MONTEREY MORNING

The church gathering Tuesday noon was unusual, but so were the events a few hours earlier. As a siren droned from an old police cruiser outside the church, people rushed into the white planked United House of Prayer in downtown Monterey Virginia.

Seems it all began about nine on a warm May morning. Ruby Thorn, the town whore, was just leaving the Econo Lodge when a brilliant shaft of light spiraled out of the sky, briefly illuminated her in it's pure white glow then sucked her straight up into the sky. Simultaneously, an alley cat, old man Jorgenson, and a half dozen other people on the town's main street were blasted by a blinding light and sent flying skyward. Some witnesses staggered in fright or fell to the ground as they beheld the unbelievable events of the morning. A few people reported that they saw people shooting through the roofs of homes and cars into the radiant beam of an intense white light.

Inside the church the level of excited chatter was a shock to the normal quietude of the sanctuary. Assistant Pastor Quinn shuffled up three steps to the pulpit and nervously tapped the microphone to quiet the overfilled hall. He cleared his throat and wiped the steady bead of sweat from his brow and spoke. "Folks, what we got here is a divine Rapture. Almighty God has finally signaled his second coming and taken the faithful to be with him in paradise. Best we can calculate about half the towns people are gone and a goodly number of graves out at the cemetery have been emptied." He paused and as he looked down at his scrawled notes, a fresh wave of loud comments and conversation commenced. Mr. Hook the high school science teacher proclaimed "it's that damned global warning,  I tell ya". Another person cried out that "it's the work of Satan", someone else questioned why God would straight away lift up an old whore and alley cat and skip so many good church folk. Quinn continued, "now Deputy Till called the State Police and Governors Office and they claimed to know nothing about a Rapture or any strange goings on anywhere else in Highland County or the state. The National Guard has been mobilized to insure nobody does any looting so you all stay away from places where people have disappeared. We're trying to get together an exact list of everybody that's gone and we need your help to complete our tally. Please see a volunteer in the vestibule before you leave."

"Now my friends let us pray, dear God we thank you for all your blessings and ask that you guide us through this strange day. We don't fully understand your ways but trust your judgment and your holy words of scripture. Bless all our family and friends who you have suddenly summoned as your newest saints, and help all of us who remain so that someday we may join your heavenly family way up in the sky. Dear Lord we ask for your mercy and the forgiveness of our sins on this day of grand revelation."

After a few seconds of meditation Quinn lifted his head as the throng quietly shuffled from the pews and out the door. He realized he would be assuming the role of pastor since Brother Jackson had been swept up in the Rapture. He couldn't suppress his hope that the Church Board would see fit to raise his monthly stipend and at the appropriate time allow him to occupy the recently remodeled parsonage. Of immediate concern as he slumped into his office chair were the phone calls to cancel the upcoming spaghetti dinner and re arrange the months calendar to accommodate those parishioners who had vanished.

The little village was quiet for a few hours. But, as the sun slowly began it's descent behind the western mountains, traffic got busier than normal. Television news crews from Richmond and Washington were setting up for live broadcasts. Insurance claims agents had reached town and quickly rented all the available rooms at local inns and motels in Monterey south to Warm Springs. Volunteers out at the cemetery were filling in the empty holes with fresh dirt. Memorial services were set up for the 118 adults and children taken away in the Rapture. A few people were reviewing life insurance policies of loved ones and discovering the "acts of God" clause. More than a handful of locals were pondering their reactions such as " why not me Lord? " and "thank God it wasn't me!"

The future came without further excitement but the people in the area strove everyday to be better Christians while always keeping an eye on the sky.

        

RED ROSES AND PAIN

I cannot clip or tend my rose bush without hurting myself.

The red roses and their buds are protected by sharp barbs which are difficult to avoid. Though the prick causes temporary pain and a drop or two of blood, it never stops me from trimming the handsome red flowers.

The velvety red hue of my roses reminds me of the flush linked to human romance and passionate pursuits. However, the scarlet color is also associated with bleeding and human suffering. It is interesting, perhaps ironic, that a rose bush of great beauty offers us a message that the space between love and pain is slight. It is so easy in attempting to enhance or hold beauty that pain awaits the slightest handling mistake. More interesting, that the allure to care and develop our roses is done with the full realization that pain may accompany the pampering. We must acknowledge that while we will always return to trim the roses the hurt is always nearby.

Whether our passionate pursuits in life involve love, money, children, a political order, family, art, healing, friends or tranquility we must be mindful that disappointment and hurt are neighbors. One cannot abandon caring for their rose bushes, but one must be ever mindful that passion and pain are partners amid the green leaves of our lives.

    

WHAT IS YOUR COLOR ? ?

As a child of the segregated south I have lived through all the names used to describe persons of dusky skin color. Some were degrading and insulting slurs, however as I recall the progression of acceptable terms during my lifetime they were Negro, colored, black, and African American. I have trouble with several of these terms and offer a change suggestion.

Black is an adjective defining no color from the absorption of nearly all light. My Oxford dictionary also lists completely dark, angry, sinister, deadly, gloomy, sullen, and comic as adjectives synonyms with black. Most people of color I encounter or have known are neither completely dark, angry, sinister, gloomy or sullen. I think all the negative aspects associated with black disqualify it as a collective to describe any people of color. Young children forced to call themselves black must someday make negative associations with the word. As examples; the bad cowboy always had a black hat or black horse. The place where monsters await is always a black hole or completely dark closet. How many innocent children have been haunted and psychologically injured because they had to identify themselves as black ?

I believe Americans share a range of skin colors from nearly white (albino) to very dark. This range includes a rainbow of olive, pink, yellow, red, alabaster, tan, and brown pigmentation shades. Nobody is simply all white, black, red or yellow or should be defined as such. All people are beautiful and unique in the skin God gave them. We need to proceed and define this issue more carefully.

African American is a misleading term in my opinion because few Negroes in America recently immigrated directly from Africa. Also, people in America's "melting pot" should never carry around names with hyphenated nationalities. For decades every race, religion, creed, and skin color have co mingled and procreated to produce an unbelievable variety of skin colors and mixed race combinations, and they're all Americans. One may have an ancestry stretching back to China, Mexico, England, Ethiopia, India, Ireland, Egypt, and a thousand other places in the world, but people blessed with living in the greatest nation on the globe should celebrate America and not mix their identities with other countries or continents. Know your ancestry and celebrate your origins, but don't diminish being an American by attaching a disclaimer to your Americanism. We are a world no longer comprised of roaming tribes identifying themselves by geography, occupation, weaponry, or legends.

While Negro and Negroid scientifically describe dark-skinned people, there are millions of Americans with deep ancestral roots in Africa who are neither black (see earlier paragraph) or dark-skinned. Africans like South Americans, Europeans, Australians, and Asians sport skin colors which cover a wide spectrum of hues. Like the classification Caucasian, the term Negro is too narrow in my view. White is not always good, example, the guy in the white hat is not always the hero, and the white knight is sometimes a thug. Also, Negro contains key letters found in epithets and slang terms used against many people of dark color. The letters mispronounced can easily form a degrading pejorative term.

My choice for defining all of us  is "people of color" because everybody has a unique and beautiful skin color. Rather than saying the black or white guy lets try better choices such as citizen of color, robber of color, soldier of color, or policeman of color. Best to describe someone by their name, but defining someone by a broad term such as a specific color is inadequate, in my opinion. Someone may have smooth ebony skin or a milky white complexion but to infer one is black, African-American or negro, and the other is white or has origins in the Caucasus region is limiting.

I believe our world will be a better, more peaceful place when we stop dividing and defining ourselves by skin color or other tribal identifications. I sincerely think that if a mass blood and DNA analysis were conducted on all Americans, it would show that the 350 plus million people of America are all relatives !

