Charlotte, NC

Sheeesh … Summer School; words that most kids hate to hear.
But … the Panthers??
Yep! They’ve got it, more or less. Actually, it’s sort of a warm-up — voluntary practices that’ll last until mid-June (their official training camp doesn’t begin until sometime in July).
Here’s a little bit about their summer school:

• The practices officially are offseason training activities (OTAs). They’re not allowed pads or contact, and they’re closed to the public.

• Popular rookie running back Jonathan Stewart won’t be there. Y’see, his school in Oregon (which uses the quarter system) is still in session, and the NFL doesn’t allow players to work in OTAs until after their classes have ended.

• The other rookies are expected to be on hand. On Tuesday, they did re-sign Curtis DeLoatch, who played six games last season before injuring his knee. Curtis, who was born in Murfreesboro, has played for the New York Giants, New Orleans Saints and the Panthers in four seasons.

I just hope they come outta their summer school with a lot better feeling than a lot of us did years ago!!

GOIN’ WITH THE LOGO

Y’know, as a businessman/media consultant/writer, I’ve gotta put a lot of business cards into action! But it takes forever to have the logos worked up, layin’ the whole card out like ya want it, then having ‘em printed by a local company. Then you’ve gotta wait … and wait … and hope they come out okay.
But there’s one place you can go online and have great ones made … to your specifications, ’cause you make ‘em yourself!
And it’s sooooo easy! I just tried a couple of designs myself, and the process is really simple: Among the six easy-to-follow steps, you pick out a logo from your field, find the template you want, type in a few basic lines (your name, street info, phone number), check out the finished product, and pay (by secured server, natch!) … but only when you’re satisfied!
Now, you have plenty of eye-catching logos to choose from, can go back and rework what you want (it doesn’t matter if you do it a dozen times!), and, when finished, I can guarantee you’ll have a sharp, professional-looking business card ready for print!
Hey … I’ll show you mine, if you’ll show me yours when ya get it done:

Now, this took me all of about five minutes to complete (of course, you’ll want to know what you’re gonna put on the card ahead-of-time. It makes sense, right?)
Believe me, it’s the easiest but most professional card you’d ever want … and you’re 100% in the process! So, why not give the best site for your logo design a visit just by clicking the link I just gave ya?
You’ll really be thrilled with the results!

Look … we already know that, in today’s economy, the only way to keep the proverbial wolves from our door is to invest wisely. And experts will tell you that the best financial investment you can make today is in gold.

Now, the Monex companies have helped tens of thousands invest in “hard asset” investments including rare gold coins as well as other precious metals investments.
And the folks behind link I’m about to share offer a great array of investment resources for investors and collectors alike.
You’ll find absolutely the finest rare coins available, an experienced and knowledgeable staff of professionals that’s ready to serve your needs, and investment programs and products that’ll fit practically any budget.

Not only that, but you’ll have immediate access to a variety of investment-grade coins that are valued in excess of $10,000,000. Other selections can be acquired on short notice.

Their established two-way “buy-and-sell” market for rare coins and precious metals products has been accented by involvement in all aspects of the rare coin trade: the wholesale market; the collector market; the international market and auctions.
With this expertise, access to the most intriguing rare coins available and over forty years as leaders in the hard-asset market, this business (a part of the Monex families) is totally suited to helping you find the best rare coin value on the market!

So, why not check out their gold coins now, and make an investment that no “wolf’s” going to touch??

Geez … it seems all anyone can talk about these days are coyotes in (or not in) Charlotte!

I mean, first we hear that the great gig-and-dancebar, Coyote Ugly’s, isn’t gonna get its lease for a downtown location.
Personally, I think it’s a drag, because it could liven things up, at least economically, down (up, over … dependent upon where you are as you read this) there. I’ve been to many big cities that’ve had the same opp, and turned it down — just to see big revenue go elsewhere!
Besides, it’ll bring new blood into the downtown area for shopping or whatever.
And, though I don’t drink, I’ve gotta admit that, as a venue, the Coyote Uglys usually bring a pretty big draw!
But it’s the city fathers’ decision …

Then you’ve got the problem with real coyotes plundering through South Meck areas. In fact, the Observer reports that a pup was almost killed by one down around Piper Glen.
Look … if ya see one, call the police and let them handle it from there. Back away from it as quietly as possible if you’re outside (and near your house), then go back in (take any pets you have, too!) and stay there until the gendarmes (cops) arrive.
They look like big dogs, sure … but they can be as vicious as wolves if you’re not careful!

