Need to Walk on The Sunnyside

Many years ago, I scribbled the words down on a piece of paper and put the paper in my wallet. I have no idea the author's name deserving credit. For a long time, I read the words daily and then over time, I passed them on to my children and grandchildren in letters. At some point, I tucked the note away in a file folder, which I came across recently.

The message offers what I believe 'good food for thought.' I share with you this morning:

                                                      AN ATTITUDE TOWARDS LIFE
 1). Know that only two questions must be answered:
                        Who am I?
                        What is my purpose?
 2). Discover your passion and talents; seek then application.
 3)  Be grateful for challenges and difficulties; they provide opportunity.
 4). Be grateful for those who provided a blueprint or cleared a path.
 5). Respect those who oppose, they will do much to forge your resolve.
 6). Be humble in your successes; be educated in your failures.
 7). Offer appreciation to those who support your effort.
 8). Show deep and real compassion for those who struggle.
 9). Know and accept that not all will join your cause.
10). Avoid cursing the journey for it ends much too soon.

Perhaps if we embraced this 'attitude,' we would find greater contentment; for it is obvious that our nation of people, blessed with so much struggles so greatly as we seek happiness.
(Touch)


               Sunnyside of the Street

Little By Little...Big Change

A research of the numbers gives every indication that sex crimes have steadily increased from the mid-fifties until present day. It would be wrong to jump to the simple conclusion that more actual sex offenses are happening while ignoring the possibility that two other factors weigh-in. First, it is likely that more offenses are being reported today than six decades ago and better media investigations reveals greater numbers. That said, it does appear that sex violence has increased and remains a challenge in this twenty-first century America.

Here is another 'take' that comes to this mind when the issue of increased sex crimes comes up: I think there is a good possibility that lessened censorship standards yield more verbal and visual stimuli, which perhaps causes sexual arousal in the undisciplined and or vulnerable minds.

Follow the bouncing ball>>More than sixty years ago, Lucille Ball could NOT say she was pregnant nor 'show' her stomach on the television show, 'I Luv Lucy,'  Today, the annual 'Victoria Secrets Womens' (lingerie) Fashion Show' blows the lid off the ratings numbers, especially the 18-to-49 age group. No longer does a movie goer need to have an imagination. The gory violence and blood-shed is highlighted and the sexual interactions require no imagination but perhaps response restraint.

Topics such as impotence, which were once taboo in public are big-time advertising topics on  television and media print. It is fair to conclude one thing: my generation's grandparents would be  'shocked' to see society's current glorification and open focus on sex and  sexual behavior.

Anytime a culture loses innocence some individuals will become de-synthesized and susceptible to acting out aggressive behavior. Add to this recipe the fact that fewer American families are actively engaged in religion, we accept the possibility that parents have lost one of the traditional institutions in locked-step with parents assisting and promoting good choices amongst young people.

We are all responsible to protect the vulnerable.
(Touch)

I Need More Money

Without question, I've come to realize that I don't have enough money. This reality crept up on me but it is a stark fact! Hear me explain. The other day, I opened a piece of mail and inside was a framed certificate with my wife's name indicating she is a 'Hall of Fame Boys Town Member.' I'm afraid to ask her. I do know that if both of us wrote twenty letters per day, we would live into our 100's before all our returns labels from various charities would be used.

Several years ago, I was told of a telephone number to call and all telemarketing calls would stop.
I did call that number. How's that playing out? Well, this past month I've fielded telephone calls seeking money from the Heart Association, MDA, Child Cancer, Diabetes Association, St. Jude's, Police Athletic Association, Sheriff's Association, a sewer insurance program and a home security company. Of course, Heather still calls wanting me to consolidate debt, etc. The mail man brings pleas from most of the aforementioned organization plus Wounded Warriors, Veterans of Foreign Wars, various church groups, every magazine company in America, Shriner's Crippled Children, lawn care companies, hearing aid seminars and senior living facilities not to forget internment plans.

The television commercials showing starving-dirty children and malnourished chained dogs all tug at my heart and I'm asked to send each 'just' $20 a month to alleviate the suffering. My T. V. viewing is interrupted by the door bell where familiar or unfamiliar youthful faces ask me to purchase a discount card, buy cookie dough or a Christmas candle to support a school program. Returning to my  television watching chair, I note that the thirty-minute sitcom these days must tell their story in 17-minutes due to needed advertising time to pitch pills that either reduce or increase joint stiffness.

It is apparent that I will 'run out of money' before this society runs out of causes.
(Touch)
Money

Evil Must Be Confronted

Unapologetically, I post this opinion and perspective. I become disgusted with the 'who's on first, what's on second' gibberish-jabber rolling off the lips of Trump's surrogates attempting to defend the guy every time he speaks one of his 'coded' racially charged comments to embolden some of his base supporters. Again now, pay attention: I Do Not believe everybody who voted for Trump is a racists but I Do believe that a large portion of his base is in the philosophical camp with 'white supremacists' and KKK thinking and attitudes.

