Charlotte, NC

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!

Well, the verdict’s in …
A few clicks back, I ran a sorta-controversial rant about the dangers and evils of college drinking (remember? It’s supposed to curb binge-drinkin’ in dorms??).
Natch, a lotta collegiates came to the issue’s defense (and, Charlotte, from what I read, we’ve got some extremely sharp young folks in our midst. Ya just gotta be proud). So, since my alter-ego, The Rock Relic, has an international following, I contacted a few of ‘em (to be precise: two in UK, one in Israel, two in Japan, three in Canada and one in Denmark) to find out what they thought about this. How was under-21-over-18 drinking handled in their neck-of-the-world?
EVERY ONE of these said that we’re makin’ somethin’ outta NOTHIN’ here! LOWER THE DRINKING AGE TO 18!! Give them the responsibility and they’ll live up to it!!

One of them (the reader in Denmark) said that “the biggest insult you can hand a young person is to look down your nose and tell him, ‘you’re not big enough to handle this’. For Gods sake let them show you how responsible they really are”.

So, to all you bookpeople — whether you’re a frosh or senior — the Relic/Chuck/Eagle/Whatever owes you an industrial-strength, heavy-duty apology!

Since I’m a little short on time (but BIIIIG on workload) right now, I’ll get back with you all tomorrow.

What’d I tell ya??
Remember a few posts back, when I talked about bein’ ready for hurricanes (what a lady in South Boulevard’s Radio Shack said should be re-named Worri-canes, ’cause though we’re in-land the news can still worry the socks off ya!)??

Well, it looks like the Gulf and East Coasts are gettin’ plastered by ‘em this season — and more’s on the way! Fortunately, none have done nearly the damage of a Katrina or Rita — but that doesn’t mean they won’t!
And, though Crown Town is blessed by being where it is, we all know we can still get a feel of the fury (remember Hugo almost two decades ago?).

So it makes sense to go ahead and get non-perishable supplies, blankets, batteries, etc., now, just in case one of these blowhards does happen to gain enough oomph! to graze us! And don’t forget that, should “the call” come in over the TV or radio news, you’ll wanna get your tank filled up; sometimes, when the power goes out, the convenience stores are stuck with inoperational gas pumps!

The big question, natch, is will another big one hit us?? It’s not likely right now … but, since ya never can be totally sure, it’s best to be ready, just in case!

Besides, what’s the store gonna do with all that Spam sittin’ on their shelves, anyway? I mean, we don’t buy it normally …

SOMETHING TO DIE(T) FOR

Y’know, there are a lot of diet programs and regimens on the market these days (and for good cause, since so many Americans are overweight now. Don’t believe me? Google™ the topic, then!). Some work, some don’t — and folks don’t have a lot of time to go by trial-and-error with these.
Besides, finding the right diet supplement can be time-consuming, anyhow; you have to drive from store-to-store, check out a zillion choices with (maybe) the help of an overworked clerk, stand in long lines to pay for the sometimes-overpriced item.
But there is an easier way!
First, just click on the link I’m about to give you. Then, check out their reviews of the top dietary supplements. Find the one that’ll suit you (you’ll also be able to find out more about individual fat-burners and other supplements on the left side of the page, as well as customer feedback at the bottom of it!).

Once you’re satisfied, just follow the link they provide for the best internet price –and, believe me, you will save money!
So, to help you make the best choice of diet pills, just click the link you just passed! Before ya know it, the diet supplement you want will be in your hands … and you’ll be on your way to a slimmer and fitter YOU!

Well, whaddya think??
After watchin’ the RNC the past coupla nights (when the main-eventers had their say), I’m not really all that impressed with McCain’s running mate, Mrs. (Gov., whatever) Sarah Palin.

Now, don’t get me wrong; I’m all for a lady to hold a high position in the new regime, whoever gets the nod. But Gov. Palin just doesn’t fit the bill! Here’s why:

First, she’s gotten a number of her facts wrong. Now, it’d take too long to list ‘em all here, so (if you can get through all the personal BS of the writer) you can go here for them (the writer copied these from a Yahoo! News Report after Wednesday night’s convention).