I will refrain from using color to ID people in the future. I hope we can all become Americans of color instead of insisting on the limiting terms we've used in the past. If the winner didn't just fly in from Algeria, he is an American man of color who just won the lottery. If the bad Canadian guy who blew up the hot dog stand just got off a bus from Canada he is properly a Canadian terrorist.

I expect a few may venture the opinion that I'm a stupid old "white" guy, but I'd prefer being labeled a stupid old American guy of color, thank you

.    

BOBBY'S MINDFUL WAR

He wasn't much to look at anymore.

Just a rag of a man wearing thrift store stuff and a face of permanent stubble. His once brilliant blue eyes were now cloudy and one was milky white blind. His mouth was contorted in a permanent frown and his voice was low and gravely. He didn't say much and mostly nodded. He didn't live anywhere, yet he lived everywhere. Under bridges, in falling down abandoned sheds, and sometimes at a homeless shelter if a bed was available and he could manage to co exist without fighting for a few hours. While he existed in the shadow world of the big city, most of the toughs left him alone. It was known he had nothing, was a harmless sot, but would kill or maim anyone insulting his space. Nobody knew his age, but most guessed he was in his sixties close to seventy. 

Sometimes he begged for change at street corners with a sign roughly lettered, "homeless vet". When he got enough change he would buy a burger or a beer. It didn't matter to Bobby. A beer or burger would give him enough energy to move on, find another handout, a place to sleep, and a quiet spot to relieve himself. When handouts were lean, he would dig into dumpsters or hang out at  take away joints. Once in a while he'd score a half eaten handout or bag of somebodies leftovers.

Most people ignored Bobby and for the most part, he probably ignored them. To most observers, he appeared to be just another waif aimlessly wandering the streets. He lived and sought to survive in the moment. Few probably gave a damn that he had a past or future. Bobby simply didn't give a good tinkers damn about anything. But he was part of my history.

Lost in the endless maze of inner city streets I saw Bobby slumped over with his back to a wall. I had seen him several times earlier, but for some reason this day he immediately looked at me as I passed in my car. Briefly our eyes met and I recognized him despite his awful shabbiness. When our eyes joined a reunion occurred and fifty years vanished. He knew me and I knew him. I felt guilty that I had not stopped when I first recognized him. What should I do ?

I remembered we had been kids together. Played and schooled as best pals, fought over girlfriends, and backed each other up in fights over turf, girls, and other inconsequential matters. We knew each other from the past and in a single glance of recognition it all came back. But, what had happened to Bobby ? I knew he had flunked college and got his ass drafted to Vietnam. I recall the local headlines when he got his Silver Star and a bunch of other medals. Then our lives evidently went in different directions, our paths and careers didn't cross and contact was lost for precious decades. Sometimes I would spy an old photograph in a family album or imagine his face staring back at me in a mirror. But, seeing this bum who had been my best bud and a genuine war champion reduced to the rubble and stubble of a tramp was shocking. I don't know why, but I didn't stop when our glances reflected mutual recognition. I drove on while memorizing the street name where Bobby now lived out in the open. I convinced myself to return and re friend my old buddy. Rescue him if I could, but at least offer him something he didn't have. Perhaps a little cash, some clean clothes, a safe place to live with a soft bed and a roof from the weather. I toyed with many noble plans to help. I had the money, but days and weeks passed before I returned to rescue Bobby. I gave myself plenty of excuses telling   myself that while I truly wanted to help, I was strangely repulsed and afraid. 

I really didn't want to leave Bobby to live and die miserably on the streets and finally gathered enough courage to plan a rescue operation.

On a fine sunny day I motored to the corner where I had seen him a few weeks earlier. No Bobby. I circled six or eight blocks of the neighborhood, but no Bobby. At one corner a guy was slumped in a corner outside an abandoned warehouse. I thought, perhaps hoped, it might be Bobby. I parked, carefully locked my car, and fingered the 38 in my coat pocket for security. Before getting too close I could smell the urine and feces stink radiating from the heap. With a "hey buddy" and shoulder tap I roused the guy. I unconsciously wanted to remember the fingers that had touched this creature to insure a through sanitizing later. The curled body twitched and slowly uncurled. A red scarred face emerged. In a snarl I heard, "whatta ya want, I ain't done nothing - I ain't got nothing". The pathetic beast before me was not Bobby, and I suddenly felt threatened. I sputtered "sorry" and dug in my pocket and threw a fiver his way. As I escaped to my car he mumbled "thanks pal".

I circled the area a few more times before deciding to visit a few homeless shelters in the neighborhood. At each place I found the duty manager and asked about a guy named Bobby Benton. I described him as a local fellow about seventy years old who was a highly decorated Vietnam veteran.  "Yeah, everyone knew about Bobby B., he had lots of crazy stories and had terrific nightmares", but nobody claimed to have seen him lately. I checked two local police precincts and asked about missing persons, unidentified John Does at the morgue, or unknowns in lockup. No luck.

Frustrated, I hopped into my car adjusted the air conditioning to super cool and felt content that Bobby Benton had disappeared. I felt lousy that I had not stopped and rescued him the first time I saw him. But, I was smugly satisfied that at least I had tried to retrieve my old pal from his life of misery. I even massaged my aching conscience with the idea that it might be a sin to alter a persons path to personal destruction or fulfillment. As I neared the original spot where I first spied and stared into the eyes of Bobby I imagined seeing him again. I rubbed my eyes as I pulled over to the curb and incredulously approached Bobby. " Hey Bobby Benton, it's your old chum and I'm here to help you". I reached out to lift him to his feet, but he refused to rise. Rather he looked at me real hard.

Finally he said,
"you are the real Bobby Benton, and I am but your shadow from a long ago war in your mind."

 

SO, MERRY CHRISTMAS !

Seems I've heard more Merry Christmas salutations from retail and fast food clerks this season than over the last few holidays. Maybe this dramatic change is related to the earth shattering political events in November, but I could be wrong.

However, it is refreshing to see the president elect using traditional Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah greetings in his "thank you" presentations and other speeches. As past presidents have used their office and speeches as a "bully pulpit" to promote their causes, we can only hope our incoming POTUS will do the same. Perhaps,  the veil of political correctness is lifting a bit as a  Donald Trump presidency approaches, and regular folks feel less intimidated in their holiday speech. Hopefully, the mechanical and generic "Happy Holiday" phrase may become a secondary December greeting.

Obviously, all wintertime religious and civil beliefs which do not endanger ones life, liberty or pursuit of happiness should be tolerated and enjoyed. But, it is nice Mr. Trump is happily declaring the nations most traditional December respects in his public appearances. Hopefully, as he works to get America great again, civil and community leaders will not strive to eliminate nativity scenes, Christmas trees, and menorahs from public places and private property.

Christmas and Hanukkah are significant parts of our national culture and worthy of celebration and remembrance. Whatever one's religious belief or not, these holy holidays are American traditions and part of our civilization. A few years ago Michael Savage (radio talk host) famously declared that our nation can only remain united if we maintain a common culture, language, and set of borders. To attain this goal Mr. Trump faces many challenges, but his "Merry Christmas" greetings are a good start in recognizing and honoring our common heritage.

Without fear of being politically incorrect or insensitive, may I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas or Happy Hanukkah.

WHY MANY CELEBRITIES SPEAK STUPID POLITICS ...

In my opinion many of the talented celebrities with beautiful voices, faces, and acting abilities speak stupid politics because they have no well prepared script or lyrics. Also, they have little or no knowledge of history, lack common sense and are addicted to the political correctness of the far left  of the political world.

These artistic folks develop a wonderful stage presence because they memorize lines and practice until the words and body language become a temporary part of their persona. The angelic and soulful singing or dramatic play acting requires talent, repetition, lots of hard work, and most of all a written script. The smooth delivery of a professional thespian or songster is no accident and untrained mortals who try usually collapse with stage fright.

