Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell's wife, Elaine Chao was seen recently taking all her husband's pants-trousers to a seamstress in Washington D.C. She is having zippers put in the seat of all Mitch's trousers.
You understand her concern...sure you do.
Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
Probably Sould Consider Sleep AIDS
Sunday past, I rolled out of bed earlier than usual...couldn't sleep. Perhaps I have too much on my mind and then perhaps old people simply can't wait to put their feet on the floor and praise the Lord for another breakfast.
After reading several newspaper stories, I turned on the television. The big TV in the family room. We subscribe to cable offered by Comcast. We get a plethora of channels. Of course, multiple cable channels with Comcast is 'smoke & mirrors.' Lots of repeats!! We pay excess if $200.00 monthly for cable and Internet services.
If you have not seen early Sunday morning cable television offerings, you're not missing anything. Let me tell you that even the major big three networks have sold their souls for the advertising dollar.
Surfing channels, I came across the following exciting programming: A vacuum sweeper sales pitch-loop that was endless and mundane. Then there was that fella with the dark moustache who sells those over-priced pillows; this guy is a tad creepy. Another channel sported two women selling jewelry, handbags and perfumes. Several programs had hawking preachers pitching books, DVD's and trinkets...once in awhile they'd talk about Jesus. One preacher fella said if I sent him $1,000.00 'seed-money,' I would be richly blessed within a short period of time. Actually, I was more spell-bound by one preacher-man named Kenneth who resembles the late, Charles Manson. Suddenly my surfing landed on a channel televising one of those professional European soccer matches, which was like watching a bunch of temperamental private school kids playing a recess kickball game. Finally, I settled for Larry King talking about his prostate. It was either Larry or another program with a couple sporting phony smiles bragging about some men's sex product called Extenze.
I can't understand how stupid we Americans can become. The Saturday before, I paid Sam's Club $45.00 to re-new my yearly right to spend money in their store. Dadgumit, I recall those television days of old when my choices were three black and white 'free' television channels with interesting programs and nobody telling me how to interpret the news or sports analyst fella trying to convince me that some baseball player who hits 30-home runs while striking out 190 times is worth 17-million dollars.
Sometime today, I'm picking up some Melatonin Sleep Aid Supplements at CVS.
After reading several newspaper stories, I turned on the television. The big TV in the family room. We subscribe to cable offered by Comcast. We get a plethora of channels. Of course, multiple cable channels with Comcast is 'smoke & mirrors.' Lots of repeats!! We pay excess if $200.00 monthly for cable and Internet services.
If you have not seen early Sunday morning cable television offerings, you're not missing anything. Let me tell you that even the major big three networks have sold their souls for the advertising dollar.
Surfing channels, I came across the following exciting programming: A vacuum sweeper sales pitch-loop that was endless and mundane. Then there was that fella with the dark moustache who sells those over-priced pillows; this guy is a tad creepy. Another channel sported two women selling jewelry, handbags and perfumes. Several programs had hawking preachers pitching books, DVD's and trinkets...once in awhile they'd talk about Jesus. One preacher fella said if I sent him $1,000.00 'seed-money,' I would be richly blessed within a short period of time. Actually, I was more spell-bound by one preacher-man named Kenneth who resembles the late, Charles Manson. Suddenly my surfing landed on a channel televising one of those professional European soccer matches, which was like watching a bunch of temperamental private school kids playing a recess kickball game. Finally, I settled for Larry King talking about his prostate. It was either Larry or another program with a couple sporting phony smiles bragging about some men's sex product called Extenze.
I can't understand how stupid we Americans can become. The Saturday before, I paid Sam's Club $45.00 to re-new my yearly right to spend money in their store. Dadgumit, I recall those television days of old when my choices were three black and white 'free' television channels with interesting programs and nobody telling me how to interpret the news or sports analyst fella trying to convince me that some baseball player who hits 30-home runs while striking out 190 times is worth 17-million dollars.
Sometime today, I'm picking up some Melatonin Sleep Aid Supplements at CVS.
Monday, October 28, 2019
Not Every Case, But Too Many Cases
My parents provided me and my two brothers with a 'blueprint.' Consider: We attended church. We bathed every day and presented ourselves properly in public. We were 'seen' and not heard in adult company. We respected our neighbors. We were not reckless with money. We had curfews. We ate our evening meal together as a family as we shared events of the day. Our family ate out occasionally on Sunday or on a special occasion. We lived with 'moderation' as a guideline.
