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.

                

ICELAND - NATURES NORTHERN WONDERLAND.

Recently I checked off an item on my bucket list with an eight day journey to Iceland. To share my adventure I guested Corbin, my twenty one year old grandson.

We explored the geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, lava fields, caves, countryside, and black volcanic sand beaches of Vik during our stay. Remarkably, Iceland is where the moving continental plates which divide North America and Europe exist. It also has Europe's tallest waterfall, largest glacier and desert. While the temps remained in the 5-9 C degree range, it was far from a wasteland of ice. The people were warm, the Icelandic ponies friendly, and while the land was sparse of trees, evergreens and some hardy flowers were in early May bloom.

We ate lamb soup, cod, lobster, monk fish, lamb chops, and the unique hot dog of Iceland made of lamb. We did not dare sample the fermented shark, horse meat, whale, or puffin dishes. We enjoyed the local brews of Gull and Viking beer. We took boat excursions to see humpbacks, dolphins, minke whales, seals, and a wondrous variety of airborne creatures including the curious puffins. We soaked in the Blue Lagoon and shivered when we had to exit the volcanically warmed pools. We enjoyed the 18-19 hours of May daylight and motored many kilometers through the hills and valleys encountering sparse traffic. Combined, Corbin and I snapped nearly 3000 photos of the countryside, seaside villages, and Reykjavik. Around every corner, mile after mile,  photo opportunities popped up like huge colorful postcards. Much of the landscape looked like an alien moonscape or sets from a Hobbit or Game of Thrones production.

In Reykjavik we visited museums, pubs, and the working waterfront crammed with fishing vessels and pleasure craft. We enjoyed a satirical performance of the Viking Sagas at the magnificent Harp Performing Arts Center. Two incredibly talented players gave an irreverent review of seventy five Sagas in seventy five minutes with audience participation from Corbin and others. We browsed the capital city's premier thrift store and walked blocks and blocks along the colorful harbor. We found Kringlan Mall with it's 150 stores which was a pleasant flashback to our enclosed shopping malls of a few years ago. Iceland has a total population of three hundred thousand with two thirds of it's population living in Reykjavik and it's suburbs. Tourism is a booming business with nearly a million visitors in 2014 up from only eighty thousand in 1980. However, commercial fishing remains the island nations number one industry. The best travel deals are during their fall/winter and shoulder seasons. Peak tourist time occurs between June and September. Their route #1 is an 800 mile circuit around the entire island, but we barely trekked more than 100 miles to the east, west, and north in our travels.

Most Icelanders speak English. We mingled easily with the locals and vacationing folks from Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Caribbean. While I never quite mastered the five speed manual transmission of our rental, the metric system, the krona conversion rate or endless roundabouts, we got along just fine in our explorations. Iceland Air provided a smooth five and a half hour nonstop flight out of Dulles and return flight from Keflavik .

An outstanding May adventure I'd recommend to anyone who enjoys dressing in layers, hiking a bit, and having a good supply of krona coins and bills.

TRUMP WILL WIN AGAIN

Donald Trump or someone with his principles and charisma will win the White House in 2024. 

First, he adopted the politically incorrect phrase, "Make America Great Again." This catch line has aroused the sleepy silent majority, and echoed the populist and nationalist appeal of Ronald Reagan. "Make America Great Again" reminds many that while Biden is not a world class economic and military leader, we can return to this leadership to the USA with our votes in 2024. Also, the tag line suggests we need not be a follower and have the energy for new greatness as a people and union of states. Trump has reminds Americans the USA can again be the world's beacon of personal liberty and economic freedom and maintain a strong military presence.

Trump was not a card carrying republican, democrat, libertarian, or socialist. The majority of Americans are ready to re-elect someone not under the hypnotic influence of one political party. He is a political "pragmatist" and, has used and, will use highly politicized individuals and groups to meet his goals. The ongoing gridlock of the elephants and donkeys may finally be shattered by Donald Trump. He will continue to un clutter the bureaucracy and deliver more efficient domestic and diplomatic initiatives. This man has abundant energy, enthusiasm and business sense. As an incredibly successful entrepreneur he will continue to wisely and boldly negotiate with any domestic or foreign entity to reach the goals of his America First agenda.

Finally, Trump has a non political background and is a true independent. In campaigning he uses much of his own money and will continue to donate his federal salary to worthy causes. He has no political favors to repay supporters. He often speaks without a tele promoter and often from the heart. Biden, on the other hand, is probably at some stage of dementia. While he sometimes displays a crudeness and toughness which many find unattractive, his speech and manner sends a message of passion and love for his country. Also, he is unafraid of the media, political intelligentsia, foreign potentates, Hollywood, and all their opinions. As a very rich and highly educated person, his drive is surely to reach a personal goal, but also to re establish the economic and political greatness of our republic.

At this juncture, despite a Joe Biden presidency, left murder/mayhem in the streets, the China virus, and a thin democrat edge in Congress, I believe Trump or his protegee will soundly defeat any Biden, Obama, Soros appointed and paid for far left candidate.

