Charlotte, NC

Well, it’s about that time …
In just a few, I’ve — er, The Rock Relic’s — gotta head back up to the tall timbers of Kentucky for an appearance at the Ohio Championship Wrestling show.
Actually, it’s not a bad gig at all, since wrestling and rock-n-roll shows are pretty much the same: fever-pitch excitement, music, performances by some of the greats in their field, etc.
And a lot of these indie (for “independent” … ie, non-WWF or TNA) wrestlers have made their mark on the Charlotte circuit as well. In fact, former WCW star, Bobby Blaze (now OCW Commissioner) was proud to tout the Queen City as his home.

But wait … first, they had to meet the one requirement for my alter ego to appear (well, other than a little reimbursement for expenses): If you want The Rock Relic to appear at your show, you’ve GOTTA BE FAMILY-FRIENDLY!! Bottom line, and ’nuff said!
Fortunately, they are non-offensive (I know … a rarity in the “sport”, right??). But, believe me, these cats do pull the crowds each time they put up that “squared circle”!
So, given that last sentence, maybe there’s hope for pro wrestling after all!
(Oh … for you fans: The wrestler ya see in the pic up there is my friend, Damian Adams. He, as with the great Mason Raige, are the future of the sport (and two of the finest and most talented gentlemen you’d ever wanna meet!)

VESSEL SINKS

Now, for you who aren’t really sure what those are, get ready for an amazing and eclectic mix of beauty and durability! If you’re ever tired of looking at a bland sink that’s hard to clean and maintain, they you’ll want one of these beautiful stone sinks!
Built from the product of actual quarries (how much more “eco-friendly” can you get?), they’re put through rigorous inspections to be assure their durability. Each one is hand-made as well … and, as you know, if it’s meticulously hand-made, the creator is going to guarantee its quality!
Now, since you’re going straight to the source here, you’re going to spend a lot less than you would at a retailer you’d find in a phone book, etc.
Their main concern is your satisfaction … and, with the selection, the beauty, the quality and the price, these usable pieces of art will definitely satisfy!!
To find out more, just click on this link that’ll take you to the finest selection of handcrafted and affordable vessel sinks on the market!
Believe me, you’ll really be glad you did — especially when you see how it’ll adorn your home!

Uh-huh … that’s me — first cup clears the fuzz, second one brings the buzz …
Naaaah … you know it’s a squirrel (and who says I’m not a little “squirrelly”??). But, when the furry creatures come to mind, ya automatically think of what??

NUTS!! Ya either have ‘em, eat ‘em, or are goin’ ‘em! Now, bein’ a Carolina boy, I guess the first two are pretty obvious. But what’s wrong with “goin’ nuts” on occasion? I mean, in the good sense.
Y’see, we’ve gotten so pre-occupied with the bills, ills, pills and chills of life that we forget about havin’ a few thrills every once-in-awhile!

I mean, when ya think about The Beatles, only part of your memories are about the music. Yeah, part of ‘em involves their individual personalities, but …

part of ‘em also remembers their madcap zest for life (I had both at one time, but my subscription ran out on one, and the other made my skin break out in italics oh, ye of wisdom shall know of what I speak. You’ve been down the soap aisle …).

These cats wanted to hit it big (in fact, early-on, John would yell “WHERE WE GOIN’?”, to which the others would respond, “TO THE TOP!” And, lemme tell ya, they didn’t mumble it, either!) and they did it by takin’ a lot of chances. They had an attitude that was unbeatable!
Ahhhh, but the rest of society — especially those over-30 — told ‘em againandagainandagain:

Are you NUTS??

And guess what the companion line was? Uh-huh … inevitably followed by “YOU can’t do that”! So they made it into a song.

Anyway, I said all that to say this: I recently got some email wonderin’ why I don’t write in … er, “proper” English (I reckon she means “without contractions”. Ya can’t go through anything without ‘em, ma’am! If ya have young’uns, you should know that by now …) and stop “foolin’ around” (huh?? At my age?? Who’d have me?? Oh … I get it …).
But, y’see, we don’t talk fancy when we’re with friends, right?? We want it all to exude life and happiness. Well, the purpose of any writing I do is to liven it all up a bit … make ‘em places where every person’s welcome and has fun as well as hopefully learn something! If it comes across as “nuts” or “zany”, so be it.

In fact, I’m gonna add a libbit to the zaniness:
First, here’s that vid y’all liked, called THE LEGENDS OF DOO-WOP
(by the way, you’ll never listen to Buddy Holly’s music the same way again!)

Now, for the second thing:

I’m officially openin’ my new MySpace space as well as the new Rock Relic site. See whatcha think and get back to me … if you’ve got any cool local sites you’d like me to add to the ‘Space, just lemme know.

NEEDIN’ A JOB?

