Everybody is Annoyed by Something!

Yesterday, I was 'killing' time while waiting for my wife to finish a ladies group birthday luncheon at Bella Milano's (Springfield). My French Onion soup wasted, I settled into my Panera's booth and began reading a USA Today newspaper. It was difficult to concentrate on the news articles as the two women in the adjacent booth were extremely loud and adamant with story-swaps of their respective pet-peeves. The first woman was expressing dismay with her husbands post-dinner routine. It seems that immediately after they finish their evening-meal, Bubba retires to the couch and falls asleep before momma bear has the dishes in the washer and the table cleared. The second lady's sympathy was short-lived because she was eager to top the first story with tales of woe regarding three teenage children who are, get this, self-centered, spoiled and helpless. Her kids are evidently lazy slobs and she feels they cause her more work than when they were diaper-infants.

I fought my urge to weigh-in with remedy opinions, which could be a pet peeve of many folks! I wanted to simply suggest that both women should initiate a strike / work-stoppage! The first lady should follow her husband into the living-room / family-room and select a recliner chair and match the old boy snore-for-snore! Sooner or later, the hubby is going to ask one of those 'why' questions. That's when she explains that they are going to either 'clean-up' their dinner mess together or take a nap together! The mother with the teen-brats should also go on strike. It will not be long when the children ask for some piece of clothing to be cleaned. This is a wonderful moment to tell little Missy or Junior that you clean only those items placed in specified receptacles and return them to rooms that offer accessible pathways!

Gee, if I had only been a part of that conversation, I could have told them my 'pet-peeve' and perhaps they would offer a solution. I am frustrated and miffed by people who tell me they intend to 'do something' and then DO NOT follow through doing it. As I type this blog names of individuals are seeping into my mind and I suppress them because some of those folks 'read' the blog and I wish not to call them out; I just dismiss them as undependable!

My Parents Taught Better Manners and Respect

Perhaps the most difficult and puzzling person for me to understand is Donald Trump. Trump owns many fine material things, hosts a popular television show and appears to have a clear and wide pathway to comfort. He seems to have found 'true love' in this his third marriage. His personal wealth is not threatened even though the Trump companies, of which he is CEO, has filed bankruptcy four times. (One might believe that along that bankruptcy trend a board of directors may have told Donald, "You're fired!")

If the aforementioned does not boggle your mind, consider Trump's absolute over-the-top mean-spirited bullying and personal attacks. Trump's verbal assaults suggest that he is a small-minded dangerous individual, lacking self-respect who spews contemptible attacks on anyone Trump perceives as weaker and / or  holding counter-beliefs and opinions.

Consider these recent abusive onslaughts and insults of people by Trump:
Trumps attacks and questions the legitimacy of President Obama's citizenship. Obama produces birth certificate but Trump suggests the document is a forgery.

Trump, who was first pro-choice before he was pro-life, opposes 'gay marriage' and claims that Arinna Huffington, a person of opposing political views and philosophy is 'unattractive inside and outside;' "I fully understand why her husband left her for a man,' states Trump.

Trump referred to Rosie O'Donnell as a "fat loser." When Donald found Attorney Gloria Allred representing the legal rights of a sex-change beauty pagent contestant fireworks began when Donald attempted to justify his rejection of the contestant. Allred, in reference to Trumps demand on Obama to produce a birth certificate, made a tongue-in- cheek comment, that Trump, at least Trump did NOT demand photos of genitiala. Trump then suggests that Gloria would be very impressed with his package.

Donald Trump is void of a full head of hair, personal dignity and a moral compass. Republican Presidential candidate, Mitt Romney embraces Trump's endorsement. Go figure!

Priceless Joys

Perhaps I was eight or nine when I first realized the mesmerizing almost hypnotic characteristics of my Mother's voice. It was a late Friday night and my Father was attending a 'union meeting' in East St. Louis. Mother and a dear lady friend were in our living room exchanging comments on a plethora of topics while awaiting the return of their husbands. Both women's voice tones were calm and somewhat soft. My Mother's voice was particularly soothing, unburdened and consoling. I don't recall any subject matter discussed, I suspect it likely was tedious to a young lad's ears. As I revisit that night, I do remember vividly a feeling of mentally snuggling into a state of tranquility, comfort and safety as I fell off to dreamland.

Throughout my adult life, I have cherished and mutually nurtured a close relationship with my parents and made my wife and children centerpieces in those engaging times. My Father's voice was silenced eighteen years ago. Periodically, I retreat to my office late of night to listen to his voice on old cassette tapes from joint vacation trips in years past. Those moments stir precious memories.

Since my Dad's passing, I have been more than casually vested in telephoning my Mother often to check on her condition, share our interest and simply to 'hear' that coveted and tranquilizing voice.
I am sad to acknowledge that in recent months, I am denied joy of conversation with my ninety-three year old Mother due to her profound hearing loss. Her inability to understand my words is frustrating to her and sad for me. I do not press the moment insisting that she understand what I am saying. She appreciates the telephone call and seems to know that I am just fine if she tells me about her day and says, "I love you" with her calm and caring voice.

