Charlotte, NC

No, I didn’t say Wal-Mart® is “the bomb” (hmph … old slang. ‘Sides, it ain’t!); I said “and the bomb”!

Yep … somebody’s gone and dumped what appears to be a homemade bomb at the WallyWorld up there in Boone. It happened a little before 6 AM on Sunday.

Now, maybe I’m a bit old-fashioned (I said “maybe”! Don’t hold me to that in everything, okay??), but … ummm, wouldn’t it be better (if ya don’t like WM) to, like, just … er, stop shopping there?? I mean, whatcha gonna tell your fellow inmates: That ya got PO’d at WallyWorld and decided you’re gonna stop ‘em once-and-for-all? (Geez … one down, over 3,000 to go, cowboy …)

As of this writing, no arrests have been made. Tell ya what: Just de-fuse the bomb and leave it where it is. Most likely, the guy will come back, pick it up, take it in to customer service and demand a refund, sayin’ he bought it there! Then you can get ‘im!

I mean, don’t they always do that?

MEETING THE LOAN ARRANGER

With more and more people looking for good housing these days — and in a market that’s so topsy-turvy it’s not even close to being funny — there’s a need for solid loan companies to help with home purchasing, improvements and more.
And, while there are loads of them that promise “this” or “that”, there’s a highly recommended and reputable one right at your fingertips! In just a minute, I’ll give you their link …
but, for now, just imagine all you can do with that loan … especially when it’s from a company that is not only reliable but helps you every step-of-the-way! They’ll show you how various mortgages work, help you determine how much you can afford, discuss debt consolidation, and more!
So, for a company that’s honestly got your best interests and security at heart, just go to the finest mortgage lenders in the business!
Go ahead … click there now … and start breathing easier about taking out a mortgage loan!

Well, that’s all for now. Until tomorrow, Charlotte …

Alright, I’m gonna stick my neck out here and say that the flap over SC’s capitol building, the Rebel flag and the NAACP is totally crazy!

Yeah, I know it’s a “symbol of the South”, right??

WRONNNNNNNG!!!

It’s a symbol of separatism! It’s when eleven southern states became PO’d because the Feds were pushin’ high industrialization and (can you believe this??) freedom from oppression for all African-Americans!!

So what’d we do?? We got mad and made our own little nation (uh … inside another nation!). And the “stars and bars” was our “flag”.
We decided to fight and kill our own brothers, cousins, uncles, etc. rather than give up slavery (that’s one of the issues! Gotta face it!)!!

So we treat that flag with honor?? Man, it’s a total disgrace … a period in our history that we oughtta be ashamed of! And for every African-American, it’s rightly a symbol of the worst of oppression!
As long as that friggin’ thing flies anywhere, it’s going to be a reminder that we, at one time, were cruel!

Before I get off the subject, lemme leave ya with this cartoon:

INSURING FOR LESS

Look … we all need life insurance, no what financial shape we’re in. And, being a former insurance man myself, I can tell ya that, with rising costs of preparations, funerals and burials, it’s absolutely essential!
Now, of the different insurance packages available, the best and most affordable is the term life. Not only are the premiums easy on the wallet, but, more importantly, it’s pure insurance protection!
Of course, when looking for the right company, you can spend hours checking with different agencies, hearing about various plans, etc. and still end up a bit frustrated with your search.
Why not go with one that’ll actually put you first, stand behind what they offer, and prove they deserve the superior (A+) rating they’ve received? How about if I told you they won’t require a medical exam from anyone (just a few short questions)? Okay … let’s throw in premiums as low as $3.27 a month for adults?. And prompt, personal service!
Not bad for your peace-of-mind, huh?? Then all you have to do is click on this link for the best in term insurance.
Do it today, okay?

We’ve seen it happen too many times before around here:
Doors unlocked, answering machines telling callers We’re not at home right now, lights not on, hedges or shrubbery obscuring windows … then …
Our house becomes another statistic.

