Charlotte, NC

FINALLY … we’re back “on the air” (man, that’s the last time I write about a thunderstorm! Geez …)!!

Anyway … got a LOTTA catchin’ up to do, so let’s get to it, okay??

Didja read where, instead of renovatin’ Pineville Elementary (where this writer, his kids, his siblings … heck, everybody but his dog … went [when we old folks went, it was the old, three-story Farm Life school building]), they’re now talking about just building a new one?? They’re usin’ McClintock Elementary as a prototype, more or less.

Now, here’s what I don’t get: According to Mike Raible (planning director with CMS), it’d cost about $16 million to build a new school.
But to renovate? It only would take $13.3 million for Pineville School! Of course, that’s just last year’s figures. Gee, gang … what’s gone up over the past 12 months (hint: PRICES!!)

Seems to me that if they wanna save a cool $3.3 mil, just spruce up the school! It not only saves time (very precious in a child’s education), and money — but just plainly makes sense.

Of course, that’s just my opinion. What’s yours?

THE BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE

Y’know, with the popularity of today’s home theaters and large TV areas, it just doesn’t seem right to just sit in a stiff, average chair to watch your favorite movie anymore!
I mean, if you’re gonna put in one of those personal entertainment meccas, you oughtta really make it comfortable … and as much like your own theater as possible!
Now, if you click on the link I’m about to give you, you’ll find that it’s affordable, and you’ll have a selection of seating and other add-ons that’ll make kickin’ back and enjoying your favorite movie or TV show more than just something to relax with … it’ll become an event!
To find out more about the best in theater seating and more, just click on that link you just passed … you’ll find just what you need there, and at the best prices anywhere!

Okay … like I said, we gotta do a load of catch-up here (hmmm … come to think of it, I like that on my hot dogs as well); but we’re also gonna include some welcome changes as well. So stay tuned …

THIS IS A SPECIAL REPORT:

The kid on yer left? No, it isn’t Bobby Rydell (though he looked a little like it in this pic).

Actually, it’s my younger brother, Dick, back in 1969. Some of you may remember him as a grad of South Meck, Class of ‘71.
He was also the drummer in my band for awhile, until he gave up the stix to get into photography. As he grew, he became a helluva nice guy, very down-home, and a true “family-man” (yep, he was a bit rowdy way-back-when!).

But, last night, that warm heart was stilled, when my sis called to inform me that he’d just died of a sudden, massive heart attack at the age of 54. Didn’t even make it to the hospital …

Now, there’s a lotta reflectin’ that I could do at this point. But, in the interest of time and space, lemme just share a few smiles about my younger bro, Charles Richard Hinson:

When mama and daddy brought him home from the hospital, two-year-old Chucky (and don’t call me that unless ya love me, k?) took a hankerin’ to his hair, and started lickin’ it regularly. When he died, Dick was the only one of us Hinson boys who wasn’t bald on top! (as an aside, didja know that cow spit can keep ya from goin’ bald? Is there a connection? Nobody around here knows … or wants to know …)

Once, when Steve (my youngest bro) and Jimmy (my cousin and bassist) were in K-Mart® with Daddy, and in a very narrow aisle, Dick … er, “cut some cheese” (no offense, Mousers!) and, since there were people comin’ into the aisle, took off running with Jimmy and Steve in tow! That left Daddy with a terrible scent wafting through the aisle … and some accusing looks from the shoppers!

In 1964, I was on my bed, strummin’ my brand-new nylon-stringed Sears® Silvertone™ guitar (it sounded great, even without the ™ !), when I heard a bloodcurdling yell from my 11-year-old brother: “HEY! COME WATCH THIS!!” After I uncurdled my blood, I ran in to the living room where he had flipped the channel to the first episode of The Lloyd Thaxton Show.
Man, I was riveted. After sobering up(small joke. I was only 14!), I was still enthralled by this crazy man with the groovy music (records and in-the-flesh acts!) and dancing all around him. So What?? I’ve become a lifelong LT fan … and am blessed to know him now as a cherished friend as well!

During our last song at a show in Pineville, NC in late ‘66 (the Astronauts/Monkees’ Steppin’ Stone), Dick started to show his “Keith Moon” side during the last bridge. His excuse: “I got so caught up in it, I didn’t know what I was doin’!” The kid had a great musical future if he’d taken it …

in fact, he built his own stage with about a dozen-plus speakers built-in! Now, remember: this was small-town, quiet-as-a-mouse town Pineville, NC (well, it was back then!)