Behold the simple joys of life; like life itself it is fleeting.

Life Longs for Itself

Before turning the page for this week, I reflect on our activities the past seven days, which certainly underscores how 'life longs for itself.' Monday, we traveled to the warm and comfortable community of Polo, Illinois, where granddaughter, Lindsay begins her first year teaching elementary education. Lindsay is a 22-year old 'keeper' who made a wide personal accomplishment path before embracing a teaching mission. Lindsay is prepared, excited and over concerned with a myriad of details. She will, in time, gain her stride and impact hundreds of lives.

Later in the week, we paid respects and tribute to Bill Kaufmann a long time educator at the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired. Bill is the father of four children, one of which is Andy who played high school basketball for me before completing an outstanding career at the University of Illinois. Before leaving Jacksonville, we had pizza with daughter, Pam and son-in law Tim at the Irish Toad.

Saturday, we prepared to entertain long time friends, Ken and Sharon Hickman as they made their way through Decatur returning from Covington, Indiana. They were visiting Ken's father who is under hospice care in the final weeks of his wonderful life. Often, people toss the 'friendship' label about rather carefree with loose and broad definition. The Hickmans are documented friends over forty-years. During these difficult days keeping the vigil, Ken and Sharon anticipate with great excitement the birth of their first granddaughter and third grandchild. Did I not state that 'life longs for itself?'

Yesterday, we were in Edwardsville, Illinois to visit and have a luncheon with my ninety-three year old Mother, Lucille and SIUE sophomore grandson, Kyle. Before departing the Metro-East area, we stopped by to visit with oldest grandchild and sixth-year special education teacher, Amanda, husband Todd and great-grandson, Talin. What an absolute joyous week.

We make plans for this week in accordance with God's plan and shall embrace the moments as this life keeps its longing.

It Will Either Breakdown, Die or Change!

In February 1965, recording artist, Sam Cooke's subliminal protest song, "A Change Gonna Come" hit the Top 40 charts. The song's theme spoke about impending social changes regarding civil rights. The song could well have been a forewarning about my BODY!

It is fact, my teeth and hair are jumping ship. I sneeze more and sleep less. I can hear just fine if one speaks equal to the volume of rocket boosters at lift off. My eyesight is fading; watching television last week, I mistakenly thought Roseanne Barr was Albert Pujols. The combination of poor vision and the inability to turn my arthritic-neck causes me to consider installing a back-up 'beeper' on my automobile.

Each morning, my lower extremities remind me of three previous back surgeries as I coax my feet to move forward. A quick look at my skin, as I shave reminds me of Crocodile Dundee. As I slip into my socks, I notice that my toenails are turning the color of 'field' corn and they are suddenly growing downward and tearing holes in my socks. Thank goodness for Grandpa E. V.'s grandfather's clock, which chimes on the half-hour, it reminds this fading short term memory to let the Toy Poodle, Yodie to go outside for a potty-break. On the subject of biological needs, I note that most of my walking exercise is now frequent night-time urine trips to the bathroom.

In an attempt to remain presentable, I now wear a rubberband around my wrist. This rubberband serves as a reminder for me to periodically check my zipper-fly and the end of my nose for objects that should NOT be on the end of one's nose; I told you I was sneezing a lot!

Enjoy your weekend. My wife and I are headed to Jacksonville to Bill Kaufmann's visitation and then we plan to watch granddaughter, Erica do her cheerleading thing at the Crimsons' home football opener.

'Hee Haw'

I am always amused when I hear people get up in arms about relinquishing individual rights to the federal government; government is too intrusive and too big so they claim. One recent comment that was particularly 'lame-brain' was this statement:  'the government needs to keep their hands off of my Medicare.' Really? Let's acknowledge the fact that the general public's intellectual status is problematic even with the formally educated.

News out of the great State of Oklahoma supports my previously stated hypothesis. Prague, Oklahoma May of 2012; Kaitlin Nootbaar is valedictorian of her high school class with a perfect 4.0 grade point average. Kaitlin gives her valedictorian-graduation speech and says the word, 'hell.' Her building principal withholds Kaitlin's diploma because in his opinion, she used unacceptable and offensive language. Try putting your mind around that crock-of-crap!

More news from the Okie educational leadership: Five year-old, Cooper Barton was told by his Oklahoma City school principal that his T-Shirt was a 'dress code' violation. It seems that Master Barton was wearing his favorite college shirt, 'Michigan.' According to the Oklahoma public schools' dress code, a student may 'only' wear shirts of colleges from the state of Oklahoma.

Footnote: The state of Oklahoma ranks 42nd among all states in math and science scores and it ranks 47th among all states in teacher's pay.

Nearby neighbor, Texas ranks 'LAST' among all states in the percentage of adults who have a high school diploma. This perhaps explains why Judge Tom Head of Lubbck, Texas, recently said, "If President Obama wins a second term election, we should be prepared for civil war."

