Charlotte, NC

Well, it looks like the people have spoken …

A new national poll shows that three out of four Americans feel he’s leaving not a moment too soon.
Seventy-five percent of those questioned (it was a CNN/Opinion Research Corp. survey) released Friday said they’re glad Bush is going (hey … twenty-eight percent of those said President Bush is the worst president in U.S. history); only 23 percent said they’d miss him.

“Earlier this year, Bush scored some of the lowest presidential approval ratings we’ve seen in half a century, so it’s understandable that the public is eager for a new president to step in,” the polling director, Keating Holland, said.
And CNN’s senior political analyst, Bill Schneider, added, “As President Bush prepares to leave office, the American public has a parting thought: Good riddance. At least that’s the way three-quarters feel.”

Now, compare that with the 51 percent who said they wouldn’t miss President Bill Clinton when he left office in January 2001. Forty-five percent of those questioned at that time said they would miss Clinton.
So it obviously shows that Bush compares poorly with his presidential predecessors.

Only a third of those who were polled said they hope he’ll remain active in public life after he leaves the White House. Still, that’s 22 points lower than those in 2001 who wanted Bill Clinton to retain a public role.

What’s your take on President (for now) George W. Bush? Either leave a comment or email me and let me know. (NOTE: Many of the comments I’ve received of late have been rude or downright vulgar, no matter which post they were directed to. I will NOT accept any of those at ANY time!

TRUCKING ALONG

Have you ever tried to move yourself or your family through winding roads, over mountains or other “iffy” terrain? I have … and, let me tell you, it’s no fun!
So I’ve learned of a place that’ll have drivers pack and move you professionally, with extreme care of your belongings (including your vehicle) — and at great savings to you!
You see, when you drive your own rental truck, you’re not only responsible for the packing, lifting, etc., but also for the space you don’t use (meaning, money out of your pocket!).
And what about the stress? Suppose you were driving, say, from Charlotte, up toward Hickory, around Grandfather’s Mountain (and those winding roads), to some other town? You’d be tied in knots wondering how things were in the bed of the truck, right?
There are so many advantages to letting the “pros” do it … and, when you click on the link that’ll take you to the best in truck rental, you’ll see what I mean.
So, if you’re planning to move anytime in the near future, trust me: It’ll be worth your time to click on that link! You’ll find they’ll be more helpful than you’d ever expect …

Okay, so what’s great about these little rascals??

Well, here at The Eagle’s Nest, you’re bound to find three fruit varieties in and around the fridge: bananas, grapes and tangelos. Now, quick — which one do ya think this avarian handles most often? (Ever see one fly with a ‘nanner in his beak? Naaaah …)

Yep. Whether red, white, black, seedless, seeded or other (no muscadines, though dammit!), they’re even beside me on my office desk, for a quick, healthy pick-me-up between meals (yeah, I usedta like Pepsi-and-Tom’s-Peanuts — aka the redneck pick-me-up — but, since the requirement is for glass bottles, and they don’t make ‘em anymore, the grapes’ll haveta do!)

But there’s something more …

Y’see, there was a study where people who ate ‘em regularly experienced better blood flow in their brachial arteries in just three hours after eatin’ about one and a quarter cups of grapes (and, believe me, these things are nature’s Crackerjacks. Ya can’t stop with just one or two!) And, since they’re only about 60 calories per cup, it’s a pretty juicy deal!

Now, the researchers think it could be due to the antioxidants in grapes — it’s helps keep your blood vessels relaxed and blood free of all that plaque-gook. In fact, grapes may even help protect your blood vessels from fatty meals (probably why ya don’t see ‘em often in fast-food joints, huh?

DECEMBER 8, 1980

If you were anywhere near a radio or TV late that night, twenty-eight years ago, chances are your heart stopped beating for a moment as the words came from station newsdesks:

“… has just been confirmed that former Beatle John Lennon has been gunned down in front of the Dakota apartment building he shared with his wife, Yoko Ono.”

