Charlotte, NC

So the paper said an insurance agent from Pineville used a fire truck to advertise his business, huh?

Man, that’s barkin’ up the wrong side of this Relic’s tree! I have the greatest respect for the members of every Fire Department, whether paid or volunteer, on this terra-firma!

I mean, these guys and gals put their lives at risk every time a fire, accident or chemical spill occurs! Of course, we remember the brave, unselfish souls that gave their lives at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001 (don’t you EVER forget it!).

And to think that some business-hungry dude wants to capitalize on it?? No way! I mean, if ya wanna get some customers, man, why not go out and look for ‘em? I did it when I was runnin’ an insurance debit; so can you! But don’t use an emblem of departmental bravery for your own gain! It just doesn’t work!

Y’see, I’ve got nephews, nieces and the best sister a guy could ever want workin’ for the Pineville VFD. My late brother-in-law, Dink Griffin, was not only fireman but also a firm supporter of the Department! My nephew, Bill Griffin, (Dink and Mary’s son) is chief of the VFD! So it’s also a personal thing for me!

Hint: How about takin’ that rig and donating it to a park for children, or maybe a museum somewhere? HONOR THE FIREFIGHTERS, MAN … and the memory of those who’ve sacrificed for us!!

SOMETHING TO WINE ABOUT:

There are a lot of people in the Queen City who enjoy a glass of wine with either their meals or on special occasions. It sets the mood for a relaxing evening, whether alone or with company — and is even good for your health (of course, if done in moderation)!
Now, you can run to your local beverage store for their stocked wines and hope you find something with just the right ambience, but wouldn’t it be nice to have the best shipped right to your door each month, and at a great price?
Just think: You get two oustanding wines from California’s award-winning vineyards every month, at great prices, discounts on re-orders, and more … and all delivered straight to you!
Sound tempting? Then all you have to do now is click the link that’ll take you to the magnificent wine of the month club. And remember, when you’re ordering, this also makes a great gift for all those friends on your list.
Either way, you’re bound to be pleased!

Geez … and I remember some of my classmates calling teachers “old bats”. Now, it seems their calling teachers to catch “old bats”.
In case you’re wonderin’ what the heck I’m jabberin’ about: Gastonia’s Forest Heights Elementary School has found a few of the winged rodents lurkin’ about the 5th grade hall. Of course, they’re not harmful to humans, and eat insects and ’skeeters, and sleep in the daytime. Still, the six or so that they found coulda scared a lot of kids, should they have winged around the halls during the day!
And then there’s the bats’ guano (another word for … ummm, their … droppings?). Now, that can carry disease. And they weren’t learning anything, anyway … so they had to be, er, “expelled”.

It kinda brought back memories of one of my debit runs during the Pilot Life days. I had to see some clients over on Remount Rd. when one flew through the back window of my old stick-shift Belvedere (for you who don’t remember, it was a Plymouth). Ever pop a clutch while goin’ uphill with an old bat in your car? (somewhere out there, somebody’s made a joke from that line already!) So maybe they aren’t harmful, but they sure can be a nuisance!

Anyway, I understand the situation’s under control. But I can just hear the kids tryin’ to tell mom and dad what happened in school today!!

A GREAT VACATION IDEA!

Anyone and everyone who’s been there can tell ya that one of the best places to vacation is at one of America’s greatest theme-and-music resorts, Branson, Missouri! Whether you like to take in the best in music, want to relax with a good game of golf, enjoy museums and shopping or just dig cozy, romantic dinners, you’ll find it all in the most memorable getaway you’d ever want!
You’ll want to rent the best place to “hang your hat” while you’re there, of course … and that would be where you’re close to Silver Dollar City, music shows (and there are some great ones there!), fine restaurants and all the beauty that’s in this fantastic resort!
Now, with vacations coming up, you’ll want to pack as much fun into yours and have a wonderful place to stay — and all without busting your budget, right? So why not make all those desires come true by clicking on this link that’ll take you to some fantastic Branson condos ? Go there now, and get ready for a truly memorable and relaxing stay!

“MOM! THE LAUNDRYMAN’S HERE!”

And, with that excited shout-out from my little brother, Steve, the front door opened and in walked this tall, lanky young man with a shock of black hair and warm smile on his face. Sure, Marshall Lemmond had come to pick up our dry-cleaning for Domestic Laundry — but, more importantly, he’d come as our friend.
Back during those days of sunnier skies, simpler times and youthful exuberance, I don’t believe a person was more welcome in the Hinson household than the “laundry man.” His sense of humor, his humility and warmth made every visit a time we all enjoyed.