It was Texas Governor Rick Perry who suggested Texas might succeed from the Union. Perry should convince Oklahoma to 'go' with Texas. The annual Texas-Oklahoma football game could be called,    'The Idiot Bowl!'...sponsored by The NRA and featuring Hank Wiiliams Jr. singing a medley of songs during half-time cock fights.

Our Kids Deserve Better

A recent study states a startling statistic; teens spend approximately 7.5 hours per day in front of a screen, i.e., television viewing, internet, etc. As one attempts to wrap their mind around America's declining personal health with issues of childhood obesity, early onset of diabetes and cardio-vascular problems, we need to look a life-style changes, which have negatively impacted the equation.

In general, children no longer engage in 'outside free-play' activties. Perhaps the comfort of the home environment or parents' fear for the child's safety keeps the youngster indoors and embracing a more sedentary life style. A second factor lending itself to less physically fit children is the current indifference towards physical education in the public school curriculum. When I began teaching/coaching in 1962, the schools embraced a daily physical education regiment that included calisthenics, running and periodic fitness testing. In short, the kids sweat every day, got their heart rates up to improve cardio fitness and the evidence was wet shower room floors. Over the years, parents yielded to spoiled children's pleas to be excussed from such 'abuse' and the school powers buckled to parental pressures. Shower rooms are often used today for storage areas.

As a parent and grandparent, I too wish for a better life for my children and grandchildren. However, I make a distinction between 'better' and 'easier.' Like many things in life's journey, the pendulum will  one swing day back to a more hard core approach to physical conditioning of children; until that time arrives the cost may be high.

"Stupid is what Stupid Does!"

According to Holy Bible scriptures, the Sea of Galilee was pretty much the 'home base' of Jesus Christ's ministry. Christ spoke His parables near the site, displayed many of His miracles near the waters and 'walked' upon the Sea of Galilee. One would expect the folks in Israel to consider the shores and Sea as most sacred. Furthermore, it is understandable that tourist attractions would be erected around the Lake. Obviously the Sea of Galilee would be a desired vacation destination for many of the Christian faith and others who espouse Christian family-based-values, i.e., the Republican Party of the United States of America, which often suggest some exclusive relationship with Jesus Christ over those of other political persuasions.

Members of the Republican Party express constant fear that a secular Democrat agenda is trying to take Christ out of Christmas, barricade the Ten Commandments from the public square and turn our children towards a 'gay' life style. Perhaps the Christian fundamentals associated with the Sea of Galilee explains Republican Congressman Kevin Yoder (Kansas) joining other right-wing conservative Christians on a fact-finding journey-mission to the Holy Waters.

(Disclaimer: Please note that we have a four-year old Toy poodle named, James Wilkerson Yoder, we call him 'Yodie.' Our Toy poodle, 'Yodie' is from Arthur, Illinois and is of Amish conviction and thus follows a strict Mennonite doctrine. Our 'Yodie' is NOT related to Congressman, Kevin Yoder!)

After a night of dinning and drinking on the shores of Galilee, twenty members from Congressman Yoder's group decided to jump into the Sea of Galilee for a swim. The Republican Congressman Yoder took 'all' his clothes off and jumped into the devine waters for a skinny-dip. Thank God, Congressman Yoder cannot 'walk' on the waters; his buck-naked ass immediately slipped beneath the surface!

Since this infamous swim, Mr. Yoder has apologized and House Majority Leader, Eric Cantor has assured the world that this 'kind' of behavior will NEVER happen again...we can conclude that Eric Cantor CAN walk on water given the obvious; he can ensure what Christ cannot ensure...Cantor's followers will never again commit sin!

Looking for Character

Last week, I spoke to student-athletes and parents at Decatur Eisenhower high school on Monday evening and concluded the week sharing the same message with the athletic family at Decatur MacArthur high school. Those presentations are one of several newly implemented event sequences  by the Decatur Public School District administration as it attempts to address and re-shape the interscholastic sports' programs.

As I made personal preparations for those two presentations, I reflected on my perceptions of the changing high school sports' landscape from my first encounter in 1954, as an athlete at East St. Louis high school, through a thirty-nine year coaching journey and my current observations approaching the 2012 school year. In general summary, I would advance the notion that today's athletes are stronger, faster and exposed to greater preparation knowledge. Without argument, parents of today's interscolastic athletes have played a more hands-on part as many coached little league and youth league teams of their children and connect to the high school sport involvement. Having my parents at 'every' little contest or coaching my youth teams was an unfamiliar concept. My parents did attend high school games but they held and stated a philosophy, "if you don't like something about your school team position then do something to change it; don't come home belly-aching."

Perhaps the most disturbing change noted is the relatively new behavior model demonstrated by professional and college athletes, which is filtering into the high school sport reflection. We have heard the sport cliche', 'to the victor goes the spoils.' Since when is public humiliation of your opponent through various displays of degrading and debasing (the contest-loser) part of those 'spoils?'
The home run hitter stops to strike a grandiose pose after his blast. The football tackler makes animalistic noises and struts obnoxiously after a 'sack.' The basketball player who just dunked must stop to taunt his failed defender. From the moment I put on my first all-wool baseball pants until I played my final college game, I heard my father's voice in my head; "Boy, don't you gloat in victory and don't you dare hang your head in defeat!" When he spoke in that manner-of-tone there was never follow-up conversations.

