Busted Predictions for New Year

Recently, I posted a blog listing my 2018 New Year's Resolutions, which I have every intention to break. I feel compelled to make some New Year predictions and why not?
Lots of people make predictions all the time and many annual prognosticators give their crystal ball preview at a New Year's start. Here goes mine:

 1.  I predict once again the world will NOT end.
 2.  President Trump's recent tax cuts for corporations will not cause a 'trickle down.' The only trickle  
      down from Trump will be caused by an enlarged prostate.
 3.  The Cubs will win the National League Central Division but not the Pennant. Cards finish 3rd.
 4.  Justin Beiber will get arrested.
 5.  Donald Trump will not be President Labor Day.
 6.  There will be another documentary about JonBenet Ramsey's Murder Case.
 7.  America's stupidity and gullibility rate will grow faster than the National Debt.
 8.  Wolf Blitzer will surpass Larry King's record for most hours ever logged in front of a television
       camera.
 9.  The GOP will once again (while in power) not attempt to repeal Roe v. Wade.
10.  In mid-November, Donald Trump will announce his return to television as a Late Show host;
       this time on Russian television.

Ps. Likely none of the above will come to pass and things will stay much the same as in 2017...Trump will NOT show his taxes but will continue to show his ass while the richer get richer and the poor get poorer and I refuse to buy a Polo shirt at Von Maur for $133.00.
(Touch)Don't Hold Your Breath Prediction

Old Weakness Comes on Strong!

This past Thursday, I left Decatur at 7:40AM and traveled 2-hours & 20-minutes to the Columbia Holiday Tournament in Columbia, Illinois. My son, Steve's Dupo team was playing at 10:00AM. Steve had decided last year to leave high school coaching after 31-years and assist at Lewis & Clark JC. A good friend, who is an administrator at Dupo high school called Steve to ask if Steve could step into Dupo's head basketball position one week before the start of the season when their coach suddenly resigned. Dupo is young, inexperienced...that's right, they are 0-12. Recalling thirty-seven seasons at the helm, myself, I have been on mountain tops and in deep valleys. I showed up last Thursday to support a group struggling in a valley.

As I left the gymnasium, I was stopped by an old timer from the Metro-East area. He had followed my teams back in the day and simply wanted to say hello; well, he did have a question: "Coach Roustio, he began, "do you miss coaching?" I gave my pat answer, which always seems to suffice: "I don't miss those school bus rides in cold weather and those Holiday practices."

During my return trip home, I re-visited that question: "Do you miss coaching?" First, let me say, I've been off that coaching bench since 2001, which is sixteen seasons. I shall be honest...I miss having a team. I miss the challenge of bringing teen boys together from different persuasions, cultures and ethic experiences and meshing their passions and skills into a team commitment. I miss the coaching fraternity. I miss preparation-practices. I miss the challenge of  helping parents and fans to understand perspectives.

True...I don't miss bus rides in this bitter cold and another thing I don't miss is waking up at 2:30 AM after playing and immediately trying to recall, 'did we win or lose?' I hated that; especially if we had lost!

So...there you have it...I miss coaching much more than I wish to admit...and I surely wish I could do it all over again. You know what?... I need to stay away from those gymnasiums.
(Touch)Love of the Game

Laws Don't Change Attitudes

In early American history (1600's) only white male landowners twenty-one years old were allowed to vote. Finally, in 1856 landless males twenty-one years old got the right to vote...but they still must be White males. Of course, we all remember our high school American history class that explained about women gaining voting rights in 1920 and after the Passage of the Civil Rights Bill of 1964, the 1965 voter protection law was passed... A person of color could now vote in his/her own nation...holy crap, shall we all stand a recite the Pledge of Allegiance...especially that part>"and justice for all?"

Don't kid yourself, we still have a helluva lot of efforts to suppress the non-white voters. I choose not to go into all of the schemes but only a bigot refuses to 'see' these efforts of voter suppression. And then there's the alleged mall predator, Roy Moore who refused to concede in defeat the Alabama
U. S. Senate seat to the winner by 20,000 votes, Doug Jones. Instead, Moore claims massive voter fraud, which means 'those dadgumit black folks cheated us white folks again.'

I do declare, it appears 'America Ain't Never Gunna Be Great Again!'
(Touch)Make America Great Again

I Am Resolved!

It's that time! End of the year time. We are reminded of the year past as newspapers, magazines and television reports give us images in photo and stories of what transpired the last year. That has us reflecting on the year we are leaving while anticipating life in a coming New Year. Naturally, many people feel compelled to 'make resolutions' for this New calendar beginning. I always make resolutions for a new year and I break each one. That said, you may ask, 'If you intend to break every new year's resolution then why make them?' Answer: I love to make lists.

