rather depressed. I had a solution for his financial woes, so I thought he would cheer up as I explained it to him. Instead, he became more depressed, so much so that he just stared down at the conference table in silence for what seemed like eternity. Even though I was speaking to him he wasn't responding. Then all of a sudden he started to twitch. That's when I thought I was gonna die. He just had this look of a guy who was at the end of his rope.
Maybe I have seen too many CSI episodes, but I was beginning to imagine the headlines... "Loan Officer Found Dead With Client". I could just see this guy going off the deep end, pulling out a cheap 38 and plugging me then blowing out his own brains. YIKES! I was taking inventory of the area, and planning my moves as to how I would disarm him before he had a chance to draw on me ( of course, I had nothing but my pocket knife, a pencil, and a financial calculator at my disposal ).
So I continue talking to him about how great my solutions were, and that he would be so much better off financially if he would just take my advice... his problems would be over. He wasn't buying it however... he just kept twitching... then he started to speak, only now he was stuttering about how we just not going to do anything... just accept his situation as hopeless...etc... Damn CSI, Law & Order, Criminal Intent, all of you... This guy is about to self destruct, and after all the goofy stuff I've been up against... I'm going to buy it, in this stupid mortgage office... not even a glorious, heroic way to go...
Then, just as strangely as the whole thing started... he stopped twitching, stopped stuttering...he actually smiled, thanked me for my help, and left.
And if you are under 21, you are saying..."Who the hell is Roseanne Roseannadanna?"
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Kramer may have had the right idea
There was an episode of Seinfeld once where Kramer decided he didn't want to accept his mail anymore. I am starting to think he had a good idea.
Our mail is getting more weird by the day.
First of all there is the daily barrage of credit card offers. It used to be that we would get 2 or 3 a day. But now that the banks have figured out that we have three adult children (all with jobs), we are up to about 8 envelopes a day just from credit card companies. They are getting really sneaky too. They don't just send letter sized envelopes anymore, now they disguise them in what appear to be "overnight" packages. I guess they think that if they can trick us into opening them we will be more enticed to apply for more credit.
Then there is the every-other day delivery of gift items and promotional items from Marlboro and Parliament. Since non of us smoke, they are really pouring on the heat trying to hook us up. So far we have received 4 money clips, 3 cigarette cases, and two key chains. I'm actually starting to feel guilty. Perhaps I should buy a pack of menthols just to say thanks.
Next comes the offers for further education. Phoenix University started it. Now everday someone wants to sell either Robin or I a masters degree via the internet. It doesn't stop there however. There are offers for Robin to receive further nursing education in exciting areas like: skin & wound care, hospice & palliative nursing. I get offered courses in SWAT tactics, drug enforcement, etc.
Then, because our home based business is called MTS Enterprises, ( a name that we share with a gas & oil drilling company) we receive mountains of offers for exciting magazines like; "Drilling Today", "Power", and "Gas & Oil Monthly". We really enjoy the annual "Gas & Oil Review". It weighs about 8 lbs. and costs someone a fortune to mail it to us.
Of course, you can't forget the "town shopper" coupons, and the missing kids flyers.
Today, there were over 20 pieces of mail. By the time I sorted it all out, there was one piece that we were interested in. A sympathy card from our vet regarding the passing of our dog.
I shovelled the snow out of the driveway in order to walk down to the mailbox at the street and retrieve this stuff. Don't get me wrong, the sympathy card was nice and appreciated. But I could have waited until the snow stopped, and I would have if the mailbox hadn't been overflowing.
With all that mail, I thought the odds were pretty good that there would be at least one check in there. So... help me out here... mail me a check just to give me a reason to go to the mailbox. Otherwise, I may have to brick up the mailbox.
Our mail is getting more weird by the day.
First of all there is the daily barrage of credit card offers. It used to be that we would get 2 or 3 a day. But now that the banks have figured out that we have three adult children (all with jobs), we are up to about 8 envelopes a day just from credit card companies. They are getting really sneaky too. They don't just send letter sized envelopes anymore, now they disguise them in what appear to be "overnight" packages. I guess they think that if they can trick us into opening them we will be more enticed to apply for more credit.
Then there is the every-other day delivery of gift items and promotional items from Marlboro and Parliament. Since non of us smoke, they are really pouring on the heat trying to hook us up. So far we have received 4 money clips, 3 cigarette cases, and two key chains. I'm actually starting to feel guilty. Perhaps I should buy a pack of menthols just to say thanks.
Next comes the offers for further education. Phoenix University started it. Now everday someone wants to sell either Robin or I a masters degree via the internet. It doesn't stop there however. There are offers for Robin to receive further nursing education in exciting areas like: skin & wound care, hospice & palliative nursing. I get offered courses in SWAT tactics, drug enforcement, etc.
Then, because our home based business is called MTS Enterprises, ( a name that we share with a gas & oil drilling company) we receive mountains of offers for exciting magazines like; "Drilling Today", "Power", and "Gas & Oil Monthly". We really enjoy the annual "Gas & Oil Review". It weighs about 8 lbs. and costs someone a fortune to mail it to us.
Of course, you can't forget the "town shopper" coupons, and the missing kids flyers.
Today, there were over 20 pieces of mail. By the time I sorted it all out, there was one piece that we were interested in. A sympathy card from our vet regarding the passing of our dog.
I shovelled the snow out of the driveway in order to walk down to the mailbox at the street and retrieve this stuff. Don't get me wrong, the sympathy card was nice and appreciated. But I could have waited until the snow stopped, and I would have if the mailbox hadn't been overflowing.
With all that mail, I thought the odds were pretty good that there would be at least one check in there. So... help me out here... mail me a check just to give me a reason to go to the mailbox. Otherwise, I may have to brick up the mailbox.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Happy Birthday Robin
Well, tomorrow ( Feb. 6 ) is the big day. We have been celebrating Robin's birthday since last week. We had a great time at the waterpark, then near the end of the week, the gift I bought her on Ebay arrived...A Garmin i2 GPS for her car. What a cool gadget. Anyhow... Tomorrow night we'll have a quiet dinner together.
It's hard to believe that we are the age that we are. We have been together since we were 16 so it is almost impossible to remember life without us being US.
I always tease the family about the need to celebrate my birthday for at least a week. Robin is the one who really deserves it...
Happy Birthday Beautiful... I love you.
It's hard to believe that we are the age that we are. We have been together since we were 16 so it is almost impossible to remember life without us being US.
I always tease the family about the need to celebrate my birthday for at least a week. Robin is the one who really deserves it...
Happy Birthday Beautiful... I love you.
Saturday, February 04, 2006
Sunday, January 29, 2006
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Read this carefully....
East Texas's worst air disaster occurred when a small two-seater Cessna 150 plane, piloted by two Texas Aggie students, crashed into a cemetery earlier today.
Search and rescue workers have recovered 300 bodies so far and expect the number to climb as digging continues into the evening.
The pilot and copilot survived and are helping in the recovery efforts.
Search and rescue workers have recovered 300 bodies so far and expect the number to climb as digging continues into the evening.
The pilot and copilot survived and are helping in the recovery efforts.
I love Texans...
A man in East Texas had a flat tire, pulled off on the side of the road, and proceeded to put a bouquet of flowers in front of the car and one behind it.
Then he got back in the car to wait. A passerby studied the scene as he drove by and was so curious he turned around and went back. He asked the fellow what the problem was. The man replied, "I have a flat tire.
"The passerby asked, "But what's with the flowers?" The man responded, "When you break down they tell you to put flares in the front and flares in the back! I never did understand it either.
Then he got back in the car to wait. A passerby studied the scene as he drove by and was so curious he turned around and went back. He asked the fellow what the problem was. The man replied, "I have a flat tire.
"The passerby asked, "But what's with the flowers?" The man responded, "When you break down they tell you to put flares in the front and flares in the back! I never did understand it either.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
OH Deer... Again
The idiots of Solon, Ohio are at it again. Once again protesting the culling of deer in their community.
There is no question that there is an overpopulation of deer in Ohio. For most of the state, hunting is illegal. Communities like Solon, keep issuing building permits and destroying the natural habitat of the deer. The animals have no where to go, so they end up splattered over a fine GM, Ford, or Chrysler product. They eat thousands of dollars worth of plants, shrubbery, and gardens. The same people that are protesting the culling of the herd, also complain that they must cope with the damage.
Personally, I don't want to shoot animals either. But I understand the need to thin the herd.... Come to think of it... that is exactly what we need to do.. IN SOLON!
There is no question that there is an overpopulation of deer in Ohio. For most of the state, hunting is illegal. Communities like Solon, keep issuing building permits and destroying the natural habitat of the deer. The animals have no where to go, so they end up splattered over a fine GM, Ford, or Chrysler product. They eat thousands of dollars worth of plants, shrubbery, and gardens. The same people that are protesting the culling of the herd, also complain that they must cope with the damage.
Personally, I don't want to shoot animals either. But I understand the need to thin the herd.... Come to think of it... that is exactly what we need to do.. IN SOLON!
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Is it too late to say Happy New Year???
OK... so I'm a few days late...I've been busy...
Cleveland has a new Mayor.. will it make any difference? Probably not. He has already begun his term by falling into the same old political patterns... first item on the agenda...revamp the police department. Can't anyone be creative?
Then there is the school board. The media reports that Barbara Byrd-Bennett gave her official resignation yesterday. They reported that this occurred amidst tears. Yeah... tears of joy... She was the highest paid CEO the Cleveland Schools ever had. This wouldn't have been a problem if the schools weren't in the worst shape they have ever been in...Oh well...