But he wasn’t just a tall man who picked up laundry and chatted awhile (he was also the tallest person I’d ever seen to that point, having to “stoop” a little to get through our doorway); he was also the man I’ll forever thank for teaching me a bit about the guitar … and opening the door to a lifelong interest in music! From watching him pick up that old Sears Silvertone of mine and showing me different chords, I wanted to learn more about the six-string wonder of the acoustic.

He, his loving wife Doris, and my parents cemented a friendship that lasted for years. Later on — as I progressed into my later teen years and began some wonderful times with some of my peers from Garinger High (man, I wish what happened to them all! Hope they’re all well …) — I also visited his house on Florida Avenue. The man was someone whose warmth and easy-going nature was cherished.

Well, I said all that to say this: A few days ago, I received an email from his son, Bob, who’d happened across this site and read an earlier reference to him. He told me a bit about what his dad was up to these days (we’d lost contact back in the late Sixties) … and, thanks to his sharing Mr. L’s number, I was honored and blessed to renew our friendship after over 41 years!. We talked over old times, regaled each other with family memories, and (of course) even talked a bit about music. Honestly, it was the highlight of the year for me!!

He and wife Doris have moved to Indian Trail now. Though, obviously, many years have passed, he sounds just the same as I remember him! And (thanks to Bob again, who shared a fairly recent photo of his parents), though the hair has become whiter, the same welcome smiles, warm eyes — and certainly the love of each other — beam as brilliantly today as it did back in 1967!

Now, for all you who remember Mr. Lemmond and Doris, let me ask ya to hold your spot right here (I don’t think the page is gonna run away!), bow your heads a bit and say a quick prayer for both of them! You see, they’ve fought some tremendous health battles over the years, and Doris is up for heart surgery. These two saintly people deserve the community praying for their wellness and recoveries … they’ve touched our lives with theirs, so let’s touch the ears of the Almighty with prayers for them okay? Mr. Lemmond, you touched our family (and my life) in so many wonderful ways …

Oh … and you always brought the laundry back just right! God bless you, my friend …

GOT A HOME THEATER?

Y’know, we’ve come a long way from the days of Naugahyde chairs pulled close to the old black-and-white Motorola. I mean, we’ve got color, high-def, stereo, quad, and other nifty doodads on the wide-screen, flat-screen or other-screen sets. In music, we no longer have the free-standing record player (although those are starting to make a comeback!), but small stereo systems with big sounds!
Most people have what’s called a home theater these days which organizes the whole shebang into a nice, neat entertainment area. The only challenge, then, is to find something that’ll replace the old chairs scattered around the room with some comfortable, uniform seating that allow everyone to enjoy those home theaters to the max!
The best place to find that seating (and also some fantastic sconces that’ll give your home theater a really classy look!) is also the one where you’ll get the best prices, great selection and hacker-safe shopping from where you are right now! These loungers or authentic theater seats are also shipped to your home fast!
To find out more about their selection, prices and more, just click on this link that’ll take you to the best home theater sconces and more!
Believe me, it’ll change the way you look at television … listen to music … or just relaxing with your friends! Check it out now, okay? You’ll be glad ya did!!

It was enough to make a grown man cry, I tell ya …
Earlier today, the legendary “Nature Boy” himself, Ric Flair, received the “key to the city” of Columbia, S. C. by its mayor, Bob Coble. Flair — whose real name is Richard Flehr — is best known as the flamboyant wrestler who, bedecked in his sequined royal-blue robe, comes out to the wrestling arenas to the theme of Also Spracht Zarathustra (the 2001: A Space Odyssey theme) and his trademark “WHOOOO!”.
But, this time, he was crying.
He’s due to go up against Shawn Michaels in a match during this Sunday’s Wrestlemania, the annual pay-per-view by World Wrestling Entertainment — and, according to the “stipulation” attached, Flair will retire from the sport permanently, should he lose.

I initially met Ric back during the Mid-Atlantic days, when he burst onto the scene after a stint in the old American Wrestling Association. While cocky and arrogant in the ring, he was like a sponge whenever the cameras weren’t on him, watching greats like Johnny Weaver, legends like Rip Hawk and Swede Hanson and others, studying the cameras, listening intently to advice from the back offices (Crocketts, Scotts and others), and more.
While he seemed to be a playboyish “jet-setter” on-screen, he was always anxious to help out with the March of Dimes Telethons, talk with his fans and enjoy simple pleasures.
Today, while still involved with the Stamford, Connecticut-based WWE, he also has a thriving mortgage loan business here in the Queen City. As astute a businessman as he is a wrestler, Flair deserves the accolades from every wrestling fan and city in America and across the globe.