America again someone who isn't a career politician. Someone ornery and tough as a "junkyard dog" who has been highly successful. Someone with balls to shake things up in Washington. Beware establishment slugs, bureaucrats, democrat/socialist politicians and lobbyists. Trump or Trump II will be around in 2024 !

    

REDOS - ONE

Since turning seventy, I have spent a lot of time reflecting on the past twenty five thousand days of my life. As the decades pile up and fewer decades are on the horizon is it a normal older person activity to ponder the past ?  At any rate, I would be less than honest if I didn't admit some errors and regrets in my many years. Most of the errors and regrets will remain my own damn business, however in my final lap there is one haunting item I will share.

Since my boyhood times I have loved to read and attempt the magic of placing words into coherent messages and stories. As a little kid after lights out, I enjoyed reading encyclopedias with a flashlight underneath the blanket in bed. This curosity was heightened when my grandmother introduced me to stamp collecting. So much history and geography on tiny bit s of paper. I marveled at how words revealed the story of faraway places, famous people, and history. As a schoolboy, I found the downtown Portsmouth Public Library a palace brimming with thousands of books of words and pictures. I considered all libraries gold mines of information and knowledge. As I got older, my dream envisioned me as a coming great American writer. I was confident that I would someday amaze the world with volumes of meaningful literature.

Unfortunately, despite many sparks of imagination and a decent vocabulary, I was a very poor student. My interest in the mechanics of writing always lagged behind my excitement to plunge into writing projects. My working knowledge and execution of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure was terrible. My mailbox overflowed with rejection notes for my crappy work. My enthusiasm and dreams waned as I got older. The basic needs of life and a boomer's scramble to get lots of things pushed my literary aspirations into the sunset. Eventually, my writing fizzled to self centered poetry and political letters to the editor. At mid life, I participated in a number of university literature and writing courses, but never quite got the knack of framing my stories into readable things. 

I still admire and read a wide spectrum of writing from the likes of Chaucer, Shakespeare to E.E. Cumming and Hemingway. However, I realize my opportunity at writing success and recognition have passed. While I continue to write, it is increasingly difficult since I am easily distracted.  Haunting is the realization that my shortcomings are my own damn fault. I sometimes imagine the scene from "On The Waterfront" when Marlon Brando pleads with his brother, "... I could've been somebody .. I could've been a champion...". I'm that Brando, but my pleading isn't to a brother in the backseat, it's to a mirror with me looking back.

While I did pen a book, Humble Hero (Amazon 2018) and participate in daily twitter and blog forums, I could've been a much better wordsmith. So, if I had a life redo, it would've been being a  more serious student of writing mechanics when my young mind was most receptive to learning.  While I enjoy the art of music, sculpture, and painting my greatest admiration will always be for the effective writer. Those capable of successfully communicating ideas, emotions, and stories will always be my artistic champions.   

      

ALWAYS DOUBLE CHECK THE TALKING HEADS...

Freedom of the press to many means lying and that coupled with gullible readers has lead, and will lead, to many falsehoods and misunderstandings about what DJT is actually saying or thinking. The "gotcha", tricky and entrapment questions are standard practices for many in the left wing of the press corps.

The slightest misstatement or incorrectly turned phrase by Trump is often used in the media business to cause controversy. Headlines with blaring accusations and unnamed sources help sell more print and television ads. It's a common ploy to reach shocking conclusions while ginning up more media revenue. No matter the real story, facts or truth, many in the mainstream media or political establishment are more interested in producing sizzling headlines. Sadly, the traditional and responsible practice of journalism is nearly dead.

Too many citizens gobble up headlines and allow unverified headlines to settle as truth without ever checking for critical evidence.  We have become attuned to believing instant news at first blush without checking sources or the full story. Dear readers, question everything, demand sources and verifiable statistics before accepting any of those "breaking news" reports.

Many in the media attempt 24/7 to make Trump a liar, fool, criminal or worse.  Voters and citizens who care about choosing the best candidate or uncovering the truth would be wise to check news sources, context, and full statements before jumping to an emotional conclusion.

Keep in mind that talking heads, nerdy political analysts, and pollster pundits often want to create sizzling "news" rather than report facts. Too many want to become the next Woodward, Bernstein or Uncle Walter and some won't let facts, fairness or truth stand in their way.

  

CHOOSE OR LOSE

The votes are in. Trump will likely be the republican nominee for president and Hillary will stumble into the democratic nomination unless she is sent to jail.

Americans of all political inclinations will have a choice in November; vote another four years of democratic party progressive socialism or choose a pragmatist who wears a republican party badge. Clinton will surely defend and promote the Obama agenda and more since Sanders forced her to  move farther to the left. Trump who has a habit of using both major political parties and the media to forge his record of business successes will "Make America Great Again" by all legal means and his remarkable deal making acumen.

In my opinion,  Americans are weary of both "established" political parties which are perpetually fat on promises, but skinny on getting things done. It is finally dawning on most citizens that the number one priority of politicians is to get enough money and influence to be re elected over and over again. The "established" parties have built fiefdoms and complicated rules that negate the popular votes of  people and replace their interests with the best interests of the "party."