Yup … only used the stage one time …

He wrote me on occasion while I was in the Army, and, though in later years we rarely saw each other (even drifted apart in our philosophy), he always told me I was the best writer and rocker in “these parts”. Even as late as 1999, when we got together at mama’s funeral, he told me “you know enough to make a LIVIN’ with what you know about rock …”
Bottom line: Whether we were “on the same page” or not over the years, I loved the dude! He was my brother! And my heart goes out to his wife (they’d just celebrated 36 years of wedded bliss), Mel, their daughter Amber, son-in-law Mark, son Scott, daughter-in-law April, and five grandkids who were blessed to call him “PawPaw”!

Now, there’s one more thing I’ve GOTTA stress:

Over the years,Dick became a heavy smoker and didn’t care much for exercising. That, along with our family’s history of heart trouble and high blood pressure, undoubtedly contributed to the untimely passing of this wunderkund of the family.

So … (pass this along to EVERY person ya know):

FROM THE HEART OF THIS OL’ ROCK RELIC:

If your family (going back at least two generations) has had even the SLIGHTEST hint of heart trouble in its history, GET A REGULAR PHYSICAL, stressing the cardio!! It’s VERY important! The Relic has one every six months like clockwork!

and KEEP CLOSE CHECK ON THE BP!! (and I ain’t talking “baked potato” here, yardbirds!) Average is 120/80. Yours may differ, but be SURE to keep it in the “safe zone”!

Keep your CHOLESTEROL level down (at least the “bad” cholesterols!). The Relic is free of those (well, almost), and my regularly-lower-than-average BP is stable!

EXERCISE!! It doesn’t only help your cardiovascular system, but the endorphins can work miracles for the moods! I personally pound the pavement for at LEAST ten miles a day, rain or shine, incidentally.

If you smoke, QUIT … or at LEAST cut it down by two-thirds!! Besides, you’ll be controlling “it”, as opposed to “it” controlling you! (Huh?? Only when I’m on fire!)

EVERY reader here — whether you’re from the Queen City or not — is dear to me … you’re fantastic in your own right!! And your lives are valuable … to you and the ones you love.

So keep it ALIVE, okay??

THIS HAS BEEN A SPECIAL REPORT. WE RESUME OUR REGULAR PROGRAMMING ON MONDAY.

O-KAY! I give in!!
I’ve had more than a few emails askin’ what, exactly, does the Relic do, other than pennin’ one of Charlotte’s favorite blogs?
Well … ummm, see the guy in that pic? Now, imagine him without any hair on top, and you’ve got it!!

Actually, it’s not that bad (I stay away from espresso ever since that last shot at the old CoffeeWorks at the Arbouretum in Matthews. Long story …). But da man, he do stay bizzy!:

Y’see, there are three blogs I work on daily, thirty reviews typed out per month, a quarterly newspaper that’s done from scratch (even the ads are composed, with artwork), two UK acts to promote (dealing with A&R reps isn’t always easy!), seven articles to write on recurring bases, research to do, a house to maintain, bills to pay, pets to feed, and … ummmm … eat and sleep when available!!

In the office, aside from cats, are mounds of reports, papers, files, CDs, floppy disks (ummm … I … do have a computer in here somewhere!) and music. Always music. Classic rock/oldies. And, natch, The Fore and Ron Ryan (the two I’m promoting stateside).
And a litter box (see “papers”, which shall remain unsmudged by “cats”)
And, somewhere, a peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwich I started to eat an hour ago.

The music always keeps me pumped (why’d'ja think, over the past few years, I’ve been nicknamed Rock Relic, huh?).
But you, the readers, are the ones who get me juiced the most! 99.9% of ya e-mail rather than leave “comments” ’cause you’ve known me for a lonnnnnnnnng time. And it’s for you, as well as for those future friends who are just learnin’ about Crown Town and its wonder, that I’m writin’ this.
And it’s a blast!