Secondly, the Governor has to remember that she has a tremendous obligation comin’ up that’s gonna take more and more of her time. Y’see, her youngest (the one she kept “hidden” from her brood while she was pregnant) has Downs’ Syndrome. Now, while many kids with this condition still grow and thrive (think Chris Burke, the actor; and, of course, the superstars of the Special Olympics), they do so only with the encouragement and personal care of their parents and families! And that’s gonna take time and patience!! Kinda hard to do when you’re sittin’ behind the Prez in the White House!
Also, I’m not “sold” on this thing about her daughter. No, I’m not puttin’ her down due to her pregnancy; in fact, I admire her for taking care of herself, her unborn child and marryin’ the father! Actually, it’s that boy, Levi, who worries me. He only took down his “MySpace” page (the one that said he could whup someone’s axx [he used the real word, though] and sounded so “tough”) after this pregnancy was revealed nationally! And he didn’t look too “peaceful” or “loving” while his future mom-in-law was talkin’ (or McCain on Thursday, for that matter!).
So the Governor is gonna have a lot on her hands in the future — and, to my way of thinkin’, family comes first before anything; EVEN A VICE-PRESIDENTIAL NOD!! Amen??

Well, it’s nearin’ the 5 AM hour here, and I’ve gotta get a little bit of shut-eye before headin’ back to the boards tomorrow. So, I’ll see ya Friday evening, okay? Until then, how about givin’ me a shout-out and tellin’ me what you think about this?

By now, I guess you’ve read about the little bold lady who lived in Denver (our Denver, I mean …) who had so many childre … er, pets … she didn’t know what to do.
Look — on the surface, there’s nothing wrong with rescuin’ little barks and fleaflickers; it’s what they call a “noble gesture”.
But remember: If you’re gonna take in any pet, you’ve gotta be responsible for its/their care and upkeep! Never … never have more pets than you can safely love and care for!

But 400??? Awww, man … gimme a break here! There’s a lady I know in Parkersburg, W. Va. who had 1,000 taken from her last month — ONE …THOUSAND!! (Don’t believe me? Here … read for yourself!)
And, on top of that, she’s a breeder … and, I must say, one of the sweetest ladies I’ve ever had the chance to speak with.
Now, whether it’s Denver, N.C. or Parkersburg, W. Va., the cases in both cities teach us some valuable lessons:

• Though it’s a wonderful gesture to save an animal, we have to remember that their rescue carries with it a lot of responsibility for the pet’s well-being.
• If you have too many animals to care for (and be honest about that!), then turn ‘em over to an animal rescue organization that’ll put ‘em up for adoption.
• This, in no way, is a reflection of the owner’s character or persona. That person can be as sweet and well-meaning as possible … but just has a heart too big to say “no”. He or she should be supported by family and friends, who also should help the owner to keep things under control!

HURRICANE CARLOS TO HIT TOWN! Actually, it’s Carlos Mencia, the fab stand-up and improv comic who’s coming to Ovens Auditorium this Friday (8 PM) with his At Close Range gig.
Now, if the man can keep the bleeped stuff under wraps, he’s gonna put on a show that’ll knock your socks off (so wear extra, or have ‘em in yer pocket!). I’ve seen him a coupla times already while I’ve been on the road, and he’s hilarious! This is definitely a show worth takin’ in — just be sure to get there early so you can get good seats!

LIGHTING IT UP

No, this isn’t about smoking … unless you wanna include “smoking hot” deals on lighting fixtures (see??). We’re all lookin’ for brighter, attractive new lamps, chandeliers, and bathroom lighting (in fact, didja know that psychologists say good lighting actually improves your mood?). And, of course, when we go shopping for those, we know there’s gonna be a price to pay, whether in time spent in traffic, in checkout lines or whatever, or in the high mark-up that so many places have.
But, at the link I’m about to give you, you’ll find a spot that’ll not only provide a wide selection of the most gorgeous lamps, sconces, bathroom lighting and more — but at prices that’ll make your wallet breathe a lot easier!!
And, get this: They give you free shipping on orders over $75 annnd (if you’re wondering how good this place is to shop with) you can even view their security certificate online! How many places will do that for ya?
So go ahead and click on the link that’ll get you the best lighting you’ll ever want! Believe me, you’ll see things a lot clearer … and feel a whole lot better … when you visit and get your lighting needs from these folks!

