Charlotte, NC

All right … now this idiotic mud-slinging has gone too far!!

Senator Kay Hagan has every right to throw a “cease-and-desist” order against Elizabeth Dole (a woman who, prior to this, had my admiration and support!). I mean, how low can you go with this nonsense?
Sen. Hagan is a fine, Christian woman with some terrific values … and to slander/libel her (hey … check the NCGS … it’s exactly that. I included both because it’s hit both the media and the streets!) is a disgrace!

Ahhhh … but wait!!

Aren’t we seein’ more desperation out of Republicans lately?? They’re about to lose their clout around the nation, so, whether McCain’s camp, McConnell’s or Dole’s, they’re scraping for anything they can find!
Interesting to note the last line of the Observer article: “Some polls show Dole trailing Hagan in her bid for re-election. “

So, Sen. Hagan, I wish you ALL the luck with your “desist” order. Just be sure to MAKE IT STICK!!

We’ve gotta stop this bovine defecation somehow! It’s pathetic …

WEDDING BELLS COMING??

Now, there are a lotta young (and some young-at-heart) couples who are plannin’ to “tie the knot” this holiday season, and, outside of their love for each other, they’re tryin’ to get everything just right for the Big Day.

And ya know how it alllllll got into motion, right?  The dude goes down on one knee, clears his throat a million times, sweats an ocean, and then … pulls out the felt-covered box with …

Yep.  But what’s in that box?  You want the very best to adorn that third-finger-left-hand until that day comes when you add to it, right?  Well, in order to have that, I’m gonna give you a link in a minute that’ll make you, your intended, and your wallet, very, very happy!

Not only will you get the best in diamonds (you’ll recognize the name as “quality” the minute you get there!), but the most beautiful selection of rings you’d ever want!  Of course, these folks are known world-wide for their integrity, their service … and their affordability!

So, if you’re still wantin’ to “pop the question”, you’ll wanna get the most beautiful and affordable selection of quality engagement rings … and, by clicking on that link, you’ll find ‘em!
So go ahead … and have a wonderful and blessed marriage …

Beautiful, isn’t it??

Y’know, one of the grandest thing about the Queen City is our knack for appreciating and preserving our natural beauty — that which has lasted since the beginning of time.

Whether it’s the surroundings of Freedom Park or the woods and natural flora and fauna around the city, there’s a serenity where, within, we find a oneness with nature, God … and ourselves.

Now, there are those who want to tear down that and put up concrete-and-steel corporate structures that’ll please CEOs of bigwig organizations.  Whether it’s in Pineville, Matthews, or Charlotte itself, it’s all a terrible reminder that, in fact, we’ve gotten away from what Mother Earth has provided … the natural that has lasted for eons … and are replacing it with what the Almighty Dollar can provide … the synthetic that will last only a few years (and require mondo repairs and security)!

We worry about losing the beauty of the land … yet build over it as though our edifices-to-greed will be more profound; we protest that global warming is destroying natural habitats … yet continue to shun EPA standards and warnings for our factories; we say that the financial problems on Wall Street (and beyond) are tearing up our wallets … yet continue to spend lavishly and build like there’s no tomorrow.

Meanwhile, the beauty that is still around us … the woods, the trees, the streams and creeks … are still — impervious to the desires of men who want to destroy them in favor of monetary gain.

In the Sixties, the main thrust of young people — other than peace, love and rock-n-roll — was the preservation of our natural resources.  We loved the way God put everything.  Today, many of those same “flower-children” have taken steps to preserve and use nature in a positive way. 
Ecosystems are becoming more popular than ever; we, who were raised in that era, are more environmentally-conscious; the building of new and unique Earthstations — great-looking, energy-effieicnt houses made of earth and discarded items (hey — Google™ it if you’ve got a  computer) — are becoming popular in the Southwest.  Bottom line: We appreciate Mother Earth and all its natural resources.

But there are some who feel it’s better to bulldoze and build at maximum  expense, with manmade materials, in order to feed our desire for wealth and clout. 
Fortunately, Crown Town still has a handle on natural preservation.  In doing so, we not only honor nature and our forefathers — we honor God.  Yep.  See, if we tear up His work for ours, we’re saying, in essence,
We can do it better … your stuff is just gettin’ in the way!  

