Charlotte, NC

It’s a place that can make each of us CrownTowners proud.
One of the greatest retail stores in America is based right here in Charlotte … and, wherever I go (either for appearances as The Rock Relic or just for fun, as Chuck Hinson), it gives me a lotta pride to see the Belk name emblazoned above a store!

Years ago, I’d go to the main store on N. Tryon St. — either with one of my Garinger High friends, a date, or by myself — and was totally awed by the selection, the cleanliness, and the customer service. Of course, (ahem!) with my dates (few-and-far-between), I couldn’t get out without buyin’ them something, but the prices weren’t bad for a “classy” store.

Well, guess what?? A few months ago, on a trip to Ashland (got another one comin’ up in a coupla days. Big wrestling show to announce …), I stopped by the mall up there for a cuppa joe and some Chinese food (they’ve got a dynamite oriental restaurant there!). The mall, itself, is empty by Carolina Place standards, except for one store. The mighty Proffitt’s had just been bought out by … Belk! And shoppers were comin’ in like crazy! This little, bitty town about the size of a breadbox had found a mecca for shoppers in the form of our favorite shop-stop!

When I went in, it was like goin’ back through time: Cleanliness, great selection and prices, the scent of the perfume counter — and still the best customer service anywhere! (As you know, that’s changed a lot over the years with most big-name retailers. Look at Wal-Mart®, for an example …). Talkin’ with the manager there, I found out that Henderson & brothers demanded that from its employees … and they take it to heart!

So, Charlotte, we’ve got somethin’ to really be proud of in that store! But let’s take it a step further, okay? As Belk is rapidly expanding, so is one of America’s favorite discount stores, Family Dollar, which is based … (can ya guess?)
Even some Relic readers in Oklahoma and Texas brag on those stores … and it’s a privilege to give ‘em some background on their headquarters, as well as Charlotte itself!

While Wal-Mart® apparently has forgotten what its founder, Sam Walton, had said about quality, price and customer service, Belk and Family Dollar put it into practice every day!

But, then, this is Charlotte! We’re used to bein’ that way …

Seems that every other city in the USofA wants to “ban the baggy” … trousers, that is.

Y’know, it’s kinda fun to watch everyone speculate as to why kids won’t “belt ‘em”: Some say it’s because (and, I swear, this is a quote) “Weapons weigh ‘em down.” Hmph … well, that explains why mine were always half-down when I wuz in school. Well, that and the fact that I was about 10 pounds until I turned forty (I was outta school way before then. 25.)

Then there are others that say it’s a “gang” thing. Really? You mean … Spanky, Alfalfa, Buckwheat and Porky did it??

And, then, still others think it’s a “gay” thing. Sure. Of course. Listen — I’m straight-as-an-arrow, but, from what I’ve seen, most gay men (and teens) take a lot of pride in the way they look. They can also afford belts …

Another speculation is that they (the kids) want to show off what they’ve got!”. Ummmm … what — the new underwear they got at Wal-Mart™ or somethin’??

Look … bottom line (no pun intended) is: It’s a friggin’ fad … a way for kids to rebel against the Establishment by having a style they can call their own. It’s not much different from the bell-sleeved disco shirts, bell bottoms or leather jackets of yesteryear … just a little more, er, risque. That’s not to say it’s right; in fact, it does border on “indecent exposure”.

Wanna put a stop to it? Here are two things we can do:

• Get some tough, rugged macho guy from the media — Ice-T, Sylvester Stallone or Rosie O’Donnell will do — and have them promote a line of “Belk belts”. With threats if they don’t buy …
• Get a bunch of overweight, sloppy 65-year-old men to wear them every day … no matter where they go. Nothing stops a fad in its trax like old people tryin’ to look young and cool. Ask Neil Young.

WHY PLAY UP CRAIG FERGUSON HERE? Well, there are two answers to that one: First, his show’s extremely popular around here; secondly, the man has mentioned Charlotte in a recent one! Seems he remembered his first ice-skating experience as being right here in the Queen City (I’m assuming Eastland, but I could be off a bit).
Incidentally — and if ya missed it — he just passed his citizenship test, and will be sworn in as an American citizen shortly. Stay tuned …

RINGO WAS ON HIS SHOW A FEW NIGHTS AGO. WILL HE (or Paul) EVER PLAY CHARLOTTE AGAIN? Right now, he’s considering comin’ back with his All-Starr Band when they tour later this year. Nothing definite yet, though. As far as Sir Paul goes: He’s limiting his touring right now due to his divorce as well as his other projects, but ya never can tell …

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO FIND GOOD CLUBS OR ENTERTAINMENT VENUES HERE? Okay, time to take notes: First of all (and most importantly), make sure it’s a venue that has a good, solid reputation. Check its safety record — for both building and customers, inside and out.
Secondly, take a drive-by some weekend night and see what kind of crowd they’re pulling. If the parking lot’s nearly empty, chances are it doesn’t have much going for it.
Thirdly, of course, is to find out who’s playing that night. Not all acts are good enough to draw a crowd; some are more or less spacers who just add a backdrop to drinking and carousing.
Fourthly — and if you’re still in doubt — check the promos in the Observer. Don’t get me wrong; I like Creative Loafing, but, if an act and/or venue are really worth seeing, it/they will be played up in Charlotte’s biggest newspaper.

