Hail to Thee Oh Needashave!

Needashave is based on the bewhiskered old man with the green bike and saddlebags who often rode silently past my first, childhood home. It seemed he spray painted his entire bike green, including the wheels and saddlebags. We were across from the fenced-in O & W railway yards, and any traveler past our home was reason to run to the front and let fly our greetings. But, Needashave was a challenge. He never acknowledged the existence of anyone on our street that I ever saw. He patently ignored our waves of greeting, as he did any from other kids in the neighborhood. Actually, he ignored the adults as well. But we kept trying.

My home at 210 Cottage Street

And we never knew where he was going, though he rode his bike very smoothly and with a decided firmness of intention no matter the weather. No one I knew had ever seen him anyplace except our street, riding to or fro. From what Ed told me, Needashave was spending his last days living in a rock wall in the woods up the hilly street. And, of course, older brother Ed always told the truth to his much younger siblings [he saw it on the Internet?.]

Needashave's existence, albeit a harmless one, was used by Mom and Dad, jokingly, as the local bogeyman [we pronounced it boogeyman] when we needed chastisement for any wayward kid activities. But, knowing his aloofness as we did, we were far from terrified.

From what I could gather, this harmless soul lived alone somewhere up the hill, had only a bike for transportation, and was not interested in Middletown society, however modest. But, for me at least, he'll always be a childhood memory. "Hail to thee, oh Needashave!"

Hail to Thee Oh Needashave

Silent lane with breeze alive;
Powered chain and a one wheel drive;
Sun or rain---and that's no jive!
..........Rides along our Needashave.

Saddle bags with contents hid;
Passing crags with a no climb bid;
Zigs nor zags---but smoothly rid.
..........Rides along our Needashave.

Barber's bane, he'd use no blade;
Ragged mane of cut delayed;
Hirsute pain? Yet features staid.
..........Rides along our Needashave.

Railroad fence whizzing by;
Common sense tells you why:
“Riding hence, while always shy!”
..........Hail to thee oh Needashave!

How Do I Measure Thee?

Measurement. Should we use avoirdupois or metric?

Confusing uses of both are what we have now. Quick! How many ounces in a kilogram? We have no useful knowledge of the correlation between the two systems. Do we see the conflict as just another problem of the the Modern World to deal with? Or is it something we can change to make less confusing? Maybe we should recognize and accept legally the measuring system we've been listening to informally for many years. I call it the 'Place and Symbol System.' First we have the 'peanut', measuring small. 'Hey there peanut! When are you going to grow?' Or the plant was 30 peanuts high! Second is the 'golf ball,' a medical measurement. 'His tumor was the size of a golf ball!' [Dimples and all?] Third the walnut is the same type of medical term. 'Her tumor was the size of a walnut with all the wrinkles!' Fourth, a 'baseball,' is another medical term. 'His tumor was the size of a baseball, stitching and all!' 'His fastballs came at the plate pill size! That's why I couldn't hit them!'

Fifth, we have a city bus. 'The rock on the roadway was the size of a city bus!' Sixth, we have an Elephant. 'This machine part is the size of an Elephant and weighs twice as much!' Seventh is a football field. 'His car could race the length of a football field in .0009 seconds.' The size of the fire was about that of six football fields. Eighth is an olympic swimming pool. 'That puddle is the size of an olympic swimming pool!' Then we have the Empire State Building. 'This tower is as tall as 2 Empire State Buildings, one on top of the other.' We also have the States of the Union. 'His farm was the size of Rhode Island!' For larger sizes we have the circumference of the Earth [about 25,000 miles.] "They make enough candy bars every day to circle the Earth 2.6 times!' And finally we have the distance between the Earth and the Moon [about 236,121 miles.] 'His administration spent enough dollars to stretch from here to the Moon four times!' This system is a visual one, and it has more substance than the typical inches, feet, yards, miles, centimeters, kilometers, meters---because you don't need to know the avoirdupois system or the metric system. There are many other candidates for this system, including megaton, the Amazon River or basin, the Sun, Jupiter, distance to Pluto, etc. But, we can officially add them as they gain popularity with other than the self-promoting scientists. See? You can sleep better now in your king sized bed. You know, the one that's as long as a quarter horse. The answer to the inches in a kilogram? 35.27396 ounces. You know, the length of two lap dogs, tail to tail. Or in metric, 6.022e+26 atomic mass units.

The End of Fair and Accurate Reporting?

I have recently come to the conclusion that FOX has nearly finished its transformation into another example of the Liberal press. My source for news has now turned against me and other Conservatives seeking truth and fairness in the press---and not only with the growing leftist bias of stories, but with that of the opiners and the demise of the comment sections---where Conservative writers would be giving FOX hell for the changes. In true Liberal style, this Conservative dissent has been ignored and prevented from being posted. I can't find any articles or stories on the FOX site that I can post a comment on. Instead, the bottom of the page where the story ends has an ad for AOL, another Liberal outlet. Rupert Murdoch has turned to mush and let truth down. FOX doesn't even list Ann Coulter, Walter Williams, or Thomas Sowell as a opinion columnists anymore---the latter two are black Conservatives. My questioning and dissenting emails sent to Fox remain unanswered---apparently ignored completely. Is there anything out there in media-land protecting the truth anymore? Have the Liberals completed their sweep? They've had the schools from grammar to post graduate for years---we see the results of that daily. Without the old FOX and the sane, Conservative commenters, I'm no longer sure of stories heard or read or of if we can unseat the Democrats in November and return our Country to a path of fairness and economic success. Our Country seems destined to die a death of Third Worldism and economic disaster. The Liberals are finally bringing our Country to its knees. I'm going to visit the minor web sites with the truth posted more and more as it may help me. But I'm growing pessimistic about the USA and it's ability to clean house and recover from the Liberal treachery and its preferred, Communistic way of governing. I hope the rest of the old FOX readers will help overcome this with some action on the Republican/Conservative front. Our lives and those of our children and grandchildren depend on it.

Where Are We?