It’s great to hear the residents of Steele Creek are banding together to do something about the recent wave that’s hit their neighborhood. Maybe we all need to follow suit.

Now, some of you are thinking it’s just another Neighborhood Watch thing. No big deal — the thugs will find a way around it. But you’re wrong in this case, because these people are not only vigilant about keepin’ the intruders out … they actually care about their neighbors, and want to help in every way, shape or form possible.
It’s truly a community!! And we could learn from them!

A coupla hints here, though:

• When you go out anywhere, be sure your answering machine/voicemail does NOT say you’re not there!! At best, tell the listener that you’re away from the phone for a moment.” Don’t broadcast your absence!
• Always .. always leave a TV or radio on … and at a decent level. It gives the intruder the feeling that someone might just be inside!
• Be sure to have both back and front porch lights on, as well as at least one light in each room inside!
• Ask a neighbor to keep an eye out on your place. If you’re gonna be gone overnight, ask that person to pick up your mail or newspaper for you!
• Last — but most obvious — lock your doors when you leave. Right … deadbolt them!

Using these ideas, plus a neighborhood watch like Steele Creek has, and you’ll be a lot safer!

HUMIDITY GOT YOU DOWN? HERE’S RELIEF!!

One thing that really gets under the skin of a lot of folks is the humidity around here. It builds up the effect of allergens (like mold and mildew), causes you to lose energy, and is just a downright nuisance!
But now you can get the best in dehumidifiers … and at fantastic savings! When you click the link you’re about to see, you’ll not only find high-quality basement and home humidifiers, but information, comparison charts, more on dehumidifiers themselves, and more!
So, why suffer through the heat and humidity of summer?? All you need to do is click on this link to find the best — Santa Fe dehumidifiers.
Do it now … and start breathing easier tomorrow!

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE

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

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

Yup … it’s been rainin’ …
and you’d be surprised at how many folks aren’t complaining about it. Y’see, after the flooding that’s taken place along the Mississippi, we’re a bit humbled … and thankful … that we’re not takin’ on the heaviest of the water woes.

Still, it’s important to know what to do in the event we do have flooding over here — and it can happen in some places (ask those around Pineville, and especially in the Lakes Wylie and Norman areas!). Though most of us know what to expect and do, here’s an idea that a reader down in Alabama sent me. Betcha hadn’t thought of it, have ya?:

“… an idea that anyone can use is to rent an above-water level storage unit to put all their really important valuables into (sic). That way, they can remain safe and dry in case theres (sic) flooding.”

Sounds good. Just be sure to find one that’s secure (where they won’t be tampered with), and you’re set!

FUN AT THE PARKS

Whether you’re goin’ to Freedom Park, Pineville Park or Carowinds Park, you’re bound to have a good and relaxing time (okay … once it dries out a little!). With a zillion things to do or take in, you can relax and have some good, clean fun this summer.
But, a word to the wise (wait. Why do they say that?? I mean, don’t the “wise” already know things?? Guess it sounds better than “A word to those who don’t know better?” But, there again, would they be reading this if they … awww, nevermind …):
Wherever ya go this summer, PLEASE keep a close eye on your young’uns, okay? You’ve heard the old saying, “It’s a JUNGLE out there!” Well, it’s true … and it’s so easy for your kids to get lost, hurt … or worse … if they get away from you! So, sure … make it a fun summer; but, more importantly, make it a safe one!

AFFORDABLE INSURANCE

Y’know, there are still thousands of people around the country who don’t have good insurance — either they’re not covered or their policies don’t cover what they need. And, of course, the main culprit has been the media, which tends to make you think it’s too expensive now!
But they’re wrong, and the link I’m about to share with you will prove it!
Y’see, I’ve found a great spot that’ll not only help you find exactly what you’re needing in insurance, but also prices that’ll be easy on your budget! You’ll find auto, life, home, health, business and more here …
Why, they even have interesting articles, a list of frequently-asked questions … even insurance tools to ensure that you make the best decision and selection!
So, don’t let anyone tell ya that you can’t find affordable insurance anymore! Whether life, health or a solid auto insurance quote, it’s all there for you behind that link.
Visit there now, and get ready to save big!