You would actually think I cared about this stuff...
Reality? NOT
We just had a great time in Valley Forge, PA. Except for the fact that the American Spaniel Association was having a gathering in our hotel, we had a great time. Rent the movie "Best In Show" and you will have experienced our weekend ( without the smell). Dog show people are really weird.
Anyhow... I am ready for 2006 to be an "extreme" year. It is up to me to make it that way...
Cleveland has a new Mayor.. will it make any difference? Probably not. He has already begun his term by falling into the same old political patterns... first item on the agenda...revamp the police department. Can't anyone be creative?
Then there is the school board. The media reports that Barbara Byrd-Bennett gave her official resignation yesterday. They reported that this occurred amidst tears. Yeah... tears of joy... She was the highest paid CEO the Cleveland Schools ever had. This wouldn't have been a problem if the schools weren't in the worst shape they have ever been in...Oh well...
You would actually think I cared about this stuff...
Reality? NOT
We just had a great time in Valley Forge, PA. Except for the fact that the American Spaniel Association was having a gathering in our hotel, we had a great time. Rent the movie "Best In Show" and you will have experienced our weekend ( without the smell). Dog show people are really weird.
Anyhow... I am ready for 2006 to be an "extreme" year. It is up to me to make it that way...
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Happy Procrastination Days to all
I love Christmas. So don’t get me wrong on what I am about to say…
This country is off its’ rocker. I guess that could be said in a broad sense, but is when it comes to Christmas and New Year’s, we really are out of control. I’m not even going to get into the fact that we generally miss the whole point of Christmas. I won’t discuss ( not in this post) my irritation with this whole “holiday tree” vs Christmas Tree debate. Let’s not talk about commercialism, or even misguided “traditions”, or competitive “holidays” that seem to have come out of nowhere…
No, I want to address the fact that from Thanksgiving until sometime around January 4 nobody wants to do anything but prepare, celebrate, and recover from “The holidays”. Like I said, I love Christmas. I enjoy decorating the house right around Thanksgiving and listening to Christmas music. I love the whole “holiday tradition thing”. What I don’t get however is the lack of ambition that the holidays bring on to the rest of the country. Suddenly Christmas has become an excuse for inactivity and non-decisiveness.
Look around you, at work no one answers their phones, everyone who can arrives late, sneaks out early, takes a little longer for lunch and generally procrastinates everything until “after the holidays”. Socially, no one can make a commitment to do anything until “after the holidays”. People who generally are willing to volunteer for tasks at churches, schools, hospitals, etc, suddenly can’t make a decision or a commitment until “after the holidays”.
What the hell are people doing that they are so shut down and unable to focus on anything else? How many cookies can you bake? How much gift buying and wrapping can you do? My God, even if you get drunk on eggnog and rum every day, there is still time between hang-over and next pour to return a few phone calls.
I will wager that Mary and Joseph didn’t do as much planning for the birth of Jesus as we do today to celebrate that birth. (Oh yeah… The birth of Jesus is the reason for the celebration, in case you forgot. ) In fact, there is biblical evidence that they waited until the last minute. Remember…they got to Bethlehem on time to answer the census, but they forgot to call ahead for hotel reservations. Consequently, the Bethlehem Ritz was sold out and they ended up sleeping and giving birth in a barn. While we like to think that Mary was ok with that, I’ll bet Joseph was in plenty of hot water over his procrastination. I would like to do some research on that whole episode, but I think I will wait until after the holidays.
This country is off its’ rocker. I guess that could be said in a broad sense, but is when it comes to Christmas and New Year’s, we really are out of control. I’m not even going to get into the fact that we generally miss the whole point of Christmas. I won’t discuss ( not in this post) my irritation with this whole “holiday tree” vs Christmas Tree debate. Let’s not talk about commercialism, or even misguided “traditions”, or competitive “holidays” that seem to have come out of nowhere…
No, I want to address the fact that from Thanksgiving until sometime around January 4 nobody wants to do anything but prepare, celebrate, and recover from “The holidays”. Like I said, I love Christmas. I enjoy decorating the house right around Thanksgiving and listening to Christmas music. I love the whole “holiday tradition thing”. What I don’t get however is the lack of ambition that the holidays bring on to the rest of the country. Suddenly Christmas has become an excuse for inactivity and non-decisiveness.
Look around you, at work no one answers their phones, everyone who can arrives late, sneaks out early, takes a little longer for lunch and generally procrastinates everything until “after the holidays”. Socially, no one can make a commitment to do anything until “after the holidays”. People who generally are willing to volunteer for tasks at churches, schools, hospitals, etc, suddenly can’t make a decision or a commitment until “after the holidays”.
What the hell are people doing that they are so shut down and unable to focus on anything else? How many cookies can you bake? How much gift buying and wrapping can you do? My God, even if you get drunk on eggnog and rum every day, there is still time between hang-over and next pour to return a few phone calls.
I will wager that Mary and Joseph didn’t do as much planning for the birth of Jesus as we do today to celebrate that birth. (Oh yeah… The birth of Jesus is the reason for the celebration, in case you forgot. ) In fact, there is biblical evidence that they waited until the last minute. Remember…they got to Bethlehem on time to answer the census, but they forgot to call ahead for hotel reservations. Consequently, the Bethlehem Ritz was sold out and they ended up sleeping and giving birth in a barn. While we like to think that Mary was ok with that, I’ll bet Joseph was in plenty of hot water over his procrastination. I would like to do some research on that whole episode, but I think I will wait until after the holidays.
Monday, December 05, 2005
Generations
Tomorrow ( Dec. 6 ) is Melissa’s 25th birthday. The same age by the way, that we were, when she was born.
I’ve said it before as has probably every other parent in the world; “where did the time go”? I guess it was gobbled up by work, and school, church commitments, family obligations, yard work, car repairs, and bill paying. But it also was consumed with holiday traditions, school plays and concerts, coloring books, re-runs of M*A*S*H and Dragnet, ( Melissa and I watched those shows together faithfully when she was 2, every night after dinner ), reading Dr. Seuss, vacations to the Smokey Mountains, raking leaves, sledding, learning to drive, and mourning fallen gold fish.
Melissa moved to her new home in Cleveland Heights recently. It didn’t take long to move her in. At 25 most people don’t own that much. The few pieces of furniture she took with her needed to be refinished first. So we took her chest of drawers and dresser to a sandblaster who removed the old varnish, stain, dust, crayon marks, finger nail polish, and make-up.
The furniture originally belonged to Robin’s Grandparents. They gave it to her parents, who then placed it in her room when she was a child. She grew up with the furniture and it came with us when we got married. When we moved to “the new house” we put it in Melissa’s room. It is now in it’s 6th assignment.
Since it was being moved to Melissa’s house, we decided to refinish it as her 25th birthday present. It is amazing how different it looks. She chose a dark cherry color stain, and I used tung oil instead of varnish to finish it. She is picking out new hardware in order to “update” these fairly old pieces of very well made furniture.
As I finished it yesterday, I wrote a birthday greeting inside one of the drawers... Then I loaded it with a bunch of memories.
I’ve said it before as has probably every other parent in the world; “where did the time go”? I guess it was gobbled up by work, and school, church commitments, family obligations, yard work, car repairs, and bill paying. But it also was consumed with holiday traditions, school plays and concerts, coloring books, re-runs of M*A*S*H and Dragnet, ( Melissa and I watched those shows together faithfully when she was 2, every night after dinner ), reading Dr. Seuss, vacations to the Smokey Mountains, raking leaves, sledding, learning to drive, and mourning fallen gold fish.
Melissa moved to her new home in Cleveland Heights recently. It didn’t take long to move her in. At 25 most people don’t own that much. The few pieces of furniture she took with her needed to be refinished first. So we took her chest of drawers and dresser to a sandblaster who removed the old varnish, stain, dust, crayon marks, finger nail polish, and make-up.
The furniture originally belonged to Robin’s Grandparents. They gave it to her parents, who then placed it in her room when she was a child. She grew up with the furniture and it came with us when we got married. When we moved to “the new house” we put it in Melissa’s room. It is now in it’s 6th assignment.
Since it was being moved to Melissa’s house, we decided to refinish it as her 25th birthday present. It is amazing how different it looks. She chose a dark cherry color stain, and I used tung oil instead of varnish to finish it. She is picking out new hardware in order to “update” these fairly old pieces of very well made furniture.
As I finished it yesterday, I wrote a birthday greeting inside one of the drawers... Then I loaded it with a bunch of memories.
Friday, December 02, 2005
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Thursday, November 24, 2005
Growing Up ( Part III )
I have a personal tradition. Whenever someone important to me passes from this earthly life into eternity, I play a recording of the Faure’ Requiem. I especially love to listen to the "In Paradisum” movement and imagine the recently departed entering paradise and being greeted into eternity by God.
On November 20 I listened to the Faure’ Requiem.
Lee Chidsey, was N. Royalton official
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Alana Baranick Plain Dealer Reporter
North Royalton - Lee Chidsey, who directed finances for the city of North Royalton and choirs for several churches, died Saturday at Hospice Services of Southwest General in Strongsville.
The 86-year-old North Royalton resident served as finance director from December 1969 until retiring in 1986. For most of those years, she also was the city's tax administrator.
Chidsey, who was born Leonore Saunders in North Royalton, graduated from North Royalton High School in 1937. For two years, she attended a Cleveland business school that was a forerunner of David N. Myers University.
In her first finance-related job, she kept books for the Northern Ohio Food Terminal in Cleveland. She later was a payroll clerk for the North Royalton schools.