WHAT’S THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE THAT CROWN TOWN HAS TO FACE? CRIME? COST OF LIVING? DRUGS? Actually (and from the response I’ve gotten by email and in person), the biggest challenge is teaching our children by example, through love and patience, how to handle everyday life. Note: It’s not up to teachers, preachers or fans-in-the-bleachers to do it; it’s up to parents to do it. When we have that down to a science (albeit a loving and devoted one), you’ll start to see challenges … all of them … being met, whether now or in the future.

My thanks to everyone who’s asked these questions. I wish there were time to answer more, but, for now, there’s more work to be done …

If you’ve got something on your mind, how about droppin’ me a line, or leave a note on the door … er, comment section?

Who’d've ever thunk it?!?

I mean, I’ve been a Tarheel/Hornet/Pinevillite for most of my years, and … I thought … kinda had the niche on my name. But, over the past few months, I’ve come under fire from people who’ve been lookin’ for Chuck Hinson — and some haven’t been too friendly!
Y’see, I now share the same name as a well-known detective with the CPD! And, while he’s doin’ a great job (and … ahem! … hopefully keepin’ the name clean!), there are a few guys out there who aren’t too — er, shall we say “fond”? — of him. And, when I introduce myself, using my honest-to-family name, they get a bit rattled with me.

Then I find that there’s (gulp!) another one of me nestled around Winston-Salem who does a bit of preachin’! But it doesn’t stop there: Add a (1) software salesman, (2) long-distance runner, (3)an insurance man and others, and you can see why I might be just a little confused at times.
So it’s no wonder I feel a bit relieved when traveling out-of-town to the wrestling gigs. At least I can be myself — Chuck Hinson from Pineville, NC.
Or …
so I thought! But during the last trip to the Appalachian Tall Timbers for pre-card setup, I stopped at a gas station near Greenup, Kentucky. There, I was talkin’ about this same subject when a fella who looked a little like that “Romney” character asked (and this is the truth!), “You’re from Pineville?!?” FINALLY!! The right recognition! Beaming, I boasted, “Yes, sir, I AM!!” “You mean — you mean you’re the Chuck Hinson from …
Pineville, Louisiana? I knew your daddy …”

I’m tellin’ ya, sometimes ya just … can’t … WIN!

A SPORTING IDEA …

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Now, you can use these on a variety of sports-related items from the web’s top sports stop, ranging from footwear and tee-shirts to various sports equipment and more! And the savings you’ll get from Coupon Chief only add to the excitement of shopping.
So, whether you’re a fan or a player, a team or just some guys who play “pick-up” basketball, you’ll wanna click that link up there and start saving! Go ahead … do it today, and start scoring some big points, both for your wallet and on the home court!!

In what’s being considered the first landslide of the Democratic primaries, nominee hopeful Barack Obama solidly trounced Hillary Clinton tonight in South Carolina.
In his best showing-to-date in the primary sweeps (with the big one yet to come, on “Super Tuesday”), the Senator from Illinois thanked his wife, daughters and, of course, supporters in a stirring “victory” speech with a verve that was reminiscent of the late Robert F. Kennedy. He reminded listeners that this isn’t a campaign of race, gender or party, but one that needs to spell the end of the current fiasco that is the Bush Administration.
Now, how does this concern the Queen City and Metrolina? Simple: We’re the fastest-growing retail and commercial hub in the nation. People — disgusted with the loss of jobs, housing and opportunity in other cities — are coming here in droves. And Obama is speaking directly to those people, empathizing with their situation and advocating an end to the prejudice (whether racial, employment, gender or economic position) and governmental “red tape” that’s taken its toll on them. He also took on the powerful lobbyists with the desire to dismantle their efforts to influence Congressional leaders and committees.

This is something that can only boost the economy of Charlotte, as more people can “breathe easy” as they work; better income with higher minimum-wage base, more jobs based here than being “outsourced” to places like India (an example: Got DSL?? Got Windstream? Call for help after-hours — then ask the CSR where he or she’s located!), etc.