And that, readers, is not a healthy thing to do.  It’s not nice to fool Mother Nature … and you can’t “one-up” God.

And, through all the arguments, the debates, the worries and frustrations …
the woods, the trees, the brooks and creeks stand still … impervious … and waiting …

I dunno … is it just me, or is anybody else kinda bumfuzzled about this new Internet Explorer 8?

All right … I know it’s a new version, with some of the kinks still havin’ to be worked out.  But, with the workload this Relic has each day on the desktop, I’ve gotta have the fastest and most dependable server. 
And, quite frankly, I’m just not seein’ it yet … at least not with this one!

Yeah, there are some new features (like, bein’ able to open duplicate tabs, have “compatibility views” [that is, able to check webpages out that aren't up-to-speed with this newer edition!] and other things).  But I’ve always thought that, the simpler a browser, the quicker you work with it!
So far (even as I write this!), I’ve hit one key that’s brought another IE8 “homepage” up, had stuff wanna “install” that I didn’t ask for, and other little doohickies that are just a little annoying!

Soooooooo … if the new SeaMonkey I’ve downloaded (HEY!! It’s a BROWSER, all right??  No jokes!!) doesn’t work out (… come to think of it, it does sound a little funny …), then the next post just may be on plain, white, college-lined paper and mailed to ya …

SOMETHING TO DIET FOR …
Most of us, at one time or the other, have been on diets, right??  Whether we just decided to or have done so on doctor’s orders, we’ve run through the gamut of books, magazines, TV ads and drug store aisles, trying to find the right supplement that would help us.  And it can be frustrating …
BUT …
Today there’s a great site available that reviews the best-selling diet supplements, giving you its description, weight loss rating, and benefits – and that’ll help you find exactly the one you’re looking for!  It’ll even show you where the product can be found at the lowest price!!

So, if you’re lookin’ for a newer, slimmer you, then click on the link that’ll take you to the diet pill reviews you’ll need to choose the right supplement!

Awww, c’mon … you’re bound to have seen the best Obama campaign video EVER!!  If not, I’ll give you the link in just a minute.

Y’see, Ron Howard, Andy Griffith and Henry WInkler reprised their roles as Opie, Sheriff Andy Taylor and The Fonz (hmph … as if ya didn’t know, right??) for an ad touting Sen. Barack Obama as the best Presidential candidate.

If only for three minutes-and-change, we were taken back to Mayberry (okay, who down here doesn’t know where that is??) … and then to the leather-jacketed hero of Arnold’s, leanin’ against a ‘57 Chevy where Opie turned into Richie.  

Both vignettes caried the famous style of the TV shows on which they were based: Andy and “Ope” by the fishin’ hole, with the famous “whistling” tune was in the background (btw, the man who did the actual whistling, Earle Hagen – who also composed the tune called “The Fishin’ Hole” — died recently), was warm and family-oriented — and filmed in black-and-white!
The other one, with Richie and Fonzie, had the Fifties music in the background, the humor and coolness that’s identified with Winkler’s character — and even was the same-grade color film as the original show!

It’s one you’ve just gotta see!  Though just posted over the past coupla days, it’s already gotten nearly one million hits!

See for yourself at Funny-Or-Die.com.

Whether you’re votin’ for Obama or McCain, you’re still gonna enjoy the trip down memory lane (and, btw, Henry hasn’t lost “the look”) …

It’s close to Christmas, bills are piling up, you don’t have much to eat …
and you’re out of work. 
Worse, you can’t find a job, no matter how many businesses have your applications; you’re either (a) too old, (b) not experienced, (c) too young, (d) over/underqualified or, in some cases, don’t even “look the part”.
And don’t fool yourself; there are still places out there whose bosses won’t hire you on the basis of race, gender, disability or heritage!

So, what are you gonna do?  If ya get SSI, SSD or some other governmental check, you already know it doesn’t last long!  And ya can’t keep borrowing money off kinfolk, pawning your belongings or whatever.
The frustration mounts because you know you can do a good job … if someone would just hire you!