And we’re proud to call him “one of our own” …

BUYING “DIRECT”

The dream of so many shoppers is to be able to buy the things they need without having to pay the harsh, retail prices that stores charge these days. And that’s even more important to shoppers who want to revitalize their homes (and what better time to start than Spring, right?).
Well, the good news is that I’ve found one that’ll do just that, and you can learn more about them (including some great articles with tips on remodeling bathrooms, kitchens, etc.) by clicking the link I’m about to give ya.
How does it work? Simple: all you have to do is pay reasonably-priced membership dues to join; those dues allow the members to buy their needed goods at manufacturer’s prices instead of the retail mark-ups you find at other stores; you end up with quality goods at amazing savings!
Now … to find out more, just click on the link that’ll take you to the best directbuy for your home needs!

That shot, taken from a Channel 9 chopper, is of a place that’s become all to familiar with our police. Normally, they go there in response to complaints, suspected drug use of domestic violence.
Unfortunately, this morning they were called for the worst of reasons: Four people were found slain in the TreeTop Apartments in south Charlotte.
Now, I’m not gonna sound like a news reporter and give all the details (you can find that on WSOC’s site). But what I am wonderin’ about is … whatever happened to the Neighborhood Watch they once had there?
Years ago, a friend of mine (who lived there) said his neighbors were tryin’ to get one established, and, from what I understood, it was working for awhile. I know that, in many instances, neighbors become fearful of retaliation if they “blow the whistle” on a crime or violent outburst.

And that’s something else that strikes a nerve: In apartment living, there’s more of an inclination toward emotional outburst than in a standard home … and that includes anger! Some studies suggest that it’s due to cramped conditions (especially if there are more than two tenants in a unit), mundane surroundings (face it … ya just don’t have the lovely yards that many houses do) and neighbors who are thisclose to you at all times.

So how do we remedy this anger/outburst situation? As you know, this Relic’s been around the US and our northern neighbors and have picked up a few big hints that many complexes are now using:

• First, consider monthly meetings of management and tenants (or at least the person whose name is on the contract!) to discuss issues … and how to solve them.
• Have a social service worker at the residents’ disposal, to mediate and monitor situations. Now, “social service” includes counselors and ministers as well as state monitors.
• If and when the police have to be called, they meet with the caller only via phone or off-site! That can alleviate the “fear” that a person may feel when he/she reports a crime.
• Consider hiring security patrols for the premises during the more dangerous hours (late night and, according to some researchers, 6 AM, 11 AM and 5 PM).

It doesn’t take much to make even the roughest areas of the Queen City safe again. It’s just a matter of caring enough to make it happen, right?

HORSING AROUND

I can’t think of many people who don’t like horseback riding. For years, I’d go to one of the local stables to ride on the fabulous four-footers (in fact, there was one that was an easy ride … until a bee stung his muzzle! Then, I swear, even Roy Rogers couldn’t've lassoed him! I didn’t worry about that, though … seein’ as I was on the ground way back where he took off. I’d, ummm … welllll, I was feelin’ a little adventurous and … uh, decided to ride him bareback!).

Of course, saddles are important tack to use when riding … and it’s gotta be one that’s comfortable for both you and your horse! Whether it’s for showjumping, close-contact or for kids, the style and contour of the saddle is vital to a good ride!
Now, the best place to find the right saddle for you is just a click away (I’ll have it for ya in a moment). You’ll get the best service and savings for safely saddlin’ up this spring (and summer) … and learn more about the various designs and tack at the same time … by clicking on the best spot for saddles!
While you’re here, why not click on that link now? It’s the best way to comfortably ride into the sunset … or any other time … with your favorite horse!

Okay … my email’s been flooded with notes from fans around the US (and the Queen City!!) who just need to know more about the raw musical energy known as The Fore. Soooooo, I’m gonna kinda/sorta pre-empt the regular post here to oblige ya, Charlotte!:

About ten miles from London, in a town called Bromley in Kent, four young men came together and created a sound not heard since the early Beatles. But they brought something to the musical table that set them apart from any other Beatlesque group: they actually had the same energy, drive, personality and power of the Fab Four within them!

These musicians — Matt Hardy on lead guitar, Spencer Hannabuss (pictured on your right, and who also writes the band’s material) on bass, Luke Bentley on rhythm guitar and Simon Thompson on drums — melded their personalities, and began, just as their famous predecessors, to perform wherever they could find a crowd: streetside, private functions, fairs and small clubs.