Career politicians, brainy political analysts, pollsters, and media executives are scared of Bernie Sanders, Donald Trump, and Ted Cruz because their visions of America lie outside the box of conventional politics. Until election day we should expect faux polls, scary predictions, and every manner of mischief heaped upon the head of any candidate other than the choice of the "establishment." Any of the three as President would upset the apple cart and power structure of the "establishments" which have controlled America for decades.

Hopefully, this presidential election will destroy the two "party" system in favor of candidate Trump who is a pragmatist bent on getting things done to get "America First." Perhaps the new direction for American politics will be individuals with positive plans for the nation rather than blind devotion to a political party. I believe beyond his blemishes, Donald Trump's nationalism, populism, and genuine devotion to America represents a sorely needed fresh wind of change which will re energize all citizens. Also, Trump will remind our foreign neighbor nations of our military, moral, and economic power. Patriotism, populism, and love of country are admirable traits for anyone assuming the presidency. Voters embracing these ideals are not knuckle dragging, un educated, gun toting boobs as liberal politicians and left leaning media big wigs would have you believe.

In November voting citizens must choose between a vote for the ho hum status quo of the last eight years or vote for something different and slightly apolitical. The incredible deal making abilities, strength of character, and impressive career of success should make Trump a good choice. He could become the first president in a very long time entering the White House without a pocketful of IOU's from money donors and lobbyists. With superior negotiating skills he has an excellent chance of  bringing domestic and international parties to common goals.

Those with a visceral dislike of the Donald must realize their "stay at home" or no vote adds a vote for Hillary Clinton. Now is the time for all republicans and the millions of disaffected democrats to change the political landscape of our fine nation and shake up the political "establishment."

     

PICKLE TREES AND MORE

The children were stumbling in the darkness chasing lightning bugs when Uncle Floyd called, "Now come on in 'fore you step on a copperhead." Giggling and clutching baby jars of fireflies, Mary Elizabeth, Toby, and Sonny bounced up the steps to the planked porch. "You kids need to bed down  before your momma and daddy get home." In unison the children shouted "no, no, no, tell us a story first ... please." Floyd replied, "OK, hush up and set them bugs free so they can get back to their home." He liked to tell the children stories and seemed at ease with his niece and nephews.

Floyd Culpepper wandered from West Virginia to Florida forty years earlier seeking a new life. He got a new way , but never a wife, any children or an automobile. But, he got around just fine on his green bicycle which was now more rust colored than green. He had a few friends, but was content to keep to himself. He did little jobs around the county to pay for his rent and food. Over the years, he had been a gardener's helper, busboy, orange picker, fisherman, and many other things. Now Floyd wasn't stupid or simple, he just preferred his life without complications. He always said that he liked being plain more than fancy. Sometimes he sincerely admitted that in eight years of schooling he had "learned all the letters and numbers" any man needed to know.

He left home at fourteen after his farming father died suddenly and his mother allowed a neighbor man to share her bed. He didn't like the man, and without telling anyone he left one frosty morning. He didn't take much and only had a few dollars when he left before the sun got above the nearby hills. He left three sisters, two brothers, his momma, and the new man he disliked. Later he learned that  Bill Jenkins eventually married his mother and became a prosperous salesman. His family got a nicer house and a good running Ford station wagon. All his brothers and sisters got proper educations, and his baby sister Mandy Lee graduated from Virginia Tech. He sometimes regretted never saying a proper goodbye to his kin, and got a little bit of the "blues" missing his mommas final years.

Floyd hitch hiked and walked his way south. It took him several months on the road before he landed in a place where it was warm morning, noon, and night. He liked Florida. Sometimes he wondered about home and the family he had left so many years earlier. But, Floyd was usually too busy with odd jobs and watching television at night to worry much about the past. His favorite shows were the cartoons and sitcoms. Cartoons reminded him of being a child, and he liked the thirty minute stories with happy endings when everybody ended up friends.

The children quickly got dressed for bed. Floyd was gently squeaking in the porch rocker when they curled around his feet like kittens cuddling close to a mother cat. "Ready for a story",  he asked, and they all shouted "yeah." Floyd was happy beyond belief that Mandy Lee and Tom had gotten teaching jobs and accidentally found him when they moved to Florida. In the few months since their arrival, he got caught up on all the news and gossip from back home. Floyd felt a bit reconnected to his younger days after conversations with Mandy Lee.

"Tonight I'm goin' to tell y'all about the pickle tree my granny had in her backyard". Mary Elizabeth chortled a long, "aw", while the boys groaned, "no way." Floyd continued, "now be quiet so I can tell this story best I can remember". The chatter became muffled as he began his bedtime tale.

"Not long ago, before modern times and pollution set in, there were many wondrous things that don't exist anymore. In the forests back home the old folks often talked about polka dotted bears, trees that talked as plain and proper as you and me, and white deer that could fly. I never saw any polka dot bears or flying deer, but I do remember being in the woods all alone one night and hearing the oaks whispering. Best I could gather they were talking about a coming storm. Also back then, Easter Bunnies laid chocolate, candied, and colored hard boiled eggs for Easter Sunday. They were jumbo sized hoppers with powder blue or pink fur and big cotton colored tails. These big fellas evidently didn't like their little cousins, and chased the smaller tan and gray rabbits whenever one came close. " The boys softly intoned "naw" but continued to listen.