It doesn’t matter if Charlotte has a high contingent of African-Americans, Latin-Americans or Martian-Americans; the point is that we’ve all gotta shelve this “color, race or creed” thing and get on with the one thing that pulled us through WTC (9/11/01; may we never forget …), Hurricanes Katrina and Rita (as it did Hugo, years before, for us), and so many other situation: being Americans! It’s a noble cause … and, as we head toward February 5’s giant primary run, we’ll see the conviction of this Chicago native become stronger and more to-the-point. His S. C. win is gonna make the remainder of this race very interesting … so stay tuned …

Mannnnnnnn ….

If ya missed Thursday night’s Late Night w/Craig Ferguson, you passed up a chance to see a rare, gen-yoo-wine EVENT! Natch, it was the hour when Ringo Starr — one of the pistons in the legendary Rock-and-Roll engine called The Beatles (awww, c’mon … I didn’t haveta tell ya, did I??) — appeared as the only guest of the Clown Prince of Scots.

Now, The Man himself woulda been big enough … you know: interview, maybe a snippet of his hit Liverpool 8. But, people, he didn’t stop there! With a load of fans, friends and maybe family from the ‘Pool in the audience, he treated us all to not one, but four hits: three from the past and, of course, the moving Liverpool 8 (and, when Ringo shouted out the name of the city at the end of the song, you shoulda seen the reactions when the camera cut to the British fans waving a banner that said “LIVERPOOL“ … written in red [the colors of the city’s soccer team])!

The songs were totally ultra: After the quick interview with Craig (and Ringo never has been one to talk a lot) and a commercial break, he came back with his band (including Dave Stewart — formerly of the Eurythmics — on guitar) and started with Photograph. Another break, then it was Liverpool 8. The audience, mostly on its feet during the four-set, cheered when the Ringed One got to the part about their performance at Shea (Stadium).

After another set of commercials, he came back — this time on drums — doing the Beatles classic rocker, Boys. And I mean he and the band rocked!! The audience was really movin’ to this one!

And then, after one more break, Craig came on — obviously blown away by both the awesomeness of having most legendary drummer in the world and, of course, the amazing music — and introduced the final song of Ringo’s set, the classic With A Little Help From My Friends. Starr sounded just as fresh as he did when the Fab Four recorded it on Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, and Craig, the audience — and the viewing audience at home, undoubtedly — sang along with him and the band.

The closing theme (which backs the credits) is usually audible — but, this time, the audience’s cheers drowned it out. A fitting tribute to a man who had such a rough start in life, just to overcome odds and become a vital part of the greatest force in rock-and-roll history — The Beatles! Not bad for a guy who’s 67 now!!

To coin a phrase from another song by the Beatles, For The Benefit of Mr. Kite: “A good time was had by all”. And I’ve got a feelin’ that Liverpool 8 is headin’ for some serious chart placement!

CLEANING OUT THE ADDICT

So often, the “old folks” seem to equate rock-and-roll (especially the stuff from the late Sixties and early Seventies) with drugs. Of course, we all know it wasn’t all like that … and most of the ones who used them in “our” generation have been free for decades.
But, today, you have a myriad of folks, from media stars to media watchers who have addiction problems. In fact, you might know one or two of these yourself.
Well, there’s hope for their recovery now, and it’s in the form of one of the most effective and modernized centers on the planet!
You see, the Drug Rehab at Sunset Malibu is one where “one-size-doesn’t-fit-all”! It works with the individual — first, discovering why they need their assistance in the first place, and then building an effective program tailored to fit that addict specifically.
They have the most well-trained staff, most of whom have “been there, done that” themselves. They know the human element behind it all, and give the patient the very best in treatment that’ll ensure their recovery. They use traditional and non-traditional methods — whatever successfully works for the patient. Their main goal is to give the patient a new lease on a drug-free, happy and long life.
To find out more about their treatment programs and how they can best help you or someone you know, just click on this link to discover the best addiction treatment center in the nation — Sunset Malibu!

Geez … the election’s gotten a little religious, don’tcha think??

Actually, a lotta folks’re startin’ to wonder about the effect Mike Huckabee’s beliefs are gonna have on the White House, should he win, or Mitt Romney’s.
On the one hand, ya got an ordained Baptist minister, sure to pull a number of votes around here. Although I’m a registered Democrat (but vote my conviction, no matter who’s running), I like Mike. He has a sense of humor, very honest and down-to-earth (kinda like folks around my hometown), and is really into the welfare of this country!
On the other hand, you’ve got a Mormon follower (sorry … I just can’t buy the “LDS” thing. Why do the “saints” have to form a restrictive board? Weren’t there other saints of modern times, like Mother Teresa, Dr. Martin Luther King, my mama and daddy?). Now, I’m not knockin’ Mitt for his beliefs … but the jury’s still out on how the Mormons would influence his spot on Pennsylvania Avenue, should he win. Somehow, he’s got a bit of a cardboardish campaign, buffered by his money. I … just … don’t … know …