My 2018 New Year's Resolutions, which I will break:

 1.  Stop watching 'fake news' on CNN and begin watching 'Fair & Balanced' news on Fox News.
 2.  Stop yelling and cussing St. Louis Cardinals' manager, Mike Matheny during Cardinals'
      televised games.
 3.  Stop yelling and cussing St. Louis Cardinals broadcasters during Cardinals televised games.
 4.  Start watching Hallmark Movie Channel when I find myself yelling and cussing at St. Louis
      Cardinals' manager and broadcasters.
 5.  When watching pro basketball pretend there are no rules and when watching high school
       basketball pretend the officials watch too much televised pro basketball.
  6.  I plan to find a group of retired men and have coffee with them every morning.
  7.  Fight urges to get another puppy.
  8.  Stop paying $270.00 per year for special lawn care applications.
  9.  Stop taking breakfast to my wife in bed each morning.
 10. Place this 2018 New Year's Resolution list on my refrigerator door and reference each morning.
(Touch)In The New Year I Am Resolved

Fun-Blessings

Whew! What a Christmas Day family gathering! About 1:30PM, twenty-seven folks bowed their heads, acknowledged Baby Jesus as the 'first' and greatest Christmas gift and then attacked Italian beef, rigatoni, ham, salad, Italian bread, dinner rolls, pumpkin pie, red velvet cake, pecan pie and an endless assortment of decorated 'show' cookies as if they had not eaten since last Christmas Day.

 My wife and I passed out monetary gifts because one size fits all and there's no need to 'save' a receipt. The kids out did themselves 'giving' to the old folks...the grand finale Gift was a 55-inch VIZIO television that does everything but take out my trash. Afterward it was game time and the participation ran the gamut from intense to falling down hilarious...mostly the latter.

I suppose it's the same at all homes at the Holidays, lots of picture-taking. Our daughters and granddaughters never see a moment that's not worthy of a snap-shot photo preservation and it seems like my wife and I are required to be in every photo opt. I know, I know what they're thinking; they're thinking...'you NEVER KNOW.' The highlight photo was when Grandson, Caleb Howell's fiancee, Morgan handed our great granddaughter, Juniper a gift box, which held a special invitation for the three year old to be their flower girl at their October 27, 2018 wedding. Juniper was very excited but not as excited as  Juniper's mother, granddaughter Amanda and her Nana, Gerry. A few minutes later another picture  taking request was made and as the group was told by the picture-taker, "Okay, Smile.." ...angelic, curly blonde-headed, Juniper added,  "Everybody say, Hot farts!" Hey, what ever makes you laugh.

Finally, with the departure of each family an empty-anxious feeling begins to build in the pit of my stomach. That wondering doubt laced with fear that 'things' might not be the same next year. Those thoughts find fertile ground in the weakness of flesh and a misconception that I deserve that which I have and enjoy. As I enter the house to face a reality of clean up, I quickly come to my senses.  I AM BLESSED and I shall trust God for my tomorrow.
(Touch)The Most Wonderful TimeWonderful,Time

Merry Christmas...'Friends.'

I suppose it could be said about Facebook that which is said about many things at man's disposal: 'It can be an instrument for goodness or a instrument for evil.'

I was blessed with many friends long before the Facebook phenomenon gripped our lives. Today, my IPad tells me that I have hundreds of friends with whom I'm connected each time I open Facebook.
At a given moment, I learn of someones birthday and my chance to wish them 'returns.' I see photos of a recent wedding or somebodies new puppy. I'm entertained by a proud parent's video clip of their child's performance. Another FB friend reaches out asking prayer for a sick love one. I learn of the heartache, which enters lives because of loss. My Facebook inter-action permits me to debate or argue differing views on an endless list of issues. I often times feel the envelope being pushed when debates become heated or frustration comes into our discourse.

Oh, indeed Facebook can be a tool for promoting goodness or a tool for turning friends into enemies.

And then there are some, as I, foolish enough to write a daily blog, which inevitably invites comments, which may come in the form of kudos or angry reactions in the form of disagreement or verbal attack.

In any event, at day's end you are my friends and in this season, which is set aside by Christians worldwide to commemorate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, it is in His name that I express my love and good wishes for all my friends with whom I share this journey. Merry Christmas.
(Touch)Why can't it remain...all through the year?

Reality Check makes My Head Swim

I never heard a Medical Doctor's confirmation but I do think that my maternal grandmother 'Mammy' Bennett suffered from low blood pressure. Once in awhile, I'd hear her say, "Oh my, I best sit a spell, my head's taken to swimming." I suspect she was likely feeling dizzy or faint. Well, I take meds for high blood pressure and recently my head's 'taken' to swimming.

This coming Saturday, I was planning to attend my dear friend's Ken Bracey's visitation in Morton, Illinois. Ken died December 4th and will be buried in his beloved home town, Mason City, Illinois. Well, those plans had to be scrapped after news came two days ago that my East St. Louis high school teammate in both basketball and baseball died suddenly of a heart condition. Some East St. Louis classmates will assemble Saturday in Collinsville, Illinois for John 'Yonko' Basarich's visitation at the same time as Bracey's...makes my 'head swim!'

My faithful blog readers will recall that I shared with them back in mid-October the stark realization that three of my dearest high school buddies had passed within two years and another was trapped in that dark hole called Alzheimer's. On the heels of that bitter-sweet 60th high school Class Reunion, I now must decide, to which part of the State shall I travel to bid farewell to a dear friend.