WOW!! Y’mean it’s Labor Day already?? Geez … and here I wuz, just gettin’ over July 4th …

Natch, it’s a day when loads of Americans can sorta kick back and relax a bit … but, as you know, one part of the nation is bein’ robbed of the holiday as-we-speak! So, while we’re doin’ our cook-outs or relaxin’ at the park, let’s all remember that, down on the Gulf Coast, it’s gonna be a day of worry, apprehension and tension.
Since you’ve read this far, how about takin’ a moment to bow yer head and say a quick one for those folks, huh?? I’ll be here when ya get back to the post …

Now, as far as today’s festivities go:

Remember to play it safe on the roads, okay?? There’s the Labor Day Parade that’s gonna hit the downtown area, and there’ll be a number of streets closed. Now, the parade’s start at Ninth and Tryon and go to Third and Tryon. and will run from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. If you’re plannin’ on driving uptown, stay away from The Square in the morning; and remember that there’s gonna be a lot of parade-goers headin’ home (or to cookouts) afterward, so be careful!

So, whether you’re goin’ to Freedom Park or to a local wing-ding, have a peaceful, enjoyable and relaxing time! And take a minute to remember how blessed you are to live in Charlotte — with or without gas (thought I’d forgotten, huh?).

By the way: If you wanna keep up with gas cut-off situation, I’ve been told you can get the latest from Piedmont Natural Gas online.

MESOTHELIOMA

It sounds like a terrible disease … and, actually, it is. In fact, it’s a serious cancer that comes from exposure to asbestos. As you know, many public buildings — especially schools — are being tested and, at times, necessarily renovated (or even torn down) due to the amount of asbestos that’s used in ceilings, etc.
Throughout the nation, there are thousands who have been afflicted with this disease — and many don’t exactly know where to turn to learn more about it and its effects.
But, now, there’s a site that’ll give you all the information you need; articles, news updates, treatments, diagnoses, and even clinical trials of and on the subject! It also has info for patients and families, doctors, and so much more!
So, if you or someone you love is suffering from this disease, please take the time to find out more about mesothelioma by clicking that link you just passed.
Your life may depend on it …

For awhile now, I’ve been gettin’ e-mails from around the nation and California about our little neck-of-the-woods — as well as about this site and its writer.
And now’s the time to answer ‘em — and I’ll do it in three special posts two that’ll be included next month along with the regular ones, and one that we’re gonna do right now!
Now, I’m gonna do this in the same way I did with THE FORE INTERVIEW: The questions are gonna be written here just as I received ‘em. They’ll be in the italic print, with my answers in bold:

“Why would anyone want to move to Charlotte anyway? It’s like every other big city.”

Man, you’ve gotta be kidding! Why would people wanna move here? Well, let’s see: better living conditions, more available opportunity (notice I didn’t say “jobs”. There’s a BIG difference!), friendlier hometown people, and the best education a kid could possibly get!
And “like every other big city”?? Lemme tell ya a little secret: We were the FIRST to proclaim independence from Britain back on May 20, 1775 — almost a full year before the Declaration of Independence was signed!
“… like every other big city”?? Read the next question …

“What’s in Charlotte that other cities don’t have?”

Hmmm … have ya ever had Lance crackers (you know … those little six-cracker cellophane packs)? Or shopped at Family Dollar? Or do ya bank with Bank of America? Sure, other cities have those, but we’ve got the headquarters of ‘em all!
Or how about some of the best pet care in the nation? One of the largest number of churches per capita? And Pineville’s known as one of the antique capitals of the nation!

“I have a friend who’s been to Charlotte. He says it’s to (sic) rushied (sic — I assume he means “rushed”). How can u live in a place like that?”

First, I’ve chatted with you before, on one of my other blogs, so I know you’re from a small town in Missouri. You’re not used to a fast-paced, progressive citizenry. That’s not knocking your neck-of-the-woods (I personally enjoy the “laid-back” style), but, y’see, Charlotteans are busy going somewhere with their progress! And they’re determined to get to where they’re going!
We have our peaceful, laid-back times, too (just check out Freedom Park, the neighborhoods around The Plaza, Matthews and Pineville for proof).