Gee … what a time to be without the Road Runner!

DISPOSABLE GLOVES

A couple of days ago, it was my privilege to help my bobtailed beauty, Summer, deliver five lovely kittens! Of course, before you even think of handlin’ the little ones, you need to have good disposable gloves on. It’ll keep the “human” scent off the newborns and allow their mother to bond with them more securely.
Of course, there are other uses for the gloves, as you know; doctors require them before examinations, operations or whatever. But many people, whose skin is over-sensitive to dishwashing liquid, cleaning solvents, etc., also swear by them!
The best place to get these is right behind the link I’m gonna give you in a moment. But, for now, let me tell you that you’ll find a great selection of disposable latex gloves there, along with ultra thin powder free types that can fit either hand.
These folks also offer free shipping (in the 48 continental states) if your order’s over $25.00!
So, whether you’re a doctor, housekeeper, or someone who needs the protection provided by these latex gloves, just click on this link for the best offer on superb latex exam gloves now.

Being an old Rock Relic, I keep a close eye on the world of “oldies”, “”classic rock” and those who pay tribute/emulate or revive it.
There are only two bands I’ve found that actually does that, IMHO. One (and, undoubtedly, the fastest-growing) is based in England. The Fore didn’t set out to have a Merseyside/Hamburg sound, though; it just came naturally. And they don’t do “covers”; their music is 100% self-composed! You can find out more about them at their site or at The Rock Relic site.

But the other is a four-man band based right here in Charlotte! While The SpongeTones first started as a cover/tribute ensemble, they quickly grew and developed their own sound around some dynamite self-compositions!
And they have a great fanbase across America … and in the UK! I remember the first time I heard them: They were doin’ Please Mr. Postman ala The Beatles … and, while the music was “spot-on”, the vocals were a bit amateurish!
But MAN!! have these guys improved over the years! No wonder mates of mine from Arizona, California, New York, Canada and London are sold on ‘em!
So, to Jamie Hoover and friends, congrats! You’ve not only made a significant dent in the music world, but have also made us VERY proud of the fact that you’re from this side of the trax!!
(Geez … I feel like I’m in Liverpool circa 1965 or somethin’! LOL) Seriously: If ya get a chance to buy one of their CDs, do it! You’ll definitely like whatcha hear! Or read more about ‘em at this site. Better yet, be sure to take ‘em in live whenever they’re in your neck-of-the-woods, okay??

THE FAIRER FAUCET

One of the best faucets on the market today are the bar-style ones; they’re convenient, space-saving and more dependable than the old “L”-shaped ones that stick out and get in everyone’s way.
Now, if you’ve still got the old ones installed on your sink, believe me: you’ll be 100% happier with modern, classy, easy-to-clean bar faucets. I’ve used one for years, and wouldn’t have an “old” model again if ya gave it to me!
And the best place to find these faucets — at great prices, to boot — is found right behind that link you saw a second ago. But there’s more: You also can choose your brand, style, finish, configuration — even price range! I mean, they really go all out to provide you with the faucet that’ll be perfect for your sink or lavatory!
So check ‘em out today, okay??

Around the nation, our city’s becoming known as one of the business meccas of America. In many of the promos and ads for the QC, photos of the concrete-and-steel downtown area are preferred over more tranquil settings (like Freedom Park).

It seems like these ad agencies — the ones that promote Charlotte to the world — are missing something: We have thousands here who are environmentally conscious, doing their best to not only provide healthier and safer lives for themselves and their families but a better and more beautiful area for everyone to enjoy!
I realize that, in corporate America, this doesn’t sell — but it’s everything to the average, everyday worker/stay-at-home mom/teacher/preacher/etc! It’s especially true since all the talk about global-warming, ozone depletion and other environmental factors hit our headlines!