And surely, when I tell my kids that I get out of bed each morning between 4:30 & 5::30, they say in a surprised tone, "Why do you get up so early?"...REALLY?
(Touch)
Slip Slidin' Away

So Many Wonderful Memories

Today is the fifth anniversary of Lucille Bennett-Roustio's passing. She was a life-time sweetheart to one man, a mother to three boys, a Mamaw to her eight grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandkids. On December 21, 2012, Mother Lucille was 93-years old at her death; Yes, indeed she lived a wonderfully rich, full and blessed life.

As this Christmas Season engulfs my family with joyous sharing and expressions of love, I pause to recall those times of days gone by, which anchor today's family love. Last night, I found late evening alone-time that permitted me to close my eyes and allow visions of my past to filter through my mind. I felt my spirit lifted and my emotions warmed as a colleague of family faces, voices and laughter shook my memory. What a wonderful experience. I hope this time of year will find each of you feeling the joyous sharing of yesterday intermingling with the with the celebratory joy and merriment of today.

Perhaps many of you also miss love ones. I pray that sweet/precious memories warm your hearts.
(Touch)My Mother's Eyes

Many Changes but Faith Unshaken

As I frequently do on a Tuesday noon hour when picking up my wife from her Bible Study at Grace United Methodist Church, I arrived early and slipped into the sanctuary for personal meditation time.
I engage in personal prayer and meditation a couple of times each day but those moments always have more serenity, deeper thoughts and an emotional tranquility when sitting in a church pew rather than my family room. It must be a learned reaction or my Lord hangs around His house more than my house.

Last Tuesday after personal prayer time, I opened my eyes and allowed them to wonder about the Christmas decorations, which beautifully adorn the sanctuary. I also began to notice how much different this magnificently designed Grace United Methodist Church of Decatur is as opposed to that Grace Methodist (minus the 'united') Church of Washington Park East St. Louis back in the mid-1950's. The Decatur church is four times the size of that Washington Park church and the differences don't  stop there. The church of yesteryear did not have and organ, piano or bell choir nor a paid music director. Nope. The old church had a volunteer pianist on a Sunday morning banging out old hymns on a simple upright. Back in the day six or seven folks made up a civilian-dressed choir, which often sang off key with bravado.

Most folks from old Grace walked a few feet from their Sunday School class right into a familiar worship service pew. Those old-time Preachers never missed a chance to extend an alter call at the conclusion of a 'hell-fire and damnation sermon,' which profiled warnings about the wages of sin.
One of my children once suggested that I had perhaps grown up in a 'church' (religion) that promoted fear rather than Love. I never felt that at all back then. I knew God LOVED me because He sent His Son to be crucified for my sins while at the same time I had a free will choice to accept the gift of life forever or turn away from God's Love and suffer Hell. I don't know about all parents but I believe most parents are constantly sending messages to their children that if they 'do Right and make good choices' things will turn out better than should they make bad choices.

I noticed just as I ended my prayer last Tuesday afternoon in that church pew my prayer petitions and praise have not changed in the last sixty-years. Seems to me my Faith anchors my religion regardless   of the participation building.
(Touch)The Chapel

Really?

The Trump Administration recently released a list of five (5) words and two (2) phrases that the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention are prohibited from using henceforth. Let's start with the obvious and most understood bannings, which are the two phrases. Phrase One: evidence-based, Phrase Two: science-based. Now, you're an idiot if you don't comprehend this reasoning. Trump has a profound aversion to anything and everything that smells of EVIDENCE or SCIENCE.

The five words not allowed printed or uttered by CDC folks are: fetus, transgender, vulnerable, entitlement and diversity. Can you guess the one word above that most Trump supporters cannot use in a sentence?

I just knew that Trump's two favorite words, 'fake' and 'pu#*y' would be spared the guillotine.

Rumor has it that the administration will wait until February 2018, which is 'Library Lovers Month' to announce what books are banned and when and where public book burnings will be held.
Stayed tuned to Don's twitters.

Okay students: Write on a piece of paper 100 times the definition of 'censorship.'
(Touch)The Bird is a Word

Blessed By Grace

Son in-law, Tim and daughter Pam chauffeured and escorted the old folks through three Metro-East cemeteries yesterday as the four of us plus grandchildren, Caleb and Erica paid respects to 18-family members and one special neighborhood boy.

The natural events of life when one reaches their seventh decade is visiting more and more love ones in eternal resting places. This bi-annual honoring junket has always been somewhat of a 'bitter-sweet' exercise, however I must say it's becoming a bit more bitter.

A few months ago, I attended that 60th High School Class Reunion only to discover several dear classmates have passed. Now, yesterday's trip reminds me that the sand is dropping faster and faster through the hourglass.

Okay, that all said...here's the celebratory news, which causes me to shout aloud...'Praise God!'
Praise God for a lifetime of incredible and undeserving blessings. I was born to loving parents and a nurturing extended family all of whom believed and spoke of the loving and saving grace of Jesus Christ. They showed the way to faith and salvation. I lived my adolescent and teen years in perhaps two of this nation's greatest decades, the 1940's and 1950's. I was introduced to sports and honed enough skills to gain immeasurable positive traits and garner a college education. I was blessed with enough talents to serve my family and others at a career that I never looked upon as a 'job.' I was fortunate to meet the girl I would marry when she was but thirteen and I was fourteen...wow! What a history! Three adult children who married people who could actually love me and then allow me the chance to show love to 15- grandkids and two great-grandkids.