Now, I’ve got more of these questions comin’ up in September, so stay tuned …

COFFEE TALK IS BACK!!!

Yep … the column that I wrote for The Pineville Pioneer, Pineville Pilot, SouthEast Charlotte News and read weekly in three other area newspapers from 1986-’93 is back … and on the web with new editions every day of the week!
The only differences are that (1) it’s no longer “hard-copy” and (2) it now takes on a national scope!
BTW, the first major ish gives a nod to Pineville, where it all began. Now, you can find (and bookmark) it at Coffeetalk.today.com, and you’re all invited!
Matter of fact, why not leave yer comments and ideas on it? What I wanna do is use your thoughts and concerns as topics as we go along. (And, yes, for this, I’m pullin’ out my old Eagle get-up!!)
So, as I usedta say in the intro of the old column, “C’mon in … the doors always open!”

Yeah, I know the pic shows Pamela Anderson, too — and that’s comin’ up in just a minute. But first …

A lotta readers around the world are writin’ in, wonderin’ if the news they heard is true: That country superstar Dolly Parton has died of congestive heart failure (this was reported by a number of online newsgroups, and a couple of hard-copy news orgs as well!).
Well, stop lookin’ so sad, ’cause it isn’t true at all! In fact, Dolly played a show at her theme park (Dollywood) just a week ago! She’s actually just takin’ a coupla months off before she gets on the road again on Oct. 18.
The reason for this “report” (it’s actually a bogus one that’s been reported twice over the past two years)? The lady’s lost quite a few pounds — and, of course, the tabs and ‘razzis take that and say it’s because “she’s dying,” or “has an incurable disease” or something.
Trust me — she’s doin’ fine at this writing.

Now … about Pamela Anderson. Since her “career” seems to be stagnant right now, she went lookin’ for a decent manager. So who came to the rescue? A fellow that Courtney Love recommended: A guy named … Peter Asher! (That’s right … the one of “______ and Gordon” fame.)
And why not?? I mean, sure, Courtney Love isn’t exactly on top of the charts, but Pete did produce legends like James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt and others! Who knows what he’ll do for Pamela? Just give it a little time, and we’ll find out. (incidentally, P & G are still performing! Ya just can’t beat quality!)

The word on the Wire is that recently non-retired superdiva Cher is in talks to become the new Catwoman in the next Batman movie! She’s not sayin’ yes or no, but — hey, anything’s possible, right?
Suuuuure … we all remember Catwoman bein’ played so well (on the TV Batman) by Eartha Kitt. And, yes, Cher does have a slim, sorta sexy figure after all these years.
But does that give the producers a right to trade Kitt for her kaboodle? Ahhhh, well …

HEY! Here’s some interesting news: GQ Magazine has just named Tony Bennett as one of their famous “Men Of The Year”!. He’s gonna be honored on September 3 at a tribute to him in London. (Listen, Tony deserves it! This crooner/artist is one of the nicest and most sincere of the “pop” bunch!) So CONGRATS, Tony on a prop well-deserved.

THE “GROUPLY” SCAM

Well, The Relic said he’d get to the bottom of this unusual scam, and he has! Seems that there is a “Bob Steed” aka “Bob Postie”, and, according to him, someone had stolen his identity.
He apologizes to everyone who fell prey to this scheme!
I know that can happen, so apology accepted, Bob! As soon as we can find out who this thief is, we oughtta barbecue his as I said a coupla posts ago, be sure to change your password if you’ve sent it out to this “Grouply” thing. That’ll stop him dead-in-his-tracks!

Okay … so I was (nearly) scammed yesterday (hey … I am HUMAN, y’know …). Here’s what happened (and, listen … keep yer eyes peeled, okay? It could happen to you!):

As most of you know, I’ve got a popular identity as The Rock Relic — thus, I subscribe to different legit oldies-rock music groups on the web. Well, a “member” of one of these groups (turns out, he wasn’t part of it at all!) emailed and invited me to join some new “group” called Grouply. Heard of it yet? Well, if yer in the entertainment biz, you might yet …

Anyway, the dude who invited me (some freak named Bob Steed … aka Bob Postie) asked for my Yahoo! address and password (yeah? I was dumb enough … I’ll admit that. But, then again, how well does your judgment work after a straight-48?).