Trump's most recent bigoted comment was directed at Latinos protected in California sanctuary cities. Trump stated that those cities were "breeding grounds." Since making that bigoted statement the White House has sent one surrogate 'spin doctor' after another to the major media outlets with all kinds of bogus comments and logic trying to explain away the obvious...Trump is a bigot and he knows that he is in office because a lot of angry white guys put him there and periodically he wishes to send them code messages.

I grew up in the city and worked in its factories. I lived in the all white neighborhoods where minorities were only welcome to do domestic work and had to be 'out of the area' by sundown. I heard the words 'nigger,' 'spic,' 'chink,' 'wop' and 'polak.' I heard the perpetuated myths about Jews, Blacks, Mexicans and Puerto Rican's spoken daily by some friends and family. I knew it was wrong back then and I know it to be wrong today. I will call out those who defend this bigoted President!

As a young college student, I recall the excitement of new found sociological knowledge, which seemed to coincide with my religious teachings and making the connection of the teachings of Christ and the embracing of brotherhood. When sharing that new perspective with family, I was rebuked by several memhers who said I was being brainwashed by those liberal college professors.' That prejudice attitude has lost much power over the years but still lingers in the white majority. If a reader wishes to debate that..Bring it on.

This day I humble myself as a sinner who follows the teachings of Jesus-Christ who died for my redemption, however I do not claim to be an 'evangelical.' I find a plethora of today's Evangelicals to be complicit in this never-ending problem of racial strife. It has been said, 'For evil men to accomplish their purpose it is only necessary that good men do nothing.'
(Touch)
Sounds of Silence

I Don't Like Potlucks

My wife, Gerry informed me last evening that she wishes to attend a church event next week, which involves a 'potluck' meal. She knows that I absolutely deplore 'potlucks.' Look, by nature I am not a trusting person. I coached high school basketball for nearly forty years and if you've ever attended a high school basketball game and sat near parents, well you'd be educated regarding my disposition.  This may explain why one of my favorite songs is the O'Jays, 'Back Stabbers.'

Okay, I'm leery of a 'potluck' eating experience and why not? I would believe anybody with half a brain would share my suspicion of ingesting communal foods predicated on a degree of 'chance.' I cannot understand how my wife would commit to this potluck knowing her husband's aversion and paranoia regarding food preparations. I spent fourteen years around a family operated restaraunt and it was clean because my mother had a bigger phobia about food-cleanliness than do I. That said, to this day when eating out I always tell the server, "No Ice!" (And if you only knew). I never order foods prepare with mayo or dressings...it's a gamble.

Let me tell you about folks in west-central Illinois. Locals around Arenzville and Franklin, Illinois (self-proclaimed Burgoo Capital of the World) brag about their 'Burgoo Stew' being the Best!
Burgoo Stew is prepared communally in an all-night beer-guzzling social event where hunters have pooled venison, squirrel, opossum, raccoon, game Birds and every vegetable imaginable along with  spices of personal preference. It is said that a good Burgos Stew will hold a spoon upright. I cannot attest to that nor can I tell you what Burgoo Stew tastes like and just think, for 21-years I lived within ten miles of the Burgoo Capital.

All my children and even many of the grandchildren are aware of this old fart's food-fettish. They  make screw of me about it and I don't care. Come on! Anybody out there watch the movie, 'The  Help?' Well, then you know about Minny's chocolate pie!
(Touch)
Family Potluck

What's In A Name?

My parents named me, Melvin James. Although, I'm not a junior, Melvin was my father's name. My middle name, 'James' is a handle from my maternal side. In professional circles, I was always called, 'Mel.' However, this very day should I hear somebody say, "Moe,' I immediately know they are hometown East St. Louis or somebody who's been very close to the family over many years.  "Moe" is my nickname and the name my wife has hollered or spoken many times since 1953.

I've always enjoyed hearing people's nicknames. I recall my youth when not only all my friends were known by nicknames but also my favorite sports' heroes. 'The Man,' (Musial), 'Pepper' Martin, 'Babe' Ruth, 'Wee Willie' Keeler, 'Joltin' Joe DiMaggio and the lovable, Lawrence Peter 'Yogi Berra.

I have even given each of my fifteen grandkids nicknames: Boofer, Pookie, KeKe, Gunner, Modie, Kizzie, Gus (that's a girl), Ashy, Mookie, Dink, Pops, Pepper, Shay, Hoot and Kitt.

I don't think nicknames are as popular as in the past but I thank current President Ttump for re-vitalizing the nickname usage. All America has come to know: 'Little Marco,' 'Lyin Ted,'
'Low Energy' Jeb, 'Crazy' Bernie, 'Crooked' Hillary, 'Goofy' Elizabeth and 'Rocket Man.' Yep, the nickname is back thanks to 'Teenie-Weenie' Trump.
(Touch)
Name Game

What The Worry?