But we’ve forgotten somethin’ here: Each and every candidate is “evangelizing” his (or her) drive for nomination … and doing so religiously. Years ago, one of my eighth-grade teachers at Pineville Elementary (Quail Hollow hadn’t been finished yet, so we had our classes there), Mrs. Natalie Baker, told us, “If you don’t know the full meaning of the word, look it up!” That being said, “religion” is a routine or belief that you follow with unquestionable fervor. It could be a Biblical faith … or a political stance … or even a political race …

So — whether Democrats or Yankees — who do we vote for? It’s good they have faith and great they are Christian … but we’ve gotta understand that, when “push” comes to “shove”, there’s still the “render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and unto God the things that are God’s”. If they can combine the two, we’re gonna have a great Executive Branch once again. But it’s gonna be tough …

GETTIN’ OFF YOUR CAN …

Y’know, it’s refreshing to know that so many people are into recycling these days. From plastic milk jugs to paper, we don’t seem to have much trouble getting these into the little red cans or crates, ready for the recycling plant.
But cans?? Ahhh, they can be a challenge due to their overall bulkiness. That’s why we need a dependable can crusher that doesn’t take a lot of space and easy to use. Of course, they should be affordable as well …
and that’s where the folks at Aubuchon Hardware come in. They have single and multi-can crushers, easy-pull ones, collection bins and more at prices that are very pleasing!
Now, if you’re one of the few who are still wondering what “recycling cans” is all about, they even have an article on it, to help you understand the “whats” and “whys” of it all … and even helps you decide which is best for your situation!
Aubuchon also carries cleaning supplies, a 100% moneyback guarantee on its products, and convenient, online shopping (with a very secure SSL!).
So, to save space, money and help save the environment, click the link that follows for the best and most economical can crusher. Believe me: when you see the space you’ve saved, you’ll be glad you did!

WE, as former flower-children, actually changed the world with our quest for equality, peace and love.  Today — forty years later, and with a world seeming to backslide into those turbulent days – the question is:  Just ’cause we’re older, have we lost our VISION?  Our TOUCH?  Or, since we have the most political and economic power now, can we do it AGAIN?
Now, this is an article I wrote last year … very seriously. It’s a bit long, very different from my normal(?) jabbering, but something that applies to everyone who was into “peace and love” of the Sixties.
Just do me a favor and think about it, okay?  We’ll get back to the writeups, reports and ramblings next issue …

The summer of 1967 was one of the most vocal and radical in the history of America. Nationally, we were embroiled in political scandals, racial injustice - and a horrible war in Vietnam.

The country was firmly divided into two separate groups - Doves, who believed the war was wrong and that our military should pull out and come home, and the Hawks, who thought we should not only be fighting in Vietnam, but maybe even take it a step farther and decimate China, who was allegedly bolstering the North’s manpower.

Here in America, though, thousands of young people, who were turned onto peace, love and inner guidance, were rising up in protests of the fighting. Some history books will say they were “doves”, while others say they were “high on drugs and Indian music.” Many of us were there, and we were simply looking at it all with logic. Is peace better than war? Love than hate? Inner guidance better than outer control?

So they began putting the pressure on Washington - from sit-ins to open-air festivals to outright marches - and, by 1969, President Nixon began feeling the pressure and reduced troop numbers. Slightly over three years later, the war was over.

In 1968, the assassination of the Rev. Martin Luther King resulted in widespread violence and looting - a grim climax to the years of struggle for African-American equality. Once again, young, hip whites and blacks were on the scene, united in the cause of peace. And they knew they’d have their hands full: On the one, they tried to calm nerves of both blacks and whites; on the other, they protested the inequality loudly. From the streets of LA to Pennsylvania Ave. in Washington, they took the message that Dr. King had conveyed time and again: that all people, of all races, should work together and given equal rights in this country.

The pressure eventually worked, and society slowly began to realize the importance of true, interracial brotherhood. 

More important changes were made by the protesters and marchers. The voting age was finally lowered to 18, and women were beginning to be treated as more than sex objects - they were finally being viewed as equals in the marketplace, employment field and in places of authority.

Now it’s summer of 2007. Forty years after-the-fact, we have a senseless war in Iraq. People are starving, tortured and/or murdered in the Sudanese province of Darfur. Gas prices are at an all-time high. Power and personal freedoms are being wrested from the hands of the people by an Administration they’ve learned not to trust.

Yet, the baby-boomers - this same group that so valiantly championed the cause of peace and equality forty years before, and of which I am a member - have become largely silent, seeming to stick their heads in the sand and hide from our present national and world situations in hope that they’ll go way.

What happened to the once-resonating voices of peace? Have large families, larger paychecks and the responsibility that comes with maintaining material security taken the edge off our active and vocal protest of the wolves at peace’s door? At one time, we could - and did - change the political fabric of America. Yet, today, most of the protesters of yore are content to “let it slide” or have someone else do it for them.