We need to let everyone know that we’ve banded together to make a safer, more eco-friendly city … and, while it’s good to move here due to our booming business landscape, it’d be even better for them if they knew the air/water/etc. was clean and pollutant -free, right?

THERE IS A WAY TO HELP MAKE IT HAPPEN

All you have to do is click on the link to alpine industries to find some amazing solutions to both indoor and outdoor pollution problems!
In this world that seems to become more pollution-conscious every day, it’s important that we can take steps like these … and use products like these … to provide a healthier life for ourselves, our families … our future!
I recommend you go there now and study their site for more on how you can provide a pollutant-free life for you and yours!
Believe me, you’ll be glad you did!

Memorial Day. To many, it’s a “day off from work.” But to the countless thousands who’ve lost loved ones in service to our country, it’s a sacred holiday, an honorable tradition.
There are so many men and women here in the MeckCo area who’ve served — and made it back home alive. But within them lie memories of their buddies who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. To them, we pay a special respect, knowing that, in fact, part of them died on the day their buddies did.

One special Memorial Day celebration stands out in The Relic mind, though.

It was May, 1989. Daddy had just picked me and my son, Mike, up from K-Mart in Starmount Shopping Center, and was heading home to ready for the Memorial Day ceremony at the Pineville Cemetery (he was Commander of VFW Post 9091 in town). About thirty minutes before he was to go — though he was dressed in his uniform — he reached over to tie his low-quarters. He stayed there, bent over, for a moment, and mama went to check on him.
He looked up, tears streaming down his face. He couldn’t tie his shoes. He’d had a stroke. Of course, he was taken to the hospital as Jack Crump took his place at the podium.

May, 1991. The most amazing man in the world — Eola Hinson (pump repairman, deacon, caring father, loving husband to mama) — had passed from this world nine months before of lung cancer (they found it as he was in the hospital two years before). At the ceremony that Memorial Day, Jack read the names of all veterans who were buried there, and handed out flags to members of his or her family.
When he got to the name “Cecil Eola Hinson,” something strange happened: Jack’s voice cracked and trembled, and the people in attendance sighed and, in some cases, had tears as mama slowly walked forward, tears in her own eyes, to accept the flag for his grave.

It’s a day I’ll never forget … and it made me so proud that Daddy (as others there in that cemetery) was a patriot — a true American in every sense of the word. He’d served in the Second World War as a commo sergeant (Top Sergeant), and was thankful that he’d been given the blessing of returning home.

May we, as Americans, pray for that blessing for ALL our men and women overseas!

FROM DEATH TO LIFE

If you remember, last post told you about my fave cat, Contessa, as she is dying. Even as I write this, she’s beside me as I’m still comforting her and dabbing her little mouth with water, nutritional paste (vet-recommended), etc.
Yet, in the other room, another lovely feline of mine (Indian Summer) has just given birth to five beautiful little kittens! After helping with their births (I think she’s finally gotten the knack of feeding them!), I then come back to the office and check on Contessa. Believe me, it’s a strange feeling.
But it’s sort of like the song by Blood, Sweat and Tears (and when I die, and when I’m gone, there’ll be one child born in this world to carry on*). And it’s an eerie feeling.
At the moment, Tessa is apparently resting, while the kittens are doing well. Just keep the brood in your prayers, okay? Thanks.
* And When I Die performed by Blood, Sweat and Tears

A GREAT OPPORTUNITY

As this economy seems to tighten its financial grip on us, many people are looking for a solid, home-based business for a second income. Often, if it’s presented right, it becomes their main source of income in time.
Now, the link I’m about to share will send you to a site that offers you just that: the opportunity for good, home-based work that has the potential for great income for you! And the best part is that it’s based on ecology!
I don’t know of anyone who doesn’t want cleaner air and an environment that’ll be safer and better for our families! With their products, you have an enormous opportunity to provide something that everyone wants — especially with the environment being a major issue and on everyone’s minds lately.
So you can actually help provide a cleaner, healthier life for others and make some decent income to boot!
Sound good? Then just click on EcoQuest Intl to learn more about this amazing business opp now!