Would a Trump supporter or 'anybody' please explain to me why President Trump is talking about his personal lawyer, Michael Cohen 'flipping' on Trump thus cooperating with investigators regarding any Criminal activities, which could incriminate Trump?

Common sense suggests that if one is innocent (Trump) then one (Trump) should not Worry or sweat about 'anything' another under investigation could or would say.

Please explain this without involving the names of Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Barrack Obama, Michelle Obama, Al Sharpton, Elizabeth Warren, Robert Mueller, Rod Rosenstein, Judas or The Three Stooges. Also, please avoid Fox News conspiracy theories...if I need those stories, I'll watch re-Runs of 'The Twilight Zone.'

Hint: Draw on some common sense before responding...and please, No Abbott & Costello lingo.
(Touch)
Tell It Straight

Old Bones

My wife and I live in a four-bedroom, two-story home with a finished den and office in the basement. I mention this because just yesterday, I was walking up and down steps and became very aware of my knee joints and leg muscles. I always took those body parts and functions for granted largely due to the fact that they never 'spoke' to me in the past.

During my afternoon two-mile walk, I thought of other aspects of my journey that have gradually but definitely changed over time. Today, I can more easily locate the part-line in my hair. It takes me less time to brush fewer teeth and the hair which has thinned on my scalp grows more rapidly in ears and nose. My skin is beginning to resemble an inner-city street map with aging spots suggesting the plethora of bars and drugstores.

My belly remains relatively 'flat' due to the fact that I have type 2-diabetes and thus no longer enjoy Cherry pie, German Chocolate Cake, homemade breads or M & M's. Our family doctor tells me that the slight tremor in my left hand is not indicative of anything other than a "senile tremor," which means it ain't gunna get better. My podiatrist assured me that just because the large toe on my left foot appears to be taking Horace Greeley's advice to "go West," I should not worry because it's the start of a bunion that he says, "won't catch up with your journey." Ummm!

My hearing aids need periodic cleaning but seem to do the job. The eye doctor says my sight is good but wants to check increasing pressure and the gastroenterologist wishes to do a lube-check periodically.

Actually, all considered, I'm blessed. Despite the mileage, I appear to have a 'working-machine.'
I thank God and modern medical technology. My friends tell me that my wife and I should 'down size' and move to a one-floor Ranch style house. I don't think I'll do that just now...up and down and in and out with the dog keeps the juices flowing. What's the saying? "Use it or lose it."
(Touch)
Old Bones

Keep The Children Safe

I have realized recently that I have a recurring daily prayer-line, "Dear God, please be with my children, grandchildren and great grandchildren this day. Help them to make good choices and protect them from the many perils in this contaminated society."

Why would I not speak these words of petition given the frightening events, which have become commonplace. It seems the daily newspaper too frequently reports young deaths associated with drugs and alcohol. Constantly, I hear news of youth suicides also related to drugs and/or social conflicts such as bullying and social media ostracism. Sadly, I notice physical appearance, dress and fashion displays that suggests young people are struggling in identity crisis as they desperately attempt to 'fit in' and find their place. And who can deny this real twenty-first century fear of terrorist in our midst. We live in a society with people committing mass murder to make some political statement and while our nation debates guns and mental illness issues, deranged individuals walk amongst us on a mission from hell.

Occasionally, I ask parents if they have concerns with some of  these aforementioned circumstances and behaviors. Often times, the parent responds, "It could be worse," or "I choose to pick my battles." My unsolicited response, "I suppose it could get worse but I hate to imagine." Regarding the 'pick your battles approach,' as a parent I intended to control all outcomes of disagreements with my teenage children. They learned early that 'house rules' and expectations were non-negotiable.

I understand that it is easy to second guess the coach and it is easy for older folks to be critical of younger parents. I wish not to assume that role. I would only encourage young parents to be unafraid to hold children to higher standards of expectations and understand consequences for their actions. Meanwhile, you all may want to join me in my daily prayer.
(Touch)
God: Protect the Children

Who's You're Boogieman?

Several years ago, a family medical doctor told me that one-third of all prescriptions he wrote were patient requested. Think about this: a patient (particularly seniors) observe the endless medicines marketed in television advertisements and then driven by personal maladies the patient asks their family doctor if they can "try" that particular drug. Most family doctors check the patient's chart for current med's looking for interactions and if none found prescribes the medicine. Here we have a great example of the power of suggestion and propaganda married to a person's physical desires. This does not stop with physical only.

Our mind-susceptibility is eager to find both physical gratification and validation for our emotional attitudes. We will latch-on to fiction or facts just as long as our need is met. I challenge any reader this morning to spend two evenings extracting strong anti-political Facebook positions and so-called facts and then google seeking a fact-check. You will be surprised how much  the 'boogieman' lies, which are posted are accepted as truth. Unfortunately, not many people take the time to do such research...but then they say, "ignorance is blissful?" In other words, not knowing something untrue makes us comfortable with our erroneous beliefs that support our attitudes.