It was the night the world stood still … in grief because, after all, John Lennon was not only an icon of peace; he was the leader of The Beatles; in disbelief, because he was only 40 years old; and in complete shock and anger, because it wasn’t disease or an accident or an overdose that took his life (he’d already stopped the drug use, btw); it was an assassin’s bullet!

For a moment, let’s re-visit that night … as reported by the BBC:

Here’s how the story was broken in UK newspapers the night of his murder.

FACT: When Big WAYS 61 decided to drop their “oldies” format in favor of talk-radio, the very last song the legendary station played was “(Just Like) Starting Over” — from the “Double Fantasy” album, which was released only a month before John’s death. VERY fitting tribute!

Man, you’ve gotta be kiddin’ me!!
I mean, I thought this racism crap was pretty much over and done with! But, now, with our first African-American President-elect, it seems the slimy maggots who advocate that junk have wriggled their way out of the dung of the past and are tryin’ to infect us again! It’s even happened here locally … but I’m not gonna give ‘em even a word of publicity by tellin’ what happened or where. They don’t deserve it!

Now, I don’t haveta worry about them readin’ this post, considerin’ that, collectively, they have the intelligence to only understand four-letter words, but, if ya wouldn’t mind readin’ this to them, it’d be appreciated.

FACTS ABOUT THIS RACIST NONSENSE:

They call themselves true Americans, and are sooooooooo dead-set against terrorism. But, with each threat, with each mock “lynching”, with each intimidating tactic, these clowns are breaking a FEDERAL LAW!! It’s called TERRORISTIC THREATENING!! And the punishment, especially as it applies to hate crimes, can and should be severe!!

They say “White is Right” … but can’t prove it. Why? ‘Cause one color is never “right” over another! But they try to “prove” it with violence — thus, shooting their own “theory” in the foot (if not three feet higher).

They glorify the pomp and pageantry of everything from the Confederacy to Nazism without realizing what they’d actually put up with if they were part of the original causes: filth, searing pain, days without sleep, incessant thirst, sweat, mind-numbing fear — and the haunting eyes staring from the dead — those of friends, neighbors and perhaps family — lying around them. Day after day, week after week. Insects crawling over open sores, and nowhere to immediately “relieve” themselves.
Hmph … if anyone who fought in those wars could see these idiots now, they’d probably laugh themselves to death. Right or wrong, what these men went through would turn these would-be “heroes” into little boys callin’ for their mommies …

Now, if someone can prove that other races are “inferior” … and I mean intellectually prove it with facts and figures … then let’s see ‘em. Here. I’ll print ‘em, okay??
If not, KEEP YOUR BIGOTRY, YOUR HATE, YOUR TERRORISTIC CRAP TO YOURSELF! I …

oh. wait … just thought of somethin’ …

Hey, ummm, racist people?? Have … have you ever been in an accident resulting in serious injury? (hmph … sound like one of those TV lawyers!) Ever had an operation? Anything that … well, required a blood transfusion??
Well, guess what, my misguided, neophytic cretins?? There’s about a good chance that the blood you received … ummm, came from an African-American!
Understandably, the American Red Cross won’t give precise stats as to which race gives what percentage for two reasons: because each city differs in ethnic density (some lower, some higher), and to ward off … er, “purists” (don’t make me gag!) like you!
At any rate, you know what that means, don’tcha?? It means you’ve got the blood of the race you hate, running through your very own system, right now! So, lemme ask ya … do you hate yourself??

Think about it. For once, crack a book without some skinhead peerin’ over your shoulder (remember … I usedta be a cult member decades ago, and, brother, this racist junk is nothing more than a brainsucking cult!), study other races with an open mind, and make decisions on your own! You just might find yourself coming up with a different conclusion … one that’s sensible!

Start with The Bible (always a good place to start). Hint: The first part follows the Israelites, the last with the life and lessons of Jesus …
a man …
who wasn’t white!

Geez … I just started tonight’s post and I’ve already ticked off a few Republicans!
But I’m not talkin’ against Gov. Palin at all … ’cause she wasn’t the problem (’sides, I do value my life!)!
Okay, then, hotshot … what was the problem with the campaign??