Many of the most professional celebrities rarely do well without their makeup people, directors, and handlers. Their personalities and careers thrive on careful manipulation and help from others. When pushed into the political arena for a comment or speech many sound like uneducated and naive school children. In their world of fantasy, promising to leave America if Trump is elected and saying the most bizarre things will happen is because they have no direction or script.

Because an actor played POTUS in a television series he or she may feel qualified to pontificate their  political views. Because a diva can spark emotion from the coldest heart does not mean she is an informed political spokesperson. Unfortunately, too many celebrity fans base their opinions and beliefs upon every dribbling word from their favorite star or starlet.

Everyone is entitled to an opinion, but the problem arises when so many with little proof or knowledge of politics or history use their popularity to preach nonsense.

REVENGE OF THE MASS MEDIA AND POLITICAL ESTABLISHMENT

The huge "news" businesses and a majority of their "talking heads" and "experts" incorrectly predicted a smashing Clinton victory. They were totally and embarrassingly wrong. Now, to justify their huge error and political point of view, every Donald Trump action and word as President Elect and President will be dissected and analyzed to find anything worth criticizing. It is the revenge of a mass media that couldn't convey their political slant onto the American electorate to produce a Clinton victory.

When I was a student I remember the word objective tied to courses on journalism and news reporting. Evidently, the concept of objective journalism is no longer a required or elective course in colleges. I observe more and more news people framing their reports with their own views or the political views of their corporate bosses and owners.

Anyone can spend a minute or two watching the news and quickly discern the political slant of the piece. Word choices, voice inflection, and facial expressions quickly reveal how a news reader really feels about his subject. I expect opinion pieces to be opinions, but news should be news without opinion. I recall something from school about giving your readers or audience a bunch of "w's" and letting them form their own conclusion or opinion from the basic facts. A good example of sound reporting might be, Mayor Smith drove his Buick into a tree at 3AM along High Street and suffered a broken leg. A bad example might be, Republican firebrand Mayor Smith rammed a luxury city owned sedan into an innocent tree in the wee hours of the morning after all the bars had just closed. He sustained non life threatening injuries and it is not clear if he was administered a blood alcohol test.

The scorn of the mass media will hang over Trump like buzzards over fresh roadkill for the next four years. Beyond reporting the facts the viewing and reading public will be treated to opinions and innuendos far beyond the what, when, where, and who of Trump's daily official and unofficial life. While anyone choosing to be in the public spot light must endure scrutiny, the mass media will  perform a daily cavity scan on everything Trump. In a desperate attempt to regain credibility and justify their initial negative judgement, Trump will be a constant target of scorn and revenge.

While the body of his work as POTUS is yet to be seen, and will likely have it's high and low points, the media will surely stick to the low road. Beware of on going left bias, fake news, and negative reporting from the New York Times, Washington Post, LA Times, NBC, CNN, MSNBC, AP, BBC, and a number of lesser know news outlets and their affiliates.

   

TO WHOM DO BLACK LIVES MATTER ... ?

Given the words and actions of most national black leaders and BLM leaders, black lives really don't matter.

If the BLM organization cared about their black brothers and sisters they would use their energy  in more positive ways than blocking highways, rioting, insulting police, and allowing the destruction of public and private property. Sadly, BLM is all about getting headlines and showing the racism they so passionately claim to hate. Where is the BLM outfit when it comes to positive programs to help distressed black communities ? Where are the BLM protesters and outrage over the hundreds of senseless black on black murders ?

America's mass media cares more about advertising revenue and covering the hours of racial mob violence than actual black lives. Protracted coverage of demonstrations and riots simply adds fuel to the senseless fire of hate and frustration that is the BLM. CNN, Fox, MSNBC and others have spent more resources on covering race riots because they care about ratings and advertising revenues. Of note The Smithsonian Institute recently opened a grand museum documenting the struggles and accomplishments of black America and the mass media gang was largely absent - why ? Is covering a sensational riot more important than publicizing a great exposition showcasing black contributions to our culture ? Maybe not so much.

If Barrack Obama gave a damn, he would be the community leader, he never was, and pressure his Chicago mayor pal, Louie F., Rev. Wright, and all the other Chicago democrats into ending the tragic nightly slaughter of young blacks. However, Barrack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Eric Holder, Jesses Jackson, Al Sharpton and other black leaders would rather bristle over the isolated and sketchy scenarios when a white cop shots  a black man than do the hard work in the inner cities. Ultimately, in the Ferguson, Baltimore, Trayvon Martin case and others, race was a non factor. Nonetheless, Obama and the normal gang of race pimps rush to judgement. They bellow to gain publicity, money, votes for Hillary Clinton, and the chance to build a legacy, but they rarely roar over the fatherless homes, drug culture, unlimited abortions, joblessness, lack of education, and job opportunities that plague every major urban area of our country. These factors are the real cause for violence and disfunction in many urban communities. Their consistent solution to end these problems is to appropriate more money. This allows complacent bureaucrats to waste more money in meaningless programs and handouts which ultimately perpetuate more problems than solutions.

The Black Congressional Congress evidently cares more about staging a ridiculous sit in protest against guns than the lives of young blacks killed every night. Their fury seems to fix blame on inanimate pieces of metal as the most important cause for the senseless slaughter of blacks. Where are their impassioned speeches to the largely democratic and local black leaders of Chicago, Baltimore, Detroit, Philadelphia and other cities to address the real causes of poverty and inner city crime ? John Lewis and other civil rights lions of the past have become cartoon characters shilling empty causes which fix blame everywhere but at the root causes of chaos in many black communities. The BCC finds its easier to blame the NRA, republicans, guns, Bush, Wall Street millionaires, and Trump for all the problems that trouble their congressional districts. Seeking meaningful solutions means really hard community work rather than simply speechifying and preaching. 

As noted in an earlier blog, racism is big business in America. BLM is more interested in publicity, disorder, and making a buck than doing things that really prove their title is more than a clever combination of words.

In my opinion, if black lives really mattered to black & white leaders there would be more quiet constructive work and less hustling to get headlines and cute soundbites for the nightly riot news updates.

     

THE TRUMPIAN THREAT TO WORLD ORDER

In a recent Financial Times article, Phillip Stearns penned an opinion piece entitled, "The Trumpian Threat to World Order". I have one question and one reply for the esteemed UK daily and Mr. Stearns:

QUESTION - What "world order" ?

REPLY - Bully. Isn't it refreshing, perhaps redeeming, that Trump is threatening the terrible state of affairs loosely called, "world order".

Given the migration chaos in the EU, BREXIT, the continuing eruption of violence from the Mid East, rouge nations such as Iran and North Korea frothing, and the Russia/China tag team steadily threatening an inept Obama, isn't it great that someone poses an upheaval to the status quo. If elected Hillary Clinton will simply walk the same walk as Obama, and maintain the funk that has become our GDP, state of race relations, foreign policy, and the alphabet soup of federal agencies that have successfully bottled up improvements in our national infrastructure, energy independence, veterans care, educational system, and armed forces. Her administration will be politics as usual, and haven't we suffered too much of that ? 

If Trump wins in November it could be a great disaster, but as he tells his black audiences, "whatta ya gotta lose" given the trail of broken promises from decades of democrats. In my opinion, for too many administrations, most especially during the Obama Abomination, the USA has been going backwards. Riots and acts of terrorism have become the new normal. A black president who got the Pulitzer Peace Prize for doing absolutely nothing for peace has allowed more murders in his adopted hometown of Chicago than any other president. He has used his bully pulpit to divide races and different economic groups. His previous experience as a "community organizer" has been missing as blacks have suffered more violence, poverty, and unemployment then before he took office. With his highly touted Universal Health Care Scheme, Obama has again shown the utter failure that is socialism when mixed with government bureaucracy on steroids.