As a young woman, she directed the choir at Bennett's Corners Community Methodist Church in Hinckley Township near the North Royalton border. In the early 1940s, she lived in Wake man in Huron County, where she led a Congregational church choir.
She stayed with her sister in Brooklyn, while her husband, Harold "Hal," served overseas with the Army during World War II. After the war, the Chidseys lived at Hal's parents farm in Brunswick until buying a farmhouse in North Royalton.
Chidsey conducted the North Royalton PTA Mother Singers for 10 years. When her husband was band director at North Royalton High School in the 1950s, the mother of four sewed outfits for the majorettes and cheerleaders.
She served as choir director at North Royalton United Methodist Church, started its bell choir and played piano for Sunday school classes. She also wrote, directed and made costumes for holiday pageants.
On Christmas Eve, she led choristers at two services. Between sessions, she fed the singers at her house. Chidsey's relatives traditionally gathered at her home at dawn for Christmas breakfast.
The choir director celebrated Thanksgiving with a family jam session of seasonal tunes. All of her offspring play musical instruments. Those too young to have mastered an instrument play triangles or tambourines, so nobody feels left out. The tradition will continue the day after Chidsey's funeral.
In addition to her husband of 64 years, who retired as band director at Brecksville High School, survivors include her daughters, Joanna Haberbusch of Burbank and Janet Doty of Mentor; sons, Robert of North Royalton and Ronald of Brunswick; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at North Royalton United Methodist Church, 13601 Ridge Road, North Royalton.
Arrangements are by Babitt Funeral Home of North Royalton.
At the funeral, I saw Jan for the first time in 21 years. For the moment that we hugged each other it was 1963. It was a moment to be close to Mrs. Chidsey one last time.
Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine. Et lux perpetua luceat eis.
On November 20 I listened to the Faure’ Requiem.
Lee Chidsey, was N. Royalton official
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Alana Baranick Plain Dealer Reporter
North Royalton - Lee Chidsey, who directed finances for the city of North Royalton and choirs for several churches, died Saturday at Hospice Services of Southwest General in Strongsville.
The 86-year-old North Royalton resident served as finance director from December 1969 until retiring in 1986. For most of those years, she also was the city's tax administrator.
Chidsey, who was born Leonore Saunders in North Royalton, graduated from North Royalton High School in 1937. For two years, she attended a Cleveland business school that was a forerunner of David N. Myers University.
In her first finance-related job, she kept books for the Northern Ohio Food Terminal in Cleveland. She later was a payroll clerk for the North Royalton schools.
As a young woman, she directed the choir at Bennett's Corners Community Methodist Church in Hinckley Township near the North Royalton border. In the early 1940s, she lived in Wake man in Huron County, where she led a Congregational church choir.
She stayed with her sister in Brooklyn, while her husband, Harold "Hal," served overseas with the Army during World War II. After the war, the Chidseys lived at Hal's parents farm in Brunswick until buying a farmhouse in North Royalton.
Chidsey conducted the North Royalton PTA Mother Singers for 10 years. When her husband was band director at North Royalton High School in the 1950s, the mother of four sewed outfits for the majorettes and cheerleaders.
She served as choir director at North Royalton United Methodist Church, started its bell choir and played piano for Sunday school classes. She also wrote, directed and made costumes for holiday pageants.
On Christmas Eve, she led choristers at two services. Between sessions, she fed the singers at her house. Chidsey's relatives traditionally gathered at her home at dawn for Christmas breakfast.
The choir director celebrated Thanksgiving with a family jam session of seasonal tunes. All of her offspring play musical instruments. Those too young to have mastered an instrument play triangles or tambourines, so nobody feels left out. The tradition will continue the day after Chidsey's funeral.
In addition to her husband of 64 years, who retired as band director at Brecksville High School, survivors include her daughters, Joanna Haberbusch of Burbank and Janet Doty of Mentor; sons, Robert of North Royalton and Ronald of Brunswick; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at North Royalton United Methodist Church, 13601 Ridge Road, North Royalton.
Arrangements are by Babitt Funeral Home of North Royalton.
At the funeral, I saw Jan for the first time in 21 years. For the moment that we hugged each other it was 1963. It was a moment to be close to Mrs. Chidsey one last time.
Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine. Et lux perpetua luceat eis.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Growing Up ( part II)
She was the prettiest girl in the school. Maybe even the whole world (at least in the world of a five-year old boy).
She was my first love. We held hands at church. But now there was a bigger universe, kindergarten. There was competition everywhere. It didn’t take long before our relationship changed. But then at five years old, what is time? It may have been the first day of school; it may have taken weeks, or months. But the “romance” was over and we were relegated to friends. We ice-skated together on the flooded field behind her house with our older brothers. We collected old newspapers for the church youth group fund-raisers, again with our older brothers. We sang in the choir together and learned to play hand-bells.
Like most third graders my social world was limited. In my case there were two; school and church. School was a nightmare. Mrs. Cochran, the third grade teacher, the witch, was up to her misguided attack. For six hours each day Monday through Friday, I was miserable. Weekends were a refuge and a time to forget. It was also a time to heal. I found healing from family, and church activities. Church and home…places where I could be me. Don & Janet were at church, and the absolute and complete opposite of Mrs. Cochran was Janet’s’ Mom; Mrs. Chidsey.
Mrs. Chidsey was the church choir director. She was everybody’s mom at church. She had the warmest most caring smile. She knew everything about music. She knew how to make everyone feel important, and feel good about ourselves. She directed the adult choir, she directed the teen choir, the children’s choir and the hand-bell choir. She taught us not only about music but also about performance. She put her soul into our performances and taught us how to put our souls into those performances as well. She wrote the special holiday plays and pageants. She made the costumes, she fed us, she loved us, and she made me feel special. She smoothed over the damage of the third grade teacher.
I knew at the time that she was a special person, but it wasn’t until I was an adult that I realized how much she meant to me. As I began performing and directing performances I realized just how much Mrs. Chidsey taught me. She taught me how to be professional. She instilled in me a love for sacred music.
A few years ago, at the end of a concert with the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus, I had a chance to speak with the great choral director; Robert Page. I thanked him for allowing me the opportunity to sing in his chorus. I said that I remembered my audition as being atrocious and that I appreciated his taking a chance on me. He told me that he remembered my audition as well and confirmed that it was pretty bad. Then he went on to say that he accepted me in the chorus because he believed I had the vocal talent, but more importantly he saw that I had "music in my soul". I thought at that moment; "God gave me the gift of voice. Mrs. Chidsey opened it."
She was my first love. We held hands at church. But now there was a bigger universe, kindergarten. There was competition everywhere. It didn’t take long before our relationship changed. But then at five years old, what is time? It may have been the first day of school; it may have taken weeks, or months. But the “romance” was over and we were relegated to friends. We ice-skated together on the flooded field behind her house with our older brothers. We collected old newspapers for the church youth group fund-raisers, again with our older brothers. We sang in the choir together and learned to play hand-bells.
Like most third graders my social world was limited. In my case there were two; school and church. School was a nightmare. Mrs. Cochran, the third grade teacher, the witch, was up to her misguided attack. For six hours each day Monday through Friday, I was miserable. Weekends were a refuge and a time to forget. It was also a time to heal. I found healing from family, and church activities. Church and home…places where I could be me. Don & Janet were at church, and the absolute and complete opposite of Mrs. Cochran was Janet’s’ Mom; Mrs. Chidsey.
Mrs. Chidsey was the church choir director. She was everybody’s mom at church. She had the warmest most caring smile. She knew everything about music. She knew how to make everyone feel important, and feel good about ourselves. She directed the adult choir, she directed the teen choir, the children’s choir and the hand-bell choir. She taught us not only about music but also about performance. She put her soul into our performances and taught us how to put our souls into those performances as well. She wrote the special holiday plays and pageants. She made the costumes, she fed us, she loved us, and she made me feel special. She smoothed over the damage of the third grade teacher.
I knew at the time that she was a special person, but it wasn’t until I was an adult that I realized how much she meant to me. As I began performing and directing performances I realized just how much Mrs. Chidsey taught me. She taught me how to be professional. She instilled in me a love for sacred music.
A few years ago, at the end of a concert with the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus, I had a chance to speak with the great choral director; Robert Page. I thanked him for allowing me the opportunity to sing in his chorus. I said that I remembered my audition as being atrocious and that I appreciated his taking a chance on me. He told me that he remembered my audition as well and confirmed that it was pretty bad. Then he went on to say that he accepted me in the chorus because he believed I had the vocal talent, but more importantly he saw that I had "music in my soul". I thought at that moment; "God gave me the gift of voice. Mrs. Chidsey opened it."
Growing Up (part I)
I had a pretty normal childhood, at least from outside appearances. My family was terrific. We all got along great and mom & dad always provided for us even when money was tight. I wasn’t abused or mistreated…at least not at home.
Actually life was pretty good until the third grade. I ran into a very sick individual who happened to be my third grade teacher. She was married to a fairly prominent local business owner and was purported to have been an ordained minister. All I know for sure is that she was twisted and should never have been allowed near children. For some unknown reason I became her target. She never touched me or abused me physically she did however launch an emotional psychological attack that took me years to come to grips with.
On a daily basis she stood me up in front of my classmates as an example of “stupid”. She nicknamed me “bump on a log” and would call on me by that name. If I performed poorly on a test or assignment she would not only show my work as a bad example, but would share the information with other teachers. What hurt the most however was how she systematically turned my classmates against me. She actually targeted other kids who continued to be my friend until they too would turn against me.