Well, I didn’t say “THIS Was …”, did I?? Nope — I asked ya, “Was THIS …?” Need yer input.
And I’m talkin’ about the media here! I mean, they were all over Sarah Palin like butter on a freshly baked biscuit! And it was, for the most part, about everything but her political accomplishments, ability to perform the job … or her stand on the issues.

In other words, they didn’t give the lady a fair shake in the recent campaign! And we, bein’ a nation that just loves the sensationalistic, ate it up like the earlier-mentioned biscuit!!

Y’know, somehow, I’ve got a feelin’ that, though she’s raising a fine family, was a former small town-mayor, Governor of America’s (geographically) largest state and having to balance all these duties (and all their required concerns) and still maintain dignity and composure-under-fire;
though she’d traveled thousands of miles stumping for Sen. McCain, dealt with accusations and blows back home in Alaska, and still maintained a loving relationship and time with her husband and family …
it all just didn’t matter to the media.

They were more concerned about everything from her looks to accent to slip-ups that she made while on the campaign trail. And it was the slip-ups that became the focus more … and more.

THEN THEY BROUGHT IN A FEYKE PALIN …

Now, don’t get me wrong: I like Tina Fey as a comedienne, actress, mom … and, quite honestly, to meet the woman “offstage” is like talking with Everywoman. She’s very sincere, somewhat shy, a bit aloof herself … but definitely genuine!
But when the SNL script called for her to lampoon Gov. Palin, it set in everyone’s mind that the former VP candidate was actually like that! And that image, coupled with a media blitz straight out of Entertainment Tonight®, stuck with American voters to the end of voting day … and is still prevalent!

Of course, when they heard Sarah make a mistake (like calling Africa a country and about some flak between the McCain and Palin camps over the fact that the Governor didn’t get a chance to give her concession speech when Sen. McCain did), these “informed” media seem to forget that the lady was thrust almost immediately into the national spotlight for the very first time! Everybody — here and abroad — was watching her.

That brings me to a second question: If you were in front of the cameras and mics and millions of viewers for the very first time ever, would you get a little nervous and maybe slip up on your words or facts?

Then ya know how she felt … and how the mistakes could have easily happened. And, during the bittersweet concession speech (handled remarkably well by Sen. McCain), she undoubtedly thought (again, remember that she wasn’t familiar with the protocol here) that she would have a turn at the mic as well! So, you see, SARAH PALIN IS HUMAN!

But — since what’s said or done by the VP candidate (intentional or not) can change the direction of any Presidential election — couldn’t all this media mishandling have been one of the contributing causes of the Republicans’ defeat?

Like I said, it wasn’t her fault; she gave, I believe, one of the best showings of any first-time VP candidate … especially someone who’d never been in this much of a national spotlight … before!

I voted for Obama, because he was the better choice; but I truly admire Gov. Palin .. and honestly hope she shoots for a high goal like this again in 2012!

But I’d appreciate your opinion …

IT WAS THE NIGHT HISTORY WAS MADE …

And, if ya haven’t already, you’ll wanna save that front page from the Charlotte Observer (if you go to their website, you can download a .PDF copy of it!) and remember what was happenin’ in your adobe when ya heard the news that Barack won.

But, while we have our first African-American President comin’ into office (and didja see the shots of Dr. King’s sister and also Jesse Jackson in tears when Obama made his acceptance speech?? Priceless!!  Yes, the dream still lives!!), we also have two other landmark events:

Bev Perdue is now going in as North Carolina’s first female Governor!  Man, was this long overdue.  Years ago, people were trying to get Sue Myrick in there, and she (Sue) ran across the same dog-and-pony act that tried to block Bev’s:  that (can you believe they’re still sayin’ this stuff?) she’s a woman … she doesn’t belong in there!
I’ve got a feeling that Perdue’s not just gonna be a one-termer, either!  But congrats to Pat McCrory for a good contest … I’ve a lot of respect for the man …

AND … WHAT’D YA EXPECT??