It is often said that 'sport builds character.' I am of a equally strong opinion that sport more readily REVEALS character. Haughty and arrogant behavior is driven by insecurities and the fear of losing self-worth.

I Hear His Voice in Life's Noises

I placed the daily devotional pamphlet back on the night-stand and wondered if perhaps someday, I would 'have God's voice' speak directly to ME. It would be wonderful if each morning, God would tell me what I could do to help. The Democratic National Party sends letters and emails informing me of their activities and suggesting what I could do to help the cause; usually, they want me to send them money. I don't want an email or text message from God; I wish to hear His voice as others claim they have.

The Holy Scriptures offer numerous accounts where God speaks to mortals. My favorite moment is when God told Noah to build that boat. There are modern day claims about God speaking to earthly folks. It appears that more often it is a conversation scenario between the Almighty and church leaders or preachers. Several years ago, Pastor Oral Roberts said that God talked to him. According to Rev. Roberts, God told Oral that the good pastor was going to die if people did not send Roberts' ministries a certain amount of money by a specific deadline. That must have been one scary conversation, I'd think. I didn't send Oral money that time because I once sent him a donation and he sent mother and I a piece of rope that was absolutley good for nothing; too short.

A few years ago, President George W. was asked by reporters if he had spoken to 'his father' before invading Iraq. "W" was clever and cute with his answer; he stated that he did NOT speak to his earthly father, former President George H. W. but spoke with his heavenly Father, GOD. President Bush's explanation caused me to wonder, if during my 39-year coaching career, could I have used such 'logic' when explaining to an unhappy parent why 'Sonny' was not playing. I could have stated, "God told me that your kid's skills were bad and he should not play."

Many years ago, my maternal grandmother, Mammy told me that God speaks to us through the (spirit) Holy Ghost. I'd suspect if politicians start telling folks that the Holy Ghost spoke to them, they are going scare the bejitters out of people! I must stop. I just now heard a voice from ABOVE. The voice was strong, deep and certain in instruction, "Come and get this laundry basket and LET the dog out!" A master has spoken to me.

Beware the Pompous Noble

The past few days, I have heard political pundits on the conservative-agenda Fox News and the liberal sympathizing MSNBC station state with equal pretentious and synthetic pleading-commentary for both Presidential camps to conduct a more dignified campaign; stop the nasty/dirty politics is their dishonest petition. Please! I have paid attention with more than a passing interest for some time and if I 'know anything,' I have a grip on the unquestionable fact that these political (television) spin-doctors of hatred, i. e., Bill O'Reilly, Sean Hannity and Ed Schultz are front-running contributors to a disunited Nation that yields a dysfunctional 'do nothing Congress.' The vulgar audacity of these phony self-promoting patriots to posture on some moral 'high road' is insulting to any average-intellectual person other than perhaps a Chicago Cubs fan. They dare point a finger at the campaigns suggesting those folks need to 'clean-up' the rhetoric when these loathsome devils drive civil discourse off the cliff every night on their respective television shows. Moreover, these self-righteous fools go so far as to suggest that the American public DESERVES better; no it doesn't!

I would take issue with the sanctimonious attitudes of the political spin-doctors and encourage them to read John 8:7, "he who is without sin cast the first stone." Secondly, the notion that the American public deserves better is hogwash-poppycock! Oh, indeed our children deserve better adult models of kindness and civil behavior but the American general public gets exactly what it thirst for every time. We are a people that love violence and confrontation. How else would we explain our insatiable appetites for 'reality television,' Ultimate Fighting, Pro-Wrestling, shoot'em up & blow'em up movies and video games; we like it like that! If we have a free moment, we will chase an ambulance.

This 2012, Presidential campaign nastiness is old hat for the 'land of the free and home of the brave.' It is par for our beloved Country, which pontificates 'roots' in Judea-Christian principles. May I remind you of our Presidential campaigning history? 1836...Congressman Davy Crockett accuses candidate Martin Van Buren of secretly wearing women's clothing: "He is laced up in a corset." 1864...Candidate George McClellan describes his opponent, Abraham Lincoln, as  "a well-meaning baboon." 1960...former President Harry S. Truman advises voters that "if you vote for Richard M. Nixon, you ought to go to hell."

Please! Spare me the hypocritical commentary. In our free Nation, we all have a right to free speech, carry a loaded gun and be a fool. God Bless America!

This Train is OFF the Tracks

Naturally, the Boston Red Sox baseball club is legendary in the minds of Bostonians but in reality its comparative prestige measured against Major League Baseball's historically best is overstated! From the inception of professional baseball until 1918, the Red Sox won five World Series Titles. In 1920, the Boston club 'sold' a fella named Babe Ruth to the New York Yankees and 84-years later the Red Sox won another World Series Championship! I came to appreciate many years ago that the large media-markets found on each coast prop up the local teams and often create overvalued perceptions.