No other word from the guy or the “group”; normally, legit ones send welcome emails, tutorial or user/password reminders). From this goon, not a word …

BUT …

I did get a zillion (okay … one-hundred-ten, then) emails on some of the worst topics imaginable (no, I deleted all of ‘em!).

Worse than that, though, was realizing what I’d done and that this creep could be sendin’ emails out from my inbox (remember, he had the password!).

So I checked my “sent” folder. Nothing. But there was one little ditty in my draft section … and, man, it coulda gone off like a bomb if the perp had sent it!

Now, I know a lot of folks around the QC who’s involved in music in every capacity — a few news reporters, and some TV people. If any are reading this, remember:

GROUPLY IS A FRAUD!! TREAT IT (and any emails from a “Bob Postie”) AS SUCH!!

I know this is a short one, and has no other news in it, but THIS is something that’s gotta be spread … (oh, yeah … I changed my passwords to all my sites after gettin’ the 411 from my musical mates in the UK and California)

Remember the last words of Emo Phillips in concert? Ahhh, well … live and learn!”

So just consider this a “heads-up” from someone who does and has …

Y’know, the more I read Mary Curtis’ blog in The Charlotte Observer on-line edition, the more I like her!
Today, she covered the need for men to have physical check-ups. Now, I just had mine, and, while I’m in good shape (cough!) for a man of 105 (wheeze!), a lot of us guys (yes, that was “lol”. I’m only 58, fer cryin’ out loud! Geez …) don’t get ‘em!

Awww, I’ve heard the same excuses time and again: “Only wimmin need them thangs!” or “I ain’t havin’ no doctor put ‘is hands on my @!*%)” Oh, they all sound so macho and cool, don’t they??

Truth?? THEY’RE SCARED!! They’re afraid the doc’s gonna find somethin’ that’ll make ‘em “less-of-a-man”!!
But the real deal is this: If you guys are REALLY men, you’ll have a regular check-up so ya won’t haveta spend yer life with tubes, bags, in wheelchairs or on gurneys! Ya say you love life, women, cars, sports, or any combination thereof … why not take the sensible route and be sure you’re gonna be here to enjoy it??

So, guys, TAKE THE PLUNGE!! As Mary reminded us when she so eloquently told about Rev. Burke, the “biggie” for most of us guys is prostate exams! Believe me, there’s nothin’ funny about cancer … in fact, prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of death among all males. And 1 in 6 of us will have prostate trouble … so why take the chance and let it get out-of-hand??

It only takes a few minutes (shoot … ya stay in the waiting room longer than the exam takes!!) … can ya handle a few minutes if you know it could save your life??

Thanks, Mary, for giving all of us a “heads-up” with your fab blog! You’ve got a real fan here!

Okay … I was wrong on many points, but right on others.

A coupla days back, I wrote a piece intended to address the issue of colleges allowin’ their students to drink at 18; their goal is to curb “binge” drinking.

But (yes, I’m gonna print a partial retraction here, so hang on) …

After sendin’ a shout-out to mates in the UK, France, Germany and Australia, I do see a different picture. Stephen Weiss was right when he wrote:
“Nearly every other country in the world has the drinking age set at 18 or lower. We appear foolish to most because of our high drinking age - how can you have a country where you can be sent to war but can’t drink to your victory? Seriously, people laugh at us. A lot of people.

Most of these places also have much fewer problems with drunk driving, alcoholism, and binge drinking. My years studying in Germany did involve alcohol - significant amounts, yes. However, I also learned there how to moderate my drinking and keep myself from making a fool of myself, a skill they pride themselves on. Students are shamed by their peers for being bad drunks. I’m not sure they’d even know what binge drinking would mean if they had the term.”

That’s true! Apparently, the 18-21 bracket, when given the right to drink, does become a bit more responsible in doing so — especially if they do it in a peer-monitored atmosphere.
One thing that I noticed: Stephen said “Students are ashamed … for being bad drunks.” Unfortunately, not all young people are as responsible as that. That being said, I’ve got a question:
While it’s true that college students are responsible and self-regulating, there are thousands of others who aren’t. So how would you propose enacting this (should it pass) to provide a like positive effect to those? Lemme know, okay?