I had no say in my appointed time of entry into this world and I have no say in the journey's end...but oh my, how much more can one man expect? And that's the reason I always stop to whisper a prayer at  that 15-year neighborhood boy's grave site. I suppose he's the reason it's always been easy to donate to St. Jude.

Yesterday, I paused at each of those eighteen eternal resting places and embraced a reflective flashback moment in time; a shared laugh, event or story. My message to my living love ones? The day you pause to pay respects to this man...look at one another and agree, Here in this place lies one of the most blessed and fortunate people to ever walk this earth.
(Touch)Amazing

Counting My Blessings

Since I can remember, I have counted blessings and thanked God. My maternal grandmother (Mammy Bennett) was always talkin' Jesus and living exemplifying Jesus' teachings her entire life. If you spent much time in her presence as I did, you too would be tuned to God's blessings and goodness.

At the Holiday Seasons, I find unending family blessings. Let me explain: My father expected his three sons, spouses and grandkids to be at his home Christmas Eve and buddy boy we all made it come hell, high water, blizzards or anything else! I also like seeing the family gang at those times but my wife and I have never, I repeat NEVER put our kids on a guilt trip to be home. If they say otherwise they lack perceptive powers and insight. If you can make it great, if not fine. That said, I'm hearing that 26 out of a possible 27, will be at our home Christmas...I feel blessed. But listen up...

 We (family) are now entering that era when our adult children must begin positioning to assume their own base where their adult kids (and significant others) accommodate their immediate families at the Holidays. That means, we oldsters will have one of two choices. Consider getting our butts into auto and go to one of the kid's homes for Holidays or stay on the couch and hope for a drive-by visit. This scenario is part of life's longing for itself...I get it. Oh, and just as I did not second-guess their choice, I shall expect them to extend me the same...'whatever floats your boat' choice.

Let me share some numbers: My wife and I count 27 family members. Lo' and behold,  17 people showed Thanksgiving plus one engaged-intended and one guest, which equaled 19. The Christmas gathering number I hear floating is that 26...plus six dogs. That's  a full house. Now the best news about his whole picture is this: Whereas our children and their spouses love and respect the old folks, there's another equally significant reason for the gathering. That motivation comes from the obvious...and that is our adult children, grandkids and great grandkids truly enjoy and love each    other. It is incredibly amazing to watch their interactions...can't wait.

Folks...I cannot make a better case for underscoring my endless blessings.
(Touch)
Counting My Blessings

They are Eating Their Own

Yesterday, Republican Representative, Peter King from New York referenced former White House adviser, Steve Bannon to that of "a disheveled drunk who wandered onto the stage" I get it. Many GOP politicians have become weary of defending the indefensible. Bannon IS indefensible and Trump just cannot get out of HIS own way by involving himself in daily drama. Indefensible!

It's expected to hear criticism from one political party towards another political party but never before has one Party, in this instance the GOP dodging inter-party slings and arrows. Perhaps that tone was established during the GOP's primary campaign when the candidate, Donald Trump unleashed incredible verbal attacks on other Republicans running against him. Trump used demeaning nicknames, made fun of fellow Republicans physical looks and verbally insulted their family members. Unprecedented? Pretty damn close!

Things changed very little as Trump moved into the Oval Office as he continued verbal attacks on his 'own,' i.e., Paul Ryan, John McCain and Mitch McConnell. Upping the hate rhetoric ante was Trump's close associate and trusted advisor, Steve Bannon, a White Nationalist who constantly attacks Republicans and Democrats with equal fervor. Trump often takes Bannon's advise and did so backing alleged child predator, Roy Moore in the recent Alabama U.S Senate race, which was won by Democrat Doug Jones. Bad game plan!

I would suggest to Bannon's friends (should he have a few) to stage an intervention. Make the man get a haircut, shave and a good hot bath. Then feed him a steady diet of 'happy pills' and perhaps he'll not look so disheveled.
(Touch)A Disheveled Drunk?


PS. I see where the FBI had to fire one of its agents because he called Trump an "idiot." Hell, Trump's Own Secretary of State called the President a "moron" and he's still on the job. Go figure.

Part of My History Left Yesterday

Recently retired but longtime Major League Baseball scout, Ken Bracey died yesterday at age 80. Bracey spent 42-years scouting for the San Diego 'Padres' and Los Angeles 'Dodgers.' I received the news from retired Springfield State Journal-Register sports' writer and good friend, Larry Harnly.

I first met Ken Bracey in 1964, my first year as basketball coach at Mason City high school, which was Bracey's hometown. It was early fall when our own dear hometown friends,  Dick and Fran Pawlow dropped Dick's Giants Minor League Class AA Springfield, Massachusetts teammate, Ken Bracey off in his beloved Mason City after their season completed. Why not stop by Mel and Gerry's to introduce Bracey to his old high school's new round ball coach? They did and that first encounter signaled one message> This is going to be a fun relationship! And oh, how it was!