The current (2012) Red Sox baseball team has not made much news performing on the field but recently they have dialed up interest in their clubhouse-team meetings where many players are 'telling' ownership that the manger, BobbyValentine should be fired. Some players state that they do not want to play for manager Valentine. One such player is $21 million per year player, Adrian Gonzalez. Gonzalez is mad at Valentine because the manager left pitcher, Jon Lester ($7.6 million per-year) in a game when the pitcher was suffering through an eleven-run inning.

May I digress? I began following baseball in the 1940's. I remember when the average salary in 1950 topped $5,000.00. I really thought Ted Williams and Stan Musial struck it rich when they signed contracts for $125,000.00 and $100,000.00, respectively in the late '50s. In today's market value those salaries would be slightly $20 million LESS than Adrian Gonzalez's' yearly deposit. Back then, Musial and Williams often played 'doubleheaders,' which is a contractual-union negotiated 'NO-NO' for the modern day palyers; too physically demanding.

 I observed this scenario developing over my final ten years teaching/coaching high school players and watching my grandkids participate in youth sports. There was a steady decline in individuals who would accept team roles while more kids wanted playing time guarantees and parents thought the invitation to 'get involved' in your kids education meant that the parents could demand new governing school philosophies, which demanded teachers to give high grades, allow their kids exemption from physical education classes and require coaches to refrain from yelling at players. That generation of youngsters is now making millions playing a game while demanding the coach be fired for expecting effort and individual sacrifice for the TEAM.

It is What it is Because WE say it IS!

Recently, I read that Jewish scholar, Menachem Cohen 'fixed' the Hebrew Bible. Foolish me, I had no idea that the book was broken. It seems that the 84-year old Cohen identified 1,500 errors and made fixes. I have never read the Jewish Bible but I say, 'Whatever floats your boat, Cohen!'
 I cannot imagine some Christian touching the Bible but it has likely happend or certainly will happen. Such tappering would give cause for the formulation of a couple hundred more variations of Christian doctrine and God only knows we struggle making any of them work.

Actually, if one has plans to make 'changes' one should first gain support numbers because the obvious remains: 'Might Makes Right!' Let me explain. Not long ago, the Texas Board of Education made significant if not drastic changes to history books thus altering the curriculum intent. The Texas social studies curriculum now puts a conservative stamp on history and economics textbooks, stressing the superiority of capitalism and questioning Founding Fathers' commitment to secular government and presenting the Repblican philosophy in a more positive light, so concludes the New York Times. This new curriculum direction pointed toward the Texas children was passed along Board of Education Party-affiliation lines; 10-to-5...I told you 'Might Makes Right!'

This is NOT some new concept in governmental ideas; it has been applied many times before and I shall share one such instance. Nazi Germany in trying to cultivate loyalty to its leader and philosophy, changed school curriculums in both history and biology. The Nazi history books revisionists cleverly laid the foundation to glorify Germany through a compulsory nationalistic approach while placing blame for past setbacks on the Jews. The biology curriculum changes were even more frightening; all German children must believe that 'blood purity' is found within the Germany race.

I just don't GET IT! However, I was a simple-minded high school coach for 39-years who often hired assistants who saw a different game than I saw. This hiring-habit truly caused me to work extremely hard and long hours in preparation. Dadgumet, I had the 'power' to hire only assistants to 'see' it my way...I want a do-over.

Everybody Has a List; Here's Mine

Decatur Tribune Sports' Editor, Tom McNamara is a tournament historian/committee member to the prestigious boys' basketball classic, which I coordinate and is annually hosted by the Decatur Public School District. This year's Decatur/Team Soy Capital Turkey Tourney finds my hometown team, East St. Louis as a new entry. Perhaps, Mr. McNamara is seeking a stroyline when he requests that I generate a list of East St. Louis high school's all-time top five (5) athletes.

Before I make such a list I wish to offer a quick East St. Louis, Illinois high school history lesson. The 2012, school year begins with the East St. Louis 'Flyers' as the 'only' high school representing that city. I witnessed Central Catholic (Boys') high school close and give way to Assumption Catholic Boys' high school, which mirrored (all-girls) St. Teresa Catholic high school. East St. Louis Lincoln high school was once the all-Negro high school in East St. Louis before the integration of schools in 1954.

Unlike St. Louis, Missouri, East St. Louis never benefitted from corporate investments into the cultural life of that 'blue collar' city. In time factories closed or left, political corruption and crime became negative centerpieces while the city's population declined as 'White' flight was followed by 'Black' flight into contiguous communities. The current population requries but one high school, however the constant staple of East St. Louis was and remains the talented and proud athletes; and now my lists.