I dunno … perhaps I’m a bit too sensitive …
but, as I write this, my favorite little buddy — a short, sweet little Himalayan named Contessa — is passing away. The doc says there’s nothing that can be done for her, and, rather than have her euthanized in some sterile, impersonal environment, I decided to bring her back here, where she’d be comfortable and surrounded by those who love her — me and her little feline family.

And, to top it all off, a “friend” of mine (whom I’d called) had the nerve to say, “Whatcha worryin’ about? It’s just a cat!” Yeah. Sure. Like a BMW is “just a car” …

Look … this little girl was the first at the door when I’d come in from work, ready to greet me; when I was a bit down, she’d jump up on my lap and lick my face, seemingly hoping it’d make me feel better (it did!);
she was always there. And now … I can’t do a damn thing to help her, other than just keep a little water dabbed around her mouth (Himmies hate medicine droppers, and the least little squabble [stress] could kill her at this point!) and be there for her, comforting …

Daddy had the same situation when the big Lab he had beside the shop, Bingo, lay dying. Mary and Dink went through it with Sam, Willie and others. Most of you reading this has had the same situation. Still — though there are so many who can relate — it’s still hard. The one solace I have is something John Lennon said years ago. Though not a quote here, it was something like “how do we know it’s not better over there than it is here — wherever ‘there’ is?”
So, shortly, she’ll cross that Rainbow Bridge … and I know it’s bound to be beautiful there …

KEEPING ABREAST OF THINGS

Y’know, a lot’s been said about breast implants, but did you know these serve purposes well beyond cosmetic? There are those whose breasts might be underdeveloped or misshapen for whatever reason. Of course, women can also lose breast volume due to pregnancy.
Now, there are a lot of doctors who perform augmentation surgery, but, since you don’t want to take chances here, your best bet is to go to the best — and you’ll be able to meet them at the click of your mouse in just a moment.
But, first, let me tell you that this site not only tells you all about augmentation, but even goes over the procedure with you, answers any questions you have, and even introduces you to the doctor in charge — judged one of the best in 2008!
So, if you believe that you’re a good candidate for breast implants augmentation, just click on that link you passed and be sure to visit with the doctor who can perform the best and most confident procedure for you!

Geez … just when ya thought ya heard it all …
comes word of the woman who faked her “daughter’s” death in order to obtain benefits (it was in the Observer a few days ago, remember?). She had a couple of women pose as “relatives” who took the “daughter’s” photo and information to a funeral home, which, in turn, provided the info to their local paper.
But …
it was all a scam. The “daughter” (who allegedly was “killed in action in Afghanistan”) was a fake; her “photo” was one taken from a fashion magazine. Right … the cold-hearted, conniving, selfish idiot who did this not only was trying to scam money, but spit directly in the faces of every parent who’s actually lost a son/daughter in combat!
Fortunately, the powers-that-be caught the perp … so the story’s behind us now.

Or is it?

Every day here in America, somebody’s trying to scam (ie, trying to get money or property by lying about a situation, quality, etc.) someone somewhere. Whether it’s the classic telemarketers, door-to-door “salesmen” (gotta throw in a disclaimer at this point: Not all who work in those two trades are shady or illegal. But the bad ones ruin it for the good) or others, they’re out to get your money!

So what can we do to stop these jerks — especially those who try to play on our emotions or conscience? Here are three steps that can’t fail:

• First, ask questions. Tough questions. Demand to know (a) their names, (b) where their offices (or themselves) are located. Get the street address and phone numbers!
• If you have any doubts about them, call 911. Let the law handle the investigation! (A hint here: When talking to these people, be sure to let ‘em know they’re going to be checked out first. That includes any information given to a funeral home, newspaper, etc.) If they’re/the situation’s legit, they won’t mind.
• Simply, say NO! if you have any doubt.
• For email scams, it’s simple: If it’s not something you ordered, or if the sending party’s not in your “address book”, just report it as spam. Don’t just delete it!!

This way, you’re gonna be a lot safer and can breathe easy!