That evening the two pro baseball players brought some beer and as we sat on the front porch visiting suddenly, Bracey began tossing empty beer cans in the new Coach's front yard laughing and suggesting the locals need to know their coach enjoys a beer. Of course, I quickly retrieved the cans for more discreet disposal.

Eventually, Pawlow and Bracey gave up the pro baseball pursuits and settled onto civilian life. Pawlow became baseball coach at St Joesph's College in Rensselaer, IN. and later spent thirty years as Western Illinois University's baseball mentor. Bracey struggled with finding a niche in factory work but soon caught a wonderful break when the San Diego Padres gave him that initial scouting job...a job that he was made to embrace; and embrace he did for 42-years. He loved his passion: Baseball.

Kenny married his hometown sweetheart and settled into life with his loving wife, Judy, two daughters and his scouting. Tragedy would strike the Bracey household when Judy was diagnosed and quickly succumb to cancer. Years passed but finally, Kenny was fortunate to meet a perfect match. Second wife, Nancy could go toe-to-to with Kenny's bantering humor. They were great fun with whom to spend an evening.

In baseball's off-season, Bracey refereed high school basketball games. At that time, I was coaching at Jacksonville high school and always hired Bracey and his partner, Bob Ware to work the Crimsons' Classic at Thanksgiving. Those times rendered great memories and some funny Bracey stories, many which I included in my book, 'Game Laughter.'

I shall miss Ken Bracey, terribly. I will miss his incredible story telling and just how tickled he became when delivering any story's punchline. Rest In Peace my good friend and thanks...oh my,

Thanks for the Memories.

(Touch)Baseball

My World

Hot Damn it was good to get outside yesterday with the temp reaching 52 degrees. Now that's a phrase Grandpa E. V. Bennett often used back in the day, "Hot Damn!" I can hear him now, "Hot Damn that's good Christmas custard but be careful not to drink too much, it'll make you sick." Sure, Grandpa. Anyway, I love to get outside and walk three miles a day and then spend time on the backyard bench in the morning and the swing in the afternoon. Like old Satchel Paige once said, "Some times I sits and think and some times I just sits."

Here's the deal: I don't like winter! I don't like snow! I hate ice and cold winds! I'm 78-years old and for much of my first 62-winter years, I was either playing basketball or coaching basketball. Consequently, I was either at practice or on a yellow-jacket bus going to or coming from a game. I didn't have time to sit. I used to look out the basketball-bus windows this time of year and see people rushing across parking lots going in and out of stores and restaurants. I wondered just how that life would be...now I know...I'd rather be on a bus than shopping. When one cannot sit outside but is forced to sit inside one ends up watching too much television and then one really go bonkers!

My wife said I should write another book or start an intense scripture study program. I'm afraid if I became too versed in scripture I might be more inclined to judge people; I seem to detect that  tendency. In less than a month, The Good Lord willing, my wife and I will head to a warmer climate for a couple months, by golly, I believe I'll exercise a good deal, sit in the sunshine and ponder the  ways of people and give some serious consideration to writing and reading. Perhaps I'll scratch out some book-writing notes. What's that? What about the scripture reading? Okay, I'll come clean.  I'm in a Bible study class the entire time and I'm always reading random scriptures. You see, I keep searching for that Biblical verse telling us to 'Judge one another until Jesus Christ returns.' I Haven't found it yet but 'hot damn' it must be in there somewhere because Christians do that a whole lot better than loving one another as He loved us.
(Touch)
It's My World

Gifts And Love Awaits

My wife (Gerry) and I have been married 57-years and we dated some seven years before marrying. Simple math suggests sixty-four Christmas trees we've viewed together and my, my, my have the children Christmas toys changed over those years. Just last evening, we saw several Christmas toy commercials on television and agreed that today's kids seem to need electrical and mechanical engineering backgrounds to truly enjoy their gifts.

I recall those yesteryears when son, Steve was a boy of 4-5-or-6. If he Boy could hammer on it, make loud noises with it or build a block house it was the perfect Christmas toy. The girls Dawn and Pam at those ages already seemed interested in nurturing. They had those dress up dolls, buggys and homemaking kitchen sets with impossible assembling instructions and a zillion pieces.

Those were great years to be parents. Of course, we had to keep an eye on Steve. At age five he and a neighborhood friend, Bruce quietly followed the Mason City mailman on his route one afternoon and took everybody's delivered mail from their box and brought it to our front porch. That was a hellava way to meet neighbors., especially the old-timers looking for Social Security checks. Yes, indeed, we had to watch that boy very carefully. He once brought a cat home, which was drenched from rain and put the feline in our front end-loading dryer...you know the old fashioned one with the window. Thank God Gerry was nearby the utility room and heard the dryer kick on. She ran to the room to see a bewildered-looking cat's face tumbling by the dryer's door-window.

The girls, Dawn and Pam at age five plus and about three respectively had matching little doll-suitcases. Their mother had told them they had to do something, which didn't sit well with  them so they told their mother they were "running away from home." Not to be bluffed, Gerry said okay and told the girls that they should put some things in their suitcases before leaving. The girls walked out the front door with little suitcases in hand. Mom and dad kept a vigil as the girls walked down Yale street in Edwardsville. They arrived at the end of the block and we noticed them turn around and begin returning to the house. When they walked in the front door, Dawn announced in a despondent tone, "We CAN'T run away from home because we're not allowed to cross the street!"