We were willing to put it all on the line for peace - including facing arrests and jail-time. Now, at a time when our country - our world, for that matter - needs us to speak up, we’ve become strangely silent.

We have the greatest buying power, the most political pull, and the highest demographic of any other age group in the nation. Years ago, we had longed for the day when we would have the authority - the power - to change the world. Now that we have it, though, we’re not using it. Has our spunk given in to complacency? Do we believe that, despite our values as young people, what’s happening in this world is of no consequence to us?

Again, I ask the question: What happened to the voices of peace? Have we surrendered to the establishment at long last? Are we afraid - or, worst of all, so involved with ourselves and the money-machine feeding us that we just don’t care?

It’s time for every person who was ever a “child of peace” to answer that question.

Okay, I didn’t get that violent with my recently-departed PC (not that it was old or anything, but I didn’t wanna hit the kerosene reservoir by mistake!) …

Yep … the ol’ Windows 99 went crazy on me. Actually, it was loaded with XP™ but it developed a bad case of worms thanks to a bad mirror-site download (hmph … I look in the bathroom mirror [now, that's a bad-mirror-sight!] before I do a … ummm, “download” But it never gave me worms!).

So, this time, I went to Circuit City and bought one of those eMachines™ with Vista™ on it (one more time: ™ God, I love those HTML characters!) And, man, this baby does everything but brew coffee (in fact, I’m trying to download a Mr. Coffee™ as-we-speak!). Now the challenge is gettin’ this DSL hooked up to it.

Oh, it’s such fun doin’ it. (You attach one cable to the modem if the modem’s hooked up remove cat from keyboard attach other end not cat’s to computer turn on modem it won’t must be a woman go to other room cuss come back call phone company you know how it goes, right?)

Anyway, it should be up and running before the Presidential Elections, but, until then, there’s always dial-up … just gotta wait for the Goody’s™ to kick in …

Speakin’ of CATS and CABLES …

Throughout the Mid-Atlantic area, people are switching over to DSL and Cable at breakneck speed (actually, mine does work well, now that my ISP walked me through it). But, no matter how proficient your provider, you still need the right cables for the network hookup.
Now, you can go to various electronic stores just to have the salespersons pitch you on their latest-and-best brands, but that takes time, lots of patience and endless price comparisons in the hope that the store actually sold you what you need! It can be frustrating …

unless you order from the folks at Norfolk Wire (formerly Anicom, Inc.). Unlike the retail stores that sell many different and unrelated products, these people are specialists, and will go the “extra mile” to make sure you get the Cat-5 cable you need (Cat-5 [short for "Category 5"] is used in Local Area Network connections, so if you’re on a LAN, most likely the cable running out of the back of your PC is Category 5.).

Norfolk Wire has one main goal, and that’s to provide a return to “good old customer service”. They not only have the best prices available, but also maintain higher stock levels than most. Along with that, they carry a huge selection of products to make your communication experience the best it can be!

So, whether you visit one of their offices in Raleigh, Winston-Salem or Greensboro (they also have them in Virginia and South Carolina), or decide to order on-line via credit card (and their order site is very secure!), you can be sure you’ll get the best, top-quality and affordable Cat 5 cable from this amazing company (oh … while you’re on that site [see link above], be sure to click on their “About” section. It’s really an inspiring story …). Go on and click there now, okay?? You’ll be happy you did!

These days, it’s vital to have a decent degree in a chosen profession if we’re really going to get the “plum” jobs, right? And, on occasion, we hear friends, co-workers and maybe even ourselves complain, “Well, I don’t have TIME! With kids to raise, a job to work, supper to cook … it’s IMPOSSIBLE!”

Not anymore! One of the most respected names in higher education is available to you and will help you get that degree … and, yes, you can do it, because it’s all online! You see, Capella University offers the most excellent online education degree programs, whether it be Master’s, MBA, Bachelor’s or others … and you can go for them right in the comfort of your own home! Founded in 1993, the university is accredited and fully online! To give you an idea of its popularity and impact, consider that, right now, it’s serving over twenty thousand students in our fifty states … and 56 countries as well!

Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, it employs almost 1,100 administrative staff and over1,000 faculty members throughout the country. While unique in its concept, it’s the first and only online university to receive accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs for its two master’s degree specializations!

Of course, like other reputable universities and colleges, it has various financial aid programs as well as ways to reduce tuition costs … and all you have to do is call one of their knowledgeable and understanding counselors (the site gives you a toll-free number for this)! There’s so much waiting for you out there once you get your degree … and when you complete your studies and get that degree from the world’s finest online university, you’ll appreciate every minute you spent online with them! So click on that link now and find out more about this amazing offer! Believe me … you’ll be glad you did!