WALK RIGHT IN

Y’know, back when I was doin’ the OCW shows in Kentucky, I noticed a lot of folks talkin’ about or using bathtubs they can walk in easily! Though I’d heard of these before, I had no idea how useful they could be (you see, back-in-the-day, some areas of KY had a polio outbreak, and there are also a lot of serious diabetics … and these tubs are invaluable to folks who suffer from those afflictions!).
Of course, they’re great for anyone, and very comfortable (I stayed in a motel that has ‘em installed!). And there’s one place where you can get these at (1) a great price, (2) in an assortment of styles, (3) with the drains, extension kits and more to give you the best efficiency, (4) safety tub brochures and a whole lot more!
They’re great for those in your family who might have a problem getting into the standard tubs … but works wonders for anyone!
To find out more about these wonderful tubs and their ease of access, just click on the link that’ll take you to the best spot for walk in bathtubs … and order yours today!

IT’S OPEN!!

And what a rush it is to see soooooo many bloggers, writers, announcers and acts from around the world covering Myrtle Beach’s newest and grooviest attraction, Hard Rock Park! (In fact, the Relic’s heard that some are callin’ the area Myrtle Beat! Yeah … kinda unfair. We Kackalackians know that MB’s the home of beach music … and that’s the true “Myrtle Beat”!)

Performers are loadin’ up almost as quickly as the fans (who are in looooove with Mt. Rockmore — sorta like Mr. Rushmore but with Elvis, John, Bob and Jimi enshrined on it); they’re lookin’ to get gigs there, because they know a winner when they see it!

Now, with vacations comin’ up, you might wanna know how to get there, right? Okay … here ’tis:
From Charlotte: I-77 S toward Columbia. Exit 16A to I-20 E to I-20 Spur E. Take Palmetto St., US-76 E to SC-576 E, which becomes US-501 S. Follow 501-S directions above.

This is one spot you don’t wanna miss touring, people! (Oh … did I mention the Moody Blues, Eagles and Charlie Daniels are on tap to perform there this year?) You can take the Whole Lotta Love ride (this rascal blasts off with a noise that’s ten times louder than a jet landing … so now you know the kids’ll wanna go!), or the Nights In White Satin: The Trip experience (yep, both of these have the OK — and input — from the bands that made the songs famous).

So, to quote the great Shredder (what?? You mean nobody watches Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles anymore?? Geez …) GO. PLAY. HAVE FUN.

THIS OUGHTTA CLEAR IT UP

One thing that bugs just about every teen at one time or another (and a lot of adults, too!) is acne! Even the word sounds a bit nasty. And there are so many oils, salves, pills, pads and poppers on the market that say they can help … but don’t deliver the goods!
Psssst …
There’s a new product that really does take care of the problem, once and for all! Already, it’s gotten 25,000 solidly satisfied customers who say it’s the best treatment in the world!
It’s not a “long-and-drawn-out” treatment, but one that’ll work for ya within 24 hours! It’s a one-step, natural acne solution … and you can get it at a fantastic price! All you’ve gotta do is click on this link for the most remarkable natural acne treatments … and get ready to say a permanent “goodbye” to those blackheads and blemishes!
Believe me, your face’ll love you for it!

Every once-in-awhile, I’m still asked what the most magical moment was in this musical Reliclife …
So, for that, let me share this article I wrote for Home Highlight. You’ll know, by the end of it, why it was so magical for me:

Years ago, when I was just barely into my teens, my dad came home from work carrying a battered, old guitar. He knew I wanted to learn to play one - I’d seen folk groups, country acts -even some new group called “The Beatles” playing them, and it
looked like so much fun. In fact, while these performers were on TV, I’d watch carefully for the close-up shots, and (using a baseball bat as a “guitar”) I’d mimic their fingering, position of the
chords and timing.

When he gave me the acoustic guitar, I sat down and, propping it up on my knee, began to position my fingers on the neck, just as I had seen the performers do. Certainly, I was going to be the next Elvis.

But he did something that I’ll remember to my dying day: He took a big, calloused hand, put it over the fingerboard and stopped me from playing! Then he said,

“Son, wait a minute. Let me tell you a little story.
You see, Life’s a lot like that old guitar you’ve got, especially when it’s time to pay your dues. And, just like the sounds you can make on that guitar, the onesyou make in life is entirely up to you. We can’t stop you from framming away at it like an off-tune madman any more than we can stop you from playing beautiful music.