While everybody thought, at first, that Sen. Libby Dole was gonna trounce all over Kay Hagans — I mean, after all, she was the vet, a former cabinet member, the wife of that Dole, the moral warrior!
Then, she slipped up.  BIG time!! 
She implied that one of the nicest and most respected Christian ladies in Guilford County was Godless!  In fact, she went so far as to have some woman superimpose a sound bite over Kay’s picture, saying There is no Jesus or some junk like that. 
That, folks, is the lowest of blows!
So, goodbye, Mrs. Dole … and learn to keep your mouth shut and mind open from here on out.  You already know how we rockers feel about ya, right??

All in all, it was a fantastic night of miracles.  Dr. Martin Luther King, Bobby Kennedy and John Lennon are all smiling right now — you just know it …

Incidentally, I’ve been “off” the past few days with a hard-hitting flu bug.  Since I’m gettin’ over it, we’ll return to normal (???) here this week.
Thanks for yer patience …

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 …

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!

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!

Sorry for bein’ a bit late tonight. Hadta rebuild my PC …

Now — where were we?? OHHH yeah; the debate!!

On the one hand, you had a “rookie” — on the other, a guy who’s seen the inside of Capitol Hill since 1972. Not a lotta folks were expecting much from Sarah Palin as she went toe-to-toe with Joe. For some reason, America still has a bit of sexist quality about it, and thought Biden would have a field-day against his Republican opponent.

But …

a few minor gaffes aside, I thought Mrs. Palin did an excellent job in holding her own!! But she did more than that; she added some homespun wit and comfortability! Forget about the looks for a minute; she made the debate (dare I say this?) downright enjoyable!!

Granted, it’s gonna take a lot more than that to win the election; after all, she does have an investigation hangin’ over her head back home in Alaska (the courts just denied a request by Republicans to stop their look into her alleged “abuse-of-power”). She also needs to bone up on her facts a little, and stop just okayin’ McCain’s policy. After all, she’s already at odds with John over his input about Michigan. She’s gotta tell how she feels about every issue … and make sure she knows the issues inside-and-out to give a qualified, educated answer.

Still, it was good to see Biden’s face when he realized “Hey … she’s smarter than I THOUGHT!” And he’s gotta stick with the issues today … we don’t wanna hear as much about him (heck … we can always Google® his name if we wanna learn more) as we do about gettin’ outta Iraq, how to handle the problems facing the elderly, those with no insurance, and taxes.

But they both did moderately well, concerning it was their first televised debate.

So, what did you think??  Lemme know …

Man, wouldn’t ya know it??  As I was startin’ to get this (and my other writes) together, the PC went down again! 
Soooo, these are gonna be a little short ’til tomorrow — at least until I get that modem workin’ (geez … how, oh how did we ever live without this marvel called “computer”?).

Anyway … we’ve got that debate comin’ up in a few hours, and I’ve gotta get in my two-cents’ worth (hey … don’t knock it; it’s all I have left after goin’ to Office Depot for new software!):

First, lemme say that — as it looks right now – yes, I’m votin’ for Obama this November (ya can’t tell what’ll come out or up between now and then, natch …).  But, as far as tonight goes …

I hope Sarah Palin kicks Joe Biden’s AXX!!  Y’see, it seems the media world (and, thus, the people who believe them) have placed her into three sexist categories:  (1) the “little, ignorant housewife who doesn’t know anything real politicians do”, (2) the “hockey mom who didn’t raise her daughter right” or (3) “sexy, alluring, former cheerleader.”   

And it’s all … well, ya know that stuff that bulls do when they have to go to the bathroom?  Yeah … now ya got it!

So, by utilizing her existing knowledge (and she does have that!) and the training she’s gettin’ for tonight’s gabfest, I’m hopin’ she’ll do such a good job that it’ll leave egg on every face that’s put the lady down.
Granted (and especially if she touts the Republican standard), she’ll be pushin’ the wrong agenda, but … just this once … I’d like to see Joe stutter and hem-and-haw in awe of this woman …

More later. Now I’m goin’ back to workin’ on my PC …

It was the summer of 1980; my (then) wife and (then) year-old son (he’s in the Navy now) had just moved to a house on Pineville’s Morrow Avenue (when it was residential.  Times have changed …) – in fact, right beside my folks’.