Eventually, all three did 'leave home' but the good news is...they return with wonderful families.
(Touch)Coming Back Home

One Terrific Coach but A Greater Human Being

Joe Newton was one of those people, after whom you talked with, made you feel emotionally and spiritually lifted; you just simply felt better about life and your journey therein. Newton died yesterday at age 88. He was the long time cross country coach at York high school in Elmhurst, Illinois. Joe won an unprecedented 29-IHSA State Championship Titles; 28 in Boys cross country and one in track and field.

I first met Joe in 1970. I had moved from the Washington, Illinois basketball and cross country positions at that Peoria area high school to assume the same charge at Edwardsville high school in Southwestern, Illinois. I had a limited background in cross country and that first year at Edwardsville I inherited a transfer runner from York who as a junior won the prestigious Peoria Invitational. I knew to do this kid right and build a decent team around him, I needed a crash course in the training intricacies of distance running. Who better to engage than Coach Joe Newton. I felt a bit nervous when his phone was ringing but as soon as he answered and I said, "Coach Newton, this is Mel Roustio. I'm the basketb " and in mid-sentence, Newton interrupted saying, "I know of you and I know about your background and Edwardsville has hit the jackpot getting you." That was Joe's motivational style. His incredible ability to lift you and then teach you...and he indeed helped this writer become not only a better cross country coach but a better person.

Thanks, Joe and God Bless your sincere loving soul.
(Touch)
Coach Joe

Heroic Anonymity lives through Humbleness

I think we'd agree that heroic anonymity is a rather rare act; an uncommon behavior. Most folks who do good wish to be recognized for 'doing good' even though their motivation may not be recognition.  That said, heroic anonymity requires humbleness if the act of heroism is to remain unknown.

I suppose my first introduction to this phenomenon of anonymity heroism came in 1949 when I was but ten years old. I seldom missed a Saturday morning showing of the television series, 'The Lone Ranger.' For those readers who may not recall the shows' format and ending, let me profile. The Lone Ranger's face was 'masked' to hide his identity. The show had a typical and predictable story line, which found the Lone Ranger and his sidekick,Tonto coming to the rescue of someone compromised by the villain (s). At the episode's end and the day saved by our hero, The Lone Ranger disappeared as someeone asked, "Who was that masked man?" Another would answer, "Why that's the Lone Ranger." And...on that cue the Ranger's voice would be heard in the distance, "Hi Yo Silver, Away." Wow! A ten year kid thought, The Lone Ranger didn't even get a thank you...Nothing! Ah, but the subliminal message was seared into a young brain...DO GOOD FOR THE SAKE AND NEED OF GOOD.

Today, we seem to be less humble. We seem to want more than the 'feeling' of doing good for the sake of good. Oh, I hear of some anonymity acts of kindness and heroism but more often I note the insatiable appetite for recognition. The athlete who shouts and contorts his body upon skill accomplishment. We seem to have an endless parade of 'Awards Programs' and 'Hall-of-Fame Events.
Our current President, unlike any President before is constantly praising himself suggesting his accomplishments surpass any previous President.

I'm not certain if things are better or worse. I'm not sure if there is a decline or not in heroic anonymity. Nope. I just hear my father's voice upon the heels of any of my athletic accomplishments when he'd say, " Boy, you do know that others did what you just did and some did more...keep lookin' for ways to get better."
(Touch)Humble Hero

Carrying Concerns into a New Year

I offer this blog communication of random thoughts, which perhaps are of little or no concern to others, therefore shall we agree upfront these thoughts represent my brain-clutter, which needs purging?  I will likely turn the calendar to 2018 and still be troubled with the following concerns:

Concerns........
 1.  How can the same group of people who adamantly oppose abortion show little care and concern for a child five years 'out of the womb' by opposing government subsides for free lunch programs? One in five American children go to bed hungry every night. Shameful! Terribly shameful.

 2.  Bill O'Rielly, Matt Lauer, Roger Ailes, John Conyers and apparently Al Franken have either been fired or resigned from respective employment positions yet, President Trump receives a pass on his admitted propensity to assault women. Why?

 3.  Why do churches continue to enjoy tax exempt status in an age when church leaders are so politically active? I continue to struggle with some churches' concerns regarding gay rights rather than people's salvation and a relationship with God.

 4.  I always knew there was underlying angry-bigoted-prejudice in our Nation but I never imagined its extensiveness until Presidential campaigner, Donald Trump began holding political rallies. The  gloves are off as hate speech runs rampant and relationships are destroyed. Very sad.

5.  If I become inclined to play the markets in the New Year, I'm wondering if  my best bet is investing in gun manufacturing and pharmaceuticals.