When you get to be an adult, it’s going to be the same thing when you’re ‘out there’ in the real world. Nobody can stop you; it’s your choice as to what type of ‘music’ you give them.
Now, you see those strings, and how you’re holding them down with your fingertips? Each note is meant to create harmony with each other. That’s your goal in life, son … learn to place each thing you do …each step you take … so it’ll be in harmony with mankind. Otherwise, just like with the guitar, you’re gonna make such a noise that nobody’ll want to hear you.”

I listened intently; this was good stuff! Then he continued,

“And, by and by, you’ll learn how to sing with that guitar - maybe even write a few tunes yourself.
When you do, remember that a simple tune does better when the words are from the heart. Make them easy for people to learn … to keep in their mind. And you’re painting a picture with each one. Son, remember to do the same thing in your everyday doings, and you’ll make friends and be happier than you ever thought.

Now … let’s hear you play …”

Does that answer your questions? God Bless the memory of Eola Hinson … my dad … my mentor …

NOTEBOOKS AREN’T JUST CARDBOARD AND PAPER

Nope … they’re computers that you can take with ya when you’re on the road, need more room or whatever. Not only are they easy-to-manage, but their power and capabilities can surprise you … if you get the right one!

Of course, these can be found just about everywhere these days … but it requires lookin’ all over creation, spending loads of time you don’t have and gas ya don’t wanna use up — just to be frustrated often with the results!
Now, there’s only one place I’ve found that’ll get you exactly what you want, at the price you want … and save you from all that other nonsense … and you can find your new, quality notebook computer just by clicking the link you just saw.
Believe me, with so much goin’ on over the next few months (from summer vacations to Christmas holidays), you’re gonna want the best … and save cash to boot! So go ahead, click the link, and get it today!

The news reports about a young man from Iredell County taking indecent liberties with a minor he’d met on MySpace aren’t really alarming anyone, it seems.
But there’s a reason: Reports like these are becoming all too commonplace around the world. And we’ve been inundated with so many NBC Dateline™ segments about chat rooms and subsequent stings that many predators are using other webside ways of seducing youngsters … many of them even using public sites like MySpace to do it.

The bottom line can be brief and succinct here: Parents, MONITOR YOUR KIDS! Whether they’re on MySpace, Instant Messengers, chat rooms or whatever,monitor them!
TALK with them, and let them know the facts,cold and hard if need be, about what can happen … If you suspect any shady activity, get their usernames and passwords if necessary (on the premise that they can’t use the home PC until they do!

Now, the problem stems, not from MySpace but, from people (especially kids) not knowing how to keep themselves in check on the site. That’s why so many predators like it: the kids wanna exercise their freedom on it, and feel like it’s a release from parenta/other pressures. To “seek the thrill” is a big “rush” to them.

But the cost … the price to pay … is WAY to high to take a chance.

THE BEST COMPUTER WORKIN’S

Man, we all have PC problems at one time or another, and need different cables, plugs, ports and more to get ‘em back online and running right!
Unfortunately, so many stores don’t have whatcha need (like the HDMI products(meaning “High-Definition Multimedia Interface”) … and, if they do, they’ve got ‘em priced so high your wallet would need a ladder to reach ‘em!
But now there’s a fantastic place to get these and other products to help keep your machine runnin’ the way ya want it! You not only save time and effort (no thumbing through phone books, long drives, dealing with salespeople, etc), but ya get just what you’re lookin’ for: top quality at affordable prices!
And all you’ve gotta do to find these HDMI products is to click the link ya just passed!
Before ya know it, your computer’ll be in top shape … and you’ll feel good about the savings!

All around the two Carolinas, folks are buzzin’ about Barack Obama’s newest “name” supporter, former candidate John Edwards.

According to the folks I’ve talked with, it’s interesting that, at this stage of the game, John decided to side with the Illinois Senator. Some have said it’s a “ploy” to become VP if Barack becomes Prez; others, that it’s something Edwards was planning anyway, but wanted to wait until he could get the press for it.

Sorry, folks … wrong on both counts! Y’see, after the Carolina attorney dropped outta the race, he hadta get his own life back in gear; his wife, Betty, is still undergoing treatment for cancer, he’s gotta get back into the business arena again, and work with his delegates to see how and where they stand on the issue.