Today, I notice many differences in the American family. It is apparent from observing the nightly parking lots of restaraunts few families are eating at home and families rarely eat together. That said, most families seem to be undisciplined when it comes to eating in 'moderation.' Let me cut to the plain truth...we're a fat society, generally speaking. Oh I know, my use of the word 'fat' is politically incorrect but you, too have observed obesity abounds!
I am certain that as our appetites and bellies grow our self-discipline proportionately declines. We need not angst over the self-discipline erosion because there is a fix. For many years, some adults with weight issues have opted for bariatric surgery. I understand that some people must pursue weight surgical control efforts for uncontrollable health issues, however many such gastric-bypass surgeries to reduce stomach size has become a risky exercise driven by mental weakness. Recently, pediatric physicians have 'signed-off' on adolescent bariatric surgery. Therefore, the medical field keeps pace with the current parenting philosophy of NOT telling children NO for fear of damaging their self-esteem and thus we now risk unknown physical problems for our young in both the short and long-term.
Today, I notice many differences in the American family. It is apparent from observing the nightly parking lots of restaraunts few families are eating at home and families rarely eat together. That said, most families seem to be undisciplined when it comes to eating in 'moderation.' Let me cut to the plain truth...we're a fat society, generally speaking. Oh I know, my use of the word 'fat' is politically incorrect but you, too have observed obesity abounds!
I am certain that as our appetites and bellies grow our self-discipline proportionately declines. We need not angst over the self-discipline erosion because there is a fix. For many years, some adults with weight issues have opted for bariatric surgery. I understand that some people must pursue weight surgical control efforts for uncontrollable health issues, however many such gastric-bypass surgeries to reduce stomach size has become a risky exercise driven by mental weakness. Recently, pediatric physicians have 'signed-off' on adolescent bariatric surgery. Therefore, the medical field keeps pace with the current parenting philosophy of NOT telling children NO for fear of damaging their self-esteem and thus we now risk unknown physical problems for our young in both the short and long-term.
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Boooooooooooooo!!!!!!!
If Major League Baseball (World Series) fans are wondering why President Trump is not accepting the traditional invitation for a President to 'throw-out' the first pitch before a game, which one would think is a natural considering three of the World Series games will be played in the Nation's Capitol, well Trump explained. Evidently, he feels he'd 'look' to bulky in his bullet proof vest. I don't doubt one moment that the guy would look fatter than usual but I don't think for a second that explanation covers the true reason for bowing out. Trump knows very well that the chorus of boos upon his introduction at Nationals' Park would be deafening.
Good call, Mr. President, Good call.
Good call, Mr. President, Good call.
Let's Do The Right Thing
Our son, Steve who teaches high school has approximately 200-students in his combined classes this school year. His school district evidently keeps track of total behavior-referrals during every student's tenure in the school district. Steve posed this question: How many total referrals do you think these (200) high school students have amassed? I thought for a moment and offered the guess, 5,500. He responded, "How did you get so close? The actual total is 5,210." This scenario is found in all public schools.
The circumstance is all about 'discipline.' Taught discipline, which is NOT BEING TAUGHT. The do-right behavior erosion begins in the home with impotent parenting and it gains momentum with many teachers electing the easy way out from confrontational-mentoring. (Let's clarify the phrase 'confrontational mentoring.') As a parent and a teacher, I felt a responsibility to confront wrong doing and or behavior that could be harmful to my child or the student at my charge. In plain words, I refused to ignore bad behavior and most often chose to handle discipline problems myself rather than refer it to an administrator who had no relationship with my student and would likely suspend a marginal-student who could not afford to miss school. This refusal by teachers to engage and truly attempt mentoring and counseling is a profoundly missed opportunity.
In defense of teachers, I will contend that most parents deal the teachers a bad 'playing-hand.' During my elementary school days, my father always told me the first day of the new school year, "Boy, don't do anything at school that would cause me to miss work and have to come up there to talk with your teacher." It resonated because I remember once as a young boy sassing mother and when my father got home from work he gave me three whacks on the ass with his belt. I never forgot that and never got a referral. My parents made life easier for my teachers.
Those parenting lessons continued in my sports life. My father told me that teammates don't like a goldbrick; a teammate who shirks responsibility. He also told me, "Don't complain. If you don't like your situation then do something to change it." I guess that's why, as my son's basketball coach, I threw him out of practice one night for not 'doing right. It got his attention and his teammates' attention.