"Well my favorite thing, I'll never forget, was my grandma's garden and orchard of beautiful trees. In the rocky soil on the hillside behind her cabin, she mixed in chicken and horse poop with the dirt, and grew very large vegetables and the most tasty things in her orchard." All the children snickered at the word "poop", but kept their eyes fixed on Floyd as he continued. " In the garden she had tomatoes as big as watermelons, and melons dern near the size of a burn barrel. In the orchard, there was a peanut tree with pods containing huge cashews and redskin peanuts. Another shrub  grew little chocolate coated raisins, but my favorite tree was the one that grew pickles. It was very unusual. On the same great tree fat and juicy kosher pickles grew right beside little skinny gherkins. In the summer the pickles emerged after huge sweet smelling purple flowers blossomed. I loved those pickles the best, and no matter how many I picked there were always more the next day. Nothing better in the summer than a frosty Nehi orange or grape soda and a handful of them delicious pickles.

Granny could never explain why her garden things got so big or why different kinds of peanuts and pickles grew on the trees. Nobody had ever seen such things. The county agent and a school teacher just shook their heads when they saw what granny was growing. After friends and family got all they wanted, she sold jars and baskets full to folks passing along our road. Yeah, it was a wonderful time  when I was a kid and had pickles ... "

Looking close, Floyd noticed the three babies were softly purring and asleep. Gently he toted each one inside, laid them to rest, and gave each a butterfly kiss.

Satisfied with his story telling Floyd lumbered back to the front porch. There he settled into the rocker and breathed in the sweet night air. For a few minutes he enjoyed the chorus of crickets, tree frogs, hoot owls, and other night creatures speaking to their own or their forest neighbors. Then, listening carefully to the tree branches and palm fronds rubbing and scraping in the wind he daydreamed. Guided by his best memories he relaxed as his eyes fluttered to the place of dreams.

When Mandy and Tom drove up they found Floyd snoring with an unusually wide smile stretched across his sun burnt and creased face.

CELEBRITY WATCH PARTY 2020

Let's keep a record of all the celebrities who promise to leave the country when Donald Trump and other republicans are re-elected after the 2020 elections. Can someone report them by name and image the day after election day ? And how many, as they solemnly swore, actually did leave our great nation after Trump won in 2016 ?

Every election season, scores of liberal Hollywood/celebrity types decide their vision of America is crushed if republicans win national elections. They somehow think their opinions matter and will influence other voters, but they really don't. Like grumpy children, when elections don't go their way they promise to crawl off to another part of the world.

When Trump is re-elected, I hope someone will remind the nation about these shallow play actors and talking heads and their promises to depart the USA. All of us have moments of mistakes, hypocrisy and silliness which we usually regret. However, many celebrities gleefully spout their prejudices and political ignorance every election cycle and never admit their errors. Like the "unbearable" bores they are will these hypocrites ever do what they solemnly promise ?

ESTABLISHMENT HUMBUGS

I am fed up with "establishment" politicians and media gangs that have plagued this election season.

For being outside the box of conventional politics, Trump, Sanders, and Cruz have been savaged by the powers that hold political and broadcasting power. We are told repeatedly that these specific men are dangerous for America. Also, supporters of these political mavericks are consistently labeled as rednecks, ruffians, fools, racists, dreamers, and illiterates by the talking head royalty of the broadcast universe and their political handlers.

The "establishment" that is Washington DC with it's smarmy web of bureaucracies is being threatened. Their struggle to maintain power and the status quo of ineffective government is being defended by both incumbent officeholders and media hacks. Day after day, new polls and media soothsayer's pop out of the woodwork, prophesying all manner of hell if a non establishment type becomes president. I reject their forecasts and polling projections, and rely on the actual votes of my fellow citizens.

I prefer Trump the ultimate pragmatist. He has never worn the shackles of any specific political party, but uses them all to achieve his goals. He handles the media like a puppet master. His track record glistens with more success than failure and he is not beholding to any moneyed donor or PAC. I believe his "Make America Great Again" slogan comes from the heart, and aside from a few personal distasteful traits, he is gifting his immense energy and enthusiasm to a country he loves.

I respect Cruz because his message is outside the world of current political speak. I admire his strong constitutional positions and courage among his congressional peers. However, he generally lacks sufficient voter support and enthusiasm to win this time around. Someday, perhaps 2020 or 2024, in a better educated America a more charismatic Cruz will bring the nation closer to it's constitutional roots.

While I greatly dislike the socialist message of Bernie, I respect his honesty in believing a totally failed brand of socialism can cure all our problems. He has uncommon energy and has enlivened millions of young people in the political process. Hopefully, as his young admirers mature they will realize the fraud and silliness that is socialism.

I believe our "greatest fear" at this time should be the combined evil force of established politicians and media forces. They thrive and profit in a chaotic America where social, economic, and political differences are enhanced and deepened by political cowards and their fawning broadcast buddies. They currently hold the power and will demonize, slash and burn any presidential hopeful that does not conform to their rules. If necessary, they will rewrite convention rules to fulfill their plans, and reject popular voting as a means of candidate selection.