[NB Our interview with Marcus Cicero is still in the works. His publicist, Veni Vidi Vici Octavius Boor, has been gumming up the works a bit, but we'll get past him to the real stuff.] Depressed and angry about the state of society today? It's hard not to be. From the recent News: "Radical leftists arrested in Chicago mob and hammer attack; 340lb Woman punches, pepper sprays, and spits on Piggly Wiggly workers in bid to steal food"; "Trayvon Martin day declared at DC school"; "Elderly clerk [set afire in robbery] dies of injuries"; Cannibalism comes to South Beach [Miami]"; "Texas honor student [working two jobs to support siblings] jailed for truancy likely spent night with 'hard-core' criminals"; "Home prices hit fresh lows..."; "Ohio Man Crashes Truck Into Taco Bell After His Drive-Thru Order Is Short One 99-Cent Taco". --- these are just samples of the everday events in the Country and World. The Socialists have taken control in France. Riots are rampant against the Greek Government---which is trying to save Greece with austerity measures after giving the store away for so many years. Countries like Spain, Italy and others are just hanging on to their existence and economies. Socialist policies [and the free lunch concept] are mainly responsible for these problems---along with the labor unions. Germany's Merkel has lost some of her power in recent elections. The US is economically near-terminal and being pushed down the slope to Socialism and Communism by the left's messiah, the Kenyan Obama. We have a President who's citizenship is under question, yet he won't release any records of his earlier life---birth or school. Vladimir Putin, the maybe-ex-KGB strongman, has taken over Russia again and is viciously stifling dissent. Russia tried Democracy but hasn't been able to hack it. And as it struggles to decide between Socialism/Communism and Democracy, it's headed towards tyranny again. The Muslim fundamentalists---while they are threatening Israel with annihilation--- are taking radical control of Egypt, Libia, Syria et al. Scotland Yard has sought and pressed to ban the word 'blacklist.' They say it's racist. The US is permitting Communist China to buy our Country's largest movie theater chain. Obama has unilaterally ceded Alaskan islands to Russia, complete with a number of vital resources. Little boys can't hug little girls. Kids can't operate lemonade stands without being raided by the local police. In order to fly in a commercial airplane, we have to submit to demeaning groping and insults. Last year, a youngster was thrown out of school for bringing an American Flag to school. The teacher thought the Mexican flag more appropriate on Cinquo de Mayo---in a US school. So the student was sent home as punishment. Another teacher called out a student for not having the correct items in his lunch bag. She confiscated it and made the kid eat chicken nuggets---billed to his parents. There was nothing wrong with his bag lunch. A 6-year-old girl down in Florida was "throwing objects, hitting administration personnel and screaming uncontrollably" [as six-tear olds are wont to do] so police handcuffed the 40 pound little girl and shipped her off to a mental institution for evaluation. [Paging Nurse Ratchett!] In New Haven, Connecticut a 10-year-old boy was actually arrested by police for giving another student "a wedgie" on a school bus. Seriously folks, childhood is being thwarted. PCism is running rampant throughout the US. The food police are active in our schools, the PC principals and administrators are banning everything from t-shirts to simple prayers while a kid is at school---but footbaths and prayer rooms for the Muslims are okay with them. Religion---especially Christianity---remains under attack from the schools and organizations like ACLU and the left coast. The Atheists force their views on the majority with the aid and abetting of Liberal Judges and the ACLU who regularly leave their brains at home. And now, the question of gay marriage has arisen again with the 'evolving' Obama in the lead. Marriage is between a man and a woman and is charged with procreation and raising of children. Perverted reasoning has become too commonplace. Down in Florida, an 11-year-old student was arrested by police, thrown in jail and charged with a third-degree felony for bringing a plastic butter knife to school. In Texas, a 12-year-old girl was recently arrested by police for spraying two bursts of perfume on her neck.  She was formally charged with a misdemeanor. A 13-year-old boy at a public school in Albuquerque, New Mexico was recently arrested by police for burping in class.  The police marched him out of school and hauled him over to a juvenile detention center. Eric Holder forces a school to allow a male to use the Ladies' Room because the male's a mixed-up male person who 'identifies' as a women. And he wants donations to get a sex change operation so he/she/it can feel better of him/her/it-self. A teenage couple down in Houston, Texas poured milk on each other during a squabble while they were breaking up a while back.  Instead of being sent to see the principal, they were arrested by police and sent to court. When a very young girl recently kissed a very young boy at one Florida elementary school,  it was considered to be a "possible sex crime" and the police were called out. Federal, State, and local governments are tripping over each to ban religion from the public by claiming 'separation of Church and State'---when in fact, there's no such thing in our Constitution. From Amendment One: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..." That's it. Pretty simple in language, isn't it? Of course, if you're Muslim, the above doesn't apply. You can do whatever you want. A high school teacher warns a student that any criticism of Obama can get him arrested. "They did it when Bush was President," she said. They certainly didn't. We still have some free speech left. The class argument---with the loud, brassy teacher's voice in the forefront, went viral on the Internet. The teacher should be fired immediately for incompetence---never mind the PC crapola about 'investigating the situation' that thousands of others already know. Neo-NAZIs and Fascists are gaining strength, especially in our back woods where they train. While these people are rightly vilified for their violence and intimidation---the black bands and gangs, the Black Panthers, and such are fine and dandy with the Liberals. It's just white power that is anathema to them. And it's time for people to fully understand that these groups are leftist, not right wing. The fiction of a right-wing strongman is just that---fiction. NAZIs even have Socialist as part of their name. Despotism and Dictatorship are left wing events. Racism is being fanned by the self-appointed black leaders who have a track record of racism and inciting to riot and loot when they don't get their own way. They fan the flames whatever the facts---primarily to justify their own existences. And too many blacks follow them blindly. Too many in the media give them forums to advance their racism and hatred. They call themselves 'Reverends', yet they have no formal training nor do they act as ministers in the common sense. They only inflame hatred to garner pay-offs to fill their bank accounts. [Can anyone say Jesse Jackson or Tawana Brawley?] A fellow named Zimmerman [a Hispanic] was attacked by a fellow named Martin [a black], and the latter was shot for his thuggery Blacks and Liberals went wild. Racism! Murder! even though the facts of the case showed otherwise. But, since when have Liberals tempered their comments with real facts? So, the Black 'leaders' went into rant phase. Obama joined in calling Trayvon the son he never had. Other big-name Liberals joined the party. Now, Groups of blacks [mostly in 'hoodies'] attack whites [who had nothing to do with event] simply for being white and in an area the blacks don't want them in---like anyplace in public or private. An innocent white woman was beaten at a McDonalds drive thru by two black women and a black man calling out 'here's your grape soda.' Where are the cries of racism! Hatred! Ya ain't gonna hear them! Because the victims are white and the Liberals are not going to support them in any racial issue. Meanwhile, the normal, good people of the World continue to be oppressed by such as these. The attacks on Capitalism and good sense are common, too many Countries are near collapse with the great Social Give-Aways they've been practicing. Communism has ruined Cuba and Venezuela and North Korea---and other Socialized and religious-led Countries have shown the World objects of failure. Yet, no one seems to learn from the economic failures and oppression of citizens so shown on the World stage. They want to give away more and more money that they don't have. In the US, this policy has run up almost $5 trillion in deficits for the three and a half years of Obama-ism, higher and higher taxes, attacks on religion [but not Islam] and Capitalism, well drilling, etc. There's the creation of a 'Nanny State,' where the Government controls education, religion, the workplace, the home, and all our futures. We're going down in flames as the Democrats call for more and more taxes to secure the welfare state and their control of it. Were those things not in existence, our Country might be on the way to recovery. In the US, peaceful groups of the Tea Party are declared by the Left to be treasonous and violent, while the Leftist-supported Occupy movement tears our cities apart with violence, rape, and murder---and get the support of Democrats, notably the President. Countries threaten their neighbors with hatred, racism, and bellicose minds---North Korea, Iran, etc. They rush to put Nuclear weapons in their arsenals---why? Nobody is threatening their existence with the nukes. The problem is, too many of these Countries [mainly Iran and North Korea] are run by madmen, while their own citizens perish along the way. We have to work for responsible Government to HELP us in this life, manageable taxes, personal responsibility, and yes, family values---or what's left of them. We have to work with each other---with Liberals too---to live in peace and prepare ourselves for the afterlife---there is one, you know. But, don't give in to depression. We can turn it all around. Take the bull by the horns, use your honest vote to oust Obama and Company, and maybe we can get America back on track---and our kids can have their childhoods restored. It won't be easy, but we can do it.

What Part Goes to Heaven?

I'm always amazed at the number of people who respond to the Conservative columns and articles on various web sites.  Indeed, I'm amazed at the passion, vitriol, misinformation, lack of logic,  mis-interpretation of events, and  the ability to create something from nothing.  I speak, of course, of our 'friends' the Liberals. Tell me please, were they all born like that?  Or was their Liberalism a taught or conscious effort?  I can't understand such continual manipulation of reality coming from a serious person.  So, I must conclude that a genetic flaw or a special kind of insanity must be required to be a Liberal.

I was once read an opinion by Dinesh D'Souza about Liberal myths and radical Islam, and it was followed by over a hundred comments of varying quality, mostly the poorly written Liberal kind.  Perhaps Liberals should be forced to take literacy and intelligence tests before being given keyboards? [Right: Kabul Afghanistan from a nearby hill.] What I've learned over the years is that the radical Islamic Arabs don't need any particular reason to hate. Their lives are devoted to misinterpretation, misinformation, hate, murder, racism, mysogyny and the expected 70 virgins each in Heaven after they've killed themselves [I know.  The last two concepts don't really mesh.] 

They're taught those things from toddlerhood.  They even fight and try to destroy each other. I can't say they're killing an inordinate number of westerners in Afghanistan or other areas with their suicide bombing---some yes, but not as many as the main-stream media would have us believe.  Actually, they're killing mostly fellow Islamic Arabs.  And thankfully, such bombings are in decline. Tell me now, do the above mentioned activities rate high on the list of anyone's understanding of right and wrong or God?  And for you you pavlovian Liberal reactors, would you like to spend a month living in Bagdad or Kabul interacting with the populace? For a moment, let's assume there are 70 virgins in Heaven for each suicide bomber [Though, I'm not sure how many virgin hunks are reserved for the female bombers.]  And it's uncertain where these virgins would come from---but let's skip that problem for this discussion. 

If they're [the virgins] in Heaven to glorify God as passed souls are, why would they be interested in some sleazeball, maniacal suicide bombers of men, women, and children?  And won't these bombers be missing a few vital body parts as well?  Bombs do distribute "debris", don't they?  Since they don't believe in our Western concept of the soul, just what part of them is going to be in the hereafter or hereunder?  Is Isis or her handmaidens going to be around to put these suicide bombers back together again?  Why would the goddess want to do it anyway?  Didn't she have enough trouble with her brother Osiris?  [Humpty Dumpty call your office.] On the other hand, what makes anyone think that such bombers will gain Heaven in the first place?  Is that the kind of Heaven the average Islamic Arabs think exists?  That doesn't seem quite right.  Heaven is Heaven.  Heaven is a reward for good in its many manifestations.  Murderers need not apply. But one has to wonder as well, why do the so-called peaceful Islamic Arabs permit this pernicious radicalism to continue? 

How can we believe that Islam is a religion and not a cult?  How can we believe that Islam has peace in it's message?  It's up to the average adherents of Islam to start showing some common sense, toleration, and a real message of peace.  They need to start actively opposing the radicals. This farce of a peaceful religion---has been apparent for centuries. In 1786, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams were sent to negotiate with Tripoli's envoy to London, Ambassador Sidi Haji Abdrahaman or (Sidi Haji Abdul Rahman Adja). They inquired "concerning the ground[s] of the pretensions [of Tripoli] to make war upon nations who had done them no injury." The ambassador replied: "It was written in their Koran, that all nations which had not acknowledged the Prophet were sinners, whom it was the right and duty of the faithful to plunder and enslave; and that every muslim who was slain in this warfare was sure to go to paradise. He said, also, that the man who was the first to board a vessel had one slave over and above his share, and that when they sprang to the deck of an enemy's ship, every sailor held a dagger in each hand and a third in his mouth; which usually struck such terror into the foe that they cried out for quarter at once." 