I said she never touched me, but there was one day where she manipulated an “April Fools Day” activity so that I was dared to kiss the teacher. Ultimately it was not the other kids who goaded me, it was her. I remember vividly being humiliated into pressing my lips against the cheek of this vile person as the class watched. I literally went home and vomited. I told my mother I thought I ate a bad hot dog in the cafeteria.
My parents never could comprehend that what I was reporting to them was the truth. I guess they thought that I had an active imagination and was using it to defend my poor performance at school. It wasn’t until after the year ended that they came to realize what damage had been done.
By the end of the school year I had no friends except for Don and Janet. They were my friends from church. Don was my buddy no matter what. When the teacher discovered this, she started picking on him. Fortunately for Don, it was pretty late in the school year so she didn’t have much time to work on him. Janet was sparred because her family was also very well known in the community. Her dad was a teacher and her mom was the city Finance Director and the choir director at the local Methodist Church. I would bet that they both suffered some humiliation on my part, but they stuck it out.
Socially, I didn’t fully recover from this until the ninth grade. Mentally I still deal with it. In fact, despite my outward appearance of self-confidence, I still find myself dealing with self-esteem issues. I chose to mask these feelings by being the jokester and acting like a guy with a huge ego. Evidently I am a more talented actor than I or anyone has ever given me credit for.
Actually life was pretty good until the third grade. I ran into a very sick individual who happened to be my third grade teacher. She was married to a fairly prominent local business owner and was purported to have been an ordained minister. All I know for sure is that she was twisted and should never have been allowed near children. For some unknown reason I became her target. She never touched me or abused me physically she did however launch an emotional psychological attack that took me years to come to grips with.
On a daily basis she stood me up in front of my classmates as an example of “stupid”. She nicknamed me “bump on a log” and would call on me by that name. If I performed poorly on a test or assignment she would not only show my work as a bad example, but would share the information with other teachers. What hurt the most however was how she systematically turned my classmates against me. She actually targeted other kids who continued to be my friend until they too would turn against me.
I said she never touched me, but there was one day where she manipulated an “April Fools Day” activity so that I was dared to kiss the teacher. Ultimately it was not the other kids who goaded me, it was her. I remember vividly being humiliated into pressing my lips against the cheek of this vile person as the class watched. I literally went home and vomited. I told my mother I thought I ate a bad hot dog in the cafeteria.
My parents never could comprehend that what I was reporting to them was the truth. I guess they thought that I had an active imagination and was using it to defend my poor performance at school. It wasn’t until after the year ended that they came to realize what damage had been done.
By the end of the school year I had no friends except for Don and Janet. They were my friends from church. Don was my buddy no matter what. When the teacher discovered this, she started picking on him. Fortunately for Don, it was pretty late in the school year so she didn’t have much time to work on him. Janet was sparred because her family was also very well known in the community. Her dad was a teacher and her mom was the city Finance Director and the choir director at the local Methodist Church. I would bet that they both suffered some humiliation on my part, but they stuck it out.
Socially, I didn’t fully recover from this until the ninth grade. Mentally I still deal with it. In fact, despite my outward appearance of self-confidence, I still find myself dealing with self-esteem issues. I chose to mask these feelings by being the jokester and acting like a guy with a huge ego. Evidently I am a more talented actor than I or anyone has ever given me credit for.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
First homes
I remember... My Mom was washing dishes and not saying much.
I shouted a quick "see ya later" and I carried the last load of my worldly possessions out to my car, and I was off to my first apartment. My wedding was still a few weeks away, but we were anxious to get settled in our new home.
It wasn't much of a first apartment, just one bedroom, a tiny kitchen and gold sculptured carpet. Oh yeah, it was a basement apartment because it was ten dollars a month less than the second and third floor units. Since between the two of us we were only making $60 a week, that extra ten bucks was a big consideration.
Mom & Dad gave us most of our furniture. I gave Robin a rocking chair for Christmas the year before. Then we bought a kitchen table and chairs. Robin wrote the check and dated it for the wrong year!. The furniture store called like they were trying to round up Bonnie & Clyde.
We lived on that $60 a week until I landed my first stage management job. That paid me $100 a week. We thought we were rich.
That first apartment was small, and we were broke, but we were adults now, free to make our own decisions and mistakes. Responsible for our own debts. We had to pay bills, and repair broken things, and buy groceries, and take out garbage. It was "our house" though and so we were excited. We didn't notice that our parents weren't talking much.
I found it pretty hard to talk last night. I ate dinner in relative silence. After dinner, I rounded up some boxes and gathered up some "essentials" for a new home. We talked about moving the furniture over the weekend. We're hoping it isn't raining or snowing.
I had to leave for a meeting at the church. When I came home, I went upstairs to the bedroom in the back of the house. It was empty except for some items that were not important enough to take yet. We'll get that stuff when we move the rest of the furniture.
It started snowing today. I called her at her office. She answered the phone very professionally. I said; "It 'nowing Mewissa". She laughed.
She won't come home from work tonight. She'll be going to her house instead. I know now, why my Mom didn't say much that day.
I shouted a quick "see ya later" and I carried the last load of my worldly possessions out to my car, and I was off to my first apartment. My wedding was still a few weeks away, but we were anxious to get settled in our new home.
It wasn't much of a first apartment, just one bedroom, a tiny kitchen and gold sculptured carpet. Oh yeah, it was a basement apartment because it was ten dollars a month less than the second and third floor units. Since between the two of us we were only making $60 a week, that extra ten bucks was a big consideration.
Mom & Dad gave us most of our furniture. I gave Robin a rocking chair for Christmas the year before. Then we bought a kitchen table and chairs. Robin wrote the check and dated it for the wrong year!. The furniture store called like they were trying to round up Bonnie & Clyde.
We lived on that $60 a week until I landed my first stage management job. That paid me $100 a week. We thought we were rich.
That first apartment was small, and we were broke, but we were adults now, free to make our own decisions and mistakes. Responsible for our own debts. We had to pay bills, and repair broken things, and buy groceries, and take out garbage. It was "our house" though and so we were excited. We didn't notice that our parents weren't talking much.
I found it pretty hard to talk last night. I ate dinner in relative silence. After dinner, I rounded up some boxes and gathered up some "essentials" for a new home. We talked about moving the furniture over the weekend. We're hoping it isn't raining or snowing.
I had to leave for a meeting at the church. When I came home, I went upstairs to the bedroom in the back of the house. It was empty except for some items that were not important enough to take yet. We'll get that stuff when we move the rest of the furniture.
It started snowing today. I called her at her office. She answered the phone very professionally. I said; "It 'nowing Mewissa". She laughed.
She won't come home from work tonight. She'll be going to her house instead. I know now, why my Mom didn't say much that day.
Friday, November 11, 2005
Thursday, October 20, 2005
With apologies to one armed wall paper hangers...
I haven't posted in awhile, because I have been busier than a one armed wall paper hanger!
As you know from my last post, we started rehearsals for a Christmas musical. Since I am the author, director, and one of the leads I have a lot to think about. In addition, we have decided to move the show into another venue, which means it has to be re-mounted... new lights, new sets, sound, blocking, everything that makes a show a show... anyhow, my life is not suppossed to be boring.
As you know from my last post, we started rehearsals for a Christmas musical. Since I am the author, director, and one of the leads I have a lot to think about. In addition, we have decided to move the show into another venue, which means it has to be re-mounted... new lights, new sets, sound, blocking, everything that makes a show a show... anyhow, my life is not suppossed to be boring.
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Christmas season starts today!
Tonight was the first rehearsal for our (almost) annual Christmas musical; "Sarah Wesley's Christmas Tree". I wrote this show several years ago and performed a leading role in it at its premier. Since then, the very talented Todd Stuart had the role. He took a powder to Philly last year and isn't available to do the part anymore. So we held a moment of silent prayer in memory of Todd... and on I go...
Pleasant Hills United Methodist Church
13200 E. Bagley Road
Middleburg Heights, Ohio
In cooperation with Mark Foster Music Company and Shawnee Press
Presents
Sarah Wesley’s Christmas Tree
A Christmas Musical in Three Acts
With Dinner!
Book by James F Szakacs and Ann Montz
Musical Arrangements by Herbert Bielawa, Ginger Cover-Colla, Bradley Ellingboe, Z. Randall Stroope, Rene’ Clausen,Richard Donohue, James McKelvy, and Jerome Wright
Directed by James F Szakacs
Musical Direction by Bruce R. Giles
Friday, December 2, 2005 - 7:00pm
Saturday, December 3, 2005 - 7:00pm
Sunday, December 4, 2005 - 6:00pm
Thursday, December 8, 2005 - 7:00pm
Friday, December 9, 2005 - 7:00pm
Saturday, December 10, 2005 - 7:00pm
Sunday, December 11, 2005 - 6:00pm
Reserved Seating $28.00 includes dinner
roast pork with dressing, potatoes, vegetables, salad, rolls, dessert and beverages
Call: 440-234-5229 for tickets
Pleasant Hills United Methodist Church
13200 E. Bagley Road
Middleburg Heights, Ohio
In cooperation with Mark Foster Music Company and Shawnee Press
Presents
Sarah Wesley’s Christmas Tree
A Christmas Musical in Three Acts
With Dinner!