Hey … I’ve got an idea!  Why not consider taking your talents (whether it’s mechanics, excelling at math, repairing small appliances, or even just cleaning)  and work for youself??  I mean, get all the material you need, including equipment (it usually doesn’t cost much), paperwork (receipts, invoices, ledgers, business cards and whatever else your home business will require), space to properly do your work — and, of course, check on licensing in your area — then, when you’re ready, advertise; promote the dickens out of your business!

Now, ya won’t make a lotta money right off, of course; a good customer base has to grow, right?? But, if you stick with it, and let everybody you come in contact with know that you’re there and “open for business”, you could be on your way!
Just make sure you have fair prices and the absolute BEST in quality workmanship! And always treat your customer like you’d wanna be treated!

Natch, there are other ways to beat the wolf from your door: Check with the Employment Security Commission; check the Internet; go to temporary-employment agencies; ask around — your friends or family might know of someone who’s hiring and can put in a “good word” for ya. If nothing else, and you can handle the job (usually manual labor), apply with labor pools! Now, you’ll have to be there when they open (usually at dawn) and wait to be added to a worklist — but, in very short time, you could be working … and, if the employer of the contract company likes your work, you could end up with a permanent job! Either way, you’re paid!

My daddy and practically every uncle I had was self-employed … and every company you see throughout town — from the humongous stores on N. Tryon to the little “Mom-and-Pops” you see farther out S. Tryon and throughout town — started with one person having a vision, and starting his/her own business!

If they could do it — and if you need the income — why can’t you??

FANTASTIC!!!!

With the new election on the horizon, it’s awesome to see that, finally, the youth of this country are making a significant dent in the political machine!

For years, we (of a prior generation, and in our youth) had fought (demonstrated and protested) to have a voice; the Establishment seemed to roll over us, thinking of us as just a bunch of pot-smoking, lazy juvenile delinquents.
And we couldn’t understand how we could be drafted (ie, forced) into an Army, sent overseas with rifle in hand to kill — and die — for something we didn’t believe in, yet, upon our discharge, not be allowed to vote because we were “too young”.

Thankfully, all that’s changed.  But, although young voters will be pouring into the booths this November, there are still some issues that need to be addressed: 
For example:  Our young people still can be sent overseas with rifle in hand, to kill — and maybe die – in a war they don’t believe in.  Others are filling our colleges — magnificent minds that, if actually heard and taken seriously by the government and most adults, could literally change the world!!
But, if they want to purchase anything from a simple beer to a singlewide trailer …
they’re too “young and irresponsible.”

That’s bull …trouble here) BOVINE DEFECATION!!

Years ago, a band from New Jersey called The Knickerbockers recorded a song called The Coming Generation (you can either download it or look for the old 45 RPM record, on Challenger label, called LIES. It’s the flip side of that record.) that tells what we’d be doing as we grew older.

We hold the future in our hands, the band sings. Now, if that’s the case — and, considering we’re infinitely more progressed in our world today — why don’t we treat our young people with a coupla new ideas:

Like, RESPECT AND TRUST??

Look … they know the rules. They know the responsibilities. And they have more common sense and knowledge than you think! And, come November, they’re gonna be totally influential in electing our new President!

And that, people, is a fantastic start! And, once the new Prez comes into office, let’s hope he appreciates those votes … those voices … and starts makin’ changes in favor of young people around the nation …

’cause they honestly deserve it!!

WATCH THIS!

No, it’s not a magic trick … unless you consider transforming your frustration over the old, stuck-on-your-cuff, occasionally-running-on-time wristwatch into something new, sleek and always accurate a magic act!
Actually, it’s not. But, in just a moment, you’re gonna visit a spot that’ll provide you with such amazingly-accurate and sharp-looking timepieces that you’ll be checkin’ your wrist often — not so much to find the time as to just admire your new watch!

But you’ll get a lot more than just a “watch” when you go there! They also offer (a)the lowest prices — they’ll even beat competitors’ prices by 4% or $12!, (b) 30-day Easy Return policy, (c) free sizing, (d) free shipping on orders over $130, (e) secure on-line shopping, and much more!

So go ahead — give your wrist (and yourself) a treat (or someone else — remember, Christmas isn’t that far away!) by clicking on the link that’ll take you to the fantastic world of Seiko watches.

Believe me … time will be on your side soon!