Another thing I wonder about is the philosophical and scientific thought of the Middle East.  Recently, our President spouted the non-existent contributions to our society by the Muslims.  It was laughable, and proves again this Country is being 'led' by a group of amateurs.  Several thousand years ago, some of the Arabic doctors, thinkers and tinkerers were the best in the world.  What happened?  Oh, wait a minute?  The Arabs didn't invade the area until the 7th century.  I forgot.  Anyway, anything modern in the Arab world seems to originate in the West.  Tell me now.  Take away the so-called 'Koran scholars' and what's left?  Where are the Arab thinkers?  Scientists?  Where are the Arab scientific institutes?  The Arab airplane factories?  The Arab think-tanks? International Arab auditing firms?  The sanctioned Arab Women Rights groups? The large scale Arab Food production?  Anyone taste the new Jordanian Cornflakes lately?   I've got nothing against average Arabs mind you [I like the people, their food, and much of their culture], but their radical brethren have done them a great disservice with their criminal activities, as has their adherence to a violent 'religion.' 

As Will Rogers used to say, "I only know what I read in the papers."  And I don't see anything that impresses me about the Middle East lately, even with the Liberal bias in most main-stream media news items.  Besides, you don't have to be among the radical Arabs to be maniacal.  The Iranians aren't Arabs.  In reality, they're Persians---from the name of the country before Iran.  I like the old labeling better.  Yet, they're all Muslims with the associative violent and sexist agendas.  And I wouldn't be holding a beer and hot dog picnic in Iran anytime soon, despite some [destroyed] reformist uprisings. Our interest in the Middle East is essentially based on the need for oil.  There's no secret about it.  Our national interests depend on oil.  Our military needs oil.  Our industry depends on oil.  Our farms, homes, and consumer product industries depend on oil.  Gasoline; plastics; chemicals; foods; clothing; paints; inks; aeronautical fuel; pesticides; handheld blackberries; computers; telephones; buildings; swimming pools---Can the Liberals shun all these and other related products?  If they did, we wouldn't have to worry about them. They'd probably lack even the essentials of civilization.  [Though they could still have toilet paper, as long as it's all handmade from dead leaves, and they only use a few sheets at a time.] 

The same with all the other Liberals and closet communists around the world.  Alternatives to oil used for energy?  Well, we can't produce more nuclear power because the Liberals keep fighting plant construction.  We can't build more dams for hydroelectric power because the Liberals don't like them either.  And don't put up any windmills near a Liberal's home, they'll spoil the view.  Though a few windmills near Al Gore's home might be a good idea.  Imagine being able to put all that hot air to good use. Pundits now say that oil is headed for $250 a barrel.  Imagine that?  And still the Liberals call for more windmills, solar power panels, fewer nuclear power plants, and most dastardly, less exploration and use of our own oil and coal resources.  It seems they want the US to fail. And President Obama is leading the pack. If no oil was to be found in the Middle East, the rest of the world would probably leave the area alone so the radicals could play King of the sand dune and kill one other---as long as they kept it local, no one would be concerned.  But they probably wouldn't. 

Exportation of terror seems to be an inborn trait and would probably continue no matter what the circumstances.  [Let's see, 70 virgins times a million or so suicide bombers is about 70 million virgins just for the radical Islamic Arabs themselves.  That's a lot of chastity!] But, stability in the Middle East is now essential for everyone, and allowing the radical and semi-radical Islamic Arabs to kill each other won't do anyone any good, especially those on the short end of the stick.  So are we there trying to knock some sense into a subjugated people, or to allow them to gain their own freedom and rule with some chance of peace and tranquility for a change?  Haven't we deposed a maniacal leader who has used WMD in the past [against his own citizens?] 

Haven't we killed a pile of terrorists who would otherwise be killing people in the US and other countries---even more than they do now? Is everything going to turn to crapola if we leave too soon?  You bet it is.  $10 gasoline would be the least of our worries.  The Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe would feel the effects of unbridled Islamic terror, and they would have no rights left to ask the US for help as they have so often in the past.  And now our President wants to to provide American Court trials and possibly foist the dangerous radicals back on the American people with all the rights we thought we had, but which are slowly eroding under the Obama administration. 

Along with his apologizing for everything else American, I'm surprised President Obama hasn't apologized for 9/11. Well King Kong is dead, and the lemurs aren't big enough.  Now, as a parting thought, why don't we move the Liberals to the Middle East where they can have love-ins with the resident maniacs and sleazeballs.  To paraphrase Neville Chamberlain: "We could have peace in our time." Coming Soon: a frank discussion with Marcus Tullius Cicero Beware of the coming tricks of President Obama: http://www.nypost.com/p/news/opinion/opedcolumnists/an_billion_trick_ImTBFfz7MeuZLJY7JzXEIJ

Crabby Old Man---or Woman

I received this via an email, and I thought I'd pass it on. We would all benefit from this in our relation to our friends and relatives---or even strangers.


*****************
CRABBY OLD MAN or WOMAN
Anonymous

When an old man died in the geriatric ward of a nursing home in Moosomin, Saskatchewan, it was believed that he had nothing left of any value. Later, when the nurses were going through his meager possessions, they found this poem. Its quality and content so impressed the staff that copies were made and distributed to every nurse in the hospital. One nurse took her copy to Alberta.

The old man's sole bequest to posterity has since appeared in the Christmas edition of the News Magazine of the St. Louis Association for Mental Health. A slide presentation has also been made based on his simple, but eloquent, poem. And this little old man, with nothing left to give to the world, is now the author of this 'anonymous' poem winging across the Internet.

Crabby Old Man

What do you see nurses? . . . .. . What do you see?
What are you thinking . . . . . when you're looking at me?
A crabby old man . .. . .. . not very wise,
Uncertain of habit . .. . . . with faraway eyes?

Who dribbles his food . . . . . and makes no reply.
When you say in a loud voice . . . . . 'I do wish you'd try!'
Who seems not to notice .. .. . .. . the things that you do.
And forever is losing . . . . . A sock or shoe?

Who, resisting or not .. .. . . . lets you do as you will,
With bathing and feeding . . . . . The long day to fill?
Is that what you're thinking? . .. . . . Is that what you see?
Then open your eyes, nurse . . . . . you're not looking at me..

I'll tell you who I am. . . .. . . As I sit here so still,
As I do at your bidding, . . . . . as I eat at your will.
I'm a small child of Ten . . .. . . with a father and mother,
Brothers and sisters . . . . .. who love one another.

A young boy of Sixteen . . . . with wings on his feet.
Dreaming that soon now . . . . . a lover he'll meet.
A groom soon at Twenty . . . . . my heart gives a leap.
Remembering, the vows . . . . . that I promised to keep.

At Twenty-Five, now . . .. . . I have young of my own.
Who need me to guide . . . . .. And a secure happy home.
A man of Thirty . . . . . My young now grown fast,
Bound to each other . . . .. . With ties that should last.

At Forty, my young sons . . . . . have grown and are gone,
But my woman's beside me . . . .. . to see I don't mourn.
At Fifty, once more, babies play 'round my knee,
Again, we know children . . . . .. My loved one and me.

Dark days are upon me . . . . . my wife is now dead.
I look at the future . . . . . shudder with dread.
For my young are all rearing . .. . . . young of their own.
And I think of the years . . .. . . and the love that I've known.

I'm now an old man . . . . .. and nature is cruel.
'Tis jest to make old age . . . . . look like a fool.
The body, it crumbles . . . . . grace and vigor, depart.
There is now a stone . . . . where I once had a heart.

But inside this old carcass . . . . . a young guy still dwells,
And now and again . . . . .. my battered heart swells.
I remember the joys . . . . . I remember the pain.
And I'm loving and living . . . .. . life over again.

I think of the years, all too few . .. . . . gone too fast.
And accept the stark fact . . .. . that nothing can last.
So open your eyes, people ... . ... . . open and see.
Not a crabby old man . .. . Look closer . . . see ME!!

Remember this poem when you next meet an older person who you might brush aside without looking at the young soul within.

We will all, one day, be there, too!

Democrats, Fried Chicken Nuggets, and the Muslims

"Unfortunately, the Democratic Party of today bears no resemblance to the one I remember from my youth in a blue collar New Jersey neighborhood...It has been hijacked by left-wing ideologues who will say anything, do anything, right or wrong to enhance their power even at the expense of democracy and the rule of law." -- Lawrence Sellin, PhD in Family Security Matters
***
A TV commercial: "She had jewelry she never wore. So she brought it down to Fast Eddie. 'He gave me more money than anyone else.'" --- Well.....How much money did other people give you, and why aren't they in possession of the jewelry? Why would Fast Eddie give you money for jewelry that was already sold to someone else?
***

[This picture has nothing to do with the article, but I owned a 1965 Mustang---though mine was blue.