SUMMERTIME and PATIOS

Together, they mean furniture that’ll make ya feel comfortable and are sturdy enough to handle that pitcher of ice-cold lemonade, maybe a few frosty Pepsi two-liters, the portable CD or the iPod and just relax with!
My fave’s always been the old “wrought-iron” look, but there are so many types you can get … either for pool-side or just out in the side yard, under your favorite shade tree!
Now, there are a lotta places in town that offer outside furniture … but, once you’ve spent your gas and fought the traffic to get to these places, you sometimes find the supply limited, and the style you wanted gone! If what you want is there, you have to spend big bux to buy it, go through long checkouts, cart it back to the house/apartment and hope it works for you!
Or … on the other hand,
you can go to the link I’m about to give you and find some of the most beautiful outdoor furniture on the market, at fantastic savings, and not have to worry about long lines, costly drives, or whether they have it in stock or not!
You can browse quickly or use their SuperSearch box to find the furnishings you want! And get this: You get free shipping and no sales tax if ya place your order by tomorrow (June 20)!
It’s fun, practical, saves time and money (as well as nerves), and is very secure (no hackers can get through to your order)!
Now, there’s not enough space here to describe it all, but you can discover this patio furniture wonderland for yourself just by clicking the link above!
Go ahead … do it now, while you’re on this site … and get ready to have a great summer with the most fabulous and comfortable outside furniture you’d ever want!

It was one of those nights I’ll never forget:

You see, I had a beautiful, soft, furry friend with big, round, copper eyes and a heart that was bigger than all outdoors. Booger, as I called him, was constantly by my side, meowing to be picked up on occasion, sitting by my computer keyboard and watching this thing we call a “pointer” move, or just jumping on my stomach when I was asleep and “kneading dough”.

But, two days ago, I had to bury my little friend. Sadly, he passed of what the doc called severe chronic kidney failure, which he’d apparently inherited from his mother. It was the same thing that downed Lightning years before.
It was heartbreaking to see him go down so fast (and it does happen quickly!). I decided to take him home rather than the doc putting him to sleep, because I knew he wanted to be around those who loved him.
My heart pounded as I held him, stroked his fur, offered a little water, talked to him softly … knowing that it could be just scant minutes …

Then, my heart totally broke:

I’d just put him in a little cage (to keep the other pets from sniffing and bothering him) and went to get a cup of coffee. I heard a “crash” and knew the dogs’d turned over the trashcan.
But …
before I could get to the trashcan …
I saw my Westie, Brandy …
take an empty can of Friskies cat food …
and …
gently, ever so gently …
sit it softly and upright …
in front of Booger’s cage.
Then, she looked in the cage, then walked back to the can. Then to the cage, then to the can.

I cried as I hugged the white canine wonder and tried, in words she couldn’t understand, that Booger was leaving us.

Today, I’m a changed man somehow. In a world where dogs and cats are treated as just “pieces of meat” to be thrown around or neglected, I’ve become more understanding and appreciative of the souls of these animals … these “forever friends”.

Some people still call them “dumb animals”.

To me, those are now fightin’ words.

Rest in peace, little Booger. You don’t haveta be sick anymore …

Now … on to something different:

DIET PILLS THAT WORK!

There are a lot of diet pills on the market that people use to try and lose weight. Unfortunately, trying to figure out which are the best for them takes time, comparison-shopping (both in price and quality), long lines, and more.
But there is a spot that’ll not only show you the best diet pill for you (it does that by comparing and reviewing over 200 of the top brands), but will even hook you up with the best places to buy them, at the best prices!
You save time, frustration, money and so much more if you just click on this link — one that’ll help you find the best diet pill that works for you!
So click that link now, and start enjoying a thinner “you” soon!

Well, this is the last segment of the innerview with Spencer Hannabuss (bass, vocals, songwriter, founding member), Luke Bentley (rhythm, vocals), Simon Thompson (drums, vocals) and Matt Hardy (lead, vocals) — collectively, THE FORE! (no, it’s not a misspelling! You’re reading the “interview” that gives you an “inner view” of the popular lads!)
Now, I’ve had a few e-mails that have asked “What does this have to do with Charlotte?” The answer’s in three parts: (1) Some of the questions were asked by CrownTowners; (2) the lads love NC and its people, and (3) with growing national interest in our SpongeTones comes an interest in the British Invasion and bands that are carryin’ that sound into the 21st Century! Besides, the band definitely wants to play Charlotte when they get over here!
That being said, here we go with Pt. 3 of The Fab FORE Interview!

(Now, one more time, troops: remember … I printed the questions out exactly as you wrote ‘em! No changes; didn’t wanna leave anything out! And, like I said before, Matt couldn’t make it to the “meeting of the minds” for this, but he had the others answer on his behalf).

The lads’ answers are in bold type:

“My son Chris wants to start a rock band he hopes will be sucessful (sic). Since the fore is so good and sucessful (sic) can you give him some advice on what he will have to do and what he needs to look out for?”