The circumstance is all about 'discipline.' Taught discipline, which is NOT BEING TAUGHT. The do-right behavior erosion begins in the home with impotent parenting and it gains momentum with many teachers electing the easy way out from confrontational-mentoring. (Let's clarify the phrase 'confrontational mentoring.') As a parent and a teacher, I felt a responsibility to confront wrong doing and or behavior that could be harmful to my child or the student at my charge. In plain words, I refused to ignore bad behavior and most often chose to handle discipline problems myself rather than refer it to an administrator who had no relationship with my student and would likely suspend a marginal-student who could not afford to miss school. This refusal by teachers to engage and truly attempt mentoring and counseling is a profoundly missed opportunity.
In defense of teachers, I will contend that most parents deal the teachers a bad 'playing-hand.' During my elementary school days, my father always told me the first day of the new school year, "Boy, don't do anything at school that would cause me to miss work and have to come up there to talk with your teacher." It resonated because I remember once as a young boy sassing mother and when my father got home from work he gave me three whacks on the ass with his belt. I never forgot that and never got a referral. My parents made life easier for my teachers.
Those parenting lessons continued in my sports life. My father told me that teammates don't like a goldbrick; a teammate who shirks responsibility. He also told me, "Don't complain. If you don't like your situation then do something to change it." I guess that's why, as my son's basketball coach, I threw him out of practice one night for not 'doing right. It got his attention and his teammates' attention.
Friday, October 25, 2019
A Song for You & Me.
Most Major League Baseball players have a 'walk up' song. It is usually a popular tune they like or a song of choice that perhaps makes a statement. I suppose the origin of the MLB 'walk up' songs is traced back to 1970 when Chicago White Sox organist, Nancy Faust began playing the State song of every baseball hitter on the Sox as they walked to the batter's box.
This past year, Cardinals' shortstop, Paul DeJong's 'walk up' song was "You've Got Another Thing Comin'." By-Judas Priest. Back in 2018, Anthony Rizzo of the Chicago Cubs 'walked' to the plate to the tune "The Stroke," by Billy Squire.
I would suspect that nobody reading these words have a 'walk-in' song as the cross the threshold of their respective work places. That said, I propose that we might ALL agree to having a 'WALK-OUT song each morning as we leave our house.
Okay, here's my suggested 'walk-out' song>>
(Touch)
Don't Let The Devil Ride
This past year, Cardinals' shortstop, Paul DeJong's 'walk up' song was "You've Got Another Thing Comin'." By-Judas Priest. Back in 2018, Anthony Rizzo of the Chicago Cubs 'walked' to the plate to the tune "The Stroke," by Billy Squire.
I would suspect that nobody reading these words have a 'walk-in' song as the cross the threshold of their respective work places. That said, I propose that we might ALL agree to having a 'WALK-OUT song each morning as we leave our house.
Okay, here's my suggested 'walk-out' song>>
(Touch)
Don't Let The Devil Ride
He Awakens The Little Boy
A long-time friend of mine recently commented that he noted our three grown children and some of our grandchildren are dog owners. He went on to surmise that 'dog loving' must be a family-learned behavior. I agreed with him sighting the obvious as I suggested that children often times follow parents in many pursuits and behavior patterns. I've seen fathers and sons bond over fishing, golf, work choices and pro team fandom. Likewise, mother's and daughters many times share life long interests. That said, I do believe the adult child must find sustaining joy or they will eventually move away from those youthful exposures.
Speaking for myself and my relationship with my many dogs over my lifetime, I find it no secret what it was and is that solidifies my love for the dog. Oh sure, I enjoy those games of fetch, chase, tug-of-toys and walks. However, I came to realize many years ago that the 'deal-sealer' for me with the dog is found in those quiet times spent together laying together across the bed or on the floor when stroking the head of a sleeping dog and this old man is suddenly 'in touch' with that little boy inside.
I always viewed my pups as 'God Winks.'
Speaking for myself and my relationship with my many dogs over my lifetime, I find it no secret what it was and is that solidifies my love for the dog. Oh sure, I enjoy those games of fetch, chase, tug-of-toys and walks. However, I came to realize many years ago that the 'deal-sealer' for me with the dog is found in those quiet times spent together laying together across the bed or on the floor when stroking the head of a sleeping dog and this old man is suddenly 'in touch' with that little boy inside.
I always viewed my pups as 'God Winks.'
Thursday, October 24, 2019
Words From a Man of God?
Rick Wiles is a self-proclaimed Evangelical Senior Pastor of the non-denominational