I think it was 1949. I was ten-years old. It was late one summer afternoon when my friend, Vincent Jacknewitz and I was crawdad fishing at the creek in lower Washington Park East St. Louis when an older neighborhood boy approached us and asked if we'd like to go farther down creek and 'see' a group of Gypsies who had set up a camp site. I knew the Gypsies were in the area because  I saw some earlier in the week wearing colorful outfits and scarves at a bus stop where they were selling  some goods.  I mentioned to my two companions that I had heard some adult neighbors talking about a 'band of Gypsies' in the area and how people with babies and young children should keep an eye out because "those Gypsies are known to steal babies and young children." The older boy said, "Yea but my dad said they don't steal babies that are black, Jews or Polacks." I guess that comment was suppose to make 'me' feel safe, after all Vincent was Polish.  We left our 'stings of liver-bait' in the creek for the crawdads and jumped on our bikes to go check out the Gypsies. I watched some great dancing but did not notice any small children tied to stakes.

Today, I need not look for Gypsies to find a 'boogieman.' I simply turn on the radio and listen to Rush Limbaugh or watch Sean Hannity on Fox News. These fellas each carry a sack full of  'boogieman' conspiracy theories. It's no longer the Gypsies...today it's the Mexicans, Blacks, Muslims, Jews. Middle eastern refugees and of course, those evil liberal-Democrats. The ignorant, insecure, threatened and bigoted need 'boogiemen.' You gotta have someone to blame.
(Touch)
The Gypsy

Clowns & Jokers Running the Show

President Theodore Roosevelt often countered the 'bluff' and the 'bully threats' with the posture, "Speak softly and carry a big stick."

President Donald 'Blowhard-Bully' Trump speaks with a forked tongue saying first, "As President, I'll never TELL what the USA is going to do militarily...then a couple of days before he orders the American military to strike Syria with missiles, Trump announces to Russia, who warns Trump not to fire missiles; "Russia, the missiles are coming, get ready." A few days later those missiles are fired on Syria. Our propaganda machine tells the world that we were successful hitting targets while Syria's propaganda machine states otherwise; we'll likely never know for sure.

The day after the missile strikes, UN Ambassador' Nikki Haley tells the world, "America is "locked and loaded." I just bet that comment gave the NRA fellas an erection. So much for "Speaking softly and carrying a big stick."
(Touch)
Stuck in the Middle

A 'Poopy' Start To The Day

Yodie is my morning alarm clock. The Toy Poodle usually wakes at the foot of our bed around 6 o'clock. He begins a stretching routine then comes to me to snuggle briefly before bounding to the floor only to glance back as if to say, "Let's go Fella, nature's calling." This past Saturday morning, I let my friend out and sat down in the family to wait for the pup's return, bark and my next job, which is to feed him. I am well trained.

While waiting, I turned on the T.V.  At six o'clock every Saturday, one can watch five-non-stop hours of 'The Rifleman' or any number of paid advertising programs or T.V. Preachers with all kinds of scams to get your money. On the latter issue, I particularly like the preacher fella who has the same scriptures every Saturday about 'sowing your seeds of faith' and how those seeds will return a hundred fold to you. Meanwhile, he wants you to send your $1,000.00 seed cash to him.

Another T.V. program had a fella selling one of those 'colon cleansing' products. His opening question to the audience was "What is your 'poop' saying to you?' This is exactly why I don't linger in restrooms for fear I'll hear voices. Several years ago, a friend of mine was vacationing in New Mexico and told me one late evening in a local bar, he was standing at a men's urinal and a female voice coming from the base of the urinal spoke: "Hi, big boy. Have you had a little too much to drink? Management will call a cab if you ask.". New Mexico was attempting to discourage intoxicated driving but obviously not heart-attacks.

Must leave it there, Yodie wants in...gotta fix his food.
(Touch)
Talkin to YOU Buddy

For Real; I Ain't Playin'

Are there some trendy 'phrases' that in a short time begin to irritate you as they do me? Here's one that's had a good run: "Let's be honest." I don't believe I fell victim using that head-scratch puzzling phrase. I say head-scratch and puzzling because people would interject the 'Let's be honest' comment at a conversational juncture where they felt they needed to bring some debate to conclusion through 'being' honest. Another way to look at the statement, 'Let's Honest' is the appearance and acknowledgment of the obvious and that is up until the moment we ask for honesty, we've all been bull-crapping and lying....Let's be honest...it is a dumb self-incriminating phrase!

A more recent but equally annoying phrase has overwhelmed in recent years: That phrase is>> "At the end of the day..." This communication suggests that from early morning and well into the evening, we all accept 'stuff' that ain't gunna cut it come bedtime. It seems towards day's end something changes and that 'stuff' we've been embracing all day long becomes worthless; someway there is a deal-breaker...won't float...it's a dog that don't hunt at night.