Our future with Hillary Clinton or a republican consensus branded president will be a continuation of ineffective American domestic and foreign policy. Our nation will continue it's slide from greatness to some bad place of Euro lameness and weakness. Trump, Cruz or Sanders may not be our ultimate savior, but their freshness on the big stage of presidential politics may begin the needed reform our political system desperately needs.

             

HOW REPUBLICANS AND TRUMP WIN 2020.

Now is the time for all flavors of republicans, independents and disillusioned democrats to unite behind Donald Trump. Their chief goal must be to stop liberal, progressive, and socialist policies which have, in the past,  seriously damaged our economy, made our past foreign policy laughable, and slammed capitalism and the constitution at every turn.

Slammed and universally blamed by the media for the Chinese virus and civil unrest after the Floyd incident, Trump has met the challenges with calm, reserve and common sense. With his leadership we will survive and see a renaissance in our economy and good health in 2021 and beyond. Democrat socialists and their media cheerleaders are maximizing fear and attempting to extend the criis for their political advantage, but thgey will fail. 

Trump must unite all Americans. Bad hair, arrogance, flippant tweets, and rudeness aside, his hard work and perseverance must be rewarded in a 2020 re election from all republicans and disaffected democrats. His anti establishment, pragmatic approach, and successes since 2016 to Make and Keep America Great are remarkable especially given the constant hate campaign from the DC swamp and their mainstream media puppet masters.  Even when he falters, his presidency has been a damn sight better than the Obama/Biden/Hillary cabal and the current 2020 roster of mediocre far left loons.

Donald Trump needs to bring his republican rivals and friends together. He needs to tone down the  derogatory pet names and insults he sometimes slings at opponents. While remaining the party's lion, he must become a listening lamb, and gain political strength from the party and all it's members. Trumps ability to negotiate deals and fulfill campaign promises must again win the day with his adversaries and key republicans who have too often sat on the sidelines waiting for his implosion. Trump will soon become the "establishment" and as such he must deal with the old establishment biggies so they can become allies and support his agenda. Ideologically inclined constitutional, tea party, independents, republicans and reasonable democrats must realize their support for Trump saves the nation from socialism, more taxes and less liberty.

Bernie, Joe, WarrenPelosi, Schumer,  and the Clintons are losers lacking the charisma, energy and imagination to propel the economy to greater heights while confronting all our foreign policy challenges. A dim party 2020 administration would plunge America back into another costly round of progressive policies which stifle the economy, weaken our military, increase taxes, and threaten our national defense.

While Trump may not be every Americans ideal choice, he has put "exceptional ism" back into our vocabulary. It is an apt description of how his enthusiasm, passion and love of country have lifted the nation and citizens out of the inertia of the Obama/Biden/Clinton years. Finally, he is getting global recognition as a distinguised world leader with two Nobel Peace Prize nominations and an administration that seeks to bring troops home and not start more unnecessary wars. 

Forget the polls, lefty pundit and media hate and hype. Trump and more republicans can win in 2020 if they unite behind his impressive record of achievement and display the courage and energy to lay bare  the weaknesses and failures of democrats.

VOTING ZOMBIES ?

Why do so many Jewish, Latino and black Americans consistently vote for democrats ? Biden has proclaimed, " you ain't black if ya' don't vote democrat" and the Black Congressional Caucus, NAACP and BLM demand black people must always vote for democrats. WHY ? 

This pattern is so predictable, and all donkey candidates take black votes for granted. Dem/Socialist candidates know it's as predictable as tomorrow's sunrise. Democratic Party candidates for mayor, governor, congress and the presidency usually recite the same grievances and the same pandering promises. 

They paint republicans and other political opponents as racists, mean, and uncaring of their fellow human beings. Corporations and the rich people are portrayed as evil. The fact that corporations and rich citizens provide the capital and innovation to create jobs and prosperity is dismissed by those on the left. Dem's always promise more free government stuff, and relief from the stresses of modern life by promising bigger and more government handouts and programs. 

The likes of Biden, Harris, fake Pocahontas, Bernie, BLM and ANTIFA pander to fear and radical ideas to secure endorsements, campaign bucks, and precious votes. To them promising everything to everybody with no clear track record of past successes is OK. 

LBJ's "Great Society" promised an end to poverty and after trillions of taxpayer dollars accomplished nothing, but it seemed to lock in votes for life from many in minority communities.  Despite their fraud, their tricks are used every election cycle and always work as amazing numbers of black, Jewish, and minority voters seem to robotically support democrat candidates. 

In more recent times, Clinton pledged and delivered a sweeping anti-crime bill with the promise for thousands of new cops and creative schemes to reduce violence. However, major cities such as Chicago, Baltimore, New Orleans, Los Angeles, St. Louis, Memphis, New York, Minneapolis, Seattle and many other "blue" governed cities continue to suffer more "black on black crime", murders, homelessness and poverty. Likewise, Obama deflated our personal liberties with his pandering initiative of Obamacare which didn't lower health costs and became another giant government sponsored failure. Biden omics was the latest progressive flop.  