Book by James F Szakacs and Ann Montz
Musical Arrangements by Herbert Bielawa, Ginger Cover-Colla, Bradley Ellingboe, Z. Randall Stroope, Rene’ Clausen,Richard Donohue, James McKelvy, and Jerome Wright
Directed by James F Szakacs
Musical Direction by Bruce R. Giles
Friday, December 2, 2005 - 7:00pm
Saturday, December 3, 2005 - 7:00pm
Sunday, December 4, 2005 - 6:00pm
Thursday, December 8, 2005 - 7:00pm
Friday, December 9, 2005 - 7:00pm
Saturday, December 10, 2005 - 7:00pm
Sunday, December 11, 2005 - 6:00pm
Reserved Seating $28.00 includes dinner
roast pork with dressing, potatoes, vegetables, salad, rolls, dessert and beverages
Call: 440-234-5229 for tickets
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
More monday morning quarterbacking
Recently a 15 year old male was shot and killed by Cleveland Police Officers conducting a search of his home. It seems he was suspected of multiple cases of robbing pizza deliverymen at knifepoint. The officers went to his home with a search warrant and while conducting their search, were "allegedly" attacked by the young man wielding a knife.
Of course the community is outraged that these two officers found it necessary to protect themeselves by shooting this fine upstanding citizen.
This morning, Cleveland Plain Dealer Reporter Regina Brett raised several issues surrounding this incident. Following is a copy of an email I sent her. Since it will never make it to the paper, I publish it here...
Regina...
You really disapointed me today. You are usually level headed, fair, and right on point. Today however I think you are WAY out...
Near the end of your article you asked the question; "Did it take 10 shots to stop him? Couldn't armed police wearing bulletproof vests disarm a boy with a knife?"
Please Regina consider the following...
1) Bulletproof vests are NO protection from knives. This is primarily due to the fact that they do not cover arms, hands, faces, necks, legs, groins, etc.
2) This "boy" is 15 years old. a man by physical standards.
3) "armed police"; these are key words. Police are armed to protect themselves and society from "clear and present dangers". When an officer draws his/her weapon it is because either they, their partner, or another individual is in grave danger. These decisions must be made in split seconds. I believe that even the most liberal of liberals would have to admit that a knife wielding man lunging at you would be considered a clear and present danger.
4) Consider "split seconds"; How large was Brandon's bedroom? Let's assume it is a larger than normal bedroom, say...15'x15'. Do this experiment; either at home or in the comfort of your office have someone lunge at you from 15' away. How long does it take them to cover that ground and be on top of you? Now have your "attacker" pick up a knife ( how long of a knife? Use something the length of the one Brandon was caught with previously. Oh wait, that's not fair we don't know if it was that large. Let's make it only 3" instead of 8".) Now, have your "attacker" lunge at you brandishing that knife. Still not convinced? Replace your "attacker" with someone you don't know. Replace him with someone who is known to have used a knife on multiple occassions to rob other people. Is the scenario getting more intense?
5) Consider that even with 1 or 2 fatal shots in a lunging body, death does not come fast enough to protect you from attack in the final few "split seconds" before life ends. The attacker will continue to move toward you and most likely still be in attack mode. ( Shooting to wound would not be an option either now would it?)
In those few "split seconds" you consider the safety of yourself, your partner, anyone else in the vacinity. You consider your loved ones who you might be leaving behind... You don't have a taser because they have not been approved yet by your department because somewhere someone on crack-cocaine with a pre-existing heart condition might die if they are tasered... ( sorry this is another topic all together.)
Now ask yourself Regina... How many times would you pull the trigger?
Of course the community is outraged that these two officers found it necessary to protect themeselves by shooting this fine upstanding citizen.
This morning, Cleveland Plain Dealer Reporter Regina Brett raised several issues surrounding this incident. Following is a copy of an email I sent her. Since it will never make it to the paper, I publish it here...
Regina...
You really disapointed me today. You are usually level headed, fair, and right on point. Today however I think you are WAY out...
Near the end of your article you asked the question; "Did it take 10 shots to stop him? Couldn't armed police wearing bulletproof vests disarm a boy with a knife?"
Please Regina consider the following...
1) Bulletproof vests are NO protection from knives. This is primarily due to the fact that they do not cover arms, hands, faces, necks, legs, groins, etc.
2) This "boy" is 15 years old. a man by physical standards.
3) "armed police"; these are key words. Police are armed to protect themselves and society from "clear and present dangers". When an officer draws his/her weapon it is because either they, their partner, or another individual is in grave danger. These decisions must be made in split seconds. I believe that even the most liberal of liberals would have to admit that a knife wielding man lunging at you would be considered a clear and present danger.
4) Consider "split seconds"; How large was Brandon's bedroom? Let's assume it is a larger than normal bedroom, say...15'x15'. Do this experiment; either at home or in the comfort of your office have someone lunge at you from 15' away. How long does it take them to cover that ground and be on top of you? Now have your "attacker" pick up a knife ( how long of a knife? Use something the length of the one Brandon was caught with previously. Oh wait, that's not fair we don't know if it was that large. Let's make it only 3" instead of 8".) Now, have your "attacker" lunge at you brandishing that knife. Still not convinced? Replace your "attacker" with someone you don't know. Replace him with someone who is known to have used a knife on multiple occassions to rob other people. Is the scenario getting more intense?
5) Consider that even with 1 or 2 fatal shots in a lunging body, death does not come fast enough to protect you from attack in the final few "split seconds" before life ends. The attacker will continue to move toward you and most likely still be in attack mode. ( Shooting to wound would not be an option either now would it?)
In those few "split seconds" you consider the safety of yourself, your partner, anyone else in the vacinity. You consider your loved ones who you might be leaving behind... You don't have a taser because they have not been approved yet by your department because somewhere someone on crack-cocaine with a pre-existing heart condition might die if they are tasered... ( sorry this is another topic all together.)
Now ask yourself Regina... How many times would you pull the trigger?
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Who else can we blame?
Why do we find it necessary to find blame for everything that happens on this earth?
The Democrats are screaming that the current administration is doing a lousy job of responding to what we know is the worst natural disaster ever to occur in this country.
If the Democrats were in control, the Republicans would be doing the same thing.
Personally, it all makes me sick. To think that anyone could have responded any faster or better is preposterous. Wake up America!
Could the government possibly be better prepared? Of course they could. In fact, if we as a society were willing to increase our taxes to ridiculous levels, the government could fund research and preparation for virtually every conceivable and inconceivable tragedy that could occur. But that wouldn't be reasonable now would it?
Monday morning quarterbacking in this country has become an artform.
How about this... Democrats, Republicans, whites, blacks, hispanics, Christians, Jews, Muslims, MEDIA... let's start thinking like rational, caring human beings and band together to overcome this tragedy instead of spending energy and resource to point fingers and promote personal and political agendas.
The Democrats are screaming that the current administration is doing a lousy job of responding to what we know is the worst natural disaster ever to occur in this country.
If the Democrats were in control, the Republicans would be doing the same thing.
Personally, it all makes me sick. To think that anyone could have responded any faster or better is preposterous. Wake up America!
Could the government possibly be better prepared? Of course they could. In fact, if we as a society were willing to increase our taxes to ridiculous levels, the government could fund research and preparation for virtually every conceivable and inconceivable tragedy that could occur. But that wouldn't be reasonable now would it?
Monday morning quarterbacking in this country has become an artform.
How about this... Democrats, Republicans, whites, blacks, hispanics, Christians, Jews, Muslims, MEDIA... let's start thinking like rational, caring human beings and band together to overcome this tragedy instead of spending energy and resource to point fingers and promote personal and political agendas.
Friday, September 02, 2005
100% of your contribution will go to hurricane relief
UMCOR: Hurricane Relief
Hurricane Katrina carried heavy rains and high winds that wrought catastrophic damage to the Gulf Coast. UMCOR is there, responding to the needs of the thousands of people affected by this disaster. UMCOR will continue to provide assistance to the people left most vulnerable by this storm for years to come.
Donations to the United Methodist Committee on Relief's (UMCOR) Hurricanes Global (Advance #982523) response can be made online through UMC.org's secure server.
www.umc.org
Your tax-deductible gift may be placed in United Methodist church offering plates or sent directly to: UMCOR, PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087-9068. Checks should be made out to: UMCOR. Please list in the memo area of your check "UMCOR Advance #982523, Hurricanes 2005 Global". Donations are also being taken by phone at 1-800-554-8583.
Hurricane Katrina carried heavy rains and high winds that wrought catastrophic damage to the Gulf Coast. UMCOR is there, responding to the needs of the thousands of people affected by this disaster. UMCOR will continue to provide assistance to the people left most vulnerable by this storm for years to come.
Donations to the United Methodist Committee on Relief's (UMCOR) Hurricanes Global (Advance #982523) response can be made online through UMC.org's secure server.
www.umc.org
Your tax-deductible gift may be placed in United Methodist church offering plates or sent directly to: UMCOR, PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087-9068. Checks should be made out to: UMCOR. Please list in the memo area of your check "UMCOR Advance #982523, Hurricanes 2005 Global". Donations are also being taken by phone at 1-800-554-8583.
Friday, August 19, 2005
I don't know where all of that time went. I have an increasing appreciation for Bob Segers' "Like A Rock".I still feel like I'm 25 or so, but that can't be because my oldest daughter is 24.Life is good. When I was 16 I was convinced that I would meet with some tragic early death and never see 18. So every year after that has been a gift.
Stood there boldly
Sweatin’ in the sun
Felt like a million
Felt like number one
The height of summer
I’d never felt that strong
Like a rock
I was eighteen
Didn’t have a care
Working for peanuts
Not a dime to spare
But I was lean and
Solid everywhere
Like a rock
My hands were steady
My eyes were clear and bright
My walk had purpose
My steps were quick and light
And I held firmly
To what I felt was right
Like a rock
Like a rock, I was strong as I could be
Like a rock, nothin’ ever got to me
Like a rock, I was something to see
Like a rock
And I stood arrow straight
Unencumbered by the weight
Of all these hustlers and their schemes
I stood proud, I stood tall
High above it all
I still believed in my dreams
Thirty years now
Where’d they go?