So my advice to you readers>> get with the program because 's*#t happens' 'at the end of the day! 'Let's be honest!' I mean come on, 'It is what it is!'
(Touch to Play)
Mean What You Say

The Swamp Cleaner-Upper

I give President Trump some credit on this one.  I must admit that I have been an out-spoken critic of this President and I am certain that I will continue. That said, I must acknowledge and give kudos to Trump for fulfilling one of his often repeated claims that, "If elected I'll drain the swamp in Washington D.C." Trump has been in the Oval Office nearly fifteen months and his 'actions' have gotten rid of 41-varmints. That's correct....an unprecedented 41-Republican Congressmen will not seek re-election to 'The House' as the November mid-terms arrive.

God Bless America and thank you Mr. Trump
(Touch to Play)
See Ya Later

Who's Crazy?

I've always believed that there is a mental wellness fine line between 'okay' and 'not okay.' If you prefer, call it 'sane' and 'crazy.' That said, if one seeks a definition of mental illness one will find multiple explanations. For the sake of this blog, I would advance the following 'mental illness definition:' "Any of various disorders characterized by impairment of the individuals' thoughts, emotions or social functioning, including schizophrenia and mood disorders such as bipolar disorders." After reading that definition three times, I am inclined to think most folks are slightly to severely canoeing 'in circles.'

I raise this issue of mental illness this morning because just yesterday while waiting at a coffee shop to meet with a graphics designer for a book cover, I over heard two old fart-contemporaries debating the gun violence solution. Of course, they both agreed that the entire problem was 'mental illness.' I bit my tongue. I wanted to say, 'Hell YES, you morons! Isn't anybody who uses a gun or any method to kill another human being (war excepted) is in fact, a  mentally ill person? Taking the life of another person would definitely fall under the category of 'unacceptable social functioning.'

Let's see...King Herod (crazy), Napoleon (crazy), Hitler (crazy), American Cowboys (crazy), Bonnie & Clyde (crazy), well I'm sure there's a few 'nut jobs' out there who would argue each of the aforementioned cases...that's why we have Criminal defense attorneys who get the 'rich' guilty guy   off with little punishment while the 'poor' innocent fella goes to the poky.

I watched the two gents leave the coffee shop and as one jumped into his pickup truck, sporting the Trump 'Make America Great Again' sticker, I just smiled and opened my Planters peanut bag and poured a handful into my Diet Coke. Say WHAT? You think dumping peanuts 🥜 into your soda is kinda crazy? Excuse me, have you ever tried it?
(Touch)
Crazy Little Momma

Which Is It?

President Trump is on record stating numerous times that military Generals and past Presidents have erred announcing military intentions before their execution. He said it as a candidate and later after being elected. Now, today he tweets, for the world to read, "The missiles are coming Russia, get ready." Therefore, Trump has not only alerted the enemy in advance of what our military is going to do so they might get out of harms wa and protect valuable resources, our President compromises our military mission and possibly places OUR soldiers in harms way.

This man is a dangerous fool.
(Touch to Play)
Yes or No

Joyful Memories

Believe me friends when I tell you that as you age you will experience more arthritis in the body and more clutter in your surroundings. I am determined to accomplish a clean and organized garage this spring. I have been making this statment for three consecutive years and I am going to get it done this spring. My wife and I have been hoodwinking ourselves with the claim of holding a garage-sale. I'm no longer interested in that objective. I'm tossing or giving to The Salvation Army. I'm kinda looking forward to tackling the garage clean up project, perhaps I shall find a surprise or two; even a memory.

Yesterday, I was busy going through personal file in my office looking for specific photos that might compliment passages in a book I recently finished when I came across some 'stuff' my mother gave me a year or so before she died. The stuff was in a photo box of hers. As I rummaged through the contents, I saw a number of family members' newspaper obituaries. After reading them , I discovered I old news clips of family obituaries; they all seemed older back 'then.' In the box was a couple of very dated men's wallets. Both wallets had belonged to my mother's father, E. V. Bennett. Inside each wallet was a driver's license belonging to Grandpa E.V. One billfold held a note from my mother, which read: "Dad handed me this wallet the day he was taken to the hospital experiencing chest pains. The house key and dollar bill were in the wallet." That moment occurred  sixty-years ago this coming May. Grandpa died after a three day hospital stay.

Also in the box was a hotel receipt. Again, mother's note explained the artifact. The receipt was from  the Jefferson Hotel St. Louis, Missouri for a one night stay on October 16, 1937. The room cost was $4.00 with .09 tax...total bill $4.09; for my parents' honeymoon night. I also came across two 50th Anniversary Photos: one was that of my mother and father and the other was my maternal grandparents E.V. and Mammy Bennett...I attended both celebrations. Great times. Doesn't seem 'that' long ago.  As I continued my searching for more photos, I felt a bit of warmth and realized that a precious memory is a joy forever.
(Touch to Play)
Memories Are Made of This

It's A Beautiful Morning

Interesting how sleeping habits change in a lifetime. As an infant, I'm sure I slept like puppy; deeply and peacefully. During my teen years, I embraced life into the later hours and then hoped to sleep into the mid morning if allowed. Those bread-winning years seem to dictate a more regimented schedule. I went to bed after the ten o'clock news then up-and-go at the the alarm clock warning.