Well, nobody can say she doesn’t have a sense of humor …

As around 14 million Americans have seen, Republican VP candidate Sarah Palin went on NBC’s Saturday Night Live this past weekend, in vignettes at the beginning of the show (she even got to say those immortal words, “Live From New York … it’s SATURDAY NIGHT!!”) and in their “Weekend Update” segment (btw, that was not her husband dancing with the moose! Just an actor that looked like him.).

In other words, you could’ve easily missed her!

Now, one of the original SNL’ers, actor/comedian Chevy Chase, doesn’t think Gov. Palin should’ve been on the show.

“Quite frankly, it’s a big mistake to let her go on. What was brilliant about (‘SNL’ chief) Lorne (Michaels) was that he had nothing written for Sarah and that apparently she cannot improvise herself out of a paper bag! On ‘Weekend Update,’ that was her big chance. Nothing.”

Still, the concensus of most Crown Towners who watched her brief appearance is that she did okay.
Y’see, it’s sorta like Dr. “Bones” McCoy tellin’ Capt. Kirk, “Dammit, Jim, I’m a DOCTOR, not a (whatever)”.
Although she gave it a good shot, she’s telling America, “Goshdarn it, I’m a VP Candidate, not a comedian!”
You betcha!

THE BEST SWITCH

No, I’m not talkin’ about the one mama used on you as a kid; I’m talking about one that routes high-def video and digital sounds (audio) to you from any one of three different sources. Imagine, for example, you want to get video from a satellite system, or a Blu-Ray© disc or whatever. Well, this splitter/router will do it for you!
Using only 15 watts of power, it’s certainly gonna be energy-efficient! You’ll also get a remote and a one-year warranty … all from the folks who are famous for their low prices, high quality and excellent customer care!
So, if you’re looking for the best HDMI switch, just click on the link you just passed! And make the switch today!!

Years ago, the Charlotte Coliseum was one of the favorite venues of the Britpop sounds of Herman’s Hermits. Even after the fab Five disbanded and leader Peter Noone went on to front The Tremblers and build a separate career, he never forgot his visits to the Queen City.

Awhile back, I had the chance to interview Noone (aka Herman of the original Hermits [now, there are two groups of HH; more about that at the end of this post]).Here ’tis, in Part I of My Interview with Peter Noone (Part II will follow in the post-after-next. Oh …and he’s in bold print. Just so ya won’t get confused …):

Peter, from your days in the Heartbeats into the Hermits: What/who were your major musical influences?

We were all influenced by Buddy Holly and the Crickets, the Everly Brothers, Sam Cooke, John Cash, Elvis and all the rockabilly stuff.

What, in your opinion, are the major differences in promotional roadwork between the 60s era (pre-Invasion. You had to make a name in Britain prior to breaking into America) and today? Are there more obstacles, other than the proliferation of acts, today and what do you believe they are?

No one really expected the US to open up in the 60s until the Beatles opened the door for every British act, including the really awful ones. We would run into so-called British bands at truck stops on tour who were completely unknown in England but had accents. Once the door was opened … every “quite good” British band had an opportunity to participate in the US market. The Kinks had some INS problem which sadly excluded them from the (invasion) but HH (me) were able to capitalize on the openings … wherever they went. Try to read Nov 2002 Vanity Fair article.

In the States, the music of the “invasion” obviously made a strong sociopolitical impact as well as economic. As it developed in England, did the music (as a growing genre) have any influence on the political climate (there)?

Of course. It was a cultural revolution as well as a social and political revolution. Our dads were the final infantrymen of the 1000 years of serfdom. We were the nouveaux riche and changed all attitudes regarding behaviour. No more would the tie open the door as quickly as a credit card. The Beatles bought Rolls Royce motor cars to flaunt their new riches in the faces of the landed gentry who had controlled us for centuries.

FOR THE GOLFER ON YOUR LIST …

Among all the people who are closest to us, there are bound to be some golfers! Maybe you enjoy the game itself (if you haven’t tried, by the way, I’d highly recommend it: It’s relaxing, therapeutic, and ya learn balance, timing, focus, concentration … that’s why, to so many, it’s the perfect game!).
And, y’know, you’ve gotta have the best of clubs in order to play the best game (it comes in second only to skill, right?).
But, where do you go to get the best clubs at the best price?? Well, if you click on the link I’m about to give ya, you’ll find the absolute best in drivers, putters, irons and more!
From accessories to bags, golf clothing, balls and much more (and at prices you’ll love!), just click on this link for the best in Cobra golf equipment and more.
Then get out there and have a great game!!