Ms. Clinton is a future Obama minus his considerable charisma, spunk, and endearing smile. Her policies will simply extend the unconstitutional and immature path of non leadership played so well by Barrack Obama.

Trump has been a successful and pragmatic business man with incredible negotiating skills. He is neither a pure republican, democrat, liberal, progressive, greenie, socialist, or alien. To his credit he has no political experience except for the whooping he gave 16 or so formidable political heavyweights during the nomination sweepstakes. Despite what many perceive as arrogance, gruffness, bad hair, and profane language,  he is a super star at getting things done, and has a very good track record. Further, he has an enthusiasm and energy that dwarfs the pitiful efforts of Hillary Clinton.

Despite huge chunks of the establishment hurling their incredible weight to insure his defeat, he soldiers on like an energizer bunny. I think it is good that Mr. Trump might pose a threat to the world order because it has been a miserable state of affairs for far too long. Trump's attempt at "Making America Great Again" might just make the world a little better place too.

TRUMPSTERS - BEWARE OVERCONFIDENCE !

While it appears Mr. Biden is not doing or feeling well lately, Trump supporters should be wary of overconfidence.

The Biden campaign will eventually spend many millions on ads and a bundle of sneaky tricks until the November counting. With the nearly universal support of most media, academia, and many incumbent politicians, his election chances are good despite his declining mental acuity. He may seem to be faltering in some polls, but polls are often slanted and proved unreliable in 2016. Also, establishment politicians and millions of bureaucrats of both parties are desperate for a continuance of the deep state status and fear further undoing by a second Trump administration.

Despite TV "expert" pundits, scores of polls, and electoral college forecasts,  there is only one sure way Trump wins again. The great silent majority of "deplorables", Wall Mart shoppers, blacks, Hispanic, church going folks, legal immigrants, and constitutionalists must unite their votes to again denounce the deep state of corrupt democrats and republicans. Both political parties have used their offices and influence  to build more government infrastructure, pad their own pockets with more money and build a wall of political power.

Trump has marches along with the simple slogan "Make America Great Again" and a high level of energy and enthusiasm reminiscent of Ronald Reagan. He is not a politician, but a very successful businessman blessed with superior negotiating skills, zeal, and a keen sense of pragmatism. With his clownish hair and arrogant manner he may seem an unlikely second termer for the White House, but he has proven the perfect non establishment boss since 2016.

Isn't it about time the staid world of republicans and democrats get a strong message that the American people are frustrated with their failures ? Isn't it about time voters fire a few people, and use common sense in reducing the incompetent bungling bureaucracy of our federal government ? 

America needs further relief from bad, inept government and it's habit of broken promises. As we quickly move towards election day Trump's record and direction is positive, but over confidence should not slow the critical momentum or fervor of his campaign or his supporters.

TRUMPS ONLY PATH TO VICTORY.

Donald Trump faces an enormous task in defeating Hillary Clinton and the "establishment"  party politics of the democratic and republican parties.  In order to claim victory in November, he must overcome the following gigantic obstacles:

* The overwhelming Clinton support from practically all print, digital, and broadcast media
   and the continuance of "status quo" of American politics. This includes ABC, NBC, CBS,
   CNN, MSNBC, UNIVISION, BBC, CNBC, CBC, PBS, AP, REUTERS, THE DAILY BEAST,
   HUFFINGTON, AOL, The NY Times, LA Times, Washington Post, USA Today, and hundreds
   of affiliates in the major broadcast and print corporations.

* The massive support of wealth from the "pay to play" schemes of The Clinton Foundation and
   her influence peddling while Secretary of State. Campaign funds which is and will choke the
   airways with Clinton propaganda over the next few months.

* The escape from any prosecution for her serious judgment errors in handling confidential and
   secret government information or the serious national security leaks to our international
   enemies. Obama, his entire Administration, and department chiefs have assisted Clinton in every
   inquiry.

* Turncoat republicans and conservative leaders/commentators who have failed to support the legal
   nominee of the republican party. This list of party traitors include the Bush Family, Ted Cruz,
   John Kasich, and a long list of party leaders mortally afraid in a change to the status quo of their
   political world.

* An electoral college system of selecting a president which has over ruled the popular votes of
   U.S. citizens on several occasions.

Trumps only path to the White House is a SUPER majority of Americans voting for change in 2016.
A majority of votes which will cancel the electoral college. His mandate must defeat the "establishment" and deadly combination of crooked politicians and big money. Socialism and the unnatural growth of government has been choking the Constitution, free market, and liberty of Americans for generations, and it must be stopped.

Trump is an imperfect candidate. However, he is outside the filthy hold of "establishment" politics and in his words and actions really does want "To Make America Great Again." He may fail in reaching all his lofty goals, but he has great energy and a genuine enthusiasm which Clinton lacks.

Vote for refreshing change in 2016 - vote Trump !

BICYCLE DAYS

Back then summer was heaven. A few months of no school, few rules, and fun friends. A magic season despite the heat, chigger bites, bruises, and sun burns.

Unless it was very dark, very rainy, or you were sick or being punished, everyone was an outside kid during those long ago summers. It was "out of the house" time from just after breakfast until the last lighting bug found a safe spot away from our grasp and a glass jar prison. Also, we captured, teased, and tortured turtles, lizards, snakes, toads and other small creatures. War games with toy soldiers arranged for battle and attacked by our BB gun pellets also provided great amusement. Big green June bugs and tiny Japanese beetles were non biting fun things, especially if any girls were nearby. The local creeks were our fishing holes and swimming spot until we saw too many undulating water moccasins. From the banks we observed floating massive lazy carp, graceful water birds, and snagged small perch to feed my moms cats. We combined simple pursuits with lots of imagination in filling our summer days.

Above all our bicycles gave us the most adventure and entertainment. My main friend during this time was Tommy Bunting who lived about a mile away. Tommy, other kids, and my cousins joined in our daily escapades from time to time. Our bikes gave us wings to explore the world beyond our homes.

Bicycles represented our earliest freedom to travel within the limits of parental boundaries and usually beyond. Our bikes were thick tired, one speed, heavy, fender free machines. Their newness and factory shine quickly wore off as we raced through underbrush, and wrecked coming off homemade ramps. Of course we wore no helmets, and miraculously survived numerous planned and unplanned crashes. Our  bicycles were continuously modified with various paint schemes, decals, and noise making contraptions. These two wheeled vehicles were poor relatives to the ten speed, sleek, thin wheeled racers modeled in the Sears catalog, but our bikes could weather any mud hole or unpaved trail.

In the late 50's, Jolliff Road was a two lane paved county byway. Traffic was light so it was easy to bicycle our way to visit friends, local general stores, and our fishing creeks. The roads hard surface was a composite of gravel and cement held together by black tar. On hot summer days the tar became oozy enough to extract and enjoy. We chewed it and rolled fake cigars from the gooey stuff. Even after granny told us it contained old men's spit and squashed animals, we still found it suitable for chewing and modeling. The road had very narrow grassy shoulders and deep drainage ditches. Occasionally, hoods in their hot rods would scream at us as they closely sped by, and this sometimes caused us to careen into the ditches. Aside from a few nasty scratches and bumped heads, it wasn't all bad because valuable soda bottles worth refunds were hidden among the squirmy creatures and trash in the ditches.

Grandfather Ank grew several rows of gladiola flowers in his garden, and allowed us to sell a few in exchange for digging up his potatoes. Older neighbor folks were our best customers. We sold a bunch of the long multi colored blooms for twenty five to fifty cents each. Once we had earned a dollar or two, and combined with pennies from a few refundable thick soda bottles, we headed to one of the local general stores.