East St. Louis high school (ONLY) athletes: Kellen Winslow, Missouri/San Diego Chargers (NFL Hall-of-Fame); Dawn Harper, six IHSA hurdles titles & 2008 Olympic Gold Medal; Bryan Cox, (football WIU) Super Bowl Title with Patriots; Hank Bauer 14 years MLB, seven World Series Titles w/ Yankees and Bob Turley, MLB pitcher/Cy Young Award (1958). Other East St. Louis high schools: Jackie Joyner-Kerse, Lincoln high school /UCLA (need I say more); brother, Al Joyner Lincoln high school / Olympic Gold Medalist, triple jump; Eric Wright, Assumption high school/Missouri football, All-Pro S.F. 49ers, LaPhonso Ellis, Lincoln high school/Notre Dame, fifth over-all NBA pick 1992 and Cuonzo Martin, Lincoln high school/Purdue.

I could add 'my' era East Side High list, which would include:  Bob Benton(football)  University of Mississippi/NFL, Frank Rigney Iowa/Canadian football, Don Choate (baseball pitcher) St. Louis Cardinals/S.F. Giants, Billy Altenberger basketball all-stater/Illinois (father of Doug/Illinois basketball), Rickie Brooks (football) Purdue and his brother, Donnie Brooks (football) Purdue. There were many outstanding coaches at East St. Louis high school but three should be named: Wirt Downing (football), Louis 'Pick' Dehner Basketball/baseball and Bob Shannahan (football).

There is Logic and then there is Crazy

I believe the first multiple gun toting mass killings rampage that I can recall is the 1966, University of Texas 'Tower Sniper' murders committed by Charles Whitman. He had several rifles on the 28th floor of an observation deck and before police officers killed Whitman, he had left 13 dead and 32 injured. Since that event, our Nation has endured other horrific and senseless mass killings of innocent people. Each time such madness happens (its frequency is ramping up) the gun-control debate starts anew. I am always puzzled by the illogical rhetoric coming from the lips of people who appear smart enough but obviously are barren of commonsense!

When these shootings happen, i.e. Columbine, Virginia Tech, Phoenix, Aurora (Colorado) and Oak Creek (Wisconsin), our Nation divides into two distinct camps regarding the public's right and access to 'guns.' Let's acknowledge that our founding fathers, who penned the Constitution, did us no favor by failing to answer some of these questions. However, in their defense, who would have imagined back in the 1700's that we gun-loving Americans of the 21st centruy would replace the trusty old musket with assault rifles?

If you wish to prop up the second ammendment, 'the right of citizens to bare arms' then to what extent and expense will you support that right? Before you 'lock-tight' some attitude, I would ask you to 'mull' over the argument of many gun advocates who claim that if more people carried guns, we would have greater protection and thus minimize the number of dead when these mass murderers strike. In other words, if the all the Aurora, Colorado movie goers had been armed surely someone would have shot and killed the gunman before he killed 12 people. If this logic is correct then square our American history as our frontiersmen tamed the wild West and brought order for the development of civilazation. You recall seeing 'THAT' movie. The cowboys came to town and the local law enforcement (sheriff) collected everybody's gun(s); pick'em up when you leave town.

Of course, if you are absolutley sure that the second ammendment is the answer to 'clean-up' such problems then perhaps if we arm all school kids with guns we can reduce this bullying problem.

Shuffleboard Promiseland

I have documentation that life is 'good' for we American senior citizens; I read that headline on the front page of the USA Today newspaper! Daily tracking of the Nation's economic woes, unemployment figures, limited investment returns and stock market volatility continue to signal 'doom' except for me and my 'old-timer' friends. Although, I was not one of the 2,250 geriatric-gents surveyed, which yielded these conclusions, I do concur with the findings.

By golly, I do believe that the 'mello' years that I once thought to be a myth have engulfed me. The survey indicates that those in the age bracket 65 and older just got in under the wire; we retired before all the economic 'bad stuff' began happening. We 'dodged the bullet' and made the last train to shuffleboard paradice. It is believed that our pensions were there when we hung-up our rock n' roll shoes. Apparently, the folks coming behind us are not so sure of those awaiting 'mello' years and at best it appears that the train may be delayed at the station.

Back-in-the-day answering that daily work-bell, I could not imagine a time when I would be free of competition, frustration, aggravation, agitation and irritation...now I only face occasional 'constipation.'  The wonderful thing about the 'mello' years is that people gravitate to this senior-white-haired person like a dog to a ham bone. Oldtimers no longer have that intimidating persona but present a softer and kinder nature; a wise statesman like person espousing coveted tidbits! There is one rather significant problem; my kids, grandkids and other younger people perceive me, not as that wonderful fountain of knowledge but as an old-fart who can be a big pain-in-the-rear-know-it-all. That discernment is not 'my' problem; part of retirement bliss is embracing disallowance.

I do reject the notion that seniors are ill-informed or somehow deluded. There is a simple test for that malady; one of any age watching Fox News for legitimate 'news.'

We're #11, We're #11...We're #11?