 Finally, came retirement years. I hear stories of folks enjoying afternoon naps, which either are unappealing or unnecessary for me personally. These days, I hit the pillow before the 10PM depressing news. I'd like to say that I sleep like a baby but I don't. Look, I'm seventy-nine. Whereas back in the day, I could palm a basketball, I'm certain today, I could not palm my prostate gland. Usually, it's about 4:30 AM the last time I walk Mr. Winky to the latrine. Frequently, I return to the sack only to begin fighting for elusive shut-eye. Perhaps around 5 or 5:30 AM, those mind games begin. Sleep busters for sure! One frequent thought is loss. Loss of love ones or dear friends. I recall laughter amongst family members or bantering between good buddies all of whom have departed this life. Suddenly, my  reminiscing reminds me that familiar faces are disappearing. My stories are finding road closures.

I refuse to lay there in that bed and allow melancholy-depression to fester. I get up and look for ways to embrace the challenges of a new day; a day with brand new possibilities. It could be a writing day, perhaps music recording for friends. Some church work thoughts or developing programs for the  annual basketball tournament I coordinate. Good weather finds me outdoors with walking exercise and yard work. Gotta keep on keepin' on. Like Morrie said, "When you're in bed, you're dead."
 Mitch Albom, 'Tuesday's With 'Morrie.'

And what a blessing to have family that keeps calling and making plans. Like the shoe slogan suggests: "Just Do It!"
(Touch)
Its A Beautiful Morning

It Was a Shame

I suppose it was around 1952 and 1953, when I first stumbled onto the understanding of some pop music business shenanigans. Those dishonest maneuvering white guys fellas in the music recording-business. Here's my awareness moment: At age thirteen, I began seeking some R & B and straight Blues sounds on my radio. Whereas most of the local music stations played the more traditional teen music, I enjoyed the more earthy tones of the Black vocalists.

Listening to a Black owned music stations out of St.. Louis, I soon discovered that many 'Top 40 Hits' played on my White traditional radio stations, I had heard first on the Black radio stations. I discovered that many of the Black singers could not get their 'stuff' played of the bigger market White stations. Therefore, the Black written and Black recorded music could be easy pickin' for White singers. Take this scenario: Fats Domino would record 'Ain't That a Shame' but Pat Boone would come along and record the same song and have it become a big money-making hit. This happened to Little Richard when Boone took Richard's song 'Tutti Frutti' and made it a big hit.

Now, it would be easy to say bad things about Pat Boone about this but I won't. Boone wasn't the crook in this scam...the crooks were the record companies. You see, those fellas took advantage of the Black artists ignorance about 'copyright laws' and offered a meager amount of money to 'buy' the music from artists and have them sign away royalty claims on future sales. It's kinda like the deals early American white settlers made with Native Americans.

Let me tell you how goofy Pat Boone was back then. Before he agreed to re-record Fats Domino's  'Ain't That a Shame,' the weenie asked the recording executives if they could re-write the lyrics calling the song, "Isn't That A Shame." If you gave me free tickets today to a Pat Boone Concert they'd go unused.

Boone was not the only white artist that understood the ripe field of black music being barred from 'Whites Only Stations' in the large markets. Big Joe Turner's 'Shake Rattle & Roll' was snatched up by Bill Haley & The Comets. Of course, Joe's version is down right nasty! Even the King himself, Elvis took advantage....Well instead of explaining the 'Hound Dog' story, let me remind you that Elvis recorded Hound Dog in 1956..three years after Willie Mae 'Big Mama'' Thornton recorded 'Hound.'

Hit 'Play' and the link for 'Big Mama's' version.
PLAY

Good Guys and Bad Guys

I know, we are not to judge. The problem is from birth until death we are encouraged daily to make a judgment or some judgment is made for us to accept matter-of-fact.

My first recollection of a pre-judgment was the 'boogieman' at NIGHT. Therefore, night was bad and daylight was good. Finally, I reached those 'you're up to no-good' teenage years and realized, 'night' was not all that bad. Those Saturday afternoon double-feature cowboy and Indian movies drew a distinct line between the good guys and the bad guys...movie producers did a hellava job advancing that bigoted narrative about the 'REDMAN. It was easy picking out the good guys in a Superman or Zoro serials. And those white hats and white horses aided us in picking out the good and bad.(Note: If John Wayne was in the movie it became easy picking out good guy.)

As an athlete I could easily determine the good guys / bad guys because we wore different uniforms. History books, novels and movies provided a plethora of information and data to suggest and support stories of good guys bad guys. I cannot help but wonder if school history books throughout the world  give the same slant on Hitler, Mussolini, Churchill, FDR, Truman, the Holocaust and hundreds of other historical   figures and events.