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

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

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

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

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

SUMMERTIME and PATIOS

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

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

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

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

Then, my heart totally broke:

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

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

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

Some people still call them “dumb animals”.

To me, those are now fightin’ words.

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

Now … on to something different:

DIET PILLS THAT WORK!

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

Hey … remember during the last segment of The Fore interview, where a young fan named Eric asked their drummer, Simon Thompson:
“… 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.”?
Natch, Si was more than willing to explain it … but offered to take it a step further and show the lad how he did it!
Okay … (Eric, ya watchin’?) here it is! Watch how he does it, then practice on your own drumkit:

There, now! Got it?? Listen — ya gotta appreciate Simon; I mean, how many other drummers would take time to show ya their techniques?
(Now watch me get kicked when I say:) When ya learn the triplet, you can then say you’re playin’ a Simonized kit!! (oKAY! oKAY!! SAW-reee!! Geez …) Many thanks to Si for sharing this with his fans … and Eric (who’s also gettin’ this link by email!).

LET KIDS BE KIDS!

The headlines in the Observer were, alone, enough to make you cringe: “Officer Kills Man Beating Toddler To Death” “Pair accused of tying son to tree charged.”
People around this area, as well as the nation, are outraged over the way so-called “parents” are treating their own flesh-and-blood — especially and tragically, the children! Yet, we’re not seeing any major legislation to help them; courts let the criminals (yes, they are!!) off with a “slap on the wrist”, ultimately to go on performing their daily beatings and abuse.
And the children are the ones who suffer! Innocent, loving children!
So it shouldn’t be any shock to hear people applauding the officer who shot and killed the killer of that little boy. It’s just that we’re sick and tired of seeing little children become the target of insanity!
They’re kids, for God’s sake!! Love ‘em — as the Knickerbockers sang in The Coming Generation (side “B” of Lies) they hold the future in their hands!

GETTIN’ THE BEST BUY

Y’know, with today’s economic crunch, everyone’s looking for a bargain wherever they shop. They’ll hop in their cars, drive all over town (and gas, in case ya haven’t noticed, is a bit expensive right now), put up with big crowds, long lines, limited selections, unavailable or apathetic salespeople, and high prices just to find what they want!
But here’s your chance to play it a lot smarter and more comfortably, and still get the items you want … at a much more affordable price!
In fact, when ya click the link I’m about to give you, you’ll find everything — from baby items to video games — and all at a substantial savings to you!. One of the best things about it, though, is that you won’t have to go through any of those hassles I mentioned to get new, name-brand products for less!
Now, there’s a lot more in store for you when you shop via their site! For example, along with the discounts can come free shipping; you can order via a secure site, meaning it’s hackproof! Next to the prices, probably the best part is that you can do it all just from the comfort of your own home!
So what’s to stop ya? While you’re on the web right now, just go on over to the site that offers you the best buy in just about everything!
You’ll be glad you did, I guarantee …

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

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

The lads’ answers are in bold type:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SWINGIN’ OF A DIFFERENT TYPE

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

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

Okay … so how does that tie in with Charlotte?

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

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

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

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

SAYIN’ GOODBYE TO ACNE

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

C’mon …
Do we really need this??

With the buzz about a new Hooters® goin’ uptown, folks are startin’ to wonder:WHY?!? It’s not as if we don’t have enough gawkers, stalkers and weird walkers around Tryon & Trade; now we’ve gotta tempt more of ‘em to come up, right?