 6.  I don't anticipate more people coming to understand the basic foundation and premise of a 'free nation.' Nevertheless for starters we cannot have prayer in public schools or The Ten Commandments in the public square. The reasoning is simple and solid. Our constitution guarantees equally the rights of all Religions  and even the right to be an atheist. Therefore the issue of which religious prayer becomes impossible to resolve. The lame argument that our nation was founded on Judea-Christian principles shows ignorance of our freedoms guaranteed by the laws of the country.

 7.  Finally, I wonder if this escalating animosity between America's brothers and sisters will change when the nation's population reaches that tipping point rendering more 'brown people than white people?'

Whoa Nellie! Or should I say Whoa Mel! I just need nought of something...I'll turn seventy-nine years old in 2018. I should be so blessed and fortunate to have the aforementioned concerns ONLY!
 (Touch)
Will 2018 Show Our Better Angels?

Favorite Christmas Song

A couple of days ago, my wife asked me to 'burn' two CD's for her. Note: Burning CD's does not require a fire. Nope, my wife wished for me to take two original CD recordings and 'make copies' of them on blank CD's.  I do a lot of CD 'burning' for friends and family. Why not? My goodness, I have a huge collection of music on vinyl, (both 45's and LP's) plus many CD's. I have a small electronic recording machine, which has two retractable trays: one for the original CD and the other for the blank CD. The machine can record 48-minutes of music onto a blank CD in a couple of minutes. The vinyls 'burning' onto a blank CD is different. Thre vinyl is placed on a turntable player/recorder and a blank CD is inserted into the tray. Once you place the needle on the vinyl you push a button that will record the vinyl sounds onto the blank CD. That's a bit slower process because it must be recorded in actual playing speed of the vinyl.

Okay, now that you completely bored let me tell you the rest of my wife's request. She wanted 20- CD's of Josh Groban's Christmas CD entitled 'Noel' and 10- CD's of Kenny G's CD entitled 'Faith.' That's Right a total of thirty. Here's the deal: for the second consecutive Christmas season, my wife has accepted the responsibility of coordinating our Church's Staff Christmas Party. This year, she made arrangements with Cracker Barrel to cater. My wife is big on holiday decorating and token gift giving. Obviously the latter (gift giving) is where I come into play...I'm the owner of a lot of music  and two music burners.

After finishing my specific charge I gave the thirty CD's to Party Director, Gerry who informed me that her good friend Judy was coming to our home to assist in bow-tying a candy cane on each CD.
Upon hearing that news and fearing I might be required to 'help,' I disappeared to my basement office and listened to some thing different than Christmas music...'Little ' Milton's, 'Grits Ain't Groceries.'
(Touch)Needed a Change of Tunes

It's My Party

For many years American voters have bemoaned the fact that they only had two political parties from which to select candidates and or embrace platform ideas. Well, hooray for the USA. We now have three political parties: Democrats, Republicans and 'The White Nationalists.' I believe this is good because it truly comes closer in representing a cross-section of our national voting constituents.

In short order, I think a fourth political party will emerge. Perhaps that party will choose from one of the following identity labels: 1.  Po' People Party  2.  Hot Chocolate Party or 3. Victim's Party.
You can make a case for each of the aforementioned party labels. 1. There is no segment in American society growing numbers faster that 'Poor People. 2.  Every direction one looks, one notices people of color being a target of political bull crap. If it isn't travel bans, talks of deportation it's a plethora of other boogieman stories. The 'brown skin' folks should be boiling. And certainly everybody these days are 'victims' of some misgiving so why not have a Victim's party? You gotta party?

(Touch)
It's My Party

Pardon Me Boy

There are two guys who should not anticipate invitations to visit President Trump at the White House.....  Bowe Bergdahl joins Colin Kaepernick as non-invitees. In fact, both should avoid Pennsylvania Avenue altogether because according to President Trump, one is a "son-of-a-bitch" and the other "should be shot." Trump calls Bergdahl's 'no prison time' court verdict for leaving his military post, "a total disgrace." Of course, Trump felt no disgrace when he pardoned Former Arizona Sheriff, Joe Arpaio who was convicted of criminal contempt. Trump felt no disgrace in firing FBI Director, James Comey and he will undoubtedly feel no disgrace or shame when he pardons, Flynn, Kushner, Sessions, Gates and Manafort. Speaking of 'pardons,' I note Trump exercised his pardon-powers a week or so ago 'freeing' two turkeys this past Thanksgiving. Two very pretty white turkeys. Two years from now (2019), Trump's administration is planning to deport (not pardon) 59,000 Haitians who have been living and working in America since the Haiti earthquake of five years ago. I could be wrong but it appears to me that many Trump decisions have a 'color-chart' litmus test.

We have General 'Arrogant' Flynn, who led chants to "lock her up" (Hillary Clinton) during the Presidential campaign and lo' and behold it appears there's a hellava lot better chance of Flynn being locked up. Remember a few months past when 'Grab'em by the crotch' Trump was asking about the extent of his presidential pardon powers? Sure you do. That's because Trump knew damn well the opportunity to pardon several people was just a matter of time.

Just yesterday, President Trump told Roy Moore, the alleged sexual predator running for  a U.S. senate seat from Alabama to, "Go get'em, Roy!" Trump was not specific regarding whom to 'get'. Did Trump mean get voters or get girls? Look for Moore to get a pardon down the line if he gets elected and becomes Trump's supportive vote.