All the nearby country stores were owned by couples living close by. Wampler's was the only store on Jolliff Road, but it had a limited stock of snacks and maintained an irregular schedule. Tignor's Store was a little farther away and it carried lots of good things, but it was a very small place and Mrs. Tignor always seemed anxious for us to leave. The very old Warren couple were just out of our biking range and also had a tiny store. Mr. Warren was locally famous for shooting dead a robber years earlier. Kirchmier's near the Hodges Ferry Bridge was a three or four mile ride, but it was the best stocked store, and Mr. Kirchmier enjoyed all his customers including the kids.

However, our most frequent destination was Weatherly's Store. Mr. and Mrs. Weatherly were the ever present operators, and they maintained a nice sized business featuring an old fashioned stove in the middle of the store surrounded by chairs. The building was one of faded wood planks with a brick base and a roof that was shiny silver tin sheets sporting a few rust spots. Inside it always seemed hazy possibly because Mrs. Weatherly was always sweeping the floor. The wooden floor creaked with every step. Their store carried a shelf of car parts, local vegetables, hardware things, milk, gasoline, tobacco items, tools, guns, kerosene, canned goods, knives, work clothes, farm implements, and a great variety of wonderfully packaged snacks and ice cold drinks. They were very friendly to all their customers.

Whenever we visited Weatherly's we found a group of older men, white and colored, sitting around talking, arguing, and puffing away at their cigarettes and pipes. These friendly old geezers were always ready to tease Tommy and I and then chuckle at our shyness and clumsy responses. Some of the men sported walking sticks. A few were accompanied by their old dogs which were lazily stretched out and sound asleep at their feet.

We carefully contemplated our purchases which usually consisted of a sweet or salty packaged snack and an ice cold, brilliantly colored soda. The combinations were endless, and required time and careful study before our choices could be finalized. Mr. Weatherly always asked once or twice if our selections were final, and sometimes we would make a change. While the big Nehi orange and  strawberry drinks were tasty, and the tiny Brownie brand chocolate milk was delicious, my choice was usually the huge Nehi grape soda. Tommy being a year younger than me was sometimes a copy cat, but tended to choose the bubbly 7-Up or Upper 10 drinks. Mr. Weatherly always had a big metal wash bucket full of drinks covered in chunks of ice near the front door. On a hot summer day after the two mile bicycle trip we would be dripping sweat, and the bucket of ice and drinks was always a refreshing sight. Once we made our drink choice, we turned to the rack of packaged snacks and baked items. It was hard to choose between the twin packs of Twinkies, Hostess Cupcakes, large Moon Pies, bags of chips, popcorn or pretzels. I usually chose a sweet item and Tommy liked the salty snacks. Once our choices were completed and paid for we exited to a bench outside near the single gas pump. From this shady spot we watched and tested each others knowledge in identifying car models. After fifteen or twenty minutes of snacking and slurping our drinks we were off again cycling.

On at least one occasion I can recall, we arrived at Weatherly's without any money, and just three bottles worth only a few cents each. Maybe enough money for a piece of candy or chunk of Bazooka gum, but not enough for a big soda and snack. We were far short of the twenty five to thirty five cents needed for each combo. After spending a lot of  time looking, we admitted to Mr. Weatherly that we were broke. He rubbed his forehead, like he was thinking, and then asked if we thought our dads would mind being charged for our snacks. Without any fore thought, we happily said it would be OK. We got our goodies and they were put on our family accounts. I remember my father grumbled   when he squared up his bill on payday. He was unhappy because I forgot to tell him anything about the transaction.

Our beat up bicycles served us well on rutted dirt lanes as well as paved surfaces for a number of glorious summers. Eventually, Tommy and I traded our bicycles for learners permits then occasional use of the family car. My Roadmaster slowly rusted during my final high school year, and was discarded or given away a few years later when I joined the Army. All the general stores and their unique owner/operators have vanished.  A few years ago my boyhood pal, Tommy, passed from this world. While Jolliff Road still exists it has changed. Its a much busier throughway with a more suburban feel than the rural setting I recall.

Those good times are now gone, but the bicycle memories made along Jolliff Road are sweet and enduring.

CATHERINE'S WAY ...

She was past ninety and surely knew death would soon be calling. A month or two beyond her birthday party, her body began to fail. She expressed her fears, but probably realized there was no recovery from the final illnesses which had appeared like a dark shadow.

She said the medicines no longer relieved the deep pain. She described the waves and stabs that hurt inside, and ranged from gnawing to throbbing. Sometimes she mentioned a numbness that would overcome her hands or face. Months earlier she had been to many doctors and hospitals, but evidently their medicines and treatments were no longer useful. The last few physician visits ended with a "you're just getting older Mrs. Joyner" comment delivered with a cheery bedside manner.

For mom, the soft gelatin and thickened juices now caused choking sensations while lacking any taste or satisfaction. Sometimes, she wasn't sure of the time or day and spent most hours drifting from sleep to drowsiness, and then back again. Her old companion, the television, became a confusing mix of  sounds and flashes of light. She had lost the strength to open her eyes, smile, or even speak to visitors and attendants on a regular basis. Her condition went from constant drowsiness to comatose. I suspect she could hear greetings and words of encouragement, but couldn't respond. Now only rarely would she briefly open her eyes or release a soft moan.

I'm sure in dreams she remembered the best of yesteryears. A dear husband, friends, family, happy times, her mother and sisters, soft fluffy cats, a plate of deep fried oysters, the music of chirping birds, a very cold beer, the sweet smell of spring flowers, the sound of hillbilly music, the rain, snow, wind, and deep blue skies full of white puffy clouds. In day and night reveries she could probably recall all the good things of the past for I believe her mind was strong though her body was collapsing. I think many memories and thoughts remained loud and alive in her mind. However, I am sure she felt very alone and deeply afraid, yet curious, about the end of her days. She probably wondered if there was a heaven or happy place full of waiting dear friends, family, old pooches, and kittens.

I'm sure that though she couldn't open her eyes or speak, she could hear conversations near her bedside. Once she probably heard " failure to thrive" and while not understanding exactly what it meant, she knew it wasn't a good thing.

I now believe, Catherine decided to find the strength and occasion to say goodbye in a proper way before her fall from life. Too, she may have wanted someone to open the window so she might hear and smell the outside one last time. This would be unusual because in all her years she rarely requested much of anything from anybody. Years earlier, nurses and attendants were amazed by her humble and gentle ways. She apologized for any attention given by staff, and used please and thank you constantly. Her gentility wasn't a trick, but a genuine trait that was endearing to everyone in her world.

In her solitary state she may have pondered what she would say in her final sentence, and if she could summon the strength to open her eyes and speak one last time. Likely, she realized there could be no plan or preparation for the moment, but only hope that the Good Lord would give her the chance and energy.

On a hot July day quickly converted to thunderstorms,  Peggy, Charmaine and I visited. For weeks she had been nearly comatose, and we stopped trying to rouse her from her deep slumber. Not knowing her mental state or hearing ability we whispered words of encouragement and hopes that she would soon be in a better place, then we sat on each side of her bed. Other than the soft purr of her oxygen, the hollow tinkling of lunch trays echoing up and down the hallways, and the patter of rain outside, the room was quiet. Silently we watched our mother and grandmother. Individually remembering the caring and loving lady lying in the bed, we knew she was breathing her last hours and days of life.

After fifteen or twenty minutes of sitting, trading glances indicated our visit was nearing it's end. As was her custom, Charmaine bent over and softly kissed her grandmother and said, "I love you moo moo." Instantly, mom made a deep gurgling sound, opened her eyes which were still a soft blue, and weakly yet clearly said, "I love you too, please open the window."

We were amazed. As quickly as she had looked at us and spoke her eyes and lips closed. We opened the window and let the summer scent of rain flood into the room. We lingered for a few more minutes and left with tears in our eyes and an odd joy over her brief arousal. Later the next morning about 3 AM, I received the call that all children dread, but must someday receive.