SIMON: A good drummer!! I’m sure Spencer will fill in the rest — he’s been there! lol

DAVID (co-manager): Well crafted songs are your biggest asset, along with practice, practice and then more practice! Play everywhere, one minute the Fore are playing with the Bootleg Beatles or at the Cavern and the next they are pushing trolleys full of equipment to play in the High Street! Keep moving forward and never give in. Be positive! Oh … and did I mention practice?

SPENCER: I’ll add to that - The first thing is to enjoy what you’re doing. Full stop. It sounds simple but if you’re playing music in a band that isn’t what you’re looking to do it’ll never work. We all love playing the style of music that we do and that’s so important - in the past we have had musicians in the band who weren’t 100% into the sound. It’s that love for what you do that gets you through the ‘dark’ times - it’s that that gets you by when you’re playing at gig miles from home, waiting 4 hours to play and then it’s only to a handful of people. The good times will come - but it’s often a long, long road (as the Hollies would say!)

“I know you played a big tv show for bbc. Is playing on tv any different than paying (sic) for a live show in front of fans? If so how?””

SPENCER: Very different. This is mainly because at a live show you can interact with the audience. The audience applause tends to ‘book-end’ a song whereas on TV there was … nothing!! We had to make sure we were speaking straight after the last chord was ringing to avoid those uncomfortable silences.
The BBC experience was unlike anything we had been through before. We were filmed constantly for 6 hours and the pressure to always be ‘performing’ was immense. We were pretty much presenting our own show which was something that we’ve never done before. Actually, by the end of the second, I think we had gotten a lot better at it and whilst I don’t know whether I’d like to do that particular show again, I think we’d all like to get more exposure on TV. We had a great time!

SIMON: When you play in front of an audience you feed off their energy, but, when it’s just us 4 and a camera man, we have to learn to feed off each other’s which is totally different. The BBC show we did was playing constant for 6 hours so, by the second day, there wasn’t much energy left.

“Have any of u ever met the beatles i mean paul or ringo? u sound so much like them and some even better.”

SIMON: I personally haven’t, though I’ve done the Liverpool tour and visited their original houses.

SPENCER: Well it’s an honour to be even compared to The Beatles, let alone someone saying we sound BETTER than them! Thank you!!!!
I’ve been fortunate enough to meet Paul McCartney in person. A good friend of mine worked as a radio reporter, working specifically on entertainment. He managed to get me an access to all areas pass at one of Paul’s ‘Back In The World’ tour in 2003. I was lucky enough to watch his sound check and then sit in on his interview with my friend. I even gave him a copy of 3 of my songs on CD!! He seemed a genuine kind of guy and I was really pleased to meet him!

“Do you ever get butterflys (sic) before going on stage?”

SPENCER: Not all that often these days, although there’s always a keenness to just get on stage and play. I’m often pacing around before a gig, just ‘cos I get impatient from not getting up there and doing what we do best!

SIMON: I think I did on my first gig but since then being on stage in front of people just feel right it’s where I belong.

“Do any of you have brothers or sisters who play too. I mean not with the fore but play.”

SPENCER: My sister is more arty than musical. Some of her drawings are amazing. My dad used to play semi-professionally years back, in the late 60s, so I guess that’s where I get my musical talent from. His guitar and bass were the first instruments I picked up.

SIMON: I have 2 older sisters but neither of them play — though my nephew has started to play drums now …don’t think his mum ever forgive me for that! lol

“A question for Simon if he doesntmind. I heard your song “Someone New” and LOVE it. How do you get the drum sound like the triple tom in there? Ive tried and tried because Im adrummer too.”

SIMON: During my little solo I’m playing the kick and both toms pretty much at the same time on different beats. But then I do the triple beat on just the floor tom and quickly move back to the original beat. Its difficult to explain but I’ll try and get a close up video of it to show you. (Rockiteers, if he can do it, I promise to put it on the very next post [and send a copy to you, Eric!])

SPENCER: I remember the first time that Si put the triplet in the drum fill. We were rehearsing in Croydon, Surrey (just me and him actually) and we were running over material for Black & White. It’s a great song, particularly live, and Si’s not really given credit for the part he plays in it, or many of our other songs. Good ol’ Si!!