One of the first things I hadta do in order to make the house work for us was run down to the hardware store and pick up everything from paint to screwdrivers, hammers and nails — and plenty of door and cabinet knobs!  Though Pineville had a fine hardware store of its own, I decided to go to the one that Daddy had always relied on in his pump business:  Myers Park Hardware.
Naturally, they “fixed me right up” with what I needed, and at a good price!  It was a store that not only was efficient, business-wise, but had a distinctly home-town feel to it!

And it continued to have that ambience throughout the decades.  Now that it’s closing, Charlott … no, Carolinians (from both states) … are gonna be missing not only a piece of history … they’re gonna be missing a piece of their hearts.

Y’see, the “hometown” feel that Myers Park Hardware radiated — that, “I know you, you’re a friend, c’mon in and let’s chat while you’re shoppin’” attitude is almost gone in megalopolitan America.  Concrete-and-steel are quickly replacing the friendly hardwood floors; Joe, Cecil and Bob are being replaced by customer 1001, 546 and 320; the friendly salesperson is being phased out by buttons to push for robotic messages. 

The loss of the hometown touch — it ain’t gonna be pretty when it’s all gone.  Let’s just be sure we don’t lose it in our hearts.

The folks at Myers Park Hardware never did … and they’re really gonna be missed.  God bless ‘em in their new endeavors.  They truly were — and are — our friends …

“WOAH … I said the Night Time … is the Right Time … to beee wit’ th’ ONE ya LOOvvve”
Now, whoever loves the blues or rock knows that song. It was sung by artists as diverse as Ray Charles, Creedence Clearwater Revival — and even was lip-synched in a comedic sketch on The Cosby Show.

But few people outside our own Queen City know that the author of that classic — Napoleon Culp (aka Nappy Brown) was Charlotte-born-and-bred.
Nappy passed away here on Saturday at the age of 78. I’d had the honor of meeting this legend a few times over the years — he was a walkin’ encyclopedia of the blues — and have to say that his mere presence made you feel relaxed and down-home.

Nappy started his career as a gospel singer and first recorded on Savoy Records in ‘54. They liked what they heard and asked him to be one of their solo Rhythm-and-Blues artists. So, in 1955, his “Don’t Be Angry” not only made it to #2 on the R&B charts, but #25 on pop charts!, It was followed by “Pitter Patter” (hitting #10 on the R&B charts but covered by Patti Page on the pop charts), “Little By Little” (#57 R&B in 1957), “It Don’t Hurt No More” (#8 R&B, #89 pop, 1958) and “I Cried Like A Baby” (recorded in 1956, it hit #22 R&B in 1959). He left the label in 1962, and tried several comebacks, recording for other labels in 1969, 1984, 1987 — and cutting his last album in 2007.

No doubt that this man, like Wilbert Harrison, Arthur Smith and others, has provided a musical legacy that has put Charlotte on the musical map for life. He’s gonna be missed, both in the QC and the world. RIP, my friend — for all you’ve accomplished (and, at one time, giving a bit of inspiration and confidence to a nine-year-old boy from Pineville), you deserve it!

DRUG ADDICTION’S BIGGEST ENEMY

Y’know, there’s been a lotta talk in the QC about the drug menace — and the people who fall victim to it!  They need the help of trained, caring professionals to break free of its grip and continue to live happy, clean lives.
But, in getting that help, sometimes they’re faced with a one-treatment-fits-all program from therapists — and that just doesn’t work! Not only do addicts need a treatment program that fits them psychologically as well as physically; they also need caring, one-on-one help from dedicated and sincere professionals.

Now, there’s one place where they not only get the best in drug treatment but will also have the caring, one-on-one therapy they really need. But this drug treatment center isn’t only highly successful; it’s also one that’s dependable for follow-up counseling and assistance and helps in one area that’s often overlooked: counsel and instruction for families of the addict! It also helps that it’s nestled in the most beautiful, placid surroundings in the nation! (Believe me, environment — both outer and in-house — is essential to any healing process!)
So if you, or someone you know, needs help in overcoming the demons of drug addiction, just click on those links I just gave you … I highly recommend them!! Believe me, it’s the best move you could make to regaining control and happiness in life! Do it now, okay?