For a long time I thought mom's brief awakening was a miracle or an extra ordinary event, but I finally decided that it was simply Catherine's way. We were happy for the moment and will never forget our dear mom and "moo moo."

                                                                       1921-2011

WALL STREET JOURNAL - DAILY REVELATIONS

While the WSJ generally favors the status quo of politics, every day it publishes new revelations about the corruption of Hillary Clinton and the two major political parties. It also beats down Donald Trump on a daily basis, but since he has no political record the criticisms are more speculative.

Clinton's ever shifting positions when dealings with Russia and the Middle East reveal an individual
comfortable with appeasement. Her incredible record of foreign deals resulting in huge speaking fees for her and Bill Clinton, and the incredible donations to the Clinton Foundation, beg the question of her self interest and enrichment "trumping" national interests.

The total destruction of Bernie Sanders and any Democratic Party opposition begs the question of super delegates and a rigged nomination system. The facts of leaked and sensitive national security e mails from her personal devices shows her poor judgement. Further, the absence of criminal justice from the FBI & DOJ probes clearly highlight the hand of Barrack Obama blocking any prosecution.

The WSJ may eventually endorse Clinton since it is a major part of the establishment and needs the stability of the status quo. But, some of it's writers and articles expose and explain on an impartial basis the history of her flip flops, self serving official actions, and political weakness. Unlike the slavish devotion to all things good about Clinton and universal hate for Trump reported daily in the New York Times, Washington Post, USA Today, and a vast majority of daily newspapers, the WSJ does offer a bit more balance to it's political reporting and opinion pieces.

I strongly recommend reading WSJ commentary and opinion pieces as a balance to the prejudiced views found in most print media.

    

WASHINGTON D.C. THE IDEAL AND REALITY

Washington D.C. is probably the worlds most powerful seat of government and it is a town of unique dimensions.

The federal district is a grid of powerful stone buildings set amid a leafy and watered landscape of immense beauty. Its imposing block structures house incredible museums and centers of governmental power. Immense green spaces and trees create a calming influence amidst all the traffic, memorials, and thick architecture. Washington D.C. is a place that vibrates with national pride and world class importance. It is among the globes leading tourist destinations and is a rite of passage visit for millions of young students.

But, this beautiful chunk of geography is so much more. It may be "the shining city on the hill" that Martin Luther King prophesied in his " I Have a Dream" speech. The city represents the essence of our Founding Father's best ideas for liberty. Concepts born and debated in our early history from  Philadelphia, Boston, Williamsburg, New York City and other cities and villages were hammered into history changing documents. Over the years the great laws of the land have been made more inclusive for women, all races, and ethnic groups. The three branched government of the USA has wisely provided for its citizens the most personal liberty and economic opportunity of any major nation in the world. For nearly 250 years our republic has survived numerous rogues and fools in The White House, Congress, and Supreme Court because we have a remarkable Constitution and set of laws. The classic "melting" pot of legal immigrants and engaged citizens has worked remarkably well. The District of Columbia embodies the ideals of the United States of America as reflected in The Constitution and Bill of Rights. This great city is a display and example which the world admires and many nations seek to copy.

However, it has a troubling and darker side.

The legions of bureaucrats that fill the halls of government have taken over too much governance of our daily lives. Because of their numbers and tons of annually generated regulations, the personal and economic freedom of everyone has been diminished. The government's highly unconstitutional goal to give "everyman" an equal share of the nation's treasure has produced mind boogling levels of micro management and a morass of laws counterproductive to everyones common good.

Feeding, clothing, housing, transporting, medicating, and caring for our poorest and neediest citizens was never a constitutional mandate, and has been a costly and failed federal project since the first  days of Social Security. Additionally, the governments intervention has destroyed the traditional family in many communities, and diminished the legitimate role of churches, families, charities, neighbors, and civic organizations.  Personal problem resolution and responsibility have been replaced by a government which can never be a father, mother, or "village" of concerned friends and neighbors despite trillions of dollars in social engineering schemes.

Managing education from Washington has resulted in a consistent decline in achievement within our elementary and secondary schools. Our international ranking is dreadfully low as federal education czars and their union allies universally resist decentralization and diversity in the ways we teach our children. For college students the federal loan system is a shameful disaster. The federal government sends money directly to the universities on behalf of students. This results in soaring tuition increases since Uncle Sam will pay anything and is unaccountable for its spending. Tuition inflation enriches colleges while bankrupting needy students. Many federal loan students leave school with crushing lifelong debts and degrees which in today's marketplace are often worthless.

From education, taxation, public transportation, veterans care, infrastructure, commerce, energy regulation, welfare, health care, and so many other pursuits the federal government has a consistent pattern of overspending, over regulation, and mission failure. National defense which is the principal and legitimate duty of the federal government per The Constitution is often subject to cutting to divert more funds to unconstitutional social programs. The darker side of Washington DC is its need for ultimate power in the lives and activities of its people. Unfortunately, this phenomena has grown over the decades by too many complacent, unaware, and non voting citizens. Drastic reform is needed to change and reduce the power and reach of many federal agencies. Additionally, individual states must recover the right and responsibility to manage many of their affairs without long distance mismanagement from Washington.

Another bad side of Washington D.C. is its ugly fringes where poverty, ignorance, and crime thrive and grow. The seedy seams surrounding the capital are ugly and dangerous places. Every city and town has its attractive face and nearby poor and crumbling fringes. Unfortunately, their existence might be a direct result of a Washington D.C. full of bureaucrats and politicians that believe programs sponsored by endless tax payer funds and tax hikes will solve deep seated social problems. We need city and town leaders strong enough to reform and educate individuals and support strong families rather then insist that more money will cure every community crisis. We need new national leaders bold enough to acknowledge past failed systems and procedures. We need these talented men and women to design and implement new schemes which will make America an exceptional nation again.

Washington D.C. will always reflect an image and certain reality that is the envy of many other nations of the world. However, looking past the marble monuments there are real problems with our federal government and in our communities. Unaddressed these ills will bruise and endanger the American brand and dream. In my opinion, it is about time we retire many incumbent politicians, fire incompetent civil servants, and take a chance with daring new national leaders.

     

BLUEBIRD AND THE BOY.

As he entered the dark enclosure, Anthony was bleeding sweat despite the chilled air of the stone chapel. He knelt and started, "bless me father for I have sinned ..."

The old priest behind the screen grunted, "OK, go ahead. " "I killed a bird and feel awful bad about what I did." "Did you shoot the bird to eat or because it was attacking you ?" " No father I shot it by accident. I was pointing for practice and I always miss, but this time I didn't."
"Are you sorry for what you did ?" "Oh yes father I am very sorry !"

Old Father Michael knew it was Anthony in the confessional. He knew the boy was a good kid despite the two times he surprised him and two other altar boys sipping altar wine in the sacristy. His confessions usually consisted of the typical sins; impure thoughts, lying, cusswords, and fighting  confessed by twelve year old boys. Father Michael could tell by Anthony's tone that this incident carried a heavy burden of hurt and guilt so he decided to take extra time before dispensing any advice or mandatory penance.

"So will you shoot birds again ?" " No, I was so upset I threw my pellet gun in the water when the bird died this morning." "What ?" "Well when I shot the bird and picked it up it's little eyes were fluttering and it was warm. Since I didn't see any blood I hoped it was just stunned. I took the bird home and placed it in a little box.  I thought if it was left in a dark quiet place it might come back to life. But, this morning I found the little thing was stiff and cold so I buried it and made a little cross for it's grave. Then, I threw my gun in the creek. " "Did you look at the critter before you buried it ? " "Yes". "What did you see ?" "Well the little bird was several shades of blue with a chest of orange and a belly of soft white feathers. It's wings and tail were perfectly shaped for flying. It's tiny legs ended in claws that were just right for picking seeds or berries, and its beak was smooth and sharp. It was very light so I knew it was a good flyer. Did my little bird go to heaven Father ?" Anthony was now weeping.