Though many of us hold some kind of employment already, there are thousands of folks in our region who are lookin’ for decent, good-paying jobs. Of course, with the economy being in the shape it is, a weekly/biweekly paycheck is essential!
Now, the standard way to look, natch, is to either scour the Observer on Sunday, go through the ESC or even consider temp agencies. Otherwise, you’re just poundin’ the streets, hopin’ to run across the right one!
But there is a better way:
In a moment, I’m gonna give you a link to a site that’s so unique and precise that you’ll not only have a greater chance of landing that all-important job, but one that’s in your field … and at better pay!
Y’see, they have various “channels” in their network that can direct you to the job tailored for you! You can post a resume, find industry reports and success stories, and more! Whether it’s by skill or by city, you can find what you’re looking for — and more quickly — by clicking on the link that’ll bring you a more successful job search.
So save the shoe leather and go there today to enjoy a more productive tomorrow!

Until later, that’s gonna be it for this episode … (oh … are yer friends & neighbours a little confused by yer zaniness? Worry not: NUTS spelled backward is STUN!)

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!

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!!

Well, it happened …

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

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

HILTON HEAD VACATION

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

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?

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!

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

TRAFFIC TROUBLE … IN MINT HILL?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ROUTING IT OUT

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

I took a small break, with one of the guys who’ll be on the show, and went to Ashland’s Town Center Mall for a quick meal, and for him to get an anniversary gift for his wife. It’s a far cry from our supershops like Carolina Place, but, for a small town, it’s all right.

After a bite to eat at a Mexican-themed restaurant on the premises, we walked through the mall (I was totally amazed by how small it was!) and into … a … er, wellllll, let’s just say a lingerie shop (BARELY!!).
Now, I’m not gonna call any names (heck … I don’t even have a date, much less a wife!), but I couldn’t help wondering: If everybody knows about this place now, why do they call it a secret?? (ummmm … nevermind …)

I went back outside. (Okay, so I’m a bit prudish. I figure “What’s worn or happens in the bedroom stays in the bedroom .. not on display in a friggin’ window!”) Besides, it was a private purchase from him to his lady love …

He came out, a bit red-faced (D-UH!!), with a little, tiny something in the shopping bag. Could it be a circular? Some dust that collected in it?? Nope. It was the little … well, friends, they call it a “teddy,” though I can’t see the connection. Little. Miniscule. Hard to see. But HUMONGOUS price.

Gee … he must love that woman! Either that, or he makes better money at wrestlin’ than we thought! But … but what if she refuses it? Well, at least he’s got himself a fancy handkerchief!

HEY … SHOES CAN BE SEXY!

Hey … it’s true! And, of course, the best place for ladies to find those toe-tapping turn-ons would be at a lingerie store that provides a wide selection of them!
Now, there’s a great store that offers the finest in alluring footwear, and at prices any lady can afford! At the Lingerie Diva, though, you get more than just shoes and boots … you’ll find just about everything that can make you look your sexiest! And not only that, but there’s even a blog you can visit to learn more about the lingerie itself, a glossary to help you become a “smart shopper” and know all the product terms, and even a size chart that’ll help you find the item that fits you perfectly!
The boots and shoes are stunning, and sure to please, whether for an intimate situation or just for elegance sake!
Interested? (Of course you are at this point!) Just click the link that’ll take you to the sexiest, most beautiful thigh high boots and more … and visit the Lingerie Diva today!

Awwww, geez … and just when I thought I was makin’ a name for myself …

Remember when I did a little “research” and found around six other dudes with my name doin’ stuff around the state? I mean, ya had detectives, preachers, runners, insurance men and the like. WOW!! Six other guys who …

ummm … (are ya ready for this??) add five more to the list. (Y’know, if this keeps up, I’m gonna haveta check Mercy Hospital’s records and see if old Doc McD had a duplicating machine in the delivery room …)

Actually, it made me realize that I hadn’t fully explained which Chuck Hinson I am. Sounds weird, but … hey, I’ve got that right, right? Just to set the record straight …

The Pineville setting, with main stars Eola and Irene Hinson bein’ my folks oughtta give it up. But, justincase, lemme go a coupla steps farther: I was the dude who gradded in ‘69 from Sabre Central (ie, South Meck), did a whole lotta pickin’ and shakin’ as a guitarist back then, and went on to become syndie columnist (Coffee Talk) in The Southeast Charlotte News for a few years.

Today, I’m known worldwide as The Rock Relic — dedicated to preservin’ the true energy of “our” generation’s music through blogs, articles, audio productions, personal appearances (in the RR role) and, soon, on webcast radio!
I also do voiceovers and fill in the rest of non-zzzz time as ringside commentator and publisher for Ohio Championship Wrestling. Still at a slick 160, I’ve got a bald top now but a lot inside.