Now, this is one of the most tremendously touching “to-do’s” that the Queen City’s ever come up with: Y’see, more than a thousand volunteers are gonna be fanning out across our area tomorrow as part of the 16th annual Hands On Charlotte event.

These folks’ll be working at different projects across the area. It’s part of a year-long effort that provides much-needed help for close to 700 projects around here.

Now, I’m told everybody who’s involved (and those who are wantin’ to get involved [hey! That could be you!]) will get together from 9 to 9:30 a.m. tomorrow at the EpiCentre, on South College and Trade streets, for a kickoff, with live music, light breakfast, brief speeches — even a drawing for a $2,000 US Airways gift card! Then everyone’ll leave for their assigned projects.

They’ll be doing thing like: sprucin’ up campuses at several CMS schools; sorting donations at Second Harvest Food Bank and Crisis Assistance Ministry; working at our different parks; and doing neighborhood cleanups (btw, do you know how much that’s needed?). Some of the projects will be done around the Interstate 277 loop as well.

Listen … if you’re off-work on Saturday (and ya know there’s no school on weekends, kids!), why not go on down to the kick-off and register to help? There’s nothin’ on TV anyway …
Besides, you’ll get a free T-shirt out of the deal … along with the pride and satisfaction that you actually made a difference in this community we call “Charlotte” …

WATCH THIS!

By the way, does anybody know what time it is?? Now, as you look at your watch, imagine seeing a sleek, classy Seiko aadorning your wrist!
Each watch is durable, keeps precise time, and is so great-looking that you’ll be lookin’ down and admiring yours again and again!
Now, the link I’m about to give you is gonna take you to a spot that’ll not only present you with the best and most popular Seiko designs (all brand new, in their original boxes and with a full manufacturer’s warranty) but at a discount that’ll make your wallet smile!
Listen … I’ve worn Seikos since hearin’ Aunt Tilly talk about ‘em on her gospel-music radio show back in 1971 (I believe it was on WTYC), and have been totally satisfied (in fact, it’s the only watch I’ve ever worn that’s lasted!).
So, for the best in Seiko watches, just click on that link you passed … and you’ll soon be right on time!

Okay … by request of some of the Queen City’s best readers — and in tribute to my friend, mentor and inspiration, Lloyd Thaxton (1927-2008. We’ll always remember …) startin’ with this post, we’re gonna thread some musical memories in with our regular Charlotte news and views! So stay tuned … this is gonna get interestin’:

First, a two-fer: If you’ve got friends/family in England, ask ‘em this: didja know they wouldn’t play The Pretty Things’ Don’t Bring Me Down stateside back in ‘64 (thus knockin’ ‘em outta Invasion contention) because the song had “objectionable lyrics”?

Yeah, I know … the song hit the Top Ten over there, and there wasn’t anything “suggestive” in Dick Taylor’s tune, right?

Now … for you statesiders who aren’t familiar: Pretty Things’ founder, Dick Taylor came up with the band after leavin’ an earlier band … he was one of the original Rolling Stones …

And Louie Louie (remember: no comma between the two words, okay?), which was released by The Kingsmen — and also banned — in 1964, cost ‘em just 36 bucks to record, but ended up selling over 12 million copies (over and despite a lot of parental protests)!

Another banned song (ummm, are we startin’ to see a pattern here? Golly … I - I didn’t mean to!!), Leader of The Pack by the Shangri-Las (banned in a lotta markets because it “glorifies both motorcycle gangs and, to a degree, death”. Yeah. Right. Like death is somethin’ really glitzy, huh??), allegedly had a young piano player named Billy Joel. Now, co-writer Ellie Greenwich says it ain’t so, but my sources say they’ve heard differently.