Although the jury and lawsuits are still out about the controversy of HFCS [High Fructose Corn Syrup] v Sugar, one can't help but notice that while some kids are allergic to HFCS, they are not allergic to sugar [either cane or beet.] If the two substances are the same, as the Corn companies tell us, this couldn't happen. Could it? The Corn companies are still battling lawsuits concerning their 'HFCS is the same as Sugar in your body. Ask a couple of overweight people about it.
***
Rebekah Speight sure has time on her hands. She's got this chicken nugget [I wonder how much money and investigation and eating she went through to find it] that vaguely looks like the George Washington representation on the quarter. [Actually, it does bear an uncanny resemblence to a Colonial, not necessarily George Washington---anyway, after a few weeks it'll shrink as it decomposes.] Some jerk actually bid $8,100 on Ebay for it. But when he won it? He chickened out. Now, it's out there again---along with similar nuggets said to represent Mozart, Santa Clause, Jay Leno, Elvis, Chelsea Handler, and the Easter Bunny. [Well, I'm here to say I know the Easter Bunny, and the chicken nugget isn't him!] None of the others actually looks like what they're said to resemble---even when the owner has taken pen with ink to assist in the depiction---though I'm not familiar with the name Chelsea Handler.
***
Let's see? Another TV commercial: That Mayhem fellow only appears in Allstate commercials. And he only seems to damage things NOT under an Allstate insurance policy. Besides, his paycheck comes from Allstate. So, based on the information provided, I can only see that Mayhem occurs in non-Allstate created by an Allstate employee. In other words, buy Allstate or else.

Don't assume I'm anti-Allstate [I'm just anti-stupid commercial.] The other advertising insurance companies are just as dumb in their commercials. They think all Americans are stupid and swayed by their shenanigans on videotape.
***

[A hundred years ago on April 10]

In retrospect of my last entry, here are the words to the song 'Colors', as performed by April Smith and the Great American Picture Show in the recent Lowes commercial---you know, the one with the paint colors swirling and dancing all over the landscape.

"I’ll wear your colors my dear
Until you’re standing right here
Next to the one who adores you
Whose heart is beating for you
Like a lighthouse guides a shipwrecked sailor safely from the sea
I’ll wear your colors til you come back home to me."
***
A thoughful approach to the dangers of the Muslims: I don't think Islam qualifies for any name other than a terror cult filled with hate and violence. Just read the Koran---and not just the early parts of peace that are preempted by the latter parts. This World situation with the Muslims is more serious than the Nazis or Communists because of the insidious invasions under the blind eyes of our so-called 'leaders.' Obama was born of a Muslim father, was a Muslim child in a Muslim school in Indonesia, spent twenty years listening to the hate speech from Jeremiah Wright, and calls domestic terrorists and their supporters his long-standing friends. As President, he kowtows before foreign potentates [mostly Muslim,] apologizes to for the existence of the USA to practically any Country demanding it, claims there is no terrorism and Jihad is acceptable, and promoted the construction of a conquest Mosque near Ground Zero. Obama is pushing this Country regularly towards a second revolution against the Government---and not from the freaks from the Occupy movements---a government that no longer represents the people---that is if he doesn't bankrupt the Country first. And his political party not only give him everything he wants, but go further with their remarks and actions. Oh, sweet November, please hurry and save us!

Also remember that the Muslims were violent right from their beginning in the 7th Century. Just read the Koran and other Muslim Holy Books. These violent and hatred based invasions are not new. In 732, the Muslim conquest was stopped by Charles Martel in mid France. In 1683 [September 11, by the way], the Muslims were stopped in Vienna by the King of Poland. The Muslims have always been taught to hate and conquer non-believers, treat other-than-Muslims as second class citizens, promote misogynism, and lie to achieve their ends. And this was started long before the US came into being. Wake up America! there. All Muslim Mosques should be closed because of their terrorist teachings and hate speech. This is all a case of American security and protection and not freedom of religion. You clowns down in Washington are supposed to protect us from terrorism and sedition, both foreign and domestic. Where's Charles Martel when we need him?

By the way, these are all factual comments. As Casey Stengel used to say, "You can look them up!"

Free Auto Insurance, National Denial, and Alouette!

Yes, I know I've been on a commercial kick lately. But in my defense, most commercials and ads give a lot of fodder for questioning from those who find them usually so ridiculous.

Major auto insurance companies continually put in their commercials how changing to their policies saves you $400 or $500 a year from the other guy. On a television commercial, Jerry Newman left State Farm and his agent Jessica to save money at the 15 minute place [Geico]. He crashed his car through the brick wall of his house and wants to go back to State Farm. [Personally, I wouldn't cover him for anything. He's a bad risk.] And Jessica gives Jerry the spiel how he could save $400 or $500 by switching to State Farm from Geico. Now, think about that. If all these claims are accurate, a driver could switch a couple of times and come out with no cost insurance! Saved $400 in fifteen minutes by switching from State Farm to Geiko. Now he can save another $400 by switching from Geico back to State Farm Then, he can save $400 more by switching from State Farm to 21st Century, ad infinitum. How long before you reach a zero cost policy!
**

During a Press Conference in 2008, Barack Obama was asked by General Bill Ginn [USAF ret'd] '...why he doesn't follow protocol when the National Anthem is played...?'

"...The General also noted for the Senator that according to the United States Code, Title 36, Chapter 10, Sec. 171... During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform are expected to stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. At the very least, "Stand and Face It..."

[Remember, Barack Obama was running for the Presidency of the United States]

"As I've said about the flag pin, I don't want to be perceived as taking sides...There are a lot of people in the world to whom the American flag is a symbol of oppression. And the anthem itself conveys a war-like message. You know, the bombs bursting in air and all. It should be swapped for something less parochial and less bellicose. I like the song 'I'd Like To Teach the World To Sing...If that were our anthem,then I might salute it. We should consider to reinvent our National Anthem as well as to redesign our Flag to better offer our enemies hope and love. It's my intention, if elected, to disarm America to the level of acceptance to our Middle East Brethren. If we as a Nation of warring people, should conduct ourselves as the nations of Islam, whereas peace prevails. Perhaps a state or period of mutual concord between our governments. When I become President,I will seek a pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity, and a freedom from disquieting oppressive thoughts. We as a Nation have placed upon the nations of Islam an unfair injustice. My wife disrespects the Flag for many personal reasons. Together she and I have attended several flag burning ceremonies in the past, many years ago. She has her views and I have mine...Of course now, I have found myself about to become the President of the United States and I have put aside my hatred. I will use my power to bring CHANGE to this Nation, and offer the people a new path of hope. My wife and I look forward to becoming our Country's First Family. Indeed, CHANGE is about to overwhelm the United States of America."

Of course, the mainstream media buried this comment. And enough people out there still voted for him. And we have a total mess in this Country because of his policies and profligate spending. I don't suggest anyone ask him about the Constitution this time around. And let's hope our voter friends learn their lessons and vote for 'anybody but Obama!.' Except, of course, the Ron Paul chaos.
**
Target's recent commercial is backed by a 1958 recording of 'Alouette' by the Delta Rhythm Boys. Sounds great.
**

MyLowes, on the other hand, has chosen a more modern setting for its flying, swirling paint colors. The song is 'Colors', and it's written and sung by April Smith and the Great American Picture Show. I searched the group, and I'll be purchasing and downloading their album with the full version of colors. During my search, I also came across a duet named Secret Sisters. They remind me of the old duo Patience and Prudence. Their first album [late last year] has Sinatra's 'Something Stupid' on it, and I like the sound. I may be buying and downloading that one too.
**
Airoptix has a new set of Lenses 'for people who sleep in their lenses.' I don't know about you, but I sleep in my pajamas and a bed. I've never seen a lens big enough to sleep in. And I certainly wouldn't want it in my eye.
**
And finally, we have the Pizza Hut Dinner Box where the announcer enthusiastically states: "Best of all, the $10 dinner box is only ten bucks!" I wonder if the guy who thought that one up got a raise? "Remember, our nickel cigar is now a buck!" Instead of the Clio, these guys should be getting the asp.

Stupid Is as Stupid Does

Are we stupid in general? or do only some of us lose control of our brains at times?

As first found in the 'Stupid' books of Leland Gregory [but shortened and re-worded except where quoted]:

*According to the AP in 2004: a "Norwegian motorist is slapped with parking ticket while stuck in traffic jam." [Must be a new source of income for the City.]
*In 1996 according to a police report: a school bus driver and his friend were charged with child endangerment because they told scary stories to five and six year old passengers. [Overheard in prison: "I'm in this dump for mass murder, meat. What did you do?" "I told scary stories to my bus passenger children."]
*In 1991, Japan had its biggest traffic jam in history. After a typhoon, about 15,000 vehicles were at a standstill over 94 miles of road! [And no port-a-potties!]
*In 1993, a traffic commissioner dismissed a speeding ticket because the issuing cop's motorcycle was the wrong color. ??? It was painted blue and white instead of the required black and white. [The uniform, helmet, siren, chase, and stop apparently didn't give the motorist a clue---because black isn't blue! Give me a break!]
*A newspaper ad: "Mixing bowl set designed to please a cook with rounded bottom for efficient beating." ['nuff said.]
*Warning found on a Korean kitchen knife: "Keep out of children." [Good advice for the continuation of the families.]
*A sign outside a furniture store in Virginia: "Antique tables made here daily." [Must be a distressed business.]
*An instruction sign on a camera back a few years ago: "This camera only works when there is film inside." [I guess air is not a good photographic medium.]
*Newspaper ad: "Christmas sale. Hand made gifts for the hard-to-find person." [Too many people playing hide-and-seek.]