Every social or economic problem which a democrat POTUS tries to fix gets worse. The result is always higher taxes and more laws for corporations and tax paying citizens. Democrats are the champions for simple answers to complex problems and too many well-intentioned citizens become voting "ZOMBIES" on election day. Many want to believe in the promises or vote out of family tradition or peer pressure. Why do so many Democrats leaders happily rule over the dirtiest, most crime ridden cities and states in the nation and get reelected every voting cycle? 

Today, democrat/socialists and progressive candidates are repeating the same old siren song.  Free college, bust up the banks, tax the hell out of the rich, create a huge national minimum wage, open the borders to everyone, and throw in a treasure chest of freebies to illegal immigrants and non-working healthy citizens. The contest seems to focus on who can promise the freest stuff while billing Wall Street, rich folks, and the quiet industrious citizens who work and pay taxes. Sad truth is on election day, too many voters will again be suckered into voting for a bag full of empty Democratic Party promises sprinkled with a boatload of republican hate rhetoric. And most media will repeat the falsehoods in their "news" and commentaries.

Al Sharpton, Maxine Waters, Jesse Jackson, members of The Black Congressional Congress, NAACP and BLM consistently remind black people that America is not a good deal. They seek to divide America while making a handsome personal profit out of their negative messaging. They are race profiteers and will continue their reign until black people shut them down.

 In the fifties and sixties great civil rights leaders such as Rosa Parks, Medgar Evers, and Martin Luther King changed America with their nonviolent initiatives. Today, we have a great number of fair minded Republican political leaders of color. However, our nation still has too many black apologists, crybabies and cowards who condone and even encourage violent acts of civil disobedience. Some boldly threaten to leave America if a Republican is elected, but few ever do. 

The gang of "woke" influencers set a negative example to impressionable young people and those unable or unwilling to make a reasoned voting decision. Deep down most influential black, minority and woke leaders know American is the country offering more personal liberty and economic opportunities than any major nation on the face of the earth. These leaders are living proof of America's greatness, yet they want to keep black people and minorities enslaved on the Democratic Party plantation of failed promises.

We should not return or imagine our present is anything nothing close to the days and experiences of Nat Turner, 1822, The Civil War, carpetbaggers, KKK and Jim Crow times. In today's real world we must recognize the progress and success of a diverse nation and build a better future for our children and grandchildren. While choosing a candidate it would be helpful to consider all the past Democratic Party sponsored programs that have failed. Also, it might be advisable to step away from the "establishment" of career politicians and consider leaders who owe no favors to any donors or political parties.

Jewish voters must understand that America is Israel's greatest ally, and our nation has a long and honored Judeo-Christian tradition.

Hispanic voters who have earned their citizenship and worked hard to achieve their better life don't want illegal southern aliens. They understand the Biden/Harris open border policies are a scheme to enlist more democratic voters. 

Donald Trump and other pragmatic leaders who have been successful, and truly want all Americans to be great and enjoy the opportunities of a capitalist republic deserve your serious consideration and vote. Look beyond Trump's ego, yellow hair, rudeness, and bombast, and you see a man who has worked and wanted to "Make America Great" for all citizens since 2016. He has suffered a Biden scheme of "government lawfare" and even taken a bullet. Yet, he perseveres. 

Value your precious vote and consider all the unfilled and empty promises of democratic/socialist/progressive politicians since the days of Lyndon Johnson. Resist the tendency to surrender your votes out of habit, family tradition or peer pressure. Reject the bias of your TV "newscasters" and entertainment favorites. 

Do the right thing with your constitutional right to vote and don't be a "ZOMBIE" voter in 2024. 

           

SHINY BITS OR SHOOTING STARS ?

Walking along it occurs to me the habit of looking up or looking down may be a profound statement about our short trip through life.

Seeking shiny bits along the pathway is a chance our downward glance might stumble upon  something of value. As a child we celebrated the discovery of a random coin found in the dirt. It became a pleasurable signal to buy a candy or soda. Older, the realities of life may have required looking down to find more tidbits of prosperity or happiness. The world can present a complex and tough road and seeking fulfillment from tangible things close at hand may satisfy and calm the appetite and souls of many, but is it lasting ?

However, looking up can be exhilarating and scary in the same breath. The deep blue sky and wispy clouds can be a fantasy where nothing is certain and yet anything is possible. We may dream impossible schemes as our eyes focus on the heavens and stars of day and night. Physical security and sensory satisfaction may elude us as our musing seeks the shooting stars of hope and imagination. By looking up we may stumble along life's roadway and miss material rewards.

The real world is a hostile place for the dreamers. While those persistently looking down may be the pragmatists who keep the real world in a whirling state of order or chaos while the dreamers are the chance for mankind's better future.

TRUMP - MY OPINION

In my opinion.