Now, here’s somethin’ for all you pickers out there: Didja know the first six-string guitar was created in Spain around 400 years ago? Uh-huh … and it was called a vihuela back then. And, no, it hasn’t changed that much since then …

Hey … remember that old song Mack the Knife by Bobby Darin? (Another of the … right: banned songs! Seems that, shortly after Darin released it, a coupla guys died in knife fights, so some markets nixed it! Hmmm … wonder what the excuse is for that kinda behavior today? [Get my point?]) He recorded it … at the age of 21 … but, though still a cool tune, people’ve wondered who the hxxx that MacHeath guy is that he’s singin’ about.

Well, the song actually dates back to 1928 and a German play called The Threepenny Opera. And “Mack”, “Mackie” and “Macheath” are names for the same person (the last bein’ his ‘real’ name) — a tough criminal with no morals!

And remember the Youngbloods? Yeah … the guys who did the peace anthem (and, now, jingle for a phone company) Get Together. Well, they didn’t get together for a 1970 appearance on Johnny Carson’s show. Y’see, they complained about everything – from rehearsal time to lighting, mics, etc — even telling the director (who’d been doin’ it for two decades) what to do.

So, in Carson’s words, ‘ I told them to pack up and get the hell out of the building.’

Later that night, Johnny told the TV audience, ‘They complained about the set, the lighting, the sound, the show - everything. So we wiped their noses, told them they’d been in show business a day and a half, and sent them home.’ The studio audience applauded!

It really was for the best, btw. These one-hit wonders were usin’ the peace concept to get their records played. They thought they were big — and their uppity attitudes showed it whenever they weren’t onstage.

LOOKIN’ TO JOIN A BAND??

Well, you’ve got two chances here — one in the UK and one in Canada! For starters, if you’re good at rhythm, have a dynamite attitude and are a team player, then the popular UK band THE FOREwants to hear from you!

Now, in Canada (particularly the Windsor area), you can hook up with my cool friend (and fantastic songwriter) Brady Bayliss! This dude’s got the attitude, the desire — and the talent — to become Canada’s next superstar! And now he’s lookin’ for musicians as hungry for the Sixties sounds as much as he is. Just gimme a shout-out if you’re interested, and I’ll forward yer message on to him, okay?

COOKOUT ON THE PATIO!

With Fall bringin’ friends and family alike together in many ways (whether it’s just the crispness of the season, televised football showdowns or, of course, Thanksgiving), folks are headin’ out to their patios for fun and cookouts!
Of course, you’ll wanna make sure everything’s just right for your guests (as well as yourself) … including the best in patio furniture and accessories!
And you can find no better or more affordable place to shop for those than the folks you’ll meet in just a minute. You see, by clicking on the link I’m about to give you, you’ll find furniture sets, tables, chairs … and (this is obviously very important!) patio furniture covers to protect those chairs and tables from the weather!
Remember, guys … you don’t have too long until the next kick-off, so be sure to have the best furniture when your and your friends’ families hit the patio for that big cookout!
By clicking that link I gave ya and shopping with them, you’ll be a great success!

Y’know, someone once said that “Fall is God’s Coloring Book!” Well, if that’s the case, he must’ve felt really inspired when he used “our” side of the Smoky Mountains as his canvas!
Reds, golds, browns and greens adorn the western part of our state during fall in a majestic splendor that’s unmatched anywhere!

And, for this Relic, this particular time of year becomes almost holy, because it not only is close to my dear mama’s birthday (she’s been gone from us for nine years, but is with us every day in our hearts.
On the weekend closest to her birthday, Daddy would take time off from work and take her for a visit through the wonderland along the NC border. After soaking in the sunshine of nature’s beauty, they’d “cross over” to Johnson City and then Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It became a welcome, yearly ritual that always brought them back closer than when they left (though they were ALWAYS thisclose. I’ve never known a married couple so loving, 24/7!).

Part of the reason, she said, was that the beauty of the fall colors, along with the fresh, clean air and the majesty of the mountains.  The other (and larger, of course) reason was daddy himself.

After he died in 1990, mama could never go back there. It was “their” place and outing.  But the memories, of course, lasted for her lifetime. 