Actually, the food isn’t that bad there (I dare anyone to try their hottest wings and not go for water immediately after!), but that’s not what guys wanna keep abreast of! (ummm … it’s a pun, people!) And, natch, it’s gonna cause a lotta friction between the Mr. and Mrs. (don’t places like that always cause trouble somewhere along the line?).

So, if ya wanna put a Hooters® in the downtown area, make sure they’re owls, which are infinitely safer. Don’t make boobs outta (OUCH!! Did I just say what I think I said?? Oh. Okay …) the male of the species who walks the downtown tundra with briefcase, bag or ‘brella. There are other places …

CAN YA STAND TV?

We’re definitely a TV generation — especially with hot new shows, better and more intriguing episodes of the existing ones, and more tempting us to flick the remote to “on” position.
But there’s something else that needs a good, solid position and that’s your TV itself! You want a sturdy, attractive stand or mount that’ll give you the best view along with the confidence of knowing that it’s going to last!
Now, you can go through your phone book to look for these, get out there in your stifling-hot car, waste a lot of gas while dodging edgy drivers to get to these places, just to find out you’re spending more than you bargained for …
or …
you can go to the best one-stop, online store for TV mounts and stands, shop for the one that fits you the best (and they’re all brand-new and highest-quality!), save money (in fact, they’ll even beat competitors’ prices on selected models by ten bucks!), and even have your selection shipped to you for free!
Save money … time … gas … frustration … and get exactly what you’re lookin’ for … with total satisfaction …
and all ya gotta do is click on this link for the finest plasma tv mount you could ever find … and more!

Well, it’s (apparently) official:
In the main event for the great November Reign show coming up in five months, it’ll be “Bruisin’” Barack Obama pitted against “Big” John McCain (y’know, that almost sounds like a movie character! lol).

Now, in case you’re wonderin’ who this writer’s votin’ for … well, let’s just say anybody who’ll drive the Bush school of thought outta the White House!
Especially in light of the insulting joke about “inbreeding” that Dick Cheney told against West Virginia at the NPC … and when he responded to a reporter’s statement that most Americans think the war’s wrong. (His response: “So??”) When she asked if he cared what Americans think, he said, “No” — then tried some flimsy excuse to “explain” himself out of it!
We don’t need four more years of that nonsense (in fact, we don’t need four more minutes of it)!

Anyway, it’ll be interesting to see what the outcome of the November general election’s gonna be. One thing’s almost certain now: West Virginia, at least, will be votin’ Democrat!

LONGIN’ FOR LOVELY LINGERIE?

Well, we do have ladies readin’ this site, and they all want to look lovely and — when the time’s right — a bit sexy and provocative.
You know they want (and deserve) lingerie that makes them feel great about themselves. But, when they get out to the local stores, they often become disappointed because they often run across limited selection, high prices and, of course, it ends up with a lot of time wasted!

Well, not anymore! In a moment, I’ll give you a link that’ll introduce you to mecca of beauty that offers a tremendous selection of lingerie in all styles for all purposes … and at prices you can afford!
Believe me, you’ll love the look, feel and effect that these beautiful products have! So check them out today, and begin looking (and feeling) more beautiful tomorrow!
So, if you want the most beautiful, comfortable, tantalizing and affordable women’s lingerie, it’s all right at the click of that link you just passed.

By now, every rocker around the Queen City (and beyond) has heard the sad news:

Bo Diddley is dead.

The amazing guitarist/singer, whose “cigar-box” guitar and African-based 5/4 rhythm pattern influenced generations of musicians (just an example: Johnny Otis’ Willie and the Hand Jive), died of heart failure at home in Archer, Florida. He was 79.

It’s ironic that the first time I ever heard of him was in an old record that my sister had back as a kid in Pineville. It was by country satirist Ray Stevens and called Santa Claus Is Watching You. Then, I heard the man and was immediately captivated by his simple, bluesy voice surrounded by a thumping beat.