They finally caught the attention of the manager of the famous Cavern Club in Liverpool, and now are booked there often. Let me quote from Neil White, their publicist:
“they love them in Liverpool, no surprise maybe except the people of Liverpool are not easily fooled … in fact the manager of the Cavern wanted them to be the resident band.”
Sort of reminds you of another band, doesn’t it? In fact, these lads have all the elements of the Beatles, including their apprenticeships (playin’ the sweaty gigs in small clubs and for low-to-nothing pay), their devoted, grassroots fanbase and the true, ingrained energy that elevated the legends to the top of the charts!

In each member, you’ll see a distinct and lively personality. The intensity of Simon (pictured on the left) captivates many fans, while Luke could pass as the “kid next door”(btw, that was what Michelle M. from Toms River, NJ, observed); lead Matt looks studious and a bit quiet, while bassist Spencer not only exudes “life … maybe a hint of impishness” (again, Michelle’s observation!) but looks a bit like George Harrison.

But their sound is what’s really turning on the fans! Though they’re lookin’ for a record contract at present (and, man, it won’t be long before their names are on a lucrative dotted line!), they already have a CD out called Black & White … and even are featured (with six songs!) on the upcoming Rare and Unseen: The Beatles DVD (premiering on April 7).

Now, I’ll be addin’ more about the guys (as it becomes available) in future posts, but, until then, you can get into the ForeFront by clicking on their site. A word of warning: You will be pleasantly excited by what you’re gonna see and hear!

UPDATE ON PETER DINTINO

After a small rough spot, Pete’s still climbin’ back from his fight against leukemia! Folks, I swear I’ve never seen so much courage, fight, belief and pure fortitude outta anyone before. At the rate he’s goin’, it won’t be long before he’s back behind the drumkit, rockin’ like never before! Here’s his daughter’s latest entry (read the whole thing from the beginning at his CaringBridge site for a completely awesome and inspiring story!):

“The intial tests showed nothing. He had an EDG and a Ct scan and they both came back negative. They did take a biopsy of his stomach while they were down there, that won’t come back for a couple of days but hopefully everything is okay. I am back now and he says he’s really glad. I got him to take some of his medicine PO (by mouth) and hopefully if everything comes back negative I can get him back to taking all of them. He is having minor surgery to fix his sub-clave catheter in his neck tomorrow so I’m not sure how up he will feel to phone calls but I will ask him! Thank you again for the prayers and continued support. Love Lin

Well (Y A W N !!) it’s been a long day here in Relicville, so I think I’m gonna go on and open this new pack of zzzz’s and then hit the sack. So I’ll see ya tomorrow when we get back to the QC with news and views, okay??

A word to Channel 9: Now you’re gettin’ into Relic Territory with your “Worst Songs of 1990″! In other words, you’re wrong on a few of ‘em!!

Okay … I’ll give ya Macarena and a few others, but Achy, Breaky Heart? Tell me: Have you ever known a song after The Bee Gee’s disco hits that have turned more people on to dancing? Granted, that tune has plagued Billy Ray Cyrus for years (seems he can’t get away from it, though he’s done a lot of other great ones), but it did get more people onto the line-dance floor (read: a form of exercising, socializing and timing) than at any time since Stayin’ Alive.

And Guns ‘N Roses November Rain? C’mon … you’ve gotta be kiddin’! The song is a story about a guy’s love, from dating to tragic end. It’s a modern-rock classic!

Yep … you’ve got Michael Boreton … er, Bolton .. right. This cat is dull, and about as original as a 99 cent hamburger! But don’t lump Ugly Kid Joe’s version of Cat’s In The Cradle in with him, okay? It was almost a perfect cover of Harry Chapin’s superhit … tailored for the new generation!

The rest are pretty much on-the-money, though.

Now, this isn’t to knock WSOC at all; in fact, it’s been my fave telly since the days of Joey the Clown, Kilgo’s Kanteen and more! Despite the other channels’ best efforts, they’ve always come through with the best news programming in the Charlotte area!
But they’re a little off when it comes to pickin’ the “best” or “worst” rock/pop songs of the ’90’s (hey … don’t blame them! Their sister station, WSOC-FM, is one of the foremost in country music!). Better luck with the New Millennium playlist, guys …

Man, it’s good to see these high-flyers back in town …

Having just returned from South America to South Carolina, the ospreys (cousins to the eagle) made their nest around the Great Falls Dam — and Duke Energy decided, rather than have fried feathers due to the power lines, to move ‘em. In fact, they’ve pitched in to buy a GPS (Global Positioning System) doodad to attach to one of their kids in order for the area’s human kids to study their movements, migration, etc.