In Middle English, the word 'balded' meant white. Ultimately, the word was shortened to 'bald,' and the American Eagle---with its white-feathered head---became known as a 'bald' eagle. [Despite the book title, I wouldn't say this fact is stupid. It's a factual explanation of something most of us glide over.]
****
Television commercials:
*In an ad for a Lawyers' Firm, a supposed client says: "...He was more than a lawyer. He was a human being..." [as opposed to, say, a shark?]
*Attend the MMI tech school and learn about motorcycles: "...I get up every day, and I love what I do..." [I love getting up every day also. It means my obituary won't be the morning's newspapers.]

Our children are currently being represented as dumb instead of smart, and the ad writers are as asinine as usual. Dumb down the population so you can sell more product. There's a Totino commercial making the rounds on television. Two boys are standing in front of a freezer [with no back, by the way] and calling Mom on the cell phone. "Mom, we're dying!" "No you're not. You're just hungry." They're at the freezer with the door wide open---and I always thought to die you had to stick your head in an oven. Staring them in the face is a bright yellow box of Totinos. They can't see it. Mom has to direct them to turn their gaze a few inches to the left where the yellow box is quite apparent. Okay they say. Thanks Mom. The boys grab the box, put the phone in the freezer, turn away while leaving the door wide open. At the table is a plate of Totino's exuding cigarette smoke to make you think they're hot and fresh. That's really something you would expect from Doug Hefernan or Arthur Spooner and Carrie. By the way, anyone remember: energy shortages? fatty fast food? education levels? common sense?

Lawyers in Sharkskin Suits

It's really getting ridiculous on TV with the attorney ads. The latest editions have suggested how the legal staffs prepare for them. As you know, medical literature describes all medications in detail, right through the chemistry. It tells you how the medication works and what organs it affects---Then, it gives you detailed information on side effects and warnings. "Don't take this medication if you have..." Do not exceed...pills in a 24-hour period. "Discuss with your doctor if you suffer from..." The information details go on aud nauseam about the dangers of the stuff. And, because of these sue-happy lawyers, any medication ad spends more time listing side effects than it does talking about the medication itself. Notice the magazine ads with two pages of medical information?

Lawyers Approaching the Bench by Jeff Leedy

Back to the commercials. Apparently, the attorneys' staffs read about the side effects and other important information about a drug, make an ad misleading the listener based on that information, and frighten them into shunning the medication in the first place. This causes needless suffering, but the lawyers catch a client or two from the many who call them trying to cash in on something. Is there any wonder why sharks are pictured in the dictionary at the description of attorney/lawyer? Anything to promote their business, eh?

In their defense, however, I'll say that on occasion they do a service---such as the recent commercials about the trans-vaginal mesh. There's a lot of controversy about the mesh's use, though the ad never mentions the health damage of doing nothing in the first place. A conundrum.

Talk to your doctor about medications you are prescribed. They all have side effects. They use the liver or kidneys to be processed after their medical applications, and then they leave, usually through the urine. Find out about interactions between drugs you're taking. Overdoses are generally where most of the problems are, followed by prior-medical problems and drug interactions. Every medication on the market has side effect, and the providers go into the necessary details about them.

I have gout in a big toe and arthritis in my hands. The only medication [other than habit-forming amounts of narcotics] that helps is the OTC Aleve aka Naproxen Sodium. Taken for a few days provides welcome relief. But the medication is removed via the kidneys, and because of diabetes, I only have a third of my kidney function left. So, the doctor told me not to take it more than once or twice a week---if I had to. If I took it more, I might end up with a complete kidney failure, and the lawyers would be crowding at my door for me to sue someone. There's nothing more scary than to wake up with a haze and see the grinning shark teeth of a lawyer 'there to protect my rights.'

Lawyer in a Sharkskin Suit painting by Ryan Berkley

I wonder about these attorneys, though. I'll bet you even money that they use some of the same products they're railing against. You don't think an attorney is going to take an aspirin or a Tylenol for a headache? Is he concerned about liver failure? What about the other drugs they rail against: Avandia or insulin for diabetes; ? How do they treat or cure their afflictions---and they do have afflictions like other humans [as the woman said in one regularly televised ad "...he treated me well. He's more than a lawyer; he's a human being..." thus leading us to understand that the average lawyer [not in that firm] is not a human being]? What species is he?
***
According to a recent commercial, H & R Block is opening up millions of offices in your homes. Does that mean you reap the benefits of rent, insurance, cleaning, telephone, Internet access, profit sharing and the like? Does Block have to pay extra taxes for all those offices? There must be truth and more details in advertising.

From Gold to Insanity

"Look closely at history in the making..." begins the announcer for another 'gold' coin rip-off. He describes in detail a real coin before craftily crossing over to what he is actually selling: a coin 'proof' [not a real 'proof' in coin collecting] that is not a coin of the realm but a slug with 24karat gold 'cladding.' "...price can only be guaranteed for 7 days..." He slyly indicates that the 'coin' has 14mg of pure, 24 karat gold. But, at a $1,500 per troy ounce market value of gold, this clad 'coin' has only 68 cents worth of gold on it. So, the claims of the gold price skyrocketing, or the original 'coin' value rising don't mean anything. For every $100 increase in the market value of an ounce of gold, this 'proof' increases in value by 4-1/2 cents. Besides, the ad has been running for months, and the price never changes. This buffalo 'proof' isn't a coin, so it has no inherent value among collectors. And it only has 68 cents of gold applied over the unnamed base, thus it would cost too much for you to retrieve and use the gold. This 'proof' has no real value there either. [If the price of gold ever explodes to $5,000 per ounce, then this 'proof' will increase $1.58 in value.] I'm not aware of any secondary market for these things, and I doubt there's any market for the filmy gold because it costs more than the value of the gold to get it off the slug. If there was, the price for the entire unit would probably be around $1. If you need to spend ten dollars, you'd be better off buying a roll of quarters.

***

Any Conservatives or Republicans out there who are careful who they use for important services and protection should know that the Peter B Lewis [son of the founder and currently chairman of the board] of Progressive Insurance is a die hard Liberal/Democrat activist in the manner of George Soros. In fact, he contributed millions in cooperation with Soros to advertise for the legalization of marijuana. The billionaire is also a card carrying member of the ACLU and a rumored heavy marijuana user. Requiring matching funds from George Soros, Lewis gave $millions more to Liberal organizations such as MoveOn.org, Democracy Alliance, America Coming Together, and Media Matters. Thus some of your insurance premiums pay for this activism either through Progressive itself or the activities of the chairman. Lewis greatly improved his inherited wealth through Capitalism. He enlarged his company, has a nice ad campaign, and takes money regularly from Conservatives through his advertising at Conservative sites and organizations---and spends it on anti-Capitalist Liberal causes.

["...In 2009, Progressive was accused of ordering [...its...] advertisements off the air during the show broadcast of Glenn Beck on the Fox News Channel over comments made about U.S. President Barack Obama. Progressive stated that [...it...] never authorized [...its...] ads to be aired during Beck's program, and they aired in that time-slot due to Fox's error..."]---that's a typical answer from a Liberal-led corporation.

So, as much as I like the 'Flo' character, I'll pass on Progressive. I'm not helping any millionaire Loony Liberal damage the Country even more with his money.

***

Intelligent people are not surprised anymore with the utterances of Barack Obama. But....he did warn us. Yes he did! Back in 2008, he was very specific about his present and future plans.

[From Sunday's 07 Sept. 2008  11:48:04 EST,  Televised 'Meet the Press']

General Bill Ginn' USAF (ret.) asked Obama to explain WHY he doesn't follow protocol when the National Anthem is played.
 
The General stated to Obama that according to the United States Code, Title 36, Chapter 10, Sec. 171..."During rendition of the national anthem, when the flag is displayed, all present (except those in uniform) are expected to stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. Or, at the very least, 'Stand and Face It.'"

Obama answered. "As I've said about the flag pin, I don't want to be perceived as taking sides". [Being an American is 'taking sides?'] "There are a lot of people in the world to whom the American flag is a symbol of oppression.." [Ask the European Countries who were under siege from the NAZIs or the Asian Nations under siege from the Japanese back in the middle of last Century.] "The anthem itself conveys a war-like message. You know, the bombs bursting in air and all that sort of thing."

Obama continued: "The National Anthem should be 'swapped' for something less parochial and less bellicose. I like the song 'I'd Like To Teach the World To Sing'.  If that were our anthem, then, I might salute it.  In my opinion, we should consider reinventing our National Anthem as well as 'redesign' our Flag to better offer our enemies hope and love.  It's my intention, if elected, to disarm America to the level of acceptance to our Middle East Brethren.  If we, as a Nation of warring people, conduct ourselves like the nations of Islam, where peace prevails - - - perhaps a state or period of mutual accord could exist between our governments ..." [Islamic nations are peaceful?? Our Nation's loss of lives for others and spilling blood in defense of freedom don't count in Obama's vision---those things were Bush's fault.]