Thirty years
I don’t know
Sit and I wonder sometimes
Where they’ve gone
And sometimes late at night
When I’m bathed in the firelight
The moon comes callin’ a ghostly white
And I recall
Recall
Like a rock. standin’ arrow straight
Like a rock, chargin’ from the gate
Like a rock, carryin’ the weight
Like a rock
Lihe a rock, the sun upon my skin
Like a rock, hard against the wind
Like a rock, I see myself again
Like a rock
Bob Seger
Stood there boldly
Sweatin’ in the sun
Felt like a million
Felt like number one
The height of summer
I’d never felt that strong
Like a rock
I was eighteen
Didn’t have a care
Working for peanuts
Not a dime to spare
But I was lean and
Solid everywhere
Like a rock
My hands were steady
My eyes were clear and bright
My walk had purpose
My steps were quick and light
And I held firmly
To what I felt was right
Like a rock
Like a rock, I was strong as I could be
Like a rock, nothin’ ever got to me
Like a rock, I was something to see
Like a rock
And I stood arrow straight
Unencumbered by the weight
Of all these hustlers and their schemes
I stood proud, I stood tall
High above it all
I still believed in my dreams
Thirty years now
Where’d they go?
Thirty years
I don’t know
Sit and I wonder sometimes
Where they’ve gone
And sometimes late at night
When I’m bathed in the firelight
The moon comes callin’ a ghostly white
And I recall
Recall
Like a rock. standin’ arrow straight
Like a rock, chargin’ from the gate
Like a rock, carryin’ the weight
Like a rock
Lihe a rock, the sun upon my skin
Like a rock, hard against the wind
Like a rock, I see myself again
Like a rock
Bob Seger
Friday, August 12, 2005
Differences
A Marine from our town was buried today…He was 25 years old. The same age as my daughter and her friends…He wanted to be a policeman.
There were several thousands of people at the service. The funeral procession went on for miles. It included relatives, friends, acquaintances, representatives of every branch of the armed services, politicians, dignitaries, representatives from at least 50 police departments, two motorcycle clubs, and hundreds of people who never met this young man; they just wanted to pay their respects and say thank you and goodbye to a hero.
As a Reserve Police Officer, I had the honor of playing a small role in this dramatic farewell. I worked all night then spent a long hot morning assisting with traffic and security. It was the least I could do.
Two things occurred to me;
First, as more of our son’s and daughter’s come home in boxes, there will be less and less attention…
Second, if the people who hate the U.S. so much were right about us, we would have approached the terrorism situation much differently… Instead of sending our son’s and daughter’s as liberators, we would have sent our bombers until the mid-east were nothing but ashes. Then we would have sealed our borders, and deported, imprisoned, or executed anyone who matched the profile of our enemies.
We don’t think that way however. As a country we never enter war as conquerors but as defenders and liberators. As citizens, despite our differing political views we support our troops as they defend the principals of freedom, wherever they are sent.
And unlike the terrorists who embrace and welcome death…we value life, and we mourn.
There were several thousands of people at the service. The funeral procession went on for miles. It included relatives, friends, acquaintances, representatives of every branch of the armed services, politicians, dignitaries, representatives from at least 50 police departments, two motorcycle clubs, and hundreds of people who never met this young man; they just wanted to pay their respects and say thank you and goodbye to a hero.
As a Reserve Police Officer, I had the honor of playing a small role in this dramatic farewell. I worked all night then spent a long hot morning assisting with traffic and security. It was the least I could do.
Two things occurred to me;
First, as more of our son’s and daughter’s come home in boxes, there will be less and less attention…
Second, if the people who hate the U.S. so much were right about us, we would have approached the terrorism situation much differently… Instead of sending our son’s and daughter’s as liberators, we would have sent our bombers until the mid-east were nothing but ashes. Then we would have sealed our borders, and deported, imprisoned, or executed anyone who matched the profile of our enemies.
We don’t think that way however. As a country we never enter war as conquerors but as defenders and liberators. As citizens, despite our differing political views we support our troops as they defend the principals of freedom, wherever they are sent.
And unlike the terrorists who embrace and welcome death…we value life, and we mourn.
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Bitten again.
Integrity, honesty, and loyalty. Three attributes that everyone should appreciate in their friends, relatives, and business acquaintances. Why is it, that despite my committment to these qualities, I keep getting bitten on the ass?
Sunday, July 24, 2005
Rain
It’s raining today. It feels good.
It has been very hot and humid lately, only threatening to rain during the day with an occasional shower at night. Sometimes, I just feel like I need a rainy day. It relieves me of my “responsibilities” to work in the yard and be productive. It gives me a day off to relax and think.
We’ve had a lot to think about lately. My Dad discovered he had all five major arteries to his heart blocked anywhere from 90 to 100%. This caused damage to his mitral valve.
All week, I felt like it should be raining.
At 79 it could have been the end. But Dad is tough. He survived the South Pacific in WWII. This wasn’t going to bring him down.
One full week of tests and waiting for surgery culminated with 5 hours of surgery. It’s been almost two full days since the surgery was completed. He had a minor bout with his blood pressure, but in general he is cruising to a renewed life of energy and life.
We go though life thinking that “things” will always be the same. Then one day, something dramatic happens and you realize that anyone of us could experience anything at anytime that could change our patterns of life forever. This was one of those experiences. The thought of losing my Dad had me terrified.
I took inventory of all the things he has meant to me. He taught me how to fix things around the house. He taught me how to work. He taught me how to have a sense of humor. He taught me how to be a husband, and how to be a father. As he ages and talks more about his WWII experiences, he has taught me about bravery, sacrifice, honor, and faith. I doubt that he realizes this because he is not a man of ego.
As I visited him in the hospital yesterday, I told him he was my hero. He just smiled through his pain and looked a little embarrassed at the possibility that he could be a hero. But as I watched him face this difficult surgery and begin his recovery, he demonstrates once again just how tough he is. No complaints, just determination to get through it and not inconvenience anyone while he does.
It’s raining today. The sky is dark and there is the ominous sound of thunder. At some moments it is so dark it seems like the Sun is gone forever. The thunder is deafening and sounds treacherous. Finding out that you or a loved one is seriously ill is kind of like that. Everything sounds scary and treacherous. The world becomes tenuous. At moments you feel like the Sun has disappeared forever. The rain comes, harder at some times than others. Then after a time, the rain stops, the thunder ends, and Sun returns. The effects on the Earth are immediately apparent. The grass has grown; the garden shows immediate signs of increased yield. The pond looks refreshed and clean. The air smells clean again, and we have all been refreshed and restored.
It’s raining today. It feels good.
It has been very hot and humid lately, only threatening to rain during the day with an occasional shower at night. Sometimes, I just feel like I need a rainy day. It relieves me of my “responsibilities” to work in the yard and be productive. It gives me a day off to relax and think.
We’ve had a lot to think about lately. My Dad discovered he had all five major arteries to his heart blocked anywhere from 90 to 100%. This caused damage to his mitral valve.
All week, I felt like it should be raining.
At 79 it could have been the end. But Dad is tough. He survived the South Pacific in WWII. This wasn’t going to bring him down.
One full week of tests and waiting for surgery culminated with 5 hours of surgery. It’s been almost two full days since the surgery was completed. He had a minor bout with his blood pressure, but in general he is cruising to a renewed life of energy and life.
We go though life thinking that “things” will always be the same. Then one day, something dramatic happens and you realize that anyone of us could experience anything at anytime that could change our patterns of life forever. This was one of those experiences. The thought of losing my Dad had me terrified.
I took inventory of all the things he has meant to me. He taught me how to fix things around the house. He taught me how to work. He taught me how to have a sense of humor. He taught me how to be a husband, and how to be a father. As he ages and talks more about his WWII experiences, he has taught me about bravery, sacrifice, honor, and faith. I doubt that he realizes this because he is not a man of ego.
As I visited him in the hospital yesterday, I told him he was my hero. He just smiled through his pain and looked a little embarrassed at the possibility that he could be a hero. But as I watched him face this difficult surgery and begin his recovery, he demonstrates once again just how tough he is. No complaints, just determination to get through it and not inconvenience anyone while he does.
It’s raining today. The sky is dark and there is the ominous sound of thunder. At some moments it is so dark it seems like the Sun is gone forever. The thunder is deafening and sounds treacherous. Finding out that you or a loved one is seriously ill is kind of like that. Everything sounds scary and treacherous. The world becomes tenuous. At moments you feel like the Sun has disappeared forever. The rain comes, harder at some times than others. Then after a time, the rain stops, the thunder ends, and Sun returns. The effects on the Earth are immediately apparent. The grass has grown; the garden shows immediate signs of increased yield. The pond looks refreshed and clean. The air smells clean again, and we have all been refreshed and restored.
It’s raining today. It feels good.
Sunday, July 17, 2005
Check out my zucchini
The weather here has been perfect for the garden. Hot, humid, periods of rain. Consequently we are being overun by zucchini. In two days, we have harvested over 2 dozen. There are at least that many to be picked tomorrow and more coming up. We have already had zucchini omelets. Tonight we are frying zucchini sticks. The bread will start later this week. We are thinking zucchini parmesan... If you have any zucchini recipes send them our way before we are buried in them.