Have you been following and checking on the London 2012, Olympic Games medal count? I will bet that most Americans can receit daily the medal numbers of at least the top three countries. The accummulation of those coveted medallions serves as strong motivation when one understands that the cummulative worth of champion swimmer, Michael Phelps' 22 medals is aproximately a half-million dollars. You do the math...gold is valued at $25,000.00, silver at $15,000.00 and bronze at $10,000.00. The greatest athlete of his generation, Jim Thorpe had his medals taken away when it was discovered that he received a few dollars playing semi-pro baseball one summer. Of course most athletes will never 'sell' this prize and will readily state the obvious; the knowledge of being a premier performer in your sport is, as they say, 'priceless!'  All Nations embrace the exciting moment when they can pound upon their chest and proclaim superiority, which feeds their ethnocentric feelings of 'ours is best!' My dog can beat up your dog and my mother is prettier than your mother! Hooray for our side!

History suggest that we Americans don't cotton to being second best; we wish to be first. It was October 1957, when the Soviets launched an intercontinental ballistic missle, 'Sputnik' and the American people went into a panic mode! Our country began pouring monies into science and math school curriculum programs and making higher education loans and scholarships available to promising young students. Eleven years later, we watched with National pride as Neil Armstrong became the first man to step foot on the moon's surface. We were once again tops on earth and now the heavens! Hold high that oversized foam cushioned-hand with the index finger proclaiming #1. USA, USA, USA!

Not that anybody is watching or cares but the American education achievements, compared with other countries, finds the American students slipping fast. In one study the Red, White and Blue kids rank #11 and another investigative report places the American education scores at #31.

Okay gang, not too loudly on this one: USA, USA, USA.

If I Had My Way!

Traveling down the interstate highway recently, I searched sirius radio for an 'oldies' station with success. I dialed-in on a station that was playing a Mills Brothers' song entitled, "If I Had My Way." The song's lyrics is terrific. If you'd like to telephone me, I'll sing a few bars but don't expect it to sound as sweet and mello as the Mills Brothers' rendition. The song reminds me of how everybody would love to 'have' things go according to their own desires and wishes; if I only had my way! I thought about big things and small things: If Romney could have his way, he will be called 'Mr. President' in January 2013. Obama's way would be keeping the 'handle' for a second term. My wife would like the toilet seat left in the 'down' position; her WAY. Rush Limbaugh wrote a book entitled, 'The Way Things Ought to Be.' Enough said about Rush.

Well, if I had My Way...
All counter tops would be four inches higher. (I am 6'3")
The employee at the convenient/gasoline store would pump my gas, clean windshields & bring change.
Baseball managers could only use three pitchers per game and batters could NOT wear gloves.
College athletes would be held to the same entrance standards as non-athletes.
Grass stops growing at three-inches.
Vegetables would be bad for you and chocolate would one of the main food groups.
Dance recitals would have a ninety-minute time limit.
No one could telephone asking for money.
Television commercials could not begin with a louder volume than the programming.
Black male singers could not touch their crotch during a performance.
White male singers could not emulate Black male singers.
Fox News could be sued for using the phrase, 'Fair and Balanced.'
First time child sex offenders would be imprisoned for life.
All elected officials would have term limits.
Elected officials convicted of a felony would forfeit all retirement money.
All lines at Wal Mart would be open.
Theater movies would start at the advertised times and Congress would investigate 'price-gouging' on movie theater popcorn.

Enough with my rants; I must use the restroom...you got it...I intend to leave the seat 'UP.'

Searching for God and Stumbling into the Devil

How ridiculous can a civilized group of self-proclaimed freedom-loving people behave in the name of religious doctrine, which advocates love and peace in a Nation that purports 'malice towards none?'

A short time ago, the 'Chick-fil-a' franchise restaurant made a substantial food donation to an anti-gay organization. The ensuing events would be predictable. A gay activist group called for boycotts of Chick-fil-a restaurants. Then religious groups decided to join forces opposing the 'gay's' boycott of Chick-fil-a establishments. At the center of the controversy is a matter of the marriage definition. Personally, I went online to checkout the mass production of chickens for fast food restaurants regarding feeding and housing; sure wish somebody would boycott that disturbing and disgusting process. My prayer (grace) is much longer when I order chicken!

Just this past week, a bakery owner refused to fill a wedding cake-order for a 'gay' couple. The baker said that the 'Bible' is clear on the matter of marriage (man-to-woman) and he cannot service someone who does not hold the same religious beliefs. I suspect the success of Hostess and Dolly Madison companies is the marketing attitude that says, 'give us your money and you can eat our Twinkies!'

A few years ago, a Bakersfield, California pediatrician refused to treat a child with an ear infection because the child's mother had tattoos. The physician stands behind Bibilical scripture that states, "Ye shall not make cuttings or markings upon your body." I don't understand religious folks/followers of Jesus Christ who quote scriptures while 'doing unto to others as they WOULD DARE NOT WISH FOR OTHERS TO DO UNTO THEM and dismissing His greatest commandment: "Love one another as I have loved you." Anyone reading these words recall that 3 A.M. night you rocked a screaming baby with an ear ache while staring at the slow moving hands on the clock as you waited to telephone the pediatrician. 'Physician, heal thyself!'

You all remember the abortion doctor who was murdered in the church pew as he prepared to worhsip. The murderer was a religious pro-lifer...go figure!