This blog post was based on information provided by Blogitive. For more information, please visit Blogitive.com.

Since we’ve all been talkin’ about snow in and around Crown Town lately, I wanna tell ya about one of the craziest things … okay, two of the craziest things … that happened to the Relic when I got snow-bound and stuck:

The first happened during the snow of ‘72 — shortly after I’d gotten home from a stint in the Army. Y’see, there was a great seafood restaurant called Cap’n Windy’s back then (you homefolks might remember it: It was built kinda like a ship over there on Woodlawn Road, near South Blvd.), and I was their resident dishwasher during the day (hey … don’t blame me! Jobs were hard to come by for just-returned vets back then!).

I was comin’ off my shift and ready to hoof it home (Linda and I lived in Yorktown Apartments with our baby boy, Mark, back then — and I didn’t have a car) when Erwen Burns (my manager) stopped to give me a ride. Well, I hopped in, and he started to pull off. The car swerved to the right and landed in a huge snow bank.
Then, assistant kitchen chief Ronnie Moss stopped, asked what was goin’ on, tried to help push Erwen’s car outta the white mess (no luck), then offered to take me on home. Well, we started off. Now … see the last line of the previous paragraph? Yep. Same thing, different snow bank!
Soooooo, a tow truck came by to help. The dude attached his hook and pulled s l o w l y …
As I finally gave up and walked down past the old Zayre store, I looked back and wondered “how can a tow truck get stuck like that??” Geez …
anyway, I finally got down to South Boulevard, turned right …
and promptly slid into … a snow bank!

Let’s move on up to ‘79. Remember the story I toldja about the trip to get a friend’s check cashed during the snowstorm?? Well, a little while after Bill left, I went out to clean the snow and ice off the car (do they make AMC Hornets anymore? Or were we just gullible??)
I got the hood, windshield, side and back windows done, then (thinkin’ that a quick run of the engine would knock the rest off [forgive me. I was young ...], I tried the key. Evidently, the ignition was frozen! After trying again and again, and muttering some unkind things about the car being born out of wedlock (or something), I was startled by a knock on the side window. “Susan shouldn’t be out here,” I thought. “Not with her five months pregnant!”
It wasn’t her. It was Mr. Williams — the guy who lived above us — pointedly wantin’ to know what in h— I was doin’ in his car!!
My red-faced embarrassment, coupled with his anger, probably melted the rest of the ice and snow from his nearly-identical car … until I explained the situation.
Fortunately, he put down the ugly-stick he had with him, laughed … and gave me five bucks for doin’ such a good job!

NEED GOOD AUTO/TRUCK ACCESSORIES?

Man, I believe Erwen, Ronnie and that towing guy did! In fact, everyone who owns a vehicle can benefit from auto (or truck) accessories. And nothing can drive that point home with more impact than a good, healthy snow.
Now, while many folks might look at every auto store in the Queen City and still not find what they need, you can shop with precision for the accessories you need … and all at the click of a mouse! Whether it’s driving lamps, crossovers, bug shields or hitches you’re looking for, BuyAutoTruckAccessories has just what you need for your make and model.
On the site (I’ll give you the link to it in just a moment), you’ll find the greatest choices in accessories — and all at a lower price than you’d pay at an auto store! You can type in a keyword for the one you want … and then choose the brand that suits you.
You can also choose from a list of top-quality exterior and/or interior accessories — even contractor accessories!
The prices are easy on anyone’s budget, and you can order on their secure, hacker-safe site! So, for the best in truck accessories, go on and give them a click now! Believe me, you’ll be happy ya did!

There’s a buzz goin’ on in this Presidential-Nomination campaign that … well, I can’t exactly put my finger on it, but, by the time the Washington-hopefuls hit here, it’s gonna make the whole thing a lot more interesting.

For example: A lotta folks are thinkin’ over what Bobcats manager Bob Johnson had to say at a recent Clinton rally (er, Hillary Clinton. Let’s get up to date here!). Now, even Sen. Obama admitted drug experimentation when he was a young’un. But, y’know somethin’? I can think of at least five Congressmen (and one President!) who did the same thing … only they keep it “pushed under the rug.” Barack Obama, at least, oughtta be appreciated for havin’ the guts to tell it up-front! I mean, the dude knew it could cost him some serious credibility … but he did it anyway!
Naturally, he doesn’t do it now, but if we’re gonna hold his past against him, we’d have to do the same for the reformed drug user, alcoholic … and, if any reformed sinner tried to get into the Pearly Gates, he’d be turned down due to his past!
And, somehow, I don’t think the Man Upstairs plays that kinda game …

Then there’s the “sobbing” of Mrs. C when asked how she can do all the things she does. It was a “Supercandidate-turned-human” moment, and I don’t think it did a thing to hurt her! But what can are the facts that she’s (1) dissed the Gold Star Mothers (those who’ve lost their soldier-children in Iraq), (2) the Pink Ladies (who are working to give the homeless a voice), (3) voted in favor of the war and, (4) though a “senator” from NY, was conspicuously absent from the public eye when the WTC was attacked.