At first, some thought he was just a “one-hit-wonder”, using a gimmick to cross racial barriers. But when acts like Buddy Holly, The Rolling Stones, The Seeds (Get Me To The World On Time), The Strangeloves (I Want Candy) and, later, George Thorogood and The Destroyers and even KISS began emulating the wild beat (someone said it was “shave-and-a-haircut-two-bits” played on mount and floor tom a bit faster), we all realized the worth of this giant!

Recently, someone said if ya didn’t like rock-n-roll, ya didn’t know Diddley! How true that play-on-words is today!
The legend will be missed … but, believe me: His music WILL live on!!

Sheeesh … Summer School; words that most kids hate to hear.
But … the Panthers??
Yep! They’ve got it, more or less. Actually, it’s sort of a warm-up — voluntary practices that’ll last until mid-June (their official training camp doesn’t begin until sometime in July).
Here’s a little bit about their summer school:

• The practices officially are offseason training activities (OTAs). They’re not allowed pads or contact, and they’re closed to the public.

• Popular rookie running back Jonathan Stewart won’t be there. Y’see, his school in Oregon (which uses the quarter system) is still in session, and the NFL doesn’t allow players to work in OTAs until after their classes have ended.

• The other rookies are expected to be on hand. On Tuesday, they did re-sign Curtis DeLoatch, who played six games last season before injuring his knee. Curtis, who was born in Murfreesboro, has played for the New York Giants, New Orleans Saints and the Panthers in four seasons.

I just hope they come outta their summer school with a lot better feeling than a lot of us did years ago!!

GOIN’ WITH THE LOGO

Y’know, as a businessman/media consultant/writer, I’ve gotta put a lot of business cards into action! But it takes forever to have the logos worked up, layin’ the whole card out like ya want it, then having ‘em printed by a local company. Then you’ve gotta wait … and wait … and hope they come out okay.
But there’s one place you can go online and have great ones made … to your specifications, ’cause you make ‘em yourself!
And it’s sooooo easy! I just tried a couple of designs myself, and the process is really simple: Among the six easy-to-follow steps, you pick out a logo from your field, find the template you want, type in a few basic lines (your name, street info, phone number), check out the finished product, and pay (by secured server, natch!) … but only when you’re satisfied!
Now, you have plenty of eye-catching logos to choose from, can go back and rework what you want (it doesn’t matter if you do it a dozen times!), and, when finished, I can guarantee you’ll have a sharp, professional-looking business card ready for print!
Hey … I’ll show you mine, if you’ll show me yours when ya get it done:

Now, this took me all of about five minutes to complete (of course, you’ll want to know what you’re gonna put on the card ahead-of-time. It makes sense, right?)
Believe me, it’s the easiest but most professional card you’d ever want … and you’re 100% in the process! So, why not give the best site for your logo design a visit just by clicking the link I just gave ya?
You’ll really be thrilled with the results!

Look … we already know that, in today’s economy, the only way to keep the proverbial wolves from our door is to invest wisely. And experts will tell you that the best financial investment you can make today is in gold.

Now, the Monex companies have helped tens of thousands invest in “hard asset” investments including rare gold coins as well as other precious metals investments.
And the folks behind link I’m about to share offer a great array of investment resources for investors and collectors alike.
You’ll find absolutely the finest rare coins available, an experienced and knowledgeable staff of professionals that’s ready to serve your needs, and investment programs and products that’ll fit practically any budget.

Not only that, but you’ll have immediate access to a variety of investment-grade coins that are valued in excess of $10,000,000. Other selections can be acquired on short notice.

Their established two-way “buy-and-sell” market for rare coins and precious metals products has been accented by involvement in all aspects of the rare coin trade: the wholesale market; the collector market; the international market and auctions.
With this expertise, access to the most intriguing rare coins available and over forty years as leaders in the hard-asset market, this business (a part of the Monex families) is totally suited to helping you find the best rare coin value on the market!

So, why not check out their gold coins now, and make an investment that no “wolf’s” going to touch??