Obama then, doesn't understand American History, dislikes our flag, dislikes our anthem, wants to disarm America until the Muslims like it, and believes that peace prevails in the Middle Eastern Muslim nations. Seeing how he's stuck close to his plan, we can't afford any more time with him in charge. He's dismantling our security and forcing us into socialism and communism. All while he takes numerous taxpayer-paid vacations and golf trips. God help us!

Christmas 1907-2011

This is a poem of 100 years ago. The
reference to 'central' is to the telephone exchange at
the time. There were no button or even dial phones
in those early years. Hello Central? Give me the
drugstore---but not if Mr. Gower's alone.

Twas the night after Christmas in Santa-Claus land
And to rest from his labors St. Nicholas planned.
The reindeer were turned out to pasture and all
The ten thousand assistants discharged till the fall.
The furry great-coat was laid safely away
With the boots and the cap with its tassel so gay,
And toasting his toes by a merry wood fire,
What more could a weary old Santa desire?
So he puffed at his pipe and remarked to his wife,
"This amply makes up for my strenuous life!
From climbing down chimneys my legs fairly ache,
But it's well worth the while for the dear children's sake.
I'd bruise every bone in my body to see
The darlings' delight in a gift-laden tree!"
Just then came a sound like a telephone bell—
Though why they should have such a thing I can't tell—
St. Nick gave a snort and exclaimed in a rage,
"Bad luck to inventions of this modern age!"
He grabbed the receiver—his face wore a frown
As he roared in the mouth-piece, "I will not come down
To exchange any toys like an up-to-date store,
Ring off, I'll not listen to anything more!"
Then he settled himself by the comforting blaze
And waxed reminiscent of halcyon days
When children were happy with simplest of toys:
A doll for the girls and a drum for the boys—
But again came that noisy disturber of peace
The telephone bell—would the sound never cease?
"Run and answer it, wife, all my patience has fled,
If they keep this thing up I shall wish I were dead!
I have worked night and day the best part of a year
To supply all the children, and what do I hear—
A boy who declares he received roller-skates
When he wanted a gun—and a cross girl who states
That she asked for a new Victor talking machine
And I brought her a sled, so she thinks I am 'mean!'"
Poor St. Nicholas looked just the picture of woe,
He needed some auto-suggestion, you know,
To make him think things were all coming out right,
For he didn't get one wink of slumber that night!
The telephone wire was kept sizzling hot
By children disgusted with presents they'd got,
And when the bright sun showed its face in the sky
The Santa-Claus family were ready to cry!
Just then something happened—a way of escape,
Though it came in the funniest possible shape—
An aeronaut, sorely in need of a meal,
Descended for breakfast—it seemed quite ideal!
For the end of it was, he invited his host
Out to try the balloon, of whose speed he could boast.
St. Nick, who was nothing if not a good sport,
Was delighted to go, and as quick as a thought
Climbed into the car for a flight in the air—
"No telephone bells can disturb me up there!
And, wife, if it suits me I'll count it no crime
To stay up till ready for next Christmas time!"

-- Anne P. L. Field c1907

A very Merry Christmas to all!

Local Vocals

Excerpted from ‘Name That Sound’ a biographical essay:
During the week we’d often see a funeral, and sometimes on Saturday or Sunday a wedding. One of the joys of being an altar boy was being called to serve at a funeral during school hours. I don’t mean the funeral was a joy---we were properly respectful. We were just happy to feel important enough to be called from class and spend a few hours away from education and the nuns. The weekend wedding was a real perk, and living across street led to my being called for the services quite often. A wedding [one server,] unless it was a mass [two servers,] didn’t take long, and the best man usually paid us altar boys a stipend. That extra cash meant a lot to us kids of the cloth.
With a Catholic bride and a Catholic groom, we opened the altar gates and the service was performed at the foot of the altar. With the Mass, the bride and groom had prie-dieus to kneel on also at the foot of the altar.

For a mixed marriage---Catholic and non-Catholic---the service was performed at the altar rail. It was just as solemn and joyous for the participants. Sometimes, the bride went over to the side altar to pray to Mary while ‘Panis Angelicus’ [Food of the Angels] or ‘Ave Maria’ [Hail Mary] was played by the organist.

In the 1960s we had a fifth Mass early Sunday afternoon [about 1 pm or 2 pm.] It was for the Spanish-speaking parishioners, with the homily in their language. Since I never attended one, I don’t know whether the Mass was conducted in Latin or Spanish---probably the latter.

On holydays, such as Easter and Christmas, the traffic near our house was unbelievable. I watched the action for each Mass: Chevy Bel Air and Coupe, Chevrolet Styleline Sedan; Ford Edsel, Ford Custom, high-flowered hats; compact hats; Ford Crown Victoria, Ford Fairlane 500; Fedora; Packard Clipper, Packard Hawk; Easter dress with a fancy hat; Nash Metropolitan, Nash Ambassador, Nash Statesman; billowing scarves; Plymouth Belvedere, Plymouth Suburban; Dodge Coronet, Dodge Regent, Dodge Sierra; lush overcoats and wind-blown faces; Oldsmobile Super 88, Oldsmobile Firestar; Pontiac Starchief; Studebaker Champion, Studebaker Commander, Studebaker Golden Hawk, Studebaker Lark; laughing families; Buick Roadmaster, Buick Special, Buick Riviera; Hudson Jet, Hudson Commodore, Hudson Hornet; Mercury Sun Valley, Mercury Monterey, Mercury Voyager; DeSoto Adventurer, DeSoto Power Master; Caddie, or Lincoln; Frazer Manhattan; Kaiser-Frazer Henry J---but rarely a foreign car.

We were a hard-working parish. The really rich people, except for the Nowns Sisters must have gone to Church somewhere else. Some people who kept away from Sunday Mass all year showed up on Easter and Christmas. Services during Holy Week were also well attended. We had lengthy services on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. I remember attending everything, even when I wasn’t serving as an altar boy.

Holy Week started on Palm Sunday. We had the passing out of blessed and dried palm fronds as a symbol of Christ’s entry into Jerusalem. We were also read the Passion from the gospel. I didn’t like this as a kid because it was so long and only a repetition from the previous year. In the early fifties, everyone had to stand during the reading. Later on, the parishioners could sit---a deterrent to fainting spells.

We saw the reverence of Holy Thursday and the black sadness of Good Friday. And the anticipation and joy of Holy Saturday. These feelings led to the majesty of Easter Sunday. That morning with the lilies and other flowers represented the glorious feeling among us all, though I know as a little kid, I was more interested in the various treats of the day. The wafty flower aroma from the Easter Lilies was all about the church and added to the freshness of the Mass and ceremonies. We celebrated the rising from the dead of Jesus over two thousand years ago.

All through the fifties we had the same three elderly women as our church choir. [They may not have been elderly in the 1950s, but they sounded like it.] Mrs. Hallinan, Mrs. Hegewald, and another whose name I’m sorry to say I don’t remember. The third also played the organ. They sang in tune, but their assumed ages showed in their voices. They sounded dark and ominous and were well suited for funerals. I only wish we had had some younger singers to brighten the wedding and other joyous ceremonies, or some sinners of any age to appreciate the dark singing.

But there in the fifties, the ‘triumvirate’ had a stranglehold on the Church singing rights. I doubt anyone could have joined or replaced them. It would have been a heresy. No singers need apply. Perhaps their most annoying moments were their cranking out litanies during high Mass. As is often quoted: ‘A voice which could shatter glass!’

To be perfectly honest, I preferred and still prefer the old Latin, or Tridentine, Mass to the modern one in the vernacular of the parishioners. I go to a Latin Mass whenever and wherever I can find one, and I watch Midnight Mass from the Vatican every Christmas Eve instead of watching another version of ‘A Christmas Carol.’ Neither one however, is like the Masses I remember---although the St Peter’s mass comes close. By using the vernacular as mandated by the Vatican II council, a lot of mystery and ceremony seems lost.

The ‘numinous’ [inborn religious sense] has to fight an uphill battle to remain on an even keel. Protestant theologian, Rudolf Otto in his 1923 book ‘The Idea of the Holy’, discussed this concept. He has good, if somewhat dense, arguments and discussions of the presence of God and holiness. A mysterious aura is very important to a person’s belief. Take it away, as with the demise of the Latin Mass, and you create Catholics of convenience and the modern day, certainly not with the same devoutness as in the past.