Then, as most of us would, he had to take a good, solid look at both candidates, work with his own team (and delegates) to determine which is really the best to support (based on the issues).
After all that, plus what I said just above it, he made his decision. I don’t think it was based on some kinda “ulterior motive”, because that’s not the way Edwards has ever been known to operate!

The key to this whole campaign among Democrats isn’t about “Hillary vs. Obama” or whatever, though. Sure, they both want the nomination. And the struggle has ripped the pants of the Democratic Party a bit.
But we can mend that rip by realizing the common goal here: that another four years of Republican leadership just ain’t gonna cut it!
That’s what Barack, John, Hillary — and whoever else is out there — realizes. And that’s what’s gonna make or break this campaign, no matter who’s nominated!

AMMO FOR THE WAR AGAINST DRUGS

No matter where you are in this country, you know that illegal drugs are not too far from you. And it’s heartbreaking to know that, as bad as they are, there are so many people addicted to them. They might be people we know — even of our own family — and we feel a bit helpless as we watch them go downhill.
But there is a fantastic place that provides the best assistance and recovery therapy for addicts! Nestled in absolutely beautiful surroundings, this center is dedicated to bringing the finest and most thorough rehabilitation services to their patients. Its well-trained, compassionate staff is devoted to the welfare and successful treatment of the patients. Their success rate is second-to-none, and those who leave after their therapy and rehab is completed can look forward to a happy, secure and drug-free life.
Now, the question is: Where do I find this place? or maybe My friend (family member/spouse/significant other) could use this!
Well, to find this successfully-effective, modern drug rehab, just click on the link you just passed! You (or your loved one) will definitely be on the road to a drug-free life … a happier, healthier life … and all it takes to begin it all is that first, all-important step! So click the link and visit them today.

Well, it happened …

for whatever reason, my PC “blue-screened” itself a coupla nights ago and, though I was able to bring it back, the modem (it and the drivers) was discombobulated!
Natch, I spent a full 24 tryin’ to get it back (huh?? Have ya tried calling Microsoft® lately? After pressing “this” or “that” number, ya still wait forever … and can somebody tell me how a dude in New Delhi knows about my computer?), sooooo … here I am, on an old PC, makin’ sure I get this post done (how old is it?? Dunno … but it’s got a kerosene reservoir and comes with a candle holder!).

Anyway, the “normal” PC (hmph … as if anything’s mornal in Relicworld!) should be up and running at full speed within a coupla days, and we’ll be gettin’ back to our regular posts! So stay tuned …

HILTON HEAD VACATION

While headin’ to Radio Shack™ to shop for modems (nope … didn’t find one I needed there, either!), I talked to a couple who were just comin’ through town on their way to Hilton Head for their vacation. Natch, they were gonna have to find a good rental when they got there, and I just happened to know of a great place that’d help ‘em find one!
Y’see, the South Carolina mecca is one that attracts thousands every year for fun-in-the-sun, great shopping, tennis, fine restaurants, magnificent scenery and much, much more!
Now … about that great “place”: In a minute, I’m gonna give you a link to the spot for vacation rentals in Hilton Head … and you’re gonna love whatcha see! Not only do you have great times ahead with golf courses, bike trails, tennis courts and more, but you’ve got some of the greatest fishing areas in the country! And, of course, there’s the wonder and beauty of the ocean!
And, no matter what size rental you need, you’ll get some of the finest and most relaxing amenities possible! (Oh … wonder why I’m using so many “!”s? It’s because I’ve been there … and it’s exciting!)
But, listen … don’t just take my word for it! Just click on this link for the best Hilton Head rental for you and your crew … and get ready for a grrrrrrrreat vacation!

People, if there was ever a true slogan, it’s the one below that pic, right??
But didja notice anything different about the wording? (Okay … I’ll give ya a minute …)

Here ’tis: It used the word “MOMS” instead of mothers. Yes, there is a difference, too! Y’see, biologically speaking, any female of child-bearing age and fertile can be a mother. It requires the physical development from embryonic fetus to infant, then the actual, physical birth of that child. Not an easy task, to be sure … but, then again, the female has just mothered the child!