These days the pressure is off. None of us need angst over the question, who's good and who's bad because we can pick a television network that fits our pre-determined inclinations much like that religious doctrine that best floats our boat. MSNBC will provide viewers with all the ammunition  you need to dish-on-the Donald while Fox News will serve up all the 'Trump Tea.' Warning>> Tox News ratings are a 'leg' up on all other networks.

Even in my beloved music world, I can choose songs about the good guys or the bad guys. For example: Bad guy, "Stagger Lee" shot Billy so bad that a bullet went through Billy and broke the bartender's glass," or good guy "Jim Dandy" who "Met a girl named Sue, she was fellin' kinda blue; Jim Dandy was a kinda guy that never liked to see a little girl cry...Jim Dandy to the rescue...go Jim Dandy!"

My wife's family even has a photo taken years ago that is referenced as 'The Good Guys / Bad Guys Picture.' It is actually two pictures in one of those Side-by-Side frames. In one frame is a group of  brother-in laws & sister-in laws while the other frame holds a picture of my wife and her sisters and  brothers. How's that? You wish to know which were the good guys and which were the bad guys? Well, let me answer that question telling you that brother-in law Jack Conrad christened it.
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A Head Scratcher

I could site a number of my Facebook friends who support President Trump regardless of anything showing Trump in a negative light. These friends will post a photo of a bloodied soldier in uniform alongside an NFL player kneeling during the National Anthem with a caption asking who is the true patriot. A couple of days later that same Facebook friend will show a photo of Trump with a caption, 'A President Who wishes to secure our borders.' Next to Trump will be a photo of Robert Mueller with a caption: "Two years wasting millions of tax dollars probing nothing."

Listen up friends: Anytime Trump's photo appears in a post with a photo of Robert Mueller, the caption should read: "One of these fellas is a decorated War Hero with a Bronze Star for valor and a Purple Heart, the other guy could not serve in that Vietnam War due to heel bone spurs, which never appears to bother this overweight fella on the golf course."
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He Got Spurs

Fifty-Four Years Between Hugs

It was like many of the St. Louis Cardinals' recent home openers. I was comfortable in an easy chair in our family room enjoying the pre-game hoopla as only St. Louis can do; but what other Major League Baseball city has The Clydesdale's?

Born in a East St. Louis, Illinois seventy-nine years ago and spending my first 18-years years a stones-throw from the Cardinals' Sportsman's Park, I was destine to develop a passion for the Redbirds. My father could tell me first-hand stories of the Old Gashouse Gang and the antics of Dizzy Dean and Pepper Martin. He made me focus on the hustle of Enos 'Country' Slaughter and the smooth fluid motions of shortstop, Marty Marion. What my dad failed to tell me you could bet the hyper, overzealous Redbirds' broadcaster, Harry Carey would exaggerate more. I would be hooked for a lifetime...a Cardinals' fan. Of course, I would adopt my own childhood idol, Stan 'The Man' Musial.

Back to yesterday's' 2018 home opener. There was a moment that was unlike any other home opener I've watched. Several retired former Cardinals players who are either in the National Baseball Hall of Fame or the Cardinals' Hall of Fame had been introduced and wearing their striking red blazers were stationed along the first base line. It was moving to see Lou Brock, one of the great base runners of the game limp gamely on an artificial limb towards teammates Ozzie Smith and Willie McGee. However, when newly inducted Cardinals' Hall of Famer, Tim McCarver was hugged by old time battery mate and Hall,if Famer, Bob Gibson, I felt warm tears swelling in my eyes. You see, I had a  real personal flashback. It was October 1964 and I was coaching basketball at Mason City, Illinois. My father telephoned me the night before the Cardinals-Yankees 7th game of the World Series. "I've got tickets, he said, can you make it?" Make it I DID. I was going to watch a World Series Championship decided with my Dad.

I arrived at St. Louis and met my dad near the Park. My brothers' Tom and Marty were also there. I thought how wonderful, Dad and his three sons at the Series. Wrong! Dad could only manage three tickets, which he handed to his sons and said, "You boys bring home a winner." Well, Gibson brought home a Cardinals World Series Winner by a 7-4 score.

I remember the final out of that World Series and how McCarver ran to the mound to hug his pitcher who had gone the distance and once again yesterday the now 82-year old Gibbly and 77-years young, McCarver once again hugged at home plate. Why those  tears in my eyes...? Sure do miss Dad. What an incredible classy guy and father. He was also made of Hall of Fame stuff.
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Thank You For Being My Dad

What Goes Up...?

I'm sure you all heard the warning over the past weekend. Apparently, a Chinese Space Station was breaking apart as it fell to earth. We're not to worry, however because the chances of an individual getting hit by the space 'junk' is less likely than the individual winning the lottery.

I did a bit of research on this 'stuff' falling out of the skies and discovered that thousands of pounds of debris and scattered fragments fall daily onto the earth's surface; so it ain't just the Pigeons overheard that need to concern you.