"Son, God makes many wondrous creatures. Each flying, swimming, walking, and creeping thing has  a unique set of traits and things to do in our natural world. The good Lord is the most perfect architect. He engineers and imagines all the birds, beasts and crawly things. However, his greatest creation was you and I. God made us with brains to reason and make decisions. And, he will forgive our errors and give us another chance to do good when we goof up, Are you are truly sorry ? I don't know if the bird you killed went to heaven. But, I do know God will forgive you. You've confessed your terrible mistake, expressed genuine sorrow, for killing, and promised to never harm another of God's creatures. Do you sincerely pledge to cause no harm to other creatures unless you are attacked or need food ?" "Oh yes Father I do." "Well then in the name of God I absolve you of this sin. "

"OK now get outta here and behave yourself." Anthony stammered, "but Father what is my penance ?" " Anthony, you learned an important lesson today so you don't need any Hail Mary's to recite. But, I do need you to fill in for Joey at the 10AM Mass tomorrow, and no drinking my wine !"

Anthony stepped from the confessional darkness with a red face realizing that Father Michael recognized him. But, he also felt the coolness of the church sanctuary, relief of his terrible sin being forgiven, and the hope the blue bird was happily tweeting in heaven.

   

REPUBLICAN TURNCOATS.

At the first Republican debate all the candidates were asked to raise their hand if they would support the eventual party nominee. The hands of all candidates immediately shot skyward except for Donald Trump. He wavered, but after scorn, badgering, and second thoughts finally agreed to support the party's selection.

After many debates and speeches Trump emerged the winner. 

In my opinion, it is disgraceful that past party luminaries such as McCain, Romney, and President Bush the Younger have publicly announced their plans to not attend the convention. If any of the failed Republican nominees withhold their support of Trump or do not attend the convention it will forever smear their reputations with dishonor.

Trump won the nomination without much help from establishment elephants or the likes of George Will and other snooty country club republicans. Trump simply won because he got the most votes of the American people and he worked harder and smarter than the other contenders.

While Democrats of every flavor including Bernie will support Hillary and bring all their graveyard and illegal immigrant votes to the polling stations, it's a damn shame republicans work so hard to defeat themselves. I wonder if too many republicans are more interested in being liked by the media and the Washington elites than supporting Trump.

Despite his continuing uphill battle, Trump will win for two important reasons.

First, a majority of Americans will chose the man with positive plans, a solid record of success, a sterling education, and a great family. Second, Hillary Clinton is the most dishonest and greedy nominee ever presented by any political party. Despite being a women, a majority of Americans will reject her plans to extend the Obama regime. Our Fall election will perfectly mirror the BREXIT vote in the United Kingdom in that all the media and self described experts will pick the incorrect outcome. Trump will win because Americans are fed up with failed domestic and foreign policy schemes and an executive that has divided the nation.

Republican turncoats will not change the outcome of the coming election, but simply reinforce the fact they were sore losers and more interested in their damaged pride than the best path forward for the nation.

BLM NEEDS A FEW "REAL" MEN

The Black Lives Matter organization misses it's message by a mile failing to recognize the thousands of black on black homicides which outnumber the isolated police related cases they choose to celebrate. Why don't they demonstrate in favor of the children, old people, and youths slaughtered night after night on the streets of America ?

Focusing on the very small number of white policemen killing black people is a tiny part of the violence plaguing the African American community. Despite the pre investigation proclamations of Obama, Holder, Jackson, Lynch, Clinton, and Sharpton, many of the racial bias charges against cops have proven to be bogus. However, the delicious race baiting scenario of white police officers at war against black men is a much easier cause then addressing the complex problems plaguing so many urban communities. Racist politicians love the BLM movement because it is a simplistic approach to a set of deep and complicated social problems. A few lousy cops along with a few lousy people from any profession or trade will always do evil. However, their actions cannot be made to represent the efforts of all policemen, lawyers,  politicians, doctors, retail workers or any other group of workers.

For too long black boys have been raised without good men to lead them from childhood to adulthood. In a disturbing number of situations, mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and sisters have been abandoned by black males unwilling to assume their parenting responsibility. Sadly, in some cockeyed federal assistance programs, financial incentives are even offered mothers without husbands. Until more good black men assume their role as fathers and mentors, a large number of  young black men will enter adulthood without the good influence of a father. Young men without fathers learn all the "traits" of being a "man" in the mean streets and from other misguided youth or gangbangers. The pattern of misguided young black men is truly an American tragedy.

Also, its time the Black Lives Matter people change their name. All Lives Matter includes policemen slain by deranged individuals and our military personnel killed and maimed doing their duty. All Lives Matter should include the lives of every life lost to violence and evil.  In my opinion, the BLM movement has undertones of racism and segregation when it excludes other American lives lost to violence.

A long time ago, over 600000 Americans of different races and national origins were killed in a Civil War. A chief reason for the terrible conflict and loss of life was to end human slavery. Their lives should matter as well as African Americans who suffered and died during our dark days of slavery, Jim Crow, and segregation. Also, the lives of Native Americans and Asian Americans should matter to everyone.

Black Lives Matter is a liberal political movement designed to highlight and profit from a small problem in our society. Those politicians and activists who live and profit from racial tension will support BLM because they are lazy and lack the courage to frankly address the deep seated problems within huge segments of our inner cities.

Don't look for any progressive politician to tell BLM and democrat big city mayors to address the heavy homicide rates within their communities when they can cheer on the narrowly focused  Black Lives Matter outfit.  As usual, their liberal progressive solution will be to shovel more money to corrupt politicos and agencies which specialize in wasting tax payer monies without any problem resolution. Also with roaring approval from BLM, racist pimp politicos, social preachers and other demagogues will blame white folks for all the ills of minorities while looking for a financial windfall.  
If black leaders national leaders and the BLM have a legitimate concern for black people, let them demonstrate with great emotion and fervor within the communities where black people are murdered night after night by other black people !

TIME TO QUIT THE UN ?

isn't it about time we booted the UN out of New York and stopped funding this useless organization ?

Many years ago it seemed a good idea to construct and host a world forum to promote dialogue between nations with different agendas and world views. However, given all the electronic advances with communication, easy global travel, and language ciphering, the United Nations is now unnecessary in my view. Also, the institution has become a haven for international elitists legitimizing many repressive world powers. On too many occasions, the UN has suffered causes and world leader fools which are counter to the American principles of liberty and capitalism. It is attempting to make more and more world laws which are counter to the ideals and goals of the United States and many other western democracies.

Simply stated, the United States has consistently funded an organization and given valuable real estate to something that has outlived its usefulness. In my opinion, it's "peace keeping" activities have rarely brought lasting harmony, and requiring US citizens to don the baby blue UN helmet is likely unconstitutional. Many foreign agents of the UN are charlatans, spies, and shady characters not worthy of the expense and attention.

We should recognize the overall waste of a UN mired in bureaucracy and corruption and send this freak show away from our shores. Can congress or the president make it an important part of their agenda to rid us of the UN and all its money grubbing and globalist tentacles.

To protect our culture, language, and borders let's send the UN packing, cutoff it's funding, and reclaim our valuable real estate in New York City.

WHAT AM I BECOMING ?

In odd mental spasms, daydreams, and nightmares I have experiences and memories I cannot explain. From periods of dim recognition to vivid images of a surreal world I float in uncertainty like a leaf spinning in a breeze, but never touching the ground.

In trying to understand, I wonder if I died, quit my human form and became other things. I vividly remember a bed, and my body wracked with pain followed by tranquility. Then came an empty darkness in which I floated for what seemed a long time. Did I die ?  Yet, I have visited serious illnesses, hospitalizations, and heavy medications many times. Next, I awake and see myself rising from slumber, bathing, and nibbling breakfast bits. Later, I sense myself pecking at the decomposed carcass of a deer along with other large winged creatures. I don't know why I eat the foul meat or squawk to maintain my feeding position. Then, I automatically lift off from oncoming traffic and flap into effortless flight. I have no knowledge or training as a scavenger bird that I recall, it was all a natural instinct. How did I become a buzzard when I remember waking earlier as a man ?