I wanna thank all 4 (and Neil and David) of The Fore for taking a few minutes of their time to answer your questions! I gotta tell ya that, in thirty+ years in the biz of writin’ and rockin’, this is the best band I’ve ever had the pleasure to promote! And this is proof that you won’t find a more “fan-oriented”, harder-workin’ band in the known world than these FORE!!
But, for now, let’s get on to a coupla other thingz, okay?

SWINGIN’ OF A DIFFERENT TYPE

With summer comin’ up, a few extra days off (especially for you high schoolers), it’s time to think about relaxin’ in the shade while sippin’ a tall, cold glass of tea or lemonade.
Now, “taking it easy” is one thing; but if ya want the most out of it, you oughtta get a get a good hammock swing to lolligag in! And the best selection of these can be found when you click the link I’m about to give ya! You can relax in comfort and style with their great selection of hammock chair swings. Their lively colors and beautiful patterns will brighten up wherever you put ‘em … and provide you with the R & R you’re looking for!
And, when you go to their site, you’ll find some fantastic bargains on these as well. Of course, they offer many other great items that you can use during these lazy days of late-Spring, early-summer — and at lower prices than you’ll find in top stores around town!
There are other perks as well, including the ability to pay through PayPal®, which, as you know, not only gives you the easiest way to pay, but also provides the highest protection for you when you order!
So, to find out more about these beautiful hammocks, then all you’ve gotta do is click on the following link which will take you to the site with all this and more! You’ll find your favorite style of hammock chair just by clicking on that link. Get ready to go their now!!

As some of you already know, I’m helpin’ promote a fantastic new UK band that’s tearin’ up the circuits in England: THE FORE! They’re all fantastic lads with a great Mersey/Hamburg sound, and are beginning to make some inroads here in the US!

Okay … so how does that tie in with Charlotte?

Well, a number of years ago — when I was doing some teacher’s aide-ing at Pineville Elementary (Mrs. Beverly Moore’s 3rd grade class) — I couldn’t help noticing that kids in our area are extremely adept at remembering things verbatim: book passages, directions, even song lyrics. (My favorite was a youngster named Della Fraley, who was almost like a walking journal! There wasn’t much she couldn’t recall!)

The kids’ names still brighten my mind as I recall their little faces: Kevin Towery, Kenny Taylor, Nikki Little, and little Kelly who could do gymnastics like a pro. But today’s children are just as adept, just as smart … and that says a lot for both schools and parents of today’s Queen City area!

The youngster that Fore bass player, Spencer Hannabuss, told me about, though, shows that, no matter where they live, children are soaking in what they hear and see like a sponge!
They were playing a gig this past weekend in Kent when a little seven-year-old girl (or about that age) in the audience began singing, word-for-word, every song in their set! Fifty minutes’ worth!! And all correctly and without missing a beat!

So, when I think back to Mrs. Moore’s class … when I think of Della, Kenny, Kelly and the rest … and when I see the kids of CharMeck today, I’ve just gotta repeat what the Oak Ridge Boys sang a few years ago: THANK GOD FOR KIDS! (by the way … if you EVER have a chance to get that song, DO IT! It’ll make your heart melt!)

SAYIN’ GOODBYE TO ACNE

Of course, as kids grow into their teens, they’re confronted with one of the scourges of the age group: acne. Now, there are a lot of products and places that promise this or that treatment will work for them … but how can teens be sure that what they’re hearin’ about is good for them?
Well, there’s one place (parents: take note! This is great!) that’ll discuss the various treatments, creams, potions and pills and not only help you find the right one for you, but also where you can get savings off those items! You’ll find articles about acne, product reviews … and you’ll find the five best acne treatments
Believe me, it’s the most helpful, honest place you can go to learn more about acne and what’s best for you to combat it!
So if you’re looking for the best acne wash for your face and body, just click on the link you just passed … and get ready to say good-bye to pimples and blackheads!

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!

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 …

No, it doesn’t look like me (I dont wear hats) — but it opens up a slew of memories. Y’see, years ago, I was privileged to run an insurance debit, and part of it was in my old hometown of Pineville.

Now, for y’all who don’t know the word “debit” in insuraslang, it meant a bunch of people goin’ out, knockin’ on doors, tryin’ to sell somethin’ to (or collect somethin’ from) ya. Sort of like Jehovah’s Witnesses, but with account books instead of Bibles. And better suits.