I saw plenty of these during one of my runs to Florida and can tell you there’s a lot to be learned just by watching them! One of the most interesting characteristics about the ospreys is their gracefulness in flight; I saw one swing down from the sky, skim the Indian River near Titusville, scoop up a fish, and return to its flight pattern without missin’ a beat! They can soar effortlessly, “light” softly on some of the craggiest limbs, and can hit some serious altitude when necessary … yet, when hunting, can get their prey in mere seconds, no matter how high they are.

Like I said, it’s good to see them back …

It was sad to hear about Ivan Dixon’s passing. This man, while known mostly for his role in Hogan’s Heroes, was as much a pioneer in television and movies as the great Sidney Poitier or Harry Belafonte. Known, by some in the business, for his impatience as much as his acting, he became one of the premier African-American directors at a time when the visual media was still a bit racist. My condolences to his family during their time of grief. He’ll certainly be remembered … and missed.

We’ve got a lot to learn from the ospreys … who’ve decided to put on their show here while it’s still (officially) winter, as well as Ivan Dixon: Both knew how to fly high, beat the odds, and keep going no matter what weather they faced (in one, physical; in the other, sociopolitical). And the Queen City area’s proud that they both chose to bless us with their presence …

The free tickets for the event are already gone — snapped up within two hours, according to the cadre at the Grady Cole Center. ‘Course, they’re not for a rock, wrestling or rodeo show, but for a chance to see history in the making.

The candidate who, according to some pundits, is the most charismatic and voter-friendly in the 2008 primaries is coming to Charlotte on Wednesday afternoon to address supporters before heading to a couple of fundraisers here later that night.
Sen. Barack Obama, who not only would be making history (if elected) as the first African-American President of the U. S. (and, I’ve gotta say, it’s about time this happened!) but also is one of the most resilient candidates to come down the pike in a long time, will be appearing at 3:30 PM at the Center. Doors will open at 1:30, and, while the public has been invited, organizers won’t allow bags or signs to be brought in (for security reasons, natch!). In fact, personal items are limited as well (again, this is a security measure for any candidate, Democrat or sinner …)

Y’know, it’s interesting to note here that, while the elections themselves are “up in the air” (though the Dems have a slight lead, at this point, over McCain and the GOP), we (and especially our kids!) are witnessing “history in the making” as it’s the first time we’ve ever had an African-American (on the one hand) and a female (on the other) duke it out for the top spot on the Democratic Presidential ticket! Should either Barack or Hillary win, it’ll definitely be a landmark in American history!!

So, if you’ve got one of those tickets to the event, please be sure to attend! The Grady Cole Center is located at 310 N Kings Dr., for you newcomers …

BE A FRANCHISE PLAYER

When ya look around the Queen City (as well as the rest of the world, for that matter), you’ll see people who own “franchise” stores; they’ve purchased the right to open their own businesses under a parent corporation’s name and offer its services and/or products. Of course, they’re profitable for both parent corp and franchisee.
Well, one of the most lucrative markets for franchises is in the UK, where it’s not only less expensive to open one but also more popular! From internet-based businesses to cleaning, fitness, food and more there are literally hundreds in which you can invest … and start reaping profits!
And the site that can help you find the best franchise for your investment dollar is just a click away (I’ll give ya the link in a moment). It doesn’t stop there, though: You’ll find articles, legal and finance help – even various spotlighted franchises to consider!
So, for some great (and financially attractive) franchise opportunities, just click that link now and see how you can succeed in your very own business!

/>Y’know, it’s really a shame to see the old museum at Tweetsie Railroad go up in smoke …

I mean, for years, we heard Fred Kirby talk about it on his Little Rascals show … saw it in so many TV and radio commercials … and visited and revisited this fantastic journey into time (hey … remember the shoot-outs? Tremendous …). It was just as much a part of Charlotte as it was Blowing Rock, right??

Fortunately, the park’s still gonna open (old Tweet itself is gonna be runnin’ full steam, I hear …) on May 2, and they’ll start building a new structure there soon!
Still, it’s a shame; the building was the oldest in the park. They say it was either an electrical problem outright, or one caused by lightning.

LUGG(AGE)ING IT AROUND IN STYLE!