In the Latin Mass, we didn’t shake hands and wish each other peace as we do in the vernacular Mass. After the service [or prayer; Mass is actually considered a prayer,] we made the effort to treat our neighbors with respect and courtesy every day. That’s what we were taught, and that was a most important attitude. ‘Love thy neighbor as t

Application Form for Candidates for the Offices of Representative, Senator and President of the USA

This test must be completed by the candidate [not a staff member] at one time, at a controlled location, without staff around, and with independent proctors. Answer the questions clearly, completely and without evasion or misleading statements. Time limit is two hours. The candidate must go through an airport-type full body scan before answering the essay questions. Appropriate official documents must be included with each test. The test will be signed at the end to indicate the candidate's true beliefs are presented within, and he/she will not be permitted crib notes, televisors, or other assistance in answering. All cell phones will be confiscated for the duration of the exam. The answers and documents will be reviewed by an independent group. All answers and copies of documents will be released to the public. Proctors for this monitoring must be thoroughly vetted by the FBI and CIA.

1. Where were you born? Under what circumstances? Who were your grandparents? Answer in detail. Did you go to college? Where and for how long? Did you graduate? [submit a transcript and copy of your diploma; submit an official Birth Certificate, and not a certificate of birth that doesn't mean anything.]

2. What is your view on abortion? Do you believe in infant life or death? Do you blame an innocent child for the circumstances surrounding its conception? Expand your answer and give details. How would you respond to the following?: Abortion is not the murder of a human being. Abortion is the murder of a human being. Euthanasia and assisted suicide are viable actions for a modern society.

3. What is your view on the size and scope of the Federal Government? Give details. Do you believe in unlimited taxes on Americans to finance Congressional mandates? How much is enough for a Federal Debt? Where do you draw the line? How can we best reduce the debt and annual deficit and should we? How do you view pork and earmarks? What is the relationship between the States and the Federal Government?

4. Are you a Socialist or Communist or Liberal or Progressive or Conservative or Libertarian or other term? Give examples of your political experience that shows what your ideology really is and why you believe in it. Provide examples of political positions you have held.

5. What are your qualifications for this office? Be specific in your giving of details. What is your prior political or management experience? How does this qualify you for this new elected office you want? Do you believe that judicious bribery is needed to complete political ends? Where would you be comfortable with such an action.

6. Do you take an oath to protect the Constitution as it is written or as you want it to be? Please be specific and expand on your answer. What are your views on Constitutional amendments?

7. Do you support all parts of the Constitution---including the amendments---as written? What part[s] of the Constitution are you against and not likely to protect? Please expand your answer and give examples. For example, the second Amendment to the Constitution reads: "A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed." How do you understand and support this?

8. What is your position on welfare? Will you help rein in the costs? Will you hold fathers responsible for providing support and not disappearing into the sunset? Will you deny persons the collecting welfare when they don't need it? What is your position on ILLEGAL immigration? [Don't confuse it with legal immigration.] Will you support the necessary protection of our borders and reduce illegal immigration logically?

9. Do you support our troops in all ways at all times? [Disregard what their civilian orders are.] How have you shown your support in the past? What is your total view on the military? Please expand your answers with specific examples.

10. Our founding fathers were religious, and they included God in their writings and documents. They only guaranteed rights in the Constitution. They didn't create them. Do you support God or Atheism in government? The 1st [read: predominate concern] Amendment to the Constitution reads: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances." Provide explanations of your beliefs in regard to this Amendment. How does removing crosses from public places, prohibiting school prayer, or banning the use of the word 'God' in political discourse mesh with this 1st Amendment? How do such actions not run afoul of it?

I _________________________ declare that the above answers are true to my beliefs and ideology and make no excuses for them. I have not equivocated or evaded any answer, and I have not simply answered them to best serve my purposes in the upcoming election. And I promise to resign any office I might be in if I ever deviate from this philosphy.

_______________________________________ The signature must be notarized.

________________________________

Please Note for the Journalists:
The Attitude of candidate when completing the essay questions.
The Length of time taken to complete the essay questions.
The Amount of sweat coming from each candidate.

The Privilege of Explaining Privilege

I've become tired of hearing the term 'privilege' bandied about by the Liberals in their class warfare efforts. Like so many other terms from the building of America, Liberals and minority groups have taken perfectly good words and bastardized them into another meaning, thus taking the terms out of our general discourse.

According to the online dictionary: "Privilege: a. A special advantage, immunity, permission, right, or benefit granted to or enjoyed by an individual, class, or caste. b. Such an advantage, immunity, or right held as a prerogative of status or rank, and exercised to the exclusion or detriment of others." The important word here is 'granted.' This indicates a 'grantor.'

According to Wikipedia: "A 'privilege' is a special entitlement to immunity granted by the state or another authority to a restricted group, either by birth or on a conditional basis. It can be revoked in certain circumstances. In modern democratic states, a privilege is conditional and granted only after birth. By contrast, a right is an inherent, irrevocable entitlement held by all citizens or all human beings from the moment of birth."

The sense of 'privilege' in general society is one that indicates favors for one among other equals. Having wealth or being successful takes a person out of the norm and no longer makes him 'privileged' but in a different strata based on work or luck or both. 'Privilege' comes from relatively equals in ability and success. It does not logically compare people of different success and wealth. The term 'privileged' has been misused for years, mostly by Liberals wanting to set one group of people against another---or else the Liberals are just stupid, a logical conclusion.

Merriam-Webster states: 'Good health care should be a right and not a privilege.' It should be neither. We have not been endowed with any right to force others to take care of us! Nor should others have an inherent right to not take care of us---we all being of the human persuasion! Health care should not be a privilege, but a need for a service easily given by others for just recompense. Who pays for that service can often be an event of contention, but it doesn't change definitions. [See a long definition of 'money' and 'wealth' somewhere.]

'We had the privilege of being invited to the party.' This is true. Among reasonably equal people, it is a privilege to be given something [an invitation] for nothing.

'I had the privilege of knowing your grandfather.' Another true statement. Again, among reasonably equal people, knowing a specific individual and profiting from him or her is indeed a privilege.

'He lived a life of wealth and privilege.' Not true. Wealth differentiates people, thus one group having more wealth, mostly from more personal success, would naturally have more valued items. And it's constituents would be able to purchase goods and services above and beyond what the members of another group can purchase. Thus, it is not 'privilege' any more than being smarter makes a person 'privileged.'

The next time you want to complain about the so-called 'privileges' of others, make sure you know the meanings of the terms.

So Near an Oak [1]

So near
An oak stood I,
And heard soft rustle from
Zephyr-kissed leaves…O, sweet, relaxed
I was!

Drowsy
Sense persuaded
Me to lie at oaken
Trunk, and smiling midst scents of wild…
I slept.

Peaceful
Visions floated
Through my eager mind, and
I dreamt of she I knew…yet know
Not now?


Beheld
I a union
Of true beauties, and it
Was mysterious to me, for
I have

Seen her,
And now I see
Her not. Unturned face with
Unseen eyes; unheard voice…yet I
Knew her.

For, I
Knew her, though time
Advance us both…still, one
Past was with me: ethereal
Moments

Recalled;
Good times and bad;
Smiles, tear; world's end of song;[2]
And sad reality leading
Apart.

And they
Will not cease for
Me. These wispy phantoms
Coalesce to a sun-kissed One,
Known for

Wind-blown [3]
Name…now clad in
Rich crimson gown 'neath soft, [4]
Silver beams flickering ghostly
Lattice

Webs of
Shadows dancing;
Amid whispering leaves
Fresh fallen, I hear her tones
Once more…

But ne'er
In dreams, for there
She remains silent and [5]
Elusive where e'er I go. Yet,
I have

Glimpsed deep-
Souled orbs reflect
Bright-hued, scented blooms of
Orchid, Reddened Rose, Violet…
Lilac… [6]

A sweet -
Perfumed luster
Amid dewy tints…a
Rainbow scene steeped in starlight
Twinkle.

In dreams
I find her, she [7]
Turns, and as her long-lost
Visage begins to meet the light
My heart

Quickens
At nearness sight…
But ne'er success to be,
For dreams do fade at unwished times. [8]
Sadly

Did mine
Eyes awake to
Darkness still, but now were
Wild scents welcoming my senses;
Now were

Scarlet
Streaks amid blue
Gray sky etching ebon
Hills across painted scene. I sat [9]
Me up

And watched
Day's dying flame
Settle West, as Gale in [10]
Life would see anon: we'd share same
View…though

Displaced
Time doth delay.
Chill wind reminds me; off
To home, where dreams will e'er fall short…
Success

Denied
But yearnings
Return…as will I to
Oaken shade on morrow pre-eve [11]
To dream

Again.
Yes, dream again
With hopeful change of sweetened
Vista in thoughts ephemeral
To last

'Til life
responds: contact
real and view so true will [12]
end our wondering minds' unease.
I sleep

Again
In wooded copse
And dream with hope to find
Rare soul. To reunite for hour?
Or Day?

Ever?
Near oaken trunk,
I lay again to dream,
Not to wither my soul's growth
In one

Narrow
Plane. Does Gale dream
As I? Do our dreams join
As One in mysterious ways?
Do our

Hearts guide
Us in same or
Different directions?
Will flowing time reveal melody [13]
Unchained?

Or tunes
Apart? I shall
Consider answers and
Hope for beauty return…now and
Ever.

Paper
Hearts and cyber
Streams…all sincere…can ne'er
Supplant Erato-'spired discourse
For Gale.