Another time, I distinctly recall incredible blackness with a steady dampness and an urge to push. I quietly shutter when other creatures burrow nearby fearing I might be their next meal. Then, without knowing why or how, my roots push a tiny green sprig through  the grounds crust to meet the nurturing sun and air. But, shortly before I experience being a plant, I distinctly recall toweling myself dry from a warm shower. Drifting from reality to dreamscapes is a queer and confusing situation. While it is not an entirely new encounter, the sharpness of detail, color, and flavors is considerably enhanced from earlier times.

A long time ago, I vaguely remember an oriental religion which taught the odd situation of people becoming other forms of life or creation after the demise of their human body. However, I assume if this ever occurred it would be a total transformation. In other words, if I was reincarnated a worm I would have no memory of ever being a man, and therefore suffer no human memories. If I have passed from human form to other forms of life, it is a disturbing experience to linger between the different realms.

Then there is the Catholic concept of purgatory. As I  recollect, it is a holding station for souls who need to atone for past wrongdoings. It is neither heaven or hell, but rather a cleanup station to get good enough to pass through the pearly gates. Maybe part of the purifying process is to experience other life forms with the memory of a former human shell.

I continue to eat, drink, interact, and emote as a human, but shutter off on a regular basis to bizarre states of being. Nothing hurts when I become a rock or butterfly, but the distraction can be dizzying. Honestly, the experience feels as real as the soothing glass of ten year old Madeira I finished ten minutes ago. Perhaps I am learning something from my fantastic journeys, but I'm not sure of the instruction. I have not sought any professional help because my experiences border on what might be considered madness by some, and I cannot bear the possibility of confinement.

I am not certain if I am evolving or devolving from one thing to another. Perhaps I have ascended or descended to dreaming the shadows of a dead man or feeding an insatiable imagination. But, for sure I am becoming something I have never been before.

ATTENTION RESTAURANT OWNERS .

Restaurant chieftans and other service industry big shots please consider my humble request. Teach  your employees a few better responses as they "serve" your patrons. I am tired of hearing " you guys", "youse guys", "no problem", "dudes" and other robotic responses when I dine. These rejoinders are not clever or endearing and should be removed from all employee training lectures and manuals. Slang speech has no place in the business world and this includes restaurants.

My spouse and I are retired folks and senior citizens. Neither of us are from New Jersey, New York, or California and "you guys" or "dudes" doesn't describe any station in life we have ever occupied. We find the terms not appropriate since we are not about to knock over a liquor store or rush out to surf some gnarly wave. When I thank an employee for a service or returning my credit card, "no problem" implies there might have been a problem. As a customer who might leave a tip, how could my "thank you" or the return of my credit card pose a problem ?

Soon robots and electronic gizmos may take over many service industry jobs and I doubt if slang language will be programmed.

As one who was once a restaurant manager, chief executive, and owner I know the hospitality industry is a tough business. Getting employees to work on time, sober, correctly attired, and freshly bathed is a daily challenge. Also, restaurant employees contend with a variety of guests ranging from good folk to jerks, and their job can be stressful and maddening. However, employees should be schooled to speak words like "thank you", "good evening", "hello", "yes sir",  or "yes ma'am" to people who are obviously not dudes or guys.

Casual dining does not mean addressing all customers with droll phrases which many may find offensive, impersonal or downright silly. Like, like ... you know !

        

DEMOCRATIC PARTY MOSH PIT

The increasing violence of Trump protesters is a serious wound to reasoned arguments the Democratic party might have with the candidacy of Donald Trump.

The coalition of rent a mob, paid, and aimless rioters help Trump and hurt the cause of Clinton and Sanders. Most Americans recognize and respect political differences, but they shun unreasoned violence because it's goals of destruction and anarchy serve no useful purpose. Whoever motivates and funds the madness of protesters burning, looting, and assaulting at Trump rallies must know their misguided efforts are counter productive to defeating the republican nominee.

Whatever ones political inclination, the silly and senseless antics of the democratic mosh pit is a distraction from the ebb and flow of the political process. Local police and political leaders must soundly deal with the disruptions despite their political inclinations. Clinton and other Dem party leaders must soundly condemn the violence of the fringe elements or suffer further declines in their electability. Blaming Trump for Trump riots is a limp response from anti Trump candidates.

When dangerous and mindless people disrupt peaceful political assemblies we have an emergency that must be corrected. Whether one supports progressive, liberal, conservative, or libertarian politics we must realize that gangs bent on mayhem are not good for any candidate.

     

CAN MONEY ALONE SAVE THE VETERANS ADMINISTRATION ?

A recent Wall Street Journal article was headlined " Money Can't Cure What Ails Veteran Affairs " and it is sadly true. According to the article the VA employee roster of 365,000 employees and new budget request of 180 billion isn't providing timely and efficient medical services for our veterans.

In his article, Mr. Anthony Principi, former secretary of Veterans Affairs, cites the incredible growth in staffing and budget outlays for the Veterans Administration over the last few years. Since 2004 he reports a 55% increase in VA staffing, and since 2009 an 86% increase in funding. These numbers are alarming considering the continued mission failures and scandals within the organization. Despite the natural inclination of many politicians and federal bureaucrats, it is apparent that more money and staffing does not necessarily improve things managed by the government.

Mr. Principi lists four initiatives that he feels will improve the Veterans Administration and there may be some merit in his recommendations. However, I find it curious that after his four year stint as the leader of the VA he becomes the "man with a plan" to fix the organization he once headed. Why didn't he implement these reforms while he was the VA secretary ? Mr. Principi is now with a cushy "government relations" firm and magically becomes the expert on VA reform ? While I'm sure Mr. Principi is a person of good intentions, his declarations bear the hollow sound we hear from so many ex government big wigs turned experts.

The VA is an organization with a noble mission populated by thousands of dedicated people, but something remains fundamentally wrong. I believe the problem is one of leadership and too much government. Everything in Washington DC is political and the Veterans Administration is above all a political bureaucracy. It is not an efficient organization in the business of delivering health care services. In my opinion, the best and most innovative health care in the United States has always been and will remain profit motivated organizations.

For too long political leaders have duped Americans into believing that the simple commodities of money and manpower lead by some political appointee could fix any problem. The combination of resources without the special  leadership inspired by the profit motive consistently fail to deliver desired goals. The legendary icons of successful invention and innovation are rarely borne from the self serving bureaucrats that occupy so much power in the federal government.

Despite unlimited resources has the federal government reduced or eliminated poverty ? How does our government subsidized AMTRAK compare with the trains of Japan or Europe ? Is the Obama inspired national health care scheme better than the traditional system we have been forced to abandon ? Why are our federally mandated systems of public education producing test scores well below world standards ?

In my opinion, the bottom line to what ails the VA is the same disease that frustrates the progress of our nation and it's citizens. Simply stated, we have too much federal government and politicians that proclaim more government to solve the problems of too much government !  The capitalist for profit sector or at least local government could easily do a better job. Washington DC legislative gridlock, mind boggling legions of government bureaucrats, and the incredible maze of federal laws must be curtailed if the VA or USA is to survive.

I am a disabled veteran and the son of a dearly departed 100% disabled veteran. I have seen the VA degenerate over the years because of politicians and federal employees more interested in their reelection or job advancement than veterans. In my opinion, the solution to reforming the VA and so many functions of our government is less government and more private sector involvement. Capitalism and personal liberty made America great and a resurgence and renewed reliance in this dynamic duo will cure "what ails" the Veterans Administration.