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Water World
If you are wondering where I have been...
Check out my new backyard pond shown above.
This also explains my sore back.
Check out my new backyard pond shown above.
This also explains my sore back.
Thursday, July 07, 2005
Where did everybody go?
About a week ago, a name from my youth popped into my head, and I wondered "whatever happened to Russ?" I went online and put his name into the smartpages search and nothing came up. I got busy with something else and didn't do any further research. Then two nights ago my wife and I walked into a local ice cream shop. As we moved away from the counter, Russ was standing there with his family. It's probably been more than 20 years since we last saw each other. I live in Ohio, he lives in Florida. He just happened to be visiting the area, and there we were...Buddies from high school both amazed at the chance meeting, and both looking "exactly the same" as we did back in '73.
Time is a strange science. Our memories stand still for us so that we can call upon them anytime. But time marches on. We leave high school graduation vowing to stay in touch. Then a lifetime later we run into each other by chance and wonder...where did it go? Why didn't we stay in touch.
The strangest part of this occurance with Russ, is that it is second time this has happened. Back in 1984 I found myself wondering what he was up to, then ran into him working in a retail store in New Philidelphia, Ohio a few days later.
I really think we are supposed to stay in touch, so through the miracle of email, I will do my best. If however for some reason we don't, Russ will live on in my memory banks to visit anytime, just like Steve, Kathy, Marty, Lee, Janet, Jeff, Dean, Mona, Loretta, Jill, Dan, Glen, Bill, Mark,Laurice, Bob, Alex, Lucy,Denise........
Do something cool for yourself... Make contact with an old friend that you haven't seen in a long time. It will refresh your soul.
Time is a strange science. Our memories stand still for us so that we can call upon them anytime. But time marches on. We leave high school graduation vowing to stay in touch. Then a lifetime later we run into each other by chance and wonder...where did it go? Why didn't we stay in touch.
The strangest part of this occurance with Russ, is that it is second time this has happened. Back in 1984 I found myself wondering what he was up to, then ran into him working in a retail store in New Philidelphia, Ohio a few days later.
I really think we are supposed to stay in touch, so through the miracle of email, I will do my best. If however for some reason we don't, Russ will live on in my memory banks to visit anytime, just like Steve, Kathy, Marty, Lee, Janet, Jeff, Dean, Mona, Loretta, Jill, Dan, Glen, Bill, Mark,Laurice, Bob, Alex, Lucy,Denise........
Do something cool for yourself... Make contact with an old friend that you haven't seen in a long time. It will refresh your soul.
Sunday, July 03, 2005
Lives, Fortunes, and Honor
I am posting the Declaration of Independence. You might think I am trite and uncreative. Go ahead. The document gives you the right. You might think I am opinionated and overzelous in my patriotism. It's ok. The document gives you the right. As you read my previous posts, you might think I am over critical of the media. That's ok, the document gives me the right. I could go on but I think you get the point.
The Declaration of Independence gives us the right to be humans. Free to be who we are and who we were meant to be. It gives us the right to write, to speak, to have voice in the government of our country. It gives us the right to work, to be educated, to marry who we choose, to live where we want, to create wealth, to keep our wealth, to bear arms, to worship our God, and to be happy. It gives us these rights as long as we don't trample on the rights of others.
The Declaration of Independence is a remarkable document the we don't read often enough. The men who crafted it and had the courage to sign it, risked everything they had to do so. Many suffered great loss because of their defense of this document.
It's way too easy for us to forget why we celebrate various holidays. In the hustle and bustle of each we get focused on the celebration and not the cause of the celebration.
It is fourth of July weekend. Before you eat your hot dogs and drink too much beer, take a moment and read the Declaration. Be sure to read the names of each man who signed it. Reflect upon their gift to you. Give thanks for those who died to preserve it, and pray for those who are still fighting to defend it.
The Declaration of Independence of the Thirteen Colonies
In CONGRESS, July 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. --That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. —Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain [George III] is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.
He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.
He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers.
He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people, and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:
For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:
For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:
For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.
In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.
We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by the Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.
The signers of the Declaration represented the new states as follows:
New Hampshire
Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton
Massachusetts
John Hancock, Samual Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry
Rhode Island
Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery
Connecticut
Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott
New York
William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris
New Jersey
Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark
Pennsylvania
Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross
Delaware
Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean
Maryland
Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll of Carrollton
Virginia
George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton
North Carolina
William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn
South Carolina
Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr., Arthur Middleton
Georgia
Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton
The Declaration of Independence gives us the right to be humans. Free to be who we are and who we were meant to be. It gives us the right to write, to speak, to have voice in the government of our country. It gives us the right to work, to be educated, to marry who we choose, to live where we want, to create wealth, to keep our wealth, to bear arms, to worship our God, and to be happy. It gives us these rights as long as we don't trample on the rights of others.
The Declaration of Independence is a remarkable document the we don't read often enough. The men who crafted it and had the courage to sign it, risked everything they had to do so. Many suffered great loss because of their defense of this document.
It's way too easy for us to forget why we celebrate various holidays. In the hustle and bustle of each we get focused on the celebration and not the cause of the celebration.
It is fourth of July weekend. Before you eat your hot dogs and drink too much beer, take a moment and read the Declaration. Be sure to read the names of each man who signed it. Reflect upon their gift to you. Give thanks for those who died to preserve it, and pray for those who are still fighting to defend it.
The Declaration of Independence of the Thirteen Colonies
In CONGRESS, July 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. --That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. —Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain [George III] is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.
He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.
He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers.
He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people, and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:
For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:
For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:
For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.
In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.
We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by the Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.
The signers of the Declaration represented the new states as follows:
New Hampshire
Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton
Massachusetts
John Hancock, Samual Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry
Rhode Island
Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery
Connecticut
Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott
New York
William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris
New Jersey
Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark
Pennsylvania
Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross
Delaware
Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean
Maryland
Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll of Carrollton
Virginia
George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton
North Carolina
William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn
South Carolina
Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr., Arthur Middleton
Georgia
Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton
Saturday, June 18, 2005
Friday, June 17, 2005
Pomp and Circumstance
It's graduation season. We know alot of people who are graduating from high school and college. In their honor, I am posting these words from Bill Gates...I couldn't have said it better myself;
11 rules for living:
Rule 1: life is not fair – get used to it!
Rule 2: The world won’t care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.
Rule 3: You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won’t be vice-president with a car until you earn both.
Rule 4: If you think your teacher is tough, wait ‘till you meet your boss.
Rule 5: Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your grandparents had a different word for flipping burgers – they called it opportunity.
Rule 6: If you mess up, it’s not your parents’ fault. So don’t whine about your mistakes, learn from them.
Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren’t as boring as they are now. They got that way by paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you were. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parents’ generation, try delousing the closet in your bedroom.
Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life has not. In some schools they have abolished failing grades and they’ll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn’t bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.
Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don’t get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you find yourself. Do that on your own time.
Rule 10: TV is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.
Rule 11: Be nice to nerds. Chances are, you’ll end up working for one.
11 rules for living:
Rule 1: life is not fair – get used to it!
Rule 2: The world won’t care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.
Rule 3: You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won’t be vice-president with a car until you earn both.
Rule 4: If you think your teacher is tough, wait ‘till you meet your boss.
Rule 5: Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your grandparents had a different word for flipping burgers – they called it opportunity.
Rule 6: If you mess up, it’s not your parents’ fault. So don’t whine about your mistakes, learn from them.
Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren’t as boring as they are now. They got that way by paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you were. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parents’ generation, try delousing the closet in your bedroom.
Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life has not. In some schools they have abolished failing grades and they’ll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn’t bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.
Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don’t get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you find yourself. Do that on your own time.
Rule 10: TV is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.
Rule 11: Be nice to nerds. Chances are, you’ll end up working for one.
Monday, May 30, 2005
Memorial Day
A day off work to picnic, party, swim, boat and celebrate summer…
I grew up in the 60’s and 70’s. It wasn’t a time to be patriotic. Our nation was involved in an “armed conflict” of questionable merit. It wasn’t like WWI or WWII. Even our troops weren’t sure why they were in Nam. I spent most of my teen years worried that my big brother would have to go over there. Then I spent my late teens worrying that I would have to go there. I was in the last draft lottery. I pulled a 27. If the draft hadn’t ended I would have been on my way.
Now that I am older and wiser, I am sometimes remorseful that I didn’t go. Even though the cause was unclear, I know now that it is important to serve and protect the interests of this great country. I have taken to reading about the civil war and WWII. It’s kind of weird to realize that the Civil War was really not that long ago. The last veteran of that war died within my lifetime (1958). WWII vets are still all around us, but their ranks are thinning. Now I watch The History Channel and see Vietnam Vets interviewed and they look old.
I think about my dad and my uncles serving in WWII. I think about friends of mine who served in Nam. I think about the kids of my friends who have served or are serving in the Mid-east. I remember the day I visited “The Wall”. I sat on the ground and cried. I cried out of grief for the 58,000 who died in Nam. I cried for the 600,000 who died on our own soil so that all could be free in this country. I cried for the WWI & II vets who never came back from places like Normandy, and Sarabachi. I cried for the Korean vets. I cried for those who did come home, but left part of their souls in those dark and dangerous places. After a time, I felt a sense of calm and peace. I realized I wasn’t alone. I was surrounded by veterans and non-veterans all feeling the same wave of emotions. The calm and peace I felt was the souls of those departed telling me that they were alright, and that their sacrifice was not in vain. I gave thanks for their patriotism, commitment, bravery, and sacrifice.