It was exhilarating, to say the least: Gettin’ up and to the office (with gas prices less than a week’s paycheck, we could afford to drive back then) early, tallying up the previous day’s work, then checkin’ our route and getting on the road to “knuckle” our first door of the morning. We were told “ring doorbell, wait, knock, wait, ring doorbell, leave card”. Then go in, since the client answered the door after the first ‘bell’ (ahhhh, those rookie days!). Actually, to a man, the clients were all polite. To a woman, they were morepolite!

There’s an incident I remember that, to this day, brings a bit of smile to my face (well, something’ gotta do it besides grits and coffee!): I was flipped to another debit and some old gent took my debit in Pineville. Well, when some of my clients asked where I was, he told ‘em (he said “jokingly” later, before he was fired) that I’d taken their money and gone to play pool with it (Huh? No, I don’t even know how to play it! The only time I tried, I missed the #7 ball and poked the opponent at the next table in the … let’s go on, okay?). Anyway, he had so many people cuss him out and show him the door that they put me back on the debit again!

But I learned a lot from those days (including one award for being the top-seller for awhile [take that, Mr. B.!]). The friendliness of the people, the successful negotiation of busy traffic (remember: these were the days before cell-phones), enjoying the beauty and crispness of a cool fall morning, and the satisfaction of doing a solid, productive day’s work were all invigorating.

Most of all, having the privilege of having some of the best people on the planet as clients helped a lot, too …

GETTING THE BEST INSURANCE TODAY

Naturally, it makes sense to get insurance coverage … but so many people just don’t have the time to “shop around” for the best rates, service, etc. Now, there’s one site that’ll compare rates for ya, and provide informative (and very enlightening) articles, answer some frequently-asked-questions, walk you through the application process, — even educate ya on insurance terminology and more!
Imagine … if you don’t have the insurance coverage you need, just by following the link I’m about to give you can change all that AND save you money in the process! You can be totally prepared to insure yourself and your family, with a company you can trust, and all within minutes after studying the site! Just click on this link for the most sensible, affordable and reputable term life insurance quote — and be well on your way to securing your family’s future!!
Do it now, okay?

Ahhh, how well I remember that ol’ country preacher tellin’ his congregation, “When I was a kid, we had runnin’ water at our house. When mama needed some water, I’d RUN to the well, draw up a bucket-a water, then RUN back to the house!”
It’s a cute joke, but you’d be surprised at how many people have runnin’ water these days — runnin’ down the sink counter, runnin’ into the floor — and all because their faucets are broken!

Now, even after Daddy switched from Hefner Plumbing Co. to open his own pump-repair business (Hinson Pump Co. in Pineville), many of Mr. Hefner’s customers still called on him to do their plumbing! I’d ride along with him, and learned a lot!
For example, there was the time at the Baskins’, when he was fixin’ the trap under their sink while low-flying Army aircraft were clipping the tops of some high trees (or so said Laverne Grace at the time)! Y’see, there were war games goin’ on not far from Charlotte, and we were startled by ‘em. Still, ya couldn’t stop Clarence and his family; they were too busy watchin’ “rasslin’” on Channel 3 to pay much attention to them or us! And that’s what got me interested in workin’ pro wrestling matches in time …
Another time was when one of his customers was so thankful for Daddy’s work — in fact, maybe had a bit of a crush on him — that she actually (I’m not kiddin’ here!) broke things just so she could call him to come and fix ‘em for her! ‘Course, he was fiercely devoted to Mama, and, together, they couldn’t help laughing over the little lady’s shenanigans!
But, in all, he taught me the right way to treat people, whether they be customers or complete strangers. His work was renowned throughout Charlotte and Pineville; but, more importantly, he showed that common courtesy, combined with humility and confidence, could do more than “know-how” alone!
It’s something that I keep in mind to this day … and am so thankful for …

OH … ABOUT FAUCETS:

Daddy always said, “If you wanna give ‘em the best service outta somethin’, ya gotta give ‘em the best product!” And today, with the higher water pressure and heavy usage on one end and the need for better systems on the other, it’s necessary to have the best and most durable faucets for your sink or lavatory! The seals have to be just right, the hardware and assembly has to be perfect for your sink and lavatory counters, and they need to be dependable over the years!

That’s why, by clicking the link I’m about to give you, you’ll find the best faucets and assemblies in the business! They give you greatmore! Why, they even have faucets for the famous clawfoot tubs (now, these could be hard-to-find elsewhere!).

Now, all you’ve gotta do to give your bathroom or lavatory the pizazz it needs as well as the most dependable fixtures is to go to the one place to find the best faucet for your needs! Believe me, you won’t be disappointed — and, as you see these in action, you’ll wanna tell your friends and neighbors about ‘em! So go ahead and click that link now, okay?