Of course, there’s the Edwards fever (aka “Local Boy Does Good”). I like John, but, come onnnn … with what his wife’s goin’ through, he oughtta concentrate on her first. Awww, she supports his move, of course, but … well, John, your wife’s health oughtta come before any shot at the gold. ‘Sides, you’re young … and there’ll be another train comin’ along in about four years-and-change.

Now, our Donkey primary’s due to come up on May 6 (this from opensecrets.org) … so be sure to get out and vote. But be sure to do it according to the strength of the candidates on issues (present, as well as how they handled past governmental ones) … not personal traits, pasts or whatever. As for “Bobcat” Johnson: Dude, you’re forgiven! Just chalk it up to the fervor and excitement of the moment …

WOODn’t YA KNOW IT?

Over the years, I’ve known a number of woodworkers and have become a bit familiar with their tools. One of them (a pharmacist, in fact) told me he’d have a hard time finding the right tools today, because you’d have to go to so many lengths to get the right models and prices.
I got back with Bob a few days ago and told him of a fantastic site that not only sells the top woodworking tools at great prices, but also offers repair,free shipping on DeWalt® and Delta® tools … and much more!
The folks at Burns Tools have been in the business for over seventy years, and know their products inside-and-out! From festool multifunction tables to the various power tools you need to create your masterpiece, they have an array from all the major manufacturers like Boss, Hitachi and Pacific Laser (and that’s just for starters!). Your project will look terrific, your friends and/or customers will be amazed, and your wallet will feel great about the price!
So, before you start your next woodworking project, be sure you click on the link that’ll bring you the best in festool products — as well as the entire Burns Tools line!

Awww, what’s the big deal about a little snow in the Queen City? Seems like everyone’s either in a hurry to get all the goodies they need in case they’re “snowed in”, freezin’ their fingers while gettin’ the antifreeze levels in (and tire-chains on) their cars, or overjoyed that the white stuff’s gonna give ‘em a day off from school (well … maybe!).

The worst snowfall that I can remember was back in early 1979. I was still married (in fact, Susan was expecting our first son) and living in Yorktown Apartments off Tyvola Road. Since I was working for a local insurance company (see earlier posts referring to it), one of the friends I made there (also an agent) came by early that morning, sayin’ his car broke down and he needed to get a check cashed so he could get a cab back home. Well, as fate would have it, our car was snowed in — but, across Tyvola from the apartments, there was a store at the time, sooooo …

We bundled up (I think we’d put on every clean piece of clothing we had to stay warm) and Susan, my friend and I started trudging through the snow (we were on Tyvola Drive — the “main drag” of the apartments — so it didn’t take that long) to the store. If you remember, there was time-temp sign at the bank across from the old Woolco Store … and it read … minus eleven degrees! Of course, we had a heckuva wind stirrin’ up trouble, so it was mostly wind chill.

After getting his check cashed, we got back to the apartment safely (but frozen!) … and he finally called and got the cab. It wasn’t until a week-and-some later that we found out his check had bounced … and he had already left the company for parts unknown!
Still, that day was the coldest I’d ever seen … and one I won’t soon forget …

especially since he still owes me $27.80 for picking up his check (’course, heh-heh! that doesn’t include 29 years’ interest …).

A WAY TO STAY WARM … AND FIT!

One way a lot of people stay warm inside is by exercise. Treadmills are the big thing these days, because not only does your body benefit but your mind does as well.
Y’see, while you’re workin’ your leg and torso, your brain begins to release endorphins, which naturally make your mood brighter! So, burnin’ off calories + having a more optimistic, positive frame of mind = a relaxed and warmer feeling, both physically and mentally!
Of course, you can go to store after store and look for the best buys in treadmills … or … you can go to the one site that’ll provide you with the best, and for less: It’s called HealthRider, and their superb treadmills can fit any budget. You have those with various workouts, interactive cross-trainers … even one with a built in fitness coach!
But there’s more!
You’ll also have a Buyers’ Guide, a Home Fitness News with some fantastic articles on the subect and much. much more! Believe me, you’ll save time, money, and much more by doing your shopping with them! So click on the link you’ll see in a minute and place yor order today!
All you have to do is click on this link for the best in treadmills Do it now; You’ll be glad you dd.

It’s been called the Hotel of Dreams by people who’ve stayed there … and to think it’s in my own backyard (Pineville)!

I came back home after the last wrestling gig in Ashland and, just for the heck of it, stayed a night at the Hampton Inn. Y’see, back in 2000, I used it as a stopover during my Canada-Florida business trips (at the time, my “home” was behind the wheel of a Toyota Tercel. This Relic covered over 2.500 miles during his work-at-the-time), and, man, I was blown away from Pineville’s newest and nicest near-town roost!