Now, Joe had a different, but highly logical, slant on this:

“At 18, people become an adult and are therefore afforded the rights associated with adulthood… voting, smoking, the right to enter into legal contracts, the right to join the military and die in Iraq, but wait… oh no they can’t drink because they will BINGE DRINK AT COLLEGE OM*G.”

I spoke with two servicemen — one who just returned from Iraq, and one who served during Desert Storm — and they said, “He’s RIGHT! It doesn’t make any SENSE!” One went so far as to call it a form of (his words) “prejudiced censorship”!
and to think that I was callin’ for the same thing … geez …

If a man or woman is old enough to fight and die “for his/her country”, then that person is old enough to drink. PERIOD!! I remember the days of “power-to-the-people” (the great “rights” movements of 1968), when we demonstrated, protested for the cause of and sang about freedom, equal rights and peace. We said exactly the same thing then (although, as Joe pointed out, you now have rights we didn’t have: “vote … legal contracts …” etc.). I shoulda thought it out a bit …

Now, I’m not gonna say I’m totally wrong, ’cause I’m not. But I’ll discuss more about this issue (and also add more of the comments!) tomorrow.

But, for all of you who’ve written, thanks. You’ve opened up my eyes a bit. And, if it’s any consolation, my international friends are unanimous: You guys give more thought to a subject than most. Keep up the good work …

I’ve gotta get on to my other work (my alter ego is The Rock Relic), so we’ll continue this tomorrow, same station — and about the same time!

The response has been overwhelming …

and, quite frankly, it’s brought me cause to study each comment carefully before writing any further dissertations on the subject. However, sometime tomorrow afternoon, I’ll address this situation again and use in-context samples of these comments within the post itself.

Now … for you who think I’m being somewhat whimsical in my prose style, I hope you’re satisfied with the way I penned the above.

‘Cause, y’see, it just ain’t my style! (I’ll explain in a minute, okay?) Look … I’ll admit that I didn’t think the whole shebang through before gettin’ these paws on the keypads. That’s why I wanna take some time to read … no, make that study (BIG difference, right?) whatcha said.

So, just hang on until sometime tomorrow afternoon, okay? And, listen: Thanx for the comments! Keep ‘em comin’, and I’ll put ‘em on here! In fact, I’ve got some hard-copy newspapers who’d like what you wrote, if I can get your permission to send ‘em!

ABOUT THIS “WRITING STYLE”

Now, let me get heavy for a moment: I took journalism, writing, drama, etc. in colleges and schools over the years. But I’ve also been a DJ, an audio producer and a syndicated columnist. This “dialoguish” writing style — patterned largely after the way a person verbalizes in informal situations — has garnered readers around the world and Pineville for my product.

Now, if you want the “Queen’s English” (I think the “King’s English” means usin’ words like Elvis, huh?), I can do that. But (as many of you know already) the best way to relate to others is to be yourself! And I’m as informal as a plate of grits on a cool Sunday mornin’ at mama’s breakfast table.

One more thing before I get off here and start readin’: NONE of our collegiates are, in any way, shape or form, “children” (other than the obligatory title used by the parents of these students) or “kids”. In fact, they should be respected for taking the steps to further their education and learn more of the intricacies of life’s processes! After all:
To THEM we entrust our FUTURE!

‘Nuff said. More tomorrow … be sure to tune in …

Man, are they SERIOUS?!?!

By now, you’ve heard that certain colleges want to lower the drinking age to EIGHTEEN! And why?? ‘Cause they wanna end “binge” drinking on their campuses! Now, how do they do that?? By makin’ it lawful for ‘em to get plastered at a younger age! (Ummm … is this makin’ any sense yet??)

Hey … it doesn’t matter if they’re 18 or 118 (well, that would matter! In fact, it’d be a miracle worthy of a guest shot on Letterman …): If people wanna binge drink, it doesn’t matter what the rulebook says: They’re gonna do it!