As most of you baby-boomers remember, Channel 9 ran The Lloyd Thaxton Show back in the Sixties. Every rock fan old enough to chew gum would tune in to his show, weekdays at 5 PM.
Over the past few years, Lloyd has become a cherished friend of the Relic, and, though he went on to produce segments for the Today Show (winning Emmys in the process!), Fight Back! with David Horowitz, and co-written a best-selling book, Stuff Happens (and then you fix it!), his heart and soul has still belonged to rock-n-roll! We’ve reminisced many times about the “good old days” of Beatles, Byrds, Brummels and everything in-between-and-after.

And soon you’ll be able to catch his show again! But, this time, it’ll be on the comp DVD, My Name Is Lloyd Thaxton — Soooo WHAT?? (remember? It’s the way he began his show (the audience always responded with that last line!) He sent me a “tease” (she wasn’t my type, but I appreciated the gesture! Actually …) which is (huh? C’mon … it was a joke! A very … small … awww, nevermind) a roughly quarter-hour preview of the DVD.

Listen … if you’re a fan of the man (and, if you were alive, kickin’ and under 21 back-in-the-day, I’ll betcha were!), you’re gonna want the full-strength dose (ie, the full DVD) when it comes out! I’ll keep ya posted, so don’t touch that dial! It’s somethin’ ya don’t wanna miss …

PSSST … WANNA GREAT VACATION SPOT??

Then, trust me … you’ll want to head to one of the most beautiful spots in the Smokies: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee! Now, I’m not recommendin’ it ’cause Dolly talks about it on those TV ads. No, sir! Y’see, this place is mama-recommended!
Each year, when they were both with us (today, they’re both angels), daddy would take mama out to Tennessee for her birthday. They loved the mountains’ beauty and solace, and the friendliness of the homefolks around Pigeon Forge!
Of course, you’ve got DollyWood and so many other attractions (both natural and man-made) there, but, folks, the whole experience is as relaxing as a peanut-butter -and-jelly sandwich with a nice, tall glass of cold milk! You’ll love it! And, if you knew my mama, you know that when she recommended somethin’, it was bound to be good!
Of course, you’re gonna want a cabin to stay in (awww, forget motel rooms! Too impersonal …), and, if you’re like daddy was with mama, you’ll want the best for you and your spouse, “significant other” or family. You’ll want it to be spacious, comfortable and easy on the wallet!
And there’s one place that’ll certainly accommodate you. But … what if I toldja they’d even offer to help ya pay for your gas? Go ahead … read it again so you’ll believe I said that. Yep, they actually want to help ya with the price of your trip!
Sound good?? (Man, ya can’t say anything but, “YEAH!”) Then, all ya gotta do to take advantage of this (and be on your way to a perfect vacation … not far from Charlotte, btw) is to visit the Pigeon Forge cabins. Believe me (and mama) … you’ll be really glad ya did!

Hmph … kinda wish I’d had a few tips after the boys’ mother left. See, I’d been away from it for awhile, and, first time I tried, I came across more like Barney Fife-meets-Forrest-Gump.

BUT … The Charlotte Observer threw out the challenge and (huh? No, I don’t know who’s in that picture. It just seemed to “fit the theme” here …) brought back a ton of memories. All right … one or two …

It seems like dating’s a lot harder these days for us older dudes (no, I ain’t found one yet, m’self!) I mean, by the time we reach fossil age, most women are already taken, either by husbands, the Lord or the Republicans. And they think we’re only out for one thing:

sympathy. Well, that and someone to wash our socks, I guess …

The best advice that was ever given to me about dating at my age (57) was from my son, Tim, back when he was 13 (their mother’d walked out on us a year before): Don’t go lookin’, Dad … let THEM come to YOU!

So I don’t. And they don’t. “Trouble”, “bills”, “computer foulups”, yes. But women? Naaaah … But at least I’ve still got my cats … and my work … and those little voices in my head to keep me company.