One of the most popular styles of luggage today are those made of aluminum; you’ll see travelers with ‘em in airports, on Amtraks … even in tiny towns like Hollywood!
They’re a lot more durable, easier to manage and clean! And, by far, the best of these is the Rimowa brand, because you not only get the finest and studiest craftsmanship, but also the highest-quality materials! (And you’ll love their styles … especially if you dig music as much as The Relic: Salsa, Tango, Samba and Limbo, for example.)
Now, the best place to get these classy-but-durable beauties is right there, at the tip of your mouse! Just point it to this link that’ll take you to the finest in Rimowa luggage, then click on it to find the best styles, prices and more!
Remember … vacation’s not that far away, and you’ll want the best luggage to take with you! So click that link today!

FOR A CHANGE (a bit of rock-n-roll news): Reports are coming in from the ‘Pool, Shropshire and elsewhere of a dynamic new group that’s startin’ to turn a lotta heads with their driving rock-and-roll (sound familiar? Kinda like what we heard of another group in 1963?). The Fore is (are?) a four-man band from Kent, England, whose sound (and fashion!) is heavily influenced by the Hamburg years of The Beatles and other Invasion groups. Having heard snips of their songs already (you’ve gotta hear ‘em yourself on their widget), I’m predictin’ that, if these boys “stay the course,” you’re gonna hear some big things from these rockers soon! (and anyone in the Queen City area that knows me can tell ya: I KNOW MY MUSIC!

Folks, I’ve said it before, and I’m sayin’ it again: The Invasion Sounds are returning to the rock arenas, and are more popular than ever! And young up-and-comers like The Fore serve it up, shaken and stirred (and for news clips of the boys, go here and here) !!

Now, when Eddie Money had his suitcases stolen awhile back and lost shoes, clothes, checks and cash in the theft, he was a bit upset (sorta like a knife in the back makes ya a bit sore, right?). Well, imagine how the Moneyman felt when he came home to his Palm Coast, Florida home last week just to find it broken into!
No, nothing was stolen … in fact, whoever broke in … just … returned the luggage he stole earlier, minus the stuff that was in them!! (pssst … Eddie! Don’t refill it, okay? Sounds like he’s expectin’ ya to …)

The Cat’s outta the bag — Yusef Islam (the singer formerly known as Cat Stevens) is afraid Al-Quaeda’s out to get him, so he’s turned down an invite to play at the Islamic Music Festival. (Gee … and this was the guy who was fishin’ for Salman a few years back? Backed the contract on Rushdie’s life?) Oh, baby, it’s a wild world ..

MUSIC FROM THE LEGENDARY RON RYAN (the actual writer of DC5 hits Because, Any Way You Want It and the original Bits and Pieces)
In this one, you’ll hear his songwriting ability as it applies to instrumentals. It’s a fantastic tune with a great “hook”, reminiscent of the surf sound of Dick Dale. Ron told me, “the Guy playing is the Guy who owns the Studio, great guitarist, but it all has to be written down, I sung it to him note by note!!!!!”

Again, I wanna thank Ron for graciously allowing me the opportunity to share his compositions with you. Now, remember: if ya need a “refresher” on his contribution to the Dave Clark Five’s success, you can either go to his site or my Relic post on the subject (now, for his role in Bits and Pieces, go to my HoF post. Ladies and gentlemen, without further adieux, I present Ron Ryan’s composing talents in

UPDATE ON PETER DINTINO

Man, the word just keeps gettin’ better at the Dintino camp! This superstar drummer/songwriter/friend has waged a gigantic battle against leukemia. If you read his journal (kept up by daughter Lin) at Caringbridge.com (you can download all but the last three entries here. Just save it on desktop and add to it from the online journal itself. It’ll bring you up-to-speed from day one), you’ll see an absolute, certified miracle taking place.

Now, for Lin’s latest update:

“Hello everyone, well we had a meeting with the doctors today. They wanted to make sure he was staying on track with his medicine and PT they also wanted to let us know that if he got out of the chair everyday he could move to the rehab unit next week! So please pray for strength for him because he skipped a couple of days because he said he was tired. His labs continue to look good and the doctors say the stem cells are grafting! This is awesome, hopefully he will be cancer free in a couple of months! Love Lin”

KEEP ON PRAYIN’, PEOPLE!! The man’s COMIN’ BACK!! But he still needs your positive thoughts, good vibes and prayers to help him! Thanx …

Now, next post, we’ll hone back into the QC and bring ya more of the news, views and amuse-ments of our area. But, considerin’ both Pete’s progress and The Fore, I just hadta share ‘em with ya!