This entire issue caused me to wonder about our lack of giving much consideration to consequences for actions. People drive highways not using seat belts and yet using cell phones talking and texting even though accident statistics speak to negative probabilities. The medical and pharmaceutical industries give constant warnings about prescription and illegal drugs yet both are consumed by Americans at alarming rates with a shrugged of the shoulders regarding consequences. Tobacco usage in our nation continues at alarming rates as users flaunt scientific evidence of ill health consequences.

A popular  general agreement is that teenagers believe they are immune from 'bad stuff' happening to them...after all the young is invincible but unfortunate consequences are known to happen. A nation continues to hold strong division-lines regarding protecting planet earth for future generations. We continue to argue about air and water pollutions...are we abusive or not? Ah, probably not...hell the space debris didn't hit me or you last weekend...ITS ALL GOOD.
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what Goes Up...

Ah, That Great Food Delicacy

I would guess that I am doing what hundreds of thousands of Americans are doing today; I'm making 'bean soup.' I'm sorry, I get ahead of myself. First, I should tell you that for the past six years, I likely do 70% of our dinner preparation-cooking. It's only fair for me to that.  For thirty-nine years, my wife sat in gymnasiums where I was coaching and often times just a couple of rows behind my bench. From that perspective, she would on occasion yell out coaching advise to me. I am simply paying back that debt by nudging her from the kitchen and doing 'that' thing. I will tell you that my personal cookbook is now thicker than my basketball playbook. back to my bean soup. I know what my basketball fan-adversaries are thinking...bite your tongue, you 'Drugstore Cowboys!' Back to the 'beans.'

I follow the 'Senator Bean Soup' recipe. That Bean Soup first appeared on the United States Senate's luncheon menu back in the early 1940's at a Bowl cost of .15 cents. It's closer to $5.00 today and the bowl is smaller...there should be a special counsel appointed to investigate this Senate Bean Soup cost scandal.

 My navy beans, ham, celery, potatoes, onion, garlic, salt and pepper will undoubtedly challenge my digestive system for a day or two after consumption but it will be worth the restroom visits. Actually, The Bean Soup is not the best part of this experience...nope! It's the next evening when I take cold beans from the fridge and spread them on two slices of bread...Oh, BUDDY. I do this late at night with the lights off and listening to the music recording of 'Bread &'Butter,' by The Newsbeats.
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Bread & Butter

Let's Go Get Stoned

We continue to hear Donald Trump's gibberish-jabber about his Mexico-border-wall. When he first got his base all giddy about keeping those 'thugs' out of our country, he really got applause saying, "And who's going to pay for the wall?" Then the 'sheelple' would holler back, MEXICO!" Of course, Mexico has told 'hair-do' what he can do with his wall. Now Trump wants our military to pay for his wall. Yeah, let's hear for Making America Great Again!

 People who favor a 'wall' along the United States -Mexico border may desire such for a variety reasons but when they offer the reason of reducing illegal drugs entering our country, well those people are simpletons! A recent survey indicates that the United States leads all countries in the consumption of illegal drugs. That's correct, "Were #1 'getting wasted!'

Anybody who understands the basic concepts of economics accepts the principal of 'supply and demand.' If Americans did not have this insatiable appetite for drugs, we (USA) would gain more control over porous borders. Secondly, if we (USA) paid fair wages for some of our undesirable jobs perhaps that would 'fill' the work-force void facing corporate/farming businesses and thus fewer workers would be flooding across the Mexico-America.

It would appear that we should be looking 'inward' for some problem solving solutions before laying the blame at the wrong feet. Face it my fellow Americans, we are a entitled gluttonous society. If you're offended by this statement then vent your anger towards this writer but before you do examine some of our biggest health issues and ask yourself, 'why?'
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Lets Go Get Stoned

I Believe

This past Good Friday, my blog regarding my personal perceived blessings of salvation through the blood of Christ shed on Calvary's Cross was met with a myriad of interesting responses. Some of those comments touched off challenges between 'believers' and 'non-believers.' I have never entered those debates with the notion I am right in 'believing' and others are wrong in 'not believing.' The reader should not conclude that I fail to care about my non-believing brothers and sisters because if that was the case, I'd stop praying for them. Actually, if I was not a proud liberal-Democrat, I might very well be a libertarian embracing the doctrine of 'free will.'

The last time I checked figures regarding 'the believing numbers,' Christianity was still the largest religion in the world with approximately 2,200,000,000 followers, which is nearly 1,000,000,000 more than the #2 religion, Islam. This means that over two thousand years ago, Jesus Christ with twelve followers began the largest movement ever known to mankind. WOW! How about that 'fake news' sustaining, eh?

I not only have the conviction and faith in this movement, I have even used it as blueprint in my personal work-ethic approach. Frequently when committed to a project and having little backing or support, I dug my heels in and reminded myself, 'one does not need large numbers to accomplish great things; one needs conviction and passion.' In my journey, I discovered 'gotta wanna' and to punch your ticket for the next journey, 'you gotta BELIEVE.'

I Believe! Have a great week.
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I Believe