The Puritans came to North America in the 1630's seeking religious freedoms from the Church of England. Those Pilgrams were in search of the free-right to worship in any manner they wish. We continue to collect data to determine how that venture worked out?

I have no idea of the religious persuasion of my surgeons or the Cardinals' baseball player in the batting box; I just want each them to hit a home run!

When You need a Little Help from a Friend

My wife, Gerry and I have had dogs in all but ten of our fifty-two married years. We each had dogs as kids. It is an understatment to say that we are dog-lovers! The dog we currently pamper and spoil is three year-old, James Wilkerson Yoder, henforth referenced as 'Yodie.' Yodie comes from a good toy poodle bloodline raised by an Amish family in Arthur, Illinois. His eight pounds is jacketed by a white-curly coat. Our three adult children and many of the grandchildren make fun of Nana and Boompa's canine coddling.

Recently, we notice that neutered Yodie frequently has his penis exposed outside the foreskin. I  telephoned our long-time Jacksonville vet to inquire of the symptoms. He suggested that Yodie may suffer from paraphimosa. After a brief Internet research of the paraphimosa condition, I swooped up Yodie and told my wife that I was headed to Northgate Pet Clinic. Suffice to say that paraphimosa, untreated, is a potentially super-serious problem for dogs and I might add young boys and old men.

Arriving at Northgate, I promptly sat Yodie on the receptionist's desk and requested that he see Dr. Sullivan. I met Dr. Sullivan, one of four doctors at the clinic, on a previous occasion when our late miniature poodle, Percy needed stiches. The receptionists asked if I had an appointment stating that Dr. Sullivan had four patients ahead of me. She concluded asking if this was an emergency. (Footnote): In my latter years, my hearing is fading and like most hearing-loss people, I tend to talk too loudly. Perhaps I spoke strong and loud when I said, "No, I don't have an appointment and yes it is an emergency, my dog's penis won't retract back into the foreskin!" Two technicians immediately escorted Yodie and the old man into a private waiting area where to Yodie's delight, he found two boxes: toys and treats. Dr. Sullivan entered within five minutes and confirmed a mild case of paraphimosa, which relieved me. He said if the condition worsens, he could do surgery and snip a larger opening of the foreskin thus allowing more room for the penis to retract. I told Sullivan of Yodie's aversion to anesthesia; he then demonstrated with a 'jell' how to manipulate the exposed lubricated penis back ito the foreskin. I took the bottle of jell and headed to the homestead.

Occasionally, I lubricate and attend to Yodie's health issue. I was telling my neighbor about the problem and procedure when he looked at me inquisitively asking, "You really don't do that for a dog?" My neighbor is a nice fellow but obviously, he has well-defined love-committment parameters.
Someday, I will tell my neighbor about the nursing care given my sister in-law who suffers from alzheimer.

Hurry up and Read This!

I maintain that life's pace quickened throughout my years. Many would claim that it is not life 'moving' faster but instead it is an illusion caused by my aging 'slower' pace. Let me advance reasons why I dismiss that counter-argument. Consider first the changing family unit dynamics. As a child growing up in the 1940's, I remember my parents and siblings gathering around a supper table. The family-meal was that daily time that parents and kids told of their day's experiences. I believe we thus developed a sense of appreciation for various roles, struggles and accomplishments. Even the early evening hours offered moments of family connection and sharing while listening to radio programs or watching one of three television channels.  Perhaps these slower engaging routines prevented my brothers and me  from becoming 'too' self-centered and yet more skilled at social graces than my grandchildren. The plethora of 'FAST' food restaurants dotting every American community speaks volumes to the 'fast' pace society of this 21st centrury! I notice my children's families eating together on 'special' occasions and seldom gathering as a unit around a television, which offers dozens of viewing choices.

The youngsters' activities schedules are overwhelming with multiple committments and demands upon parents to split taxi-service responsibilities. Somebody is always rushing off with a kid to meet a practice/game start time. I recall the days when I drove our children to and from social events. I insisted that my own kids engage in conversation as I rattled off endless questions. I wish adults 'good luck' today with attempts at conversations with the younger generation.  These today kids' are constantly texting with friends or simply mentally lost in a preoccupation-fog manipulating some hand-held electronic gadget. The social mentality seems to suggest that the moment one is 'in' is less appealing than something happening somewhere else.

Entertainment today has eliminated much need for the slower contemplating-imagination. The high-speed crash-explosive visual effects, big-screen movies has replaced the clever subtles once woven into movie scripts. Even the so-called laughter inspiring television comedies and movie comedies that once featured the clown-like antics of Lucille Ball and Red Skelton must have seemed blase' to a new generation that demands more titillating sexual behavior, innuendoes and crude-behaving comedy routines. Fianlly, part of the entertainment change is found in the ever-popular teen love affair with music. The back-in-the-day once embraced romantic love songs that offers understanable lyrics and kept three previous generations from divorcing now give way to the fast phrasing imperceptible rhymes, which are usually sung by a youngman who seemingly has a bad case of 'jock-itch.'