There are some people you never forget …

Back when I was a teen (and thanx to a buddy named Butch Williamson), this lanky, introvert that became The Relic was introduced to a group of the finest young people in Charlotte. Although I was a rookie at South Mecklenburg, and they were froshes at Garinger, the rivalry that went on between the two Halls of Academia was ignored as I got to know them, and we became close friends.

Each weekend, I’d head up to The Plaza — a tree-lined mix of cottage-style houses, freshly-mowed lawns, friendly smiles and sunshine — to visit. Down Mecklenburg Avenue, where Mary Ellen lived, to Florida Ave (where our laundryman, Marshall Lemmond, had a nice house), then on to Tommie’s, Jim’s, Gaye’s and others. It was such a rush … and, quite honestly, I felt honored to be part of “their” group.

Today, in 2008, I couldn’t tell ya where even one of ‘em are now. Probably married, with kids and grandkids, havin’ a good life (I hope)! But each one still holds a special place in my life. If not for them, I don’t think I’d ever have come outta my shell (yep … shy as all get-out! And, as Tommie Sims said the first time she talked to me, “pessimist”!), or even gotten my first performing gig (thanx, Butch!).

And I wouldn’t have experienced pure beauty … not just that the girls were nice-looking, but that The Plaza area was one of the most welcome spots on Charlotte’s map! Today, when I travel the area, it’s understandably grown a bit … but the aura is still there; you can feel it as you drive down the old avenues and side-streets. It’s still one of Charlotte’s unsung treasures …

Now, if anyone knows where Mary Ellen Beaver, Tommie Sims, Gaye James, Jim Land, Mary Ann Brogdon … or even the great Butch Williamson … are today, give ‘em my regards, okay?

There are some memories that just don’t ever fade away …

So the school board’s lookin’ for $28.4 mil more from MeckCounty to cover enrollment growth and rising costs for the next school year, huh?? (Waitaminnit … maybe got some pocket change here …)
It’s part of Superintendent Green’s 1.2-billion-dollar budget plan for the year. Sounds a little high, right?
Wrong.
Look … Charlotte’s not the “big town” of the ’60s anymore, no matter how we’d like to re-live it. We have an outreach that’s stupendous, and the technology and added environs we need don’t come cheap. ly (sorry, Mr. Mills. Forgot my grammar!) The money — wherever it comes from — is gonna be necessary to keep up with the new millennium’s requirements for educational access and development.
(and, by the way, my grammar will never be forgotten! She made the best fried-apple pies in the world!)
You’ve gotta remember, we’re talkin’ our future for the Queen City: our kids! And they do deserve the best education … even if it costs that much to make it all happen! ‘Sides, I’ve seen the “flip side” of the coin, and it’s not pretty. In Kentucky and West Virginia, for example, where school budgets are not only tight but also contested, it’s the kids who end up hurting the most; the area has one of the highest illiteracy, child-obesity, and teen pregnancy rates in the nation! And, yes, it all does link into educational-budget deficits in those areas!
So, I say, approve the budget, and let’s keep Charlotte’s educational system on the “A” list for another year!

TRAFFIC TROUBLE … IN MINT HILL?

What it means is that the town commish wants to lower the speed limit near Lawyers Road and Hwy. 51 to thirty-five mph. Listen — it’s gotta happen! If you’ve ever been through that area, you’ll see drivers cuttin’ through, cuttin’ up and cuttin’ everything but the mustard there, and sometimes at speeds that would equal my age!
In fact, the limit should be lowered near every intersection from Matthews to Pineville to Charlotte as well! A few years back, a youngster was killed after bein’ hit by a driver near Hwys. 51 and 521 in Pineville. He was knocked some 40 feet through the air by a speeder!
So, man, if you’re not for it, as my daddy usedta say, you’re agin’ it!

ABOUT A MEDICAL MARVEL … A FRIEND … YOU SHOULD MEET:

Folks, you’ve probably read on my classic rock site, The Rock Relic, about one of the bravest leukemia patients in the USofA. Peter Dintino, a close friend from Long Island, NY, has one of those stories that … well, if ya didn’t believe in miracles before ya read it, you will when ya do!
Tell ya what … just go to his CaringBridge site and read the diary (startin’ from page 5 [the beginning] and take it back to the most recent entry) that his daughter, Lin, has done. You will be blessed!