Donald Trump will continue to endure crowd disruptions, scathing criticisms, and wholesale condemnations until this election cycle is finished. Sadly, many of the brickbats and attacks will come from establishment republicans, their paid henchmen, and lobbyists. This is because he is an outsider and pragmatist more than a member of any political gang. This has scared establishment politicians to practically wetting their pants. The career of Trump is one of doing deals, getting things done, and winning. He has used both republicans and democrats in his real world business pursuits and accomplishments. Also, to his considerable credit he has no fear of the media, any financial puppet masters, or political big wigs. He has reignited the "silent majority" and Tea Party movement with his pledge and slogan, "Make America Great Again". His sincerity in this appeal has crossed ethnic, economic, and educational lines and enjoys great support from all segments of the electorate. For too long Americans have elected and re elected politicians full of shiny promises which evaporated into hot air. Beyond his unrehearsed gruff language and manner, he exhibits a love of country considered politically incorrect by many.

Many in the media and political ruling classes are desperately trying to characterize Trump's appeal as a populism aimed at unwashed, under educated, and unsophisticated Americans. Primary votes and exit polls reveal a far deeper base of support than established power brokers would have us believe. Inept politicians of both parties have spent decades dividing and duping citizens with empty promises and Trump may soon step in and declare, "you're fired". The corruption of too many lawmakers of both political wings has become intolerable and a cancer on the hopes and dreams of Americans. Trump is a refreshing independent figure full of energy and high flying aspirations for the country. Even as the republican party establishment furiously tries to derail his candidacy he will survive because the majority of voters see through his bluster and vanity a very good man with lofty goals for the nation. Trump may be a modern day Ronald Reagan and though he is human and may stumble he has great potential for good change. A Trump presidency may help the nation regain it's place as the worlds leader in economic power, personal liberty, domestic tranquility, and military dominance.

In my opinion, Trump offers America something very special. Clinton, Biden, Rubio, and Cruz can only offer a repeat of tired cliches and lies from teleprompters laden with old speeches and broken promises.  

   

WHY TRUMP ??

I believe Donald Trump should win the Republican nomination and presidency.

He will win because he is immune to the influence of other peoples money. Trump's ultimate success may rest in having no zombie like loyalty to any political party. His political history is a mix of support for democratic and republican ideas always grounded in making the best "deal" for his business interests and clients. His pragmatism is a rare trait of the most elite true leaders.

He is a political outsider with proven leadership qualities which could freshen the American brand and bring new ideas to our national and international challenges. Also, he is unafraid of the print and electronic media which traditionally leans left. At the same time, he commands constant fawning media coverage. The networks know beyond their political biases that his image opens a spigot of increased advertising revenue and viewership.

Trump may be a modern day version of past presidents Andrew Jackson, Teddy Roosevelt, and Harry Truman in his passion and occasional outbursts of coarse language. Because his speeches are not read from teleprompters or verbatim written scripts he may ramble. He speaks from the heart using no committee of speechwriters. Sometimes his bombast lead to outrageous comments which initially seem unwise, but on closer reflection reveal ugly truths about some of our national experiences. In many ways he reflects the angst and frustration of many Americans fed up with professional politicians. Also, his positions often reveal the great negotiating techniques found in his book, " Art of the Deal".

Political establishment biggies from both parties are scared to their underwear. Trump threatens their power structures, self serving bureaucracies, and artificial legacies. Trump may unwillingly unleash the Tea Party vision of overturning the Washington scheme of  tax and regulatory inflation via inept federal government agencies. He has moved the Tea Party movement beyond a speechifying movement to a hybrid political force able to make historic changes. His rise to power could better secure our borders, bring American businesses and jobs back home, strengthen our military, reform our national health system, and free the nation from useless and cruel agencies such as the Veterans Administration, IRS, Department of Education, EPA, and many many more. His theme is to return more power to states and localities and get the wasteful federal government sidelined.

Trump offers fresh blood and thinking to the Commander in Chief job which has too often been filled by the same old, same old politicians. Establishment politicians and their bureaucrats have been ruining free enterprise, personal liberties, and the "American Dream" for too long and a President Trump will reverse our national mess. I think a Trump presidency would be one of great consequence since he would enter the office without owing any favors to any moneyed contributors. In my opinion, his incredible success as a deal maker and capitalist outweigh the resumes of the senators, governors, and family pedigree competitors he opposes. Perhaps it is time we have a president unafraid to awaken national pride and strive to make America great again. People polls tend to favor his ascendancy, but the influence of PAC's, unions, special interests groups, and power brokers of both political parties remain in formidable opposition. They will do anything and everything to cancel his bid for the republican nomination and campaign to the presidency. In addition to lies, sharp words, and traitorous old friends don't be surprised by physical mayhem to silence the Donald.

America is long due for revolutionary change within it's legal bounds and election rules as a constitutional republic. Donald Trump may offer America a chance to challenge it's way out of a national funk and renew itself as a nation of unlimited economic opportunity, military strength, and greater liberty.

    

HUMILITY

I am Eva.

I have never seen the light of day, tasted the wet of falling rain or felt a passing breeze, yet I am alive and important. I quietly and steadily grow to support the life of my champion. My master enjoys and experiences the sunshine and seasons. In addition, the sounds and stirrings of many creatures enliven the days and nights of my superior. I lie in a dark, moist place of immense quiet, yet my life is the viability of my glorious champion.