***
[1] The poem is dedicated to Gale
[2] Our song was Skeeter Davis's 'End of the World'
[3] Her name is Gale, like the wind condition
[4] The strongest memory I have of her is being in a red dress
[5] She remains silent in all my dreams
[6] Her---and mine---favorite bloom is the Lilac
[7] I dream of her often
[8] I sometimes wake up in the middle of a dream
[9] I had slept thru to twilight
[10] Gale lives in California; I live in Connecticut
[11] I wanted to return to the oak tree the next afternoon
[12] I wanted to get together with her again
[13] A reference to Unchained Melody, from our teen years

New Format

Dear Friends:

As we age, we all slow down a certain bit---what with normal wear and tear, disease, and accident. Well, I've been laid up with a repaired umbilical hernia and several diseases and degenerations and other things you don't want to know about. Consequently, my energy has led to reduced writing efforts.

As a result, I'm combining all my blogs into one. So, political, personal, and literary blog entries will all appear on the same blog. I will combine them all on the Notes for Ramey site: http://notesforramey.blogspot.com/ I will also be adding a few older entries that you may have missed. This blog will be a real find for you now. Please visit as often as you can. Tell your friends! Subscribe! Comment! Send me emails! tnmccoy@comcast.net I'll have it going within the week after I chase all the nurses away.

Thanks to all: TNM

Carmina and the Vonage Commercial

*So many commercials and movies today are using Carl Orff's music 'Carmina Burana' these days, that one would assume it's modern. It isn't. According to Wikipedia: "Carmina Burana..., Latin for 'Songs from Beuern' ..., is the name given to a manuscript of 254 poems and dramatic texts from the 11th or 12th century, although some are from the 13th century. The pieces were written almost entirely in Medieval Latin; a few in Middle High German, and some with traces of Old French or Provençal. Carl Orff 1895-1982
Many are macaronic, a mixture of Latin and German or French vernacular...Between 1935 and 1936, German composer Carl Orff set 24 of the poems to new music, also called Carmina Burana." --- From my study of other sources, I know this to be correct. This music, complete with eerie voices, is what has been used in numerous commercials and movies where they want a grand or eerily majestic aura around their words. Selections from the Carmina Burana include: O FORTUNA [Oh Fortune]; FORTUNAE PLANGO VULNERA [I Mourn the Blows of Fortune]; VERIS LAETA FACIES [A Spring Song]; and OMNIA SOL TEMPERATA [the Sun Pure and Gentle]; among others. Enjoy!

*I must be losing my hearing. The other day, in watching a commercial on TV, I thought I heard "Hi! I'm a T-Mobile Orgy!" After several times watching the commercial, I realized that the statement was "Hi! I'm a T-Mobile 4G." I always thought my hearing was pretty good until a few years ago when I heard a commercial with music "...I believe in mail call..." Later I found out it was "I believe in miracles." Modern musicians and advertisers pick lousy spokesmen. They elide too much, and they mispronounce words all over the place. And this is progress?

*Speaking of ads. I saw one hilarious effort from France about Perrier. It shows a pair of woman's hands caressing a small bottle of Perrier. While she continues this, the bottle morphs into a liter bottle. There's more, but not for this blog. You have to see it for yourself. It's on You Tube, just check for French Perrier commercials and watch Culture Pub's Best Water Commercials. It's at the end. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWqtWRL5Hm8&feature=fvst

*And finally, I sent an email to Vonage [which didn't get an answer] about one of it's new commercials. I told Vonage that 'Sucker Shmala' may be a good Indian or Pakistani name to show their World-Wide diversity, but it wasn't a good idea in the states for a commercial. It makes you think of 'small sucker', not a confidence inspiring moniker. Well, as I said, Vonage didn't answer me or hire me to write Vonage commercials, but the commercial noted in my email was taken off the tube and replaced with one with a less International flavor in the names. I wonder how many heads rolled due to my simple email?

*Is it just me, or does Paul McCartney look like an old woman? I mean I liked the Beatles when I was growing up, and the four of them looked okay back in the '60s. But he seems now to be an aging granny. Sad to see. I wonder if great wealth and renown make you look like that?

*It's a sign of aging when I see a film I never heard of, with a cast of people unknown to me, and cameos of people I never heard of. And the movie was absolutely terrible, yet it was given so great build-up by the station that you'd think it was an Oscar winner.

*Back on May 22 [the day after the end of the World], Baseball Hall of Famer Gary Carter announced that his MRI a day or two previously indicated three brain tumors. He'll have another [MRI] later this week. I sympathize with Gary and wish him well. Let's hope they're benign and non-growing. He then stated that he wanted privacy while he determined the extent of the tumors with his doctors and family. Well, if he wants privacy, why did he make the announcement? It's not like the ferreting press was going to find out about it soon. He's long retired, and he wasn't a superstar. Privacy means you keep your trap shut. He could have done that. Consequently, I don't think he wants privacy. He wants the World to know and sympathize with him.

Only the Names Were Changed to Protect the Unknown

I've found a fascinating diversion in Genealogy. I started off with the simple premise of finding my Family Tree back to the 19th century or a little earlier, if possible. But I got carried away. Following certain branches of the family, I've visited fourteenth century Italy [through France], fifteenth century Sweden, tenth century France, and eleventh century England---pretty much branching out all over the place. And all this background comes from three members of the family. They form gateways, so to speak. And what gateways! Royalty, nobility, and known scientists and thinkers. But then, if my family had normal antecedents, I wouldn't have so much information to find. I couldn't go back too far directly in Italy or Ireland because of the information sources petered out. Besides, I've discovered that any data earlier than the 19th century are often questionable or confusing. I found early age marriages of course. And young deaths. These were from the middle ages when the life expectancy wasn't so great.

But you must be careful about dead ends. It was popular in the first part of the 2nd millennium among the nobility to trace their Family Trees back to the beginning of mankind. Thus I found one branch tracing back via Popes and Saints and Apostles and gods and goddesses to Adam and Eve---no dates of course. So, watch yourself.

Count Baldwin of Flanders and his descendants.

And I came across marriages between people far different in ages---with children! On recorded father was only 14! That might be believable, but a mother aged 7? I think I'll doubt that one. I found at least one instance where the child was born before the parents! I'll doubt that one too. But it's all a good lesson in people and history. I suggest you try it as well. Most of my sources were free, with the notable exception of Ancestry.com. But I only pay for the latter month by month as I need it. It's surprising how much information is available for free on the web. But you have to think about it as you find it. Other amateur genealogists are often wrong or confusing, and sources vary in their accuracy. Some intelligent guesswork is necessary, but the whole process is still intriguing. I'm pretty sure my tree is substantially correct. But I rely on other people---I can't use original documents because I can't pay to do so, and I can't read most foreign languages.

I figure that in my whole body, I might have a nanogram or two of royal blood. Maybe I should appoint myself a Knight [Knight Owl?] and have people call me Sir all the time: Yes Sir! What can I do for you Sir?---After all, I was called Sir in the Navy! [I was called a number of other things too, but that's beside the point.]

I've always thought of the name 'Bertha' as an old fashioned one, especially since I never found anyone young with the moniker. But I found a few in my Tree. 'Bertha' is variously pronounced 'Ber-ta' and 'Bur-tha.' Per Behindthename.com, Bertha was "Originally a short form of Germanic names beginning with the element 'beraht' meaning "bright, famous". It was borne by the mother of Charlemagne in the 8th century, and it was popularized in England by the Normans. It died out as an English name after the Middle Ages, but was revived in the 19th century. The name also appears in southern Germanic legends (often spelled Perchta or Berchta) belonging to a goddess of animals and weaving.

One of the other interesting ancestor names is Massy Roads, though I could find out
nothing except her name, her husband, and her date of marriage. Picot de Saye was there as well. He was the son of Robert FitzPicot and married Adeloia. Then I delved further and came up with Manasses de Ghesnes.

My grandfather in the early 20th Century. He died in 1922.

'Manasses': "Masculine - Usage: Biblical (Variant), Biblical Latin, Biblical Greek - Other Scripts: Μανασσης (Ancient Greek)" From Behindthename.com: "Other Scripts: מְנַשֶּׁה (Ancient Hebrew) - Pronounced: mə-NAS-ə (English) [key] - Means "causing to forget" in Hebrew. In the Old Testament this was the name of the oldest son of Joseph and the ancestor of one of the twelve tribes of Israel."

In any case, I haven't come across anyone with that name in my lifetime. My Manasses de Ghesnes was married to Emme de Arques. As is often the case with female spouses, I have no other information about her.

Other interesting names I came across were Gerberge de Bourgogne [who was not a trash collector]; Fulbert of Falaise who married Doda of Falaise, and who had a daughter named Herleva de Falais; Tostig of Gonwidson; Cunigunde of Altdorf; and Poppa de Envermeu---but no John Smith.

Such are the efforts of the genealogist. I urge you to work on your own Family tree. You'll never be bored, and it can keep you busy for many hours and days at a time. Even if---like me---many members of the family just aren't interested in it, there will be enough to make the job worthwhile.