And, if ya like real, solid blues music, listen to one of Pete’s songs, Criminal Intent! Recorded by John Hesterman of The Offbeats, it’s totally awesome (I think there’s a law that says before you use the word awesome, you’re legally bound to use that word totally. Totally.).
So, without further adieux (except to say Criminal Intent is © 2008 RHM Music. Used by permission of the publisher. Any reproduction is expressly prohibited without prior consent from RHM Music, 9841 Mission Vega Rd. Unit 1, Santee, CA 92071) here is …

Go ahead … experience God’s Living Miracle by clicking on those links I gave ya … and I’ll see ya next time!

Awwwww … wouldn’tcha know it??

I mean, there I was, stuck in the high-hills, travelin’ nearly the big 250, chompin’ at the bit for the big OCW show tonight … just to find out it’s cancelled due to some snow. And wind. And ice.
And my old Boltbucket Deluxe has a heater that went belly-up somewhere south of Beckley, W. Va. Sooooo, I hadta pull on the gloves, go by the local donut shop to fill my thermos (huh?? Always!) and creep, swerve and pray myself back to I-64 for the trip home.

On the way, it jolted me upright when I heard a radio report about the tragic fire in Salisbury. With my nephew, Bill Griffin, the fire chief in Pineville and a captain (what’d ya expect from my sis’ boy?) in Charlotte’s FD, I tend to think of each one of these flame-flatteners as heroes. Ya gotta remember: They sign up for the job willingly, knowing that it only takes one call to put their lives in jeopardy. And they do it … for us! My heart and prayers go out to those who lost their lives in the fire …
Tell ya what: next time you see a fireman (or woman), shake their hand. Tell them you’re proud of ‘em! Do something good for them … because they certainly do great things for US!

There’s one thing I’ve noticed during my trips north(west): In the Tri-State area (where Kentucky, West Virginia and Ohio link together at the Ohio River), there’s a major problem with obesity. Now, some cases are either attributed to diabetes, but some are simply due to bad eating habits combined with sedentary lifestyles (hmph … and you thought I didn’t know big words!). In fact, that area has one of the top obesity rates in the nation!

Down here, we’ve got fitness centers, Freedom Park, bicycle routes … and folks more aware of their physical conditioning than ever! It’s a feather in our cap, to be sure … but … it’s gotta stay foremost on our individual and collective agendas to keep it that way!
Now, I said “diabetes”. Listen: no matter where ya live, and no matter what you do, you can still be a prime candidate for the “sugar” disease! It really doesn’t know any creed, color, economic or geographic boundaries. So it’s important to have a physical checkup regularly, okay? (Huh?? Yep — I had mine, and the doc gave me some restrictions that’ve helped a lot!)

NOW … ABOUT DIET PILLS:

We’ve heard “yea” and “nay” about so many weight-loss pills that we don’t know which are really that good. But there is a place that can “eliminate the guesswork” when it comes to the ones that are now on the market.
In fact, they reviewed over 200 of the top selling diet pills in the world and follow a twelve-point criteria in order to find the best and most effective! Then they list the top ten for you according to the ranking they receive from their strict standards.
But they don’t stop there! After ranking each product, they search the internet for you, so that you can visit the best place to buy it online. Friends, I don’t think there’s any other spot that’ll do all that for ya!
Now, all you’ve gotta do to get started is visit the site that’ll help you find the best in top diet pills. You’ll be glad you’ve clicked that link, and even happier when you see the results you get from your choice and purchase! So do it now, okay?

Pssst ,,, gotta tell ya a secret: I didn’t know a friggin’ thing about laptop computers until one of the guys from the Saturday show let me borrow his until then.
Talk about complicated! For a lefty like me tryin’ to figure out how to make that rascal work, plus move that little ball around (geez … don’t they make portable mice, at least?) and get my write-ups (mostly in HTML) lookin’ right and online on time, it was more like brain surgery.

But I finally got the knack of it … and, honestly, I’m kinda thinkin’ about gettin’ one for myself. Not that I wanna put a hamster-and-wheel outta business, but it sounds like a sound idea. First, I’m all over the tracks here … and, secondly, my cats can’t follow me everywhere!

ROUTING IT OUT

Natch, there’s one thing that any wireless computer needs, and that’s a good router (it’s a network doodad that forwards something called “information packets” from one network to another). And ya really can’t do much about an internet connection on a wireless without one!
Now, you’re gonna need the best, of course, to get the best connection! Of course, you can search the yellow pages (frustrating), waste a lot of gas driving around and looking, pay high prices from a salesman who might know somethin’ about ‘em … or you can find the best mobile router at that link I just gave you, and save a lot of time (and a bit of cash) in the process!
In this age where wireless seems to be the “real deal” in computers, it makes sense to click that link now, okay?