I am Eva. The most vital part of my beautiful mentor.
When a tragedy, ill act of nature or age kills my champion, I will continue to function for a time. However, in time my essence will also cease, and I will return to a natural material which will support the lives of future giants.

I am Eva the mighty roots of an immense green giant.
Though my master basks in the beauty and light, it is my foundation deep in the soil that sustains the great life above. 

Though I am rarely seen, the towering masters of the forest could not stand without my support.

   

I AM FINALLY THAT GUY

When I was a teenager, itching for a learners permit, I painfully remember my grandfather's driving.

 In my opinion it was horrendous. Ank would down shift to neutral a quarter mile from a red light and creep to the light while drivers behind him beeped to wake him out of his 5 mile per hour slumber. When questioned about this technique, he would scowl and mumble something about saving gas and brakes. If a speed sign posted a thirty five mile per hour speed he would get to twenty five and that was it. In his baby blue 55 Pontiac coupe, turn signals were a new option that Ank used rarely. He preferred to thrust his big arm out the window or simply turn without any signal. Sometimes he'd forget his turn signal was on and we'd spend an afternoon alerting everyone behind us of an upcoming left or right hand turn.

 I always had to sit in the backseat because Ank chewed tobacco. In those pre cup holder cars of the fifties he nailed a big tin to the floorboard where he could spit his tobacco chew spit. The front passenger seat was therefore not a pleasant spot. In warmer weather the backseat directly behind Ank wasn't much better when he decided to spit out the window. Also, he had two snarling little dogs which were his darlings, Pee Wee and Bucky. They sat on his shoulder and displayed toothy growls to anyone else in the car.

Ank's technique of parallel parking was incredibly slow but sure. Before power steering, turning the wheel was hard work and he maneuvered the steering wheel slow and steady which always slowed the traffic. It wasn't unusual for him to see an old Navy mate at a stop signal in the car next to us and strike up a conversation which might last a minute or two beyond the light tuning green. He waved off impatient drivers behind him who wanted to move.

Despite having a radio and heater I can't remember him using them very much.  He considered them luxuries which weren't necessary and would run down the battery or use extra fuel. In the rain and snow the one speed windshield wiper was used sparingly, while his big hand and rag served as the front window defroster.

Later when I learned how to synchronize the gears and clutch, parallel park, and mastered all the "rules of the road" I got my drivers permit. I shunned every old guy driving technique of Ank and his old buddies. Happily I sped up and down the roads, screeched to stops, and layed down rubber the instant the signal light turned green. I blasted the radio. Bought a handful of those hang on plastic cup holders so my friends and I could careen down the road with our colas and brews safely saddled nearby. My first cars were bugs and fastbacks. When our baby came along it was station wagon time. Now it's an SUV, convertible, and family sedan in the driveway.

In the last five decades I have gotten a few traffic citations, endured a few scratch and smash boo boo's, and probably driven a million miles. I forgot about Ank's painful driving habits until recently. In the last year or so the alarm for my turn signal has reminded me more than a few times that I made a right hand turn fifteen minutes earlier. The rude hand gestures and stares from other drivers have alerted me to the fact my speed was 55 on a 70 MPH expressway. Often, I find the radio talk shows and music a bit too distracting, and enjoy cancelling cruise control when approaching a stoplight to see the miles per gallon clicker jump to a more efficient number. I marvel at all the new modern gizmos and gadget setting, and occasionally have to be reminded by the drivers behind me that the light has turned to the go position. My grandson reminds me of the same irritating driving habits that I observed and dreaded when I was his teenage passenger. While I have never been a tobacco chewer or dog person, I must confess that as time goes by, I am becoming an Ank driver.

.                                                          FRANK "ANK" BURKET

CELEBRATING FERGUSON ?

The same mob that defended a teenage thug, justifiably killed by a Ferguson policeman, are back for a one year celebration. What are they celebrating ? Are they celebrating the destruction of their neighborhoods and businesses, the life of a violent bully, or a community ruled by a small minority of local and out of town rented rioters and malcontents ?

To many onlookers the only things Ferguson produces is violence, the destruction of personal property, looting, and a failure to distinguish between the facts and fiction of Michael Brown. Whatever is good about this town has been drowned in ugly publicity. The young man at the center of the needless destruction was a poorly parented man child powered by stimulants, a lack of morals, and a large body. His course to a premature death was of his own choosing. All the t shirts, slogans, breathless live news reporting, and speeches cannot justify the ignorance that drove a young man and his community to destruction and chaos.

The majority of good law abiding citizens of Ferguson must be outraged and embarrassed by the stupidity of so few living or visiting their city. It is wrong that news which bleeds always leads, and like a fire is fed by media and race pimping opportunists. Equally unforgivable is the federal government of Barrack Obama directing so much attention and making premature pronouncements before all evidence was made available.

Good Ferguson people need to insist that established laws be respected and followed, education be promoted, and family values be advocated by local churches and community organizations. Parents need to do a better job of parenting their babies to adolescence. We do not need young men of any color killed by each other or the police, and we do not need places like Ferguson celebrating the tragedy of street criminality.