My main digs are in Pineville, but I make runs to Ashland (Kentucky, for wrestling shows), Abingdon (Virginia, for research), Calgary (Canada, also for research) and back. Other stops are for the PA’s and reviews …

Hmph … what’ve these other CH’s got? Actually, I’d like to get ‘em all together one day and have one heckuva cookout! No need to ask who’s who … and, if anybody’s wife calls, anyone in the crowd can take it … it’ll be his guilt trip in our collective name (not me, though. I’m unattached at present …).

I just hope they all like grits!

If there’s any more of ‘em, be sure to send ‘em to this site, okay? Any show of hands??

It might … er, take awhile before I get back onto Belk Freeway again. First, I’ve gotta get my nerves calmed down …

Y’see, I was tryin’ to get onto it after leaving Pineville for a return home, but, while I was gettin’ on it, I was nearly clipped by a driver on her … uh-huh. You can fill in the rest of the sentence, right? In a way, it was kinda ironic, because I’d just heard somebody talkin’ on the radio about how the “cell phone made (him) feel a lot safer when (he was) on the road”.

Hmph. Maybe him … I mean, after he hits someone, and his air bags deploy, and he can find it after rummagin’ through the wreckage, he can tape the pieces together to make a call to his insurance man … or, maybe (hint, hint!) the police.

I dunno why they even allow those things in cars. Oh, sure they’re good in emergencies … but can’t they make ‘em in a way so a running engine will interfere too much with reception? It already does that with my radio, so there can’t be too much more technology involved!

Anyway, I hope she got through to whoever she was callin’, and that it was a very important call! So, while I’m gettin’ my wits about me again (HA! Like I ever had them before …), let me close out this part of the post.

Besides, I’ve got a call on my cell …

YES, SOME STEROIDS ARE LEGAL!

They’re called prohormones, and are used in training and as a supplement! Not only do they allow for wholesome muscle growth and are highly recommended by users worldwide — but they work!
Now, you folks know I’m also announcer for independent pro wrestling promotions (which, today, are totally against illegal steroids). Well, I can tell you that many of our ranks highly recommend BodyBuildingFactory.com for the best choice of the most effective prohormones! This superstore stocks 175 brands and 3,500 products that are clean, safe, effective and reliable!
The Halotest-25 is one that many grapplers (and gymnasts) swear by! And, as with the company’s other products, its cost won’t hurt your wallet one bit. Of course, as you scoll through the various products (hang on … I’ll give ya the link in a moment), you’ll find just the right prohormone to help you build the muscles you want! Now, as with any product in this category, you need to be a male over the age of 18 to purchase — but the results you’ll get from these will be splendid!
So go ahead and click on the best store for legal steroids today! You can order online via secure server or, if you feel a bit uncomfortable with that, by phone. Either way, by clicking that link up there you’ll be on your way to a better “you” before ya know it!

Look … I don’t know how it happened but, if ya look at the Relic’s kitchen ceiling right now, you’ll probably get an eyeful of drippin’ wet!
Y’see, I’d turned on the faucet handles to get a sinkful of water so I could handle those dishes that’ve been sitting since 1975 (actually, from the morning) and (yes, I do have a dishwasher. Manual. Called hands …), suddenly, the faucet popped off!
So, even though I was already in my shirt-and-tie (that are now due to get outta the dryer in about … oh, ten minutes or so), I reached under the sink and, while being soaked, turned off the water … and tried to reattach it (after all, my daddy was a plumber at one time!). No luck … just more mess (look, I said my daddy was one … not me!).
After mopping up the kitchen (and reprimanding the dog for pulling the cat around on a tuna-can waterboard) and calling a client to let him know I’d be a bit late (didn’t tell him why; I don’t like being laughed at), I went to …
get another faucet … at … Wal-Mart®! Then I went back and got the right size I needed. Then back to exchange it for one that had the washers included. Then I went back, three hours later …
to get some paper plates and cutlery. And wait for the repairman … unless that dog was hungry for morning-old plate scrapings and had a wet tongue, I wasn’t gonna try again!

BUT IF YA NEED GOOD FAUCETS …

In looking for new faucets, of course I looked beyond the “Wally World” galaxy — and found a place that gives me the quality, affordability and dependability that I’ve been looking for! In fact, the people at Faucets.com have more to offer than just faucets!
But their Hansgrohe faucet line is top-of-the-line! I mean, they provide the high-quality performance I need, while makin’ my little ol’ kitchen look really sharp with their smooth, modern designing! Whether it’s a kitchen or shower faucet ya need, you get the finest faucets, heads and accessories from them!
Not only that, but you also get free shipping on orders over 99 bucks, a “$25 off” coupon that you can use through this Friday, a great guarantee — and you can order via secure server online or by phone!
So, if you need any faucet for your home, go to one of the finest faucet brands in the world — the Hansgrohe faucet — and, soon, you’ll be appreciating your water like never before!