But college presidents from around a hundred U.S. universities (yep, including Duke!) are wantin’ lawmakers to cut the guzzle-age down. They say the laws that are on the books now actually encourage binge drinking on campus.

Ummm … HOW?? Is it the thrill of breaking the law?? Or is it because security and regulations are so lax at these schools that they can get away with it??

Oh … wait a minnit: “binge drinking” … “on campus” … are we hearin’ special-interest here? In other words (and correct me if I’m wrong), change the law so this or that specific school can benefit? What about high school seniors who are 18? Or drop-outs?

Look: Research has found more than 40% of college students reported at least one symptom of alcohol abuse or dependence. In fact, one study says that more than 500,000 full-time students at larger colleges suffer drinking-related injuries each year and about 1,700 die in alcohol-related accidents!

So whatcha wanna do — up the odds a bit?? Try this one:

Federal records show that 157 college-age people, including those under 21, drank themselves to death from 1999 through 2005!

Still wanna change the law??

Y’know, it’s crazy! I’ll be the first to admit that I usedta chug, drug and bug-out (been totally sober for 28 years now! Y’can thank my then-year-old son for that. Write me if you wanna know how …). I wasn’t a pretty sight when drunk (okay, okay … I’m not even when I’m sober. But at least now I can take it … lol). The effects of alcohol on a young person (I’m talkin’ about the psychological effects. You know the rest …) can … no, are (whether in short or long-run) devastating!

So, IMHO, there should be NO WAY that we pander to these colleges, risking the life-and-limb of innocent drivers, children, and others … just so their school won’t have their students doin’ some “binge drinking” on their campuses (psssst … it’s gonna happen anyway, so the “new law” wouldn’t amount to a hill of beans!).

I wanna thank a special person here: Years ago, I had the pleasure of communicating with HHS Director (now University of Miami President) Donna Shalala who served under President Clinton. She’s one of the most outstanding, genuine and child-safety-oriented people that’s ever held a government post! And, God bless her, she’s refused to sign this petition! She says (and we’ve gotta admit, she’s right!)
“I remember college campuses when we had 18-year-old drinking ages, and I honestly believe we’ve made some progress. To just shift it back down to the high schools makes no sense at all.”

One more thing: Is it just me, or does anybody else see some irony here?:

We’re tryin’ oh, so hard, through TV ads and local/state regs, to get our kids to stop smoking. We say it’s “bad for their health” or “they can die from it.” But …

WHY IS DRINKING UNTOUCHABLE??

I mean, I’ve yet to see a fatal car crash, a woman beaten or killed, a child hurt … just because someone had “too much to SMOKE!” No, it’s they’ve had “too much to _____” (fill in the word)! So why not protect the kids from that??

Yes, smoking can kill you — over time. But drinking?? It can be instantaneous!

Giving the 18-year-olds the right to drink is like puttin’ a gun in their hands and askin’ ‘em not to pull the trigger! If anything, there’s a crying need to discourage that.

Let’s hope the lawmakers decide against these “special-interest” colleges …

for the kids’ sake!

Sounds like a country song, doesn’t it??

But what happened on South Boulevard this morning was hardly melodic: A fire engine from Company 12 was responding to a traffic accident, and an SUV collided with it just past Woodlawn Road a little after 10 AM.
Now, obviously all the details aren’t in yet, but it brings up one seriously valid and important reminder:

If you see any emergency vehicle coming toward you — and it’s runnin’ “hot” (meaning, has its lights and sirens on and heading to an emergency), pull over into the OUTSIDE lane ASAP and give em all the room they’ll need!

By law, they’ve automatically got the “right-of-way,” anyway. Now, you know to pull over to the curb when they’re comin’ up behind you, but didja know that, no matter which direction they’re coming from, at higher speeds these trucks are harder to control than smaller vehicles? And, normally, the truck’s size makes them an inch or so wider than the lane they’re in.