Now if they could only wash my socks …

TOOLING AROUND

Of course, every man digs workin’ with tools of some kind. I mean, whether he’s fixin’ the house, working on the car, or just building something, he’s in hog-heaven.
But, as any guy can tell ya, the quality of the tools .. their durability is more important than anything.
Now, we can drive around, lookin’ for the right ones at the last minute, waste gas, stand in lines and pay high prices for a tool the salesman says will work,
or …
we can go to the one place that has the best in hand and power tools, anchors, nailers and air tools. They offer the most reliable names in the business, wallet-pleasing prices, free tool advice (ya gotta check this out!), and speedy delivery!!
So click on that link up there now, because, with Spring here and the weather gettin’ better, it’s time to get those projects underway!

It was forty years ago today …
Rev. Martin Luther King — a man who devoted his life to closing racial barriers and opening the doors of equality, justice and peace — was due to be in Charlotte to help Reginald Hawkins in his bid to become the state’s first African-American governor.
But, two days earlier, he had to postpone the trip.
He was heading to Memphis to help striking sanitation workers.

Sadly, we know the rest of the story …

But, in a way, it kinda makes ya wonder what things would’ve been like had Dr. King been able to complete his mission in Charlotte (and surrounding areas). He would’ve felt “at home” in Charlotte — a city that had more racial equality than most Southern cities of its size (although some stores, like the old Atlantic Mills on South Boulevard, still had the “whites-only” water fountains). In due course, chances are he would’ve succeeded, along with Dr. Hawkins, in inspiring African-Americans of voting age to register … possibly swinging the electorate pendulum toward Dr. Hawkins a bit.

As time progressed, he would’ve been active in social and school programs, campaigned more strongly for the specific and needed rights of all minorities and — even at the age of 79 — would’ve been an outspoken opponent of the Iraq War, opting instead to negotiate a more peaceful solution to the terrorist threat. But it’s doubtful that he would’ve ever run for President, although there would’ve been an eventual call for it.

The mind, at this time, can go through endless “what-if” scenarios, but the truth is that we can’t go back and change things. Dr. King was assassina … no, he was murdered, plain and simple. But, though the dreamer’s gone, the dream, itself, lives on … if we only have enough conscience to want it.

The same could be said for another famous peace advocate, who lost his life twelve years and almost eight months later. Like Dr. King, John Lennon was murdered by someone with twisted ideals. No, make that “criminal.”

You see, we can plaster names, causes, reasons or whatever all over these perpetrators, but the assassins were criminals for two reasons:
The first is obvious: Murder is a crime!
The second, though, is that their assault on the efforts of peace and unity that both these men brought to the table is criminal itself!

Today, remember April 4, 1968 and at 6:01 PM (the time of Dr. King’s murder), stop for a second and say a little prayer for peace, okay??

After hearing about the dual accidents this morning, maybe you can see where this particular post is heading …

Y’see, the Relic’s touchy when it comes to the safety and welfare of children. Now, I know the rain-slick roads might’ve been a factor, but these accidents are becoming almost too common around the nation!
We’ve all seen people run the “STOP!” sign that school-buses put out when they let a child off. We’ve seen idiots jawjackin’ on cell phones … and hit a car full of innocent people because they were sucked into a conversation.

Look … when it comes to driving, it doesn’t matter if you’re the president of Bank of America, a dishwasher — or a bus driver: When you’re on the roads, safety has to be the most important thing on your mind!! And, when anyone has kids with them or in an area where children are bound to flock, you’ve gotta be especially careful! Reduce your speed, keep your “eyes peeled,” and stay off the phone!

When I first went up to Ashland, Kentucky for some wrestling shows a few years back, the sidewalks of their main drag (Winchester Avenue) was thriving with shoppers. It seemed like a happy afternoon. Though, a few days before, there’d been a tragic accident involving a school bus that cost a number of students’ lives (it wasn’t just the “crash” … the bus caught fire, trapping the kids!), it was nearly forgotten about as life in small-town America went on.
I said, “nearly” forgotten about. Until …
A flat-bed wrecker slowly began to pull through town — carrying what was left of that bus.
Suddenly, the hustling-and-bustling street fell totally silent. The shoppers looked at the bus, some with tears in their eyes. Others just bowed their heads in memory and reflection — perhaps in prayer. It was an eerie sight …

But, whether in Ashland, Kentucky or Charlotte, North Carolina, that incident could happen again, if we’re not careful!
Now, fortunately, the accidents that happened on Arrowood Road and (the other) Lansing Drive were minor. No children were hurt seriously.

But suppose it had been worse. It can happen if we’re too busy/fast/preoccupied or (worse) uncaring to drive safely. So show some heart when it you confront a bus that’s stopped for the kids. Don’t let what happened on that fateful day in Kentucky happen here!