HOGGIN’ THE ROAD

No, I’m not complainin’ about bad drivers here; a “hog” is associated with the best of motorcycles:  The Harley!   
And, of course, the best in motorcycles deserves the best in parts, and at the best prices, right?  Now, you can look all over creation for these … and still come back disappointed with what ya paid …  maybe with the part itself, or the service.
OR …. 
you can click on the link that I’m about to give ya and shop with the best parts dealer in the Carolinas!  They’ve been in business for 26 years now, providing the very best and most durable parts for your Harley!  You’ll find everything ya need … including links on how to ride (for rookies or those who just wanna brush up a bit), insurance and financing, rallies and events … and a lot more!  And their prices are fantastic!
So whatcha waitin’ for?   The sooner you visit ‘em, the sooner you’ll be tearin’ up the highway in confidence (and with the savings in your pocket!).  So, for the best in Harley parts, just click on the link, okay? You’ll be glad ya did!

Let’s face it … everybody loves Elmo, right?  If you’ve ever watched “Sesame Street”, or had one of those little “Tickle Me” dolls that would laugh like crazy and shake at the same time (sorta like a guy goin’ on his first date), you know what I’m talkin’ about.

And now  Elmo’s in Charlotte with the rest of his “Street” pals, kickin’ up the fun in When Elmo Grows Up.  It’s a 90-minute production that’ll spark the kids’ imagination and wonder as they ask themselves the same question:  What’ll I be when I grow up??

The show uses Broadway-style music and staging to teach kids that, if they believe in themselves and work well, anything is possible (no, this is not an Obama campaign in disguise! :))  And, among the 24 songs on tap, the kids’ll be hearing some very familiar tunes like Itsy, Bitsy Spider and, of course, the Sesame Street theme song!

They’ll also get to meet the newest resident of the Street, a youngster named Abby Cadabby!  This will be her onstage debut … so be nice, okay??

this Thursday and running until Sunday!  They’re at 10:30 AM and 7:00 PM on Thursday-Friday; at 10:30 AM and 2 PM on Saturday, and at 5:30 PM on Sunday!

You can get your tickets through Ticketmaster or at the box-office. Just remember to get there early, because these shows are always tremendous hits!

Normally, I would be talkin’ about the Queen City in this space.
But, tonight, this Relic feels like his guts have been torn out.

My friend … my mentor … the living legend of the “finger people” … Lloyd Thaxton … is dead.

When I got the news off the wire, it hit like a ton of bricks.  In fact, that’s why I’m late in doing this post.  It’s just too hard to believe.

He was a fave among many then-teens here in the Crown Town area back in the mid-’60s.  There were kids who crowded ’round the TV at 5 PM weekdays to watch his madcap antics as well as hear some of the best rock bands in the business:  Beau Brummels, Sonny and Cher, The Turtles, The Byrds and so many more. 

A few years ago, I had the distinct privilege of meeting my TV hero — and that meeting formed a close friendship that I’ll forever cherish.  Would that you could’ve known the man behind the madness; he was, in one word, awesome!

So, to both my Rockaholic and Crown Town readers (or both), we lost a giant on Sunday (he succumbed to multiple myeloma at the age of 81).  Our thoughts and prayers go to his wife Barbara, daughter Jennifer (who’s recovering from broken-neck surgery) and his sons.

This is short, because … well, it’s a bit sad in RelicTown tonight.  I’ll get back up to speed tomorrow.

See ya then.

By now you oughtta know that, when that pic goes up, I’ve gone to do some more in-ring jawjackin’ for the OCW in Kentucky.
And, all told, it was a great night — excitement, punches, grunts and groans (and that was just when my car cut off on me as I was comin’ off 77 to I-64!). The show, though, was fantastic (I worked as the Relic this time … and as a heel [bad guy] announcer!).

But, after the show ended — back in the dressing room with the wrestlers (and, listen — we’ve got a great crop of ‘em comin’ into the mainstream now! Family-oriented, tired of the crap fed to fans by the WWE, they’re in it for the same reasons as the George Beckers and Johnny Weavers, Great Bolos and Haystacks Calhouns of the past), a couple of ‘em took me aside and started askin’ about our wrestling — the great Mid-Atlantic era, when Jim Crockett, Sr. was at the helm and Big Bill Ward was behind the mic!

Talk about memories floodin’ back: The Kentuckians (Tiny Anderson & Big Boy Brown) with Tiny blowin’ his antler-horn to boost his partner; the “saves” by the Scott Brothers (George and Sany); Blackjack Mulligan breakin’ Tim Woods’ (Mr. Wrestling’s) hand during a ringside interview; Boris Malenko havin’ his false teeth knocked out by a Wahoo McDaniel chop — after which an angry Chief stomped on ‘em!