So, when ya see one approachin’ and its lights and sounds are goin’, play it on the safe side, okay? For you, the drivers, and the people they’re trying to help! We don’t need any more accidents …

KEEPING A-FLOAT

With the heat of summertime bearin’ down on us, and the last few weeks are ticking away before kids have to hunker down to some serious schoolwork, there’s a big rush to push in as much time as possible at the pool or beach!
Of course, the main focuses whenever we’re in the drink (be it ocean or pool) is safety and comfort. And, for decades, parent have known the value of good foam floats, lounges and the like to provide that!
Well, now, by clicking on the link I’m gonna give you, you’ll be able to get the best floats and rafts on the market … at great savings and with free shipping!
They even stock those adorable, inflatable baby floats and the popular poolside bean bags!
So, if poolside is where you wanna be, or if the seashore still beckons you, then why not click this link for the best pool floats on the market?
You’ll enjoy the savings and quality almost as much as the comfort you’ll get!

Shaft …

Whenever anyone hears that single word, they don’t think of Richard Roundtree; often, they don’t even think of the movie plot. They only think of one man … Isaac Hayes. He became the standard of Soul around the world — and especially here in Charlotte (anyone who worked on or around The Square at that time could tell ya that!) — when that song hit the airwaves!

Sadly, Hayes left this world — one that he buttered hot with soul — Sunday afternoon during a workout on his treadmill. Upon hearing of his death, the music world seemed to stop for a moment … partly in shock, partly in tribute to this giant who proved that anyone — anyone — can make it in this world, no matter their circumstances.

Y’see, Isaac was born in a tin shack in Covington, Tennessee, the son of sharecroppers. He was raised by his grandparents, where he learned the value of hard work — and reaped the benefits in the love that was shared in the household. When he was about nine years old, he entered a talent contest, doing a song from one of his idols (the late Nat “King” Cole). Though this cemented his interest in singing, in later years he dropped out of high school — finally earning his diploma at the age of 21, thanks to the urging of his former teachers.

Now, you can read a lot more about him by scouring the web than I can write here (you’ll find a most excellent one by clicking this link). But the main reason I brought up those first few facts is to remind you that no circumstances are bigger than your determination to better them!

Among all the lessons that the Black Moses, Isaac Hayes, has left us, there can be none stronger than that!

Brother, you’re gonna be missed … but your legacy will live on … and on … and on …

THE FORE: ACOUSTIC

As many of you know, I’m also a stateside promoter for the popular UK band, THE FORE . Well, Matt, Si, Luker and Spencer just finished an amazing “acoustic” gig on the High Street in Kent, England Sunday afternoon, and the crowd loved it! Oh, yeah … it looks like their new album’s gonna be called, RUN and HIDE! The title comes from a new track that got raves when they played it at Lennon’s Bar in Liverpool awhile back.

These guys are definitely on their way UP to superstardom! Keep an eye out on this site for further developments …

TO LIGHTEN THE MOOD A BIT

Gotta throw in some songs you can download:

First, a rarity by The Monkees called Calico Girlfriend Samba.

Next, you’ve got a Beatles number, recorded by a fan in the audience at one of their final shows. (btw, this is the famous incident where someone threw a cherry bomb onstage because he didn’t like John’s quote about the Beatles and Jesus (remember WTYC’s stupid ‘Beatle Bonfires’?). You’ll hear the bomb go off about a minute or so into the song (the Fab Four kept on playing, though).
So here’s If I Needed Someone.

Up next, a song that every high school rock band learned to play (I know The Ho-Dads did it at South Meck’s gym dances!): Sunshine Games by the Music Explosion.

FINDING THE PRINCE OF PRINTERS

You know, if your work (business or school) depends on the computer, you’ve gotta have a good printer to give you quality, hard-copy material!
Now, finding the right one for your PC can be a hassle if you’re not careful: You can go through the phone book, find one that might sell your brand, drive alllll the way over in this heat, deal with salesmen who know how to add unneeded “accessories” (especially if they get a commission from them!), then go through long lines and pay beau coup money … and hope it works when ya get home …
OR …
You can simply click on the link you’re about to see, and find just the right one, at the right price, and save money in the process! But there’s a lot more: You can also find scanners, fax machines and even greater deals when you buy from these folks! Oh … and how does free shipping sound?? You can find that on selected models, too!
And you can purchase these at low prices and on an extremely secure server! Now … all you have to do is click on this link, which will take you to the best printers in the business!
Go ahead and do it now! Why wait for your “prints” to come??