But the thing that was (and IS) so cool about it was that the staff turned out to be the most down-home, courteous and helpful folks you’d ever wanna meet! And the fact that it’s just a hoot-and-holler away from the interstates, beltways, great shops (shoot … you’re only a stone’s throw from Carolina Mall! How lucky can ya get?) as well as just a “howdy” or two from the best home-folks you’d ever wanna meet makes it the perfect getaway!

As Pineville and South Charlotte grow, and more folks pour into the area, lookin’ for a place to permanently hang their hats, this stop is a great place to stay while they’re gettin’ familiar with our Queen City (and area) family.

A CONDO … AND A HOTEL?? IT’S TRUE!

Yes, there are such things … and they’re gaining popularity around the world! Imagine a condominium with all the amenities of a luxury hotel — like health clubs, pools, daily maid service, business centers, nightclubs and restaurants, valet parking and more.

Now … imagine what it’d be like if you could own a unit in one of these. Why, it’d virtually pay for itself!. You see, if you just enroll your unit in the hotels’ “optional reservation system”, and put it up for rent when you’re away, you can split the monthly revenue generated from it during that time. The money coming in from these rentals can help offset any fees or interest payments you’d have to pay!

And if you wanna sell your unit, then Condo Hotel Marketplace has an experienced and very sharp marketing firm that uses the best in SEO (search engine optimization) in order to get your property in front of the maximum number of prospective buyers! Their website (I’ll give you the link in a moment) is easy to navigate and understand, giving you the most useful information in making your buying-or-selling decisions. And their staff is second-to-none when it comes to expert advice and knowledgeable help!

But, whether buying or selling, it’s an investment that’s not only safe but practical! And the dividends are more than amazing … especially since they tend to appreciate in value as time goes on (meaning: more money for you!). Now, to learn more about the opportunities that Condo Hotels have for you, just click on the link you just saw. Believe me … it’s a fantastic investment — one that can bring some great dividends! So do it today, okay?

Make no mistake about it: Charlotte’s gone to the dogs! Everywhere you look, you’ll see well-groomed, happy Jack Russells, Poms, Yorkies, Westies, mixes and more out in the parks, walkin’ their masters (C’mon, ‘fess up: Ya don’t think you walk them, do ya??) and havin’ fun. In fact, we even have special grooming, boarding … even eating establishments for dogs!

Now, I know what the Observer printed about the CharMeck Animal Control — and was tempted to show that pic of the Pekingese on here — but ya can’t give a verdict while the jury’s out, right?? Nonetheless, it’s obvious we’ve gotta take care of our pets, no matter whether they’re pooped pups, fat cats or hoarse horses! And that includes keepin’ ‘em outta roads and away from potential disaster anywhere!

We’ve also got about as many breeders as we have breeds around here … and they specialize in top-quality, well-bred bowwows. But, whether they’re from a pet shop, a breeder’s stock or a Shelter drop, each one of them need a good home — and folks around here certainly give it to them! Sure, you’ll occasionally have someone who’s guilty of animal abuse, but, by-and-large, the canines are in caring hands!

And now the City Fathers are plannin’ on okaying an uptown doggie park to be built in Third Ward’s Frazier Park. Listen … after seein’ one just like it during my visits to Ashland (KY … for the monthly wrestling gig), I can tell ya, firsthand, that this is gonna be a tremendous boost for Queen City pet owners! Just make sure you’ve got the required pooper-scoopers (and bags!), good leashes and collars — and plenty of bottled water for your four-footed forever friend! The park — planned on a little over an acre — should be ready this spring!

THE EXECUTIVE LOOK

Organization. Efficient, modern look that shows the world (and especially your clients) that you’re serious about your business. These are things that every business office needs in order to have a successful impact.
And what better way to make that impact than with a top-quality, spacious yet modern-looking executive desk in your office? These are especially good in receptionists’ areas, where the customer gets his first look at your business.
Now, if you’re a businessman, you could spend hours looking for just the right desk — hours that take away from important meetings, transactions or sales. But, now, by the click of your computer’s mouse, you can have that desk … and installed and ready-to-go within two weeks! The folks at JazzyExpo have a wide array of beautiful, sturdy desks with designer styling. These are ergonomically designed, thus giving you the maximum benefit with efficiency and safety in mind.

Of course, you get a fantastic choice of woods and finishes, but they also have great-looking glasstables, coffee tables and much more. And they all come with substantial savings for you! My accountant uses one (a conference table) and wouldn’t order from anyone else!

So, if you’re looking for the best and most efficient desk for your office, just click on the link that’ll show you what your next executive desk will look like … and order yours today!