As we talked, I felt a sense of pride that, in wrestling as in business, our city has made an impact! Some of these guys were from New York, others from LA, Canada — even from a foreign land! But they all seemed to get off on hearing about our great wrestling org … as Bob Caudle used to call it, “the major league of professional wrestling” … and the grandaddy of ‘em all … MID-ATLANTIC CHAMPIONSHIP WRESTLING!

Hey … remember when I asked ya to email me with your comments? Well, when I ran that bit about the VP debate, the inbox had no less than 20 responses … some of which I’ve gotta share with you (no, I’m not givin’ names, for privacy purposes):

Whose side are you on? Either you like Biden or Palin. If you vote like you write, you’re not going to make any difference!”
Well, man, I’m on no one’s “side”. Yeah, I’m classed as a Democrat, but ya don’t count yer chickens before the hen lays the eggs, right? So, until the dawn of election day, I’m keepin’ an open-mind. (and what’s wrong with my writin’, bunky? Hey … I get the readership; most of ‘em have followed my columns and articles for nearly a quarter-century with no complaints, and I’ve always written this way …)

“Sarah Palin sounded like an excited schoolgirl. That ’shout-out’ was not aproppriate (sic … it’s “appropriate”) in a debate setting …”
Listen — you’ve gotta remember that Mrs. Palin has just been thrust onto the world stage; and she had her first big national showing during the debate. She reacted just as if an actor, upon his/her first nod for an Emmy, won the award and hadta give a speech.
Besides, who was she giving the “shout-out” for? Schoolkids!! Would that others in the political arena cared as much.
Overall, I think she did a splendid first-time job

“It is obvious that McCain has her for window dressing. He knows Hilary (sic. Two “l’s” with this Hillary!) was big popular (?? ummm … what??) with woman voters. He is a man that thinks if he has a pretty woman to run with him he can get the woman vote.”

I have to agree with you on points. He (1) did notice Sen. Clinton’s drawing power. So he apparently borrowed from that and tapped Ms. Palin to be his running mate. Granted, she’s not as qualified as others who could’ve made the cut; but (2) it seems more than coincidence that Mrs. Palin was Governor of the same state that Republicans have targeted for off-shore drilling!

“When she’s got a family at home, with a pregnant unmarried daughter and one child with Downs Syndrome, she should stay there and help them and not be in Washington!”
Let me clarify something, okay? She and her husband, Todd, have a family at home! And the man is more than willing to help with that. Concerning her daughter, Bristol: She’s not needing “round-the clock” care; she’s needing her parents’ support which, whether she were VP or the first female Pope, Mrs. Palin will continue to give. She appears to be a very loving, caring mom. And, concerning her youngest child: From James Monroe to Abe Lincoln, William McKinley to Andrew Jackson and Calvin Coolidge, Presidents had children who were either disabled, injured or whatever. So why can’t she handle her job and take care of the child? Remember — as with our government, a successful marriage is a two-party system, working hand-in-hand. (Somehow, I’ve got a feelin’ that, while marriages work that way, our government’s headin’ for some kind of estrangement …).
Anyway, she and Todd are workin’ together for the welfare of their family. So, though I still believe Obama’s the right choice, I admire the courage, stamina and personality of Sarah Palin. Even after this election, I hope she finds total success in her endeavors!

BURNIN’ THE FAT AWAY

It’s an age-old problem: How can I get rid of these extra pounds I carry — and do it safely? We’re hit by zillions of TV commercials and printed ads touting “this” or “that” one being the best … but are they??
There’s one way to find out, and that’s to click on the link I’m about to give you and learn more about the top diet and fat-burning pills on the market before you buy! These folks will not only review the supplements honestly, but will give you the ingredients, a ratings system (to let you know which is the most effective), the “pros” and “cons” of each one, and more!
And all it takes is to click on the link that’ll take you, first, to know more about the popular diet supplement, Apidexin. When you get there, make sure you check out the entire <em>site!</em> You’ll certainly be pleased with what you find … and your body will be grateful!