I lowered my flag to half-staff this morning…I prayed that God would continue to bless this land, that God would protect this great country, and that God would comfort the families of those lost in battle to preserve our freedom, and that God would make his presence known to those who live with the haunting memories of war, and that God would grant eternal peace to those who died in service so that we might picnin, party, swim, boat and celebrate summer.
I grew up in the 60’s and 70’s. It wasn’t a time to be patriotic. Our nation was involved in an “armed conflict” of questionable merit. It wasn’t like WWI or WWII. Even our troops weren’t sure why they were in Nam. I spent most of my teen years worried that my big brother would have to go over there. Then I spent my late teens worrying that I would have to go there. I was in the last draft lottery. I pulled a 27. If the draft hadn’t ended I would have been on my way.
Now that I am older and wiser, I am sometimes remorseful that I didn’t go. Even though the cause was unclear, I know now that it is important to serve and protect the interests of this great country. I have taken to reading about the civil war and WWII. It’s kind of weird to realize that the Civil War was really not that long ago. The last veteran of that war died within my lifetime (1958). WWII vets are still all around us, but their ranks are thinning. Now I watch The History Channel and see Vietnam Vets interviewed and they look old.
I think about my dad and my uncles serving in WWII. I think about friends of mine who served in Nam. I think about the kids of my friends who have served or are serving in the Mid-east. I remember the day I visited “The Wall”. I sat on the ground and cried. I cried out of grief for the 58,000 who died in Nam. I cried for the 600,000 who died on our own soil so that all could be free in this country. I cried for the WWI & II vets who never came back from places like Normandy, and Sarabachi. I cried for the Korean vets. I cried for those who did come home, but left part of their souls in those dark and dangerous places. After a time, I felt a sense of calm and peace. I realized I wasn’t alone. I was surrounded by veterans and non-veterans all feeling the same wave of emotions. The calm and peace I felt was the souls of those departed telling me that they were alright, and that their sacrifice was not in vain. I gave thanks for their patriotism, commitment, bravery, and sacrifice.
I lowered my flag to half-staff this morning…I prayed that God would continue to bless this land, that God would protect this great country, and that God would comfort the families of those lost in battle to preserve our freedom, and that God would make his presence known to those who live with the haunting memories of war, and that God would grant eternal peace to those who died in service so that we might picnin, party, swim, boat and celebrate summer.
Saturday, May 21, 2005
Wonder of wonders, miracle of miracles....
The wierdest thing happened yesterday...
I bought a new Ford Truck. I negotiated the whole deal online and over the phone. What was wierd was that when I went to pick it up, the deal didn't change. The dealer was not only helpful and honest but get this... they found me a better interest rate and the price/payment came down...not only that, they added in windshield breakage coverage and wheel/tire damage insurance AND gap insurance.
I have purchased a lot of cars in my life, I think this is the first time I have been treated with so much respect and honesty...
Congratulations Mullinax Ford in Amherst and specifically Pete Tobias ( internet sales guy ).
I bought a new Ford Truck. I negotiated the whole deal online and over the phone. What was wierd was that when I went to pick it up, the deal didn't change. The dealer was not only helpful and honest but get this... they found me a better interest rate and the price/payment came down...not only that, they added in windshield breakage coverage and wheel/tire damage insurance AND gap insurance.
I have purchased a lot of cars in my life, I think this is the first time I have been treated with so much respect and honesty...
Congratulations Mullinax Ford in Amherst and specifically Pete Tobias ( internet sales guy ).
Friday, May 20, 2005
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
A little help from your friends
Dear Wendy:
I am so sorry to hear about all the problems you are having ever since that nasty woman in California accused you of putting fingers in your salads. I know that you have lost a lot of sales because of this. I am so glad she was caught and I hope she is punished appropriately.
I am writing today in order to offer some assistance in rebuilding the Wendy’s business and reputation.
Since I do have a background in marketing and advertising I try to offer my services whenever possible to organizations like yours that are in the midst of a crisis. To that end, I have developed a creative promotional campaign that I believe will not only put you back on top of the salad dispensing world, but will allow you to turn this unfortunate incident into something that will get you free, positive media exposure…
Picture this… a simple ad campaign titled… “Wendy is giving you the finger”, or “I got the finger at Wendy’s”. Either one will work.
Now, here is the premise of the promotion. Since the finger was planted, and there never was a slip up on your part, you have nothing to be ashamed of. You should take advantage of the whole finger in the salad thing, by running a nationwide promotion in which you encourage people to buy a salad in the hopes of discovering a finger in their salad. (The finger would of course be plastic ). Any one finding a finger in their salad would automatically win a prize matched to the “finger print” on the finger. Since all the fingers would have to have a different print, you could encourage people to collect all the fingers of the same print. When they get an entire hand, they would get a free trip to Palm Springs! Of course for anyone to get a full hand you will have to throw in a thumb once in awhile. You could call this the “thumbs up winner! Perhaps just getting a thumb could get the recipient a one night stay on some roadside motel somewhere along Route 66. Other prizes could include free manicures and acrylic nails, “Isotoner” gloves, “Palm Pilots”, free chicken fingers at your restaurants…etc.
I can see people really getting excited about the whole thing. Wendy... you could end up on Letterman!
I would be happy to coordinate this effort with your existing ad agency. (Quite frankly, I am rather disappointed and surprised that they have not already thought of this. You might consider a new agency.) You may contact me through the email address listed below.
Finally, I recommend that you get going on this before Kohl’s Frozen Custard in North Carolina steals the idea. It has already been reported that a customer found a finger in his custard…It is only a matter of time. Damn, nobody has original thoughts anymore.
Your friend,
Jim
I am so sorry to hear about all the problems you are having ever since that nasty woman in California accused you of putting fingers in your salads. I know that you have lost a lot of sales because of this. I am so glad she was caught and I hope she is punished appropriately.
I am writing today in order to offer some assistance in rebuilding the Wendy’s business and reputation.
Since I do have a background in marketing and advertising I try to offer my services whenever possible to organizations like yours that are in the midst of a crisis. To that end, I have developed a creative promotional campaign that I believe will not only put you back on top of the salad dispensing world, but will allow you to turn this unfortunate incident into something that will get you free, positive media exposure…
Picture this… a simple ad campaign titled… “Wendy is giving you the finger”, or “I got the finger at Wendy’s”. Either one will work.
Now, here is the premise of the promotion. Since the finger was planted, and there never was a slip up on your part, you have nothing to be ashamed of. You should take advantage of the whole finger in the salad thing, by running a nationwide promotion in which you encourage people to buy a salad in the hopes of discovering a finger in their salad. (The finger would of course be plastic ). Any one finding a finger in their salad would automatically win a prize matched to the “finger print” on the finger. Since all the fingers would have to have a different print, you could encourage people to collect all the fingers of the same print. When they get an entire hand, they would get a free trip to Palm Springs! Of course for anyone to get a full hand you will have to throw in a thumb once in awhile. You could call this the “thumbs up winner! Perhaps just getting a thumb could get the recipient a one night stay on some roadside motel somewhere along Route 66. Other prizes could include free manicures and acrylic nails, “Isotoner” gloves, “Palm Pilots”, free chicken fingers at your restaurants…etc.
I can see people really getting excited about the whole thing. Wendy... you could end up on Letterman!
I would be happy to coordinate this effort with your existing ad agency. (Quite frankly, I am rather disappointed and surprised that they have not already thought of this. You might consider a new agency.) You may contact me through the email address listed below.
Finally, I recommend that you get going on this before Kohl’s Frozen Custard in North Carolina steals the idea. It has already been reported that a customer found a finger in his custard…It is only a matter of time. Damn, nobody has original thoughts anymore.
Your friend,
Jim
Monday, May 02, 2005
Big Fish
One of my favorite recent movies is “Big Fish”. If you aren’t familiar with it, it is about a young man’s perception of his father’s “fish stories”. I am especially fond of the movie because my kids never believe the stories I tell them about the things I have done and people I have met.
In a nutshell…A friend of mine and I saved Hal Holbrook from getting hit by a New York Taxi. I met privately with Bernadette Peters in her dressing room. I once drove Della Reese to an eastside Cleveland drug store at 2:00 in the morning. I partied with Martin Mull. I was on stage once with Bruce Springsteen (see my post from Dec. 15, ’04). I pushed jazz great; Woody Herman around in his wheelchair after his car accident. I helped create the original marketing plan for the soft-drink “Mello Yellow”. (That one really gets them going) I got into an argument with magician Harry Blackstone. I once told Liza Minelli’s manager to “shove-it” and got yelled at by Mickey Rooney and Jerry Lewis.
I won’t even get into how I may have saved President Bush…
Someday, when Variety Magazine reports: "J Zak Drps Ded", the kids will know, that I didn’t make this stuff up!
In a nutshell…A friend of mine and I saved Hal Holbrook from getting hit by a New York Taxi. I met privately with Bernadette Peters in her dressing room. I once drove Della Reese to an eastside Cleveland drug store at 2:00 in the morning. I partied with Martin Mull. I was on stage once with Bruce Springsteen (see my post from Dec. 15, ’04). I pushed jazz great; Woody Herman around in his wheelchair after his car accident. I helped create the original marketing plan for the soft-drink “Mello Yellow”. (That one really gets them going) I got into an argument with magician Harry Blackstone. I once told Liza Minelli’s manager to “shove-it” and got yelled at by Mickey Rooney and Jerry Lewis.
I won’t even get into how I may have saved President Bush…
Someday, when Variety Magazine reports: "J Zak Drps Ded", the kids will know, that I didn’t make this stuff up!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