Then … there are MOMS!

We all have our idea of what a “perfect mom” would be like. She not only works her tail off trying to take care of her house, cries her heart out if one of her children is sick or missing, loves her soul out for the benefit of her family, her husband/mate … and, most of all, her children.
She goes the “extra mile”, often taking from herself so her children can have … stays up all night, if necessary, when a child’s sick or just “needs someone to talk to” … talks more to God than she does her own husband about her children, especially as they get older (and, perhaps, married) and out on their own. She’s the most productive prayer warrior and worrier on earth, bar none.
She’s read every children’s book on the market — most of them to her own children, but also to her grandkids. She knows how to patch broken spirits as well as she does torn britches.

She’s the epitome of Proverbs 31.

To me, there was one perfect mom. And, with this (before I close this special post), let me share a story with you: Years ago, when I was just in my early single-digit years, occasionally I’d fall and get hurt. Mama would stop whatever she was doing, grab the mercurochrome, some gauze and a band-aid, wash off the hurt, dress the wound … then kiss it (which did more than any medicine or ointment!).
Then she’d pick me up, and sit down in that old high-back rockin’ chair, putting me on her lap. Slowly, rhythmically, she rock that chair back and forth, rubbing my little back and softly singing the hymn, “Bring Them In.”
In just a few minutes, I was calm, and sleeping.

Years later, in Studio East (a recording studio in Charlotte at the time), I recorded a self-composed country tune called Sing Me A Song — specifically about that time. When I got to the a capella four-part harmony (doing all the voices) of the first bridge, I was to do Bring Them In.
It took me forever to get the take right.
I was too busy crying when I got to that part. That song was mama’s …

Wonderful memories of the perfect mom.
I know you folks have those memories of yours. And …

FOR ALL THE MOMS OUT THERE WHO ARE READING THIS …

Was there any doubt?
Actually, as pleasing as it is to know that Sen. Obama won the North Carolina primaries, it’s also interesting to note how the media saw it.
Y’see, they called it along racial lines, with words like, “a high African-American population” or “carrying the black vote”. It just doesn’t make sense, does it?

But that isn’t important to the media because it’s not sensational … it’s not gonna make people buy your show/newspaper/whatever. Y’see, here in Charlotte, it doesn’t matter if you’re black/white/Bush (where everything’s a shade of grey!). What does matter is that you’re someone who wants change in the way things are run up there in D. C.!

And, for those political pundits who thought Rev. Wright would influence us were wrong. Y’see, we Carolinians are sharper than big-city suits give us credit for being; we know this dude was tryin’ to pull his “fifteen minutes of fame” by capitalizing on the fact that Barack was a friend. And his jawjackin’ was laughable to voters, who knew there wasn’t a shred of evidence linking those two!

Now the word’s out the campaign, for all intents and purposes, is over; somebody’s just gotta tell Hillary! But she’s poured more of her own multi-million fortune into her waning campaign! Ummm … okay … but, uh, doesn’t that sound like another stunt? We know, now, that she’s ultra-rich, and … well, that’s not gonna go over too well with working-class voters, is it?

But, then again, if it’s all moot now (hey … look it up! My brother taught me that word!), it doesn’t matter. In fact, only one question remains after all this:
We’ve witnessed the battles between Obama and Clinton, heard the rhetoric of McCain, saw their campaigning, watched their stances and actions …
but …

where in the world is the other candidate, Ralph Nader??

Just wondering …

TOP-FLIGHT DREAMS

In just a few short weeks, a lot of folks will be plannin’ a well-earned summer vacation from school/work/the daily grind. They wanna “get away from it all,” and really have fun and sun!
Well, if that’s your dream, there’s one site ya just gotta visit! It offers the best of vacation packages … affordable ones … that’ll take you to some of the most beautiful spots in the nation (and beyond)!
Not only do they have fantastic travel offers, but travel guides, hotel deals and even the top ten “guy getaways”! You can ompare prices on flights, cruises and packages … even get a FREE issue of the popular Smart Luxury magazine to spark your vacation-imagination!
And all you’ve gotta do to get the best, most affordable and enjoyable travel deals is to click that link … and start plannin’ for some solid, memorable summer fun!