Before  it's all over Trump will likely be remembered in American history books as 'The Pardon President' or he's going to have friends and family...in matching jump-suits..
(Touch)Chain Gang

You Remind Me of....

This past Saturday, I turned on the family room television and began my channel-surfing, I stopped to notice Chuck Connors playing with The Rifleman. I didn't think much about it at the moment but two hours later, I noticed that TV channel was still playing 'The Rifleman.' Checking the television guide, it appears the Rifleman is on the Tube nearly as much as The Hallmark Hall of Fame movies.

I couldn't help but recalling a Rifleman story from years ago, which has a personal touch. I was a nineteen year old sophomore at Illinois State University. In those years, my father was traveling in his sales position with New England Lead Company. A couple of his clients were in Central Illinois and he'd often let me know ahead of time to grab a couple of roommates and meet him some place for a steak dinner...now that was a treat! On one such occasion, I excused myself from the restaurant table to use the restroom. While standing at a urinal relieving myself, a very drunk fella staggered to the urinal next to me. Soon he began muttering, "Oh, my God, I don't believe it." He kept repeating that line over and over. Now, any guy will tell you that's a bit unnerving while side-by-side at urinals.
Finally, I sternly questioned the man: "What the hell's your problem, pal?" He staggered backwards zipping up his fly and shouted at me, "I know you...YOU'RE THE RIFLEMAN!"

I quickly washed my hands and left the bathroom only to hear the fella yell out, "The guys at work ain't gonna believe  I whizzed with the Rifleman.!" When I returned to the table I asked of my dad and two roommates, "Do I look like Chuck Connors?" My Dad answered, "No but you look stupid with your fly 'open.'
(Touch)You Remind Me Of a Man

Let's Have Our Cake & Eat it Too

I understand that the United States Supreme Court will soon hear the case and render its decision regarding the Colorado baker who refused to bake a wedding cake for a gay couple. The issue in question is all about 'rights.' The Court Justices must determined, which of two rights is valued constitutionally; shall it rule in favor of the baker's right to withhold business service predicated on his religious rights or should it embrace the gay couple's right to fair and equal treatment under the law?

The issue reminds me of a personal encounter of a similar circumstance. It was the winter of 1963.  I was coaching football, basketball and baseball in Assumption, Illinois. My wife and I had one child, Steve who was two years old. When necessary to avoid another pregnancy, our contraceptive choice was the condom. Unlike today's open display of contraceptive products, back then a fella discreetly whispered to the drug store clerk his wishes to purchase 'prophylactics.' We even used an obviously softer term 'prophylactic' as opposed to harsher sounding term CONDOM.

You could imagine my surprise when the lone drugstore owner in Assumption, Mr. Hafner in a rather scolding voice offered his refusal, "We are Catholics and we don't believe in artificial birth control products." At the time, I did not think much about my rights versus Mr. Hafner's religious rights. Nope, I just thought about the 26-mile round trip Drive to  Taylorville and the possibility my wife  would have a headache upon my return. I never argued with Mr. Hafner but I thought then the same thing as I do today, Hafner should have carried condoms or offered me gas money.

I suspect that the conservative-leaning Supreme Court will rule in favor of the Colorado baker to withhold his cake baking service. Personally, I believe the consumer is being wronged. Once again  it's classic hypocrisy. Is the baker troubled by the fact that he sells cakes to possible murderers, thieves, tax cheaters, pedophiles, people sexually active before marriage and all sorts of Ten Commandment breakers? Well, I am sure he does!

If Mr. Hafner was still living in Assumption, I take him out for lunch and engage a conversation about today's Catholic family sizes versus Catholic family sizes of 1963.

There is a risk factor brewing for the gay couple. Should the Supreme Court ruling go against the baker, I might approach that cake with trepidation. You all do recall the 'pie' in the movie 'The Help.'
(Touch)Bake the Cake

Remembering Man's Greatest Gift

Five years ago this month my mother died. My, how time flies. I should correct that first sentence to read: Our mother died. She gave birth to three sons; yours truly, Tom and Marty.

People subscribe to many beliefs, ideas, opinions and often anchor those feelings with clever sayings and quotes. I do the same when I profoundly purport that 'Mothers are man's greatest gift.' Nobody told me that and nobody insisted I adopt that belief. That said, I have held that belief my entire life and preached it to my children, grandchildren and others...'Mothers' are Man's Greatest Gift!

 Many speak of this notion about 'unconditional love as if we all understand it's definition. Well, I'm not sure that I can string together an arrangement of words to properly define 'unconditional love' but I can certainly tell you what it looked like>>My Mother's face. This expression regarding man's greatest gift does not minimize the profound-anchored loving impact of my Father in my life's journey. He was a giant, my role model and my idol.

Perhaps many who may read my words this day, as I no longer have both parents sharing this earthly journey. As this Christmas season approaches, I hope that those who remain richly blessed with parent-child sharing will embrace the time with passion and gusto. For those of us who represent the older generation, I pray that we may be a blessing to our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and may we be sustained and lifted in spirit with precious memories.
(Touch)Man's Greatest Gift