Normally, I don’t watch a lot of TV these days — mainly due to my schedule as blogger and The Rock Relic.  But, last night, I just had to make time!

The Emmy Awards were more than glamor, fashion and fancy speeches this time; by God, it actually showed a bit of personality and heart!
By now, we all know who won and who didn’t, but there were some dynamite highlights:

For example, when Tommy Smothers won an Emmy on behalf of The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.  Natch, he rambled like the “confused kid” he portrayed for so many years (in reality, Tom has a keen business mind and is quite intellectual).  But he did something that, common for the Smothers, is uncommon in awards shows:  He spoke “PEACE”:

“It’s hard for me to stay silent when I keep hearing that peace is only attainable through war. And there’s nothing more scary than watching ignorance in action,” he said, dedicating his award to “all people who feel compelled to speak out, and are not afraid to speak to power, and won’t shut up and refuse to be silenced.”

Then, a bit later, they had a reunion of all the surviving cast of Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In … and, although the camp might be wearin’ a bit then, it was worth it all just to see Gladys Hornby and Earnestine back in true form!
Their set looked as if it’d been saved from the original show … and the audience loved every minute of it!

Now, while they also had the inimitable Mary Tyler Moore and Betty White to announce Best Comedy Series — and what an honor it was to see these two legends back together again — the show outdid itself when the Matador’s March started playing.  The audience, both TV and live, knew that it could only signal “Mr. Warmth”, Don Rickles was coming to the stage! 
Surely enough, he came out along with comedienne Kathy Griffin, who yelled to the audience, “GET UP!  Get on your FEET!”  After a lengthy standing-ovation, Rickles went into his routine (part teleprompted, part ad lib) and had Griffin in tears with laughter!  Not a small feat … but only he could do that!  He won two Emmys last night, btw.

I hope everyone had a great time watchin’ the show.  If ya wanna talk more about it or have any remarks, just leave ‘em in the Comments section here.

But, for now, I’ve gotta run (loads of work to catch up on).  So I’ll see ya tomorrow, okay?

As you probably noticed in today’s Observer, Charlie Adams (head of North Carolina High School Athletics Association — or NCHSAA if ya don’t like a mouthful of words) has recommended that their board of directors make lacrosse a sanctioned school-wide sport for the ‘09-10 academic year.

Hey … why not??  It’s popular around the world, and has a tremendous history dating back to the Native Americans in the 18th Century (at least)! And, quite frankly, it’s not any more dangerous than football or soccer … in fact, it gives the players a workout that other sports don’t give them!

Now, some schools do have lacrosse clubs, but they’re not sanctioned by the NCHSAA … if they were, they’d have more assistance and provision by the Association.  It can be handled in much the same manner as the sanctioning of soccer or any other ball game, for that matter.  All it takes for the Association to sanction is to have an open mind, realize that this is a tremendous exercise for the kids, and has great educational value if you look into its history ( for example, didja know that Native American tribes like the Choctaws would use the sport to determine its best warriors?).You can learn more about the game and its history by going to its Wikipedia page.

GETTIN’ THE WORD OUT 

Face it … we all like to brag a little. right?  Whether it’s about our company, who we’re voting for, our favorite bands or whatever, we wanna get the word out there for others to know about.
It’s called “publicity” — and there’ve been many  ways of providing it.
But the best is still the promotional items, where your/your company/concerns’ name or logo is printed on various items for sale or handout.  Everything from successful business to elections have been built by this method over the years.
And there’s one spot that delights in providing you the greatest selection of promotional merchandise, and can imprint your logo or name on anything!  They not only have the lowest prices for this selection (a salesperson dreams of finding a place like this!) but also will even beat any competitor’s price!
In fact, they’ll even help you create the promotional look you need! 
And I can’t think of even one place in the Yellow Pages that’ll do that!!

Listen … with the new school year upon us (and who wouldn’t wanna brag about their kid, their class or their team?), an election coming up and holidays right after that, it’s a great idea to show your support with great promotional products. Just click on that link I just gave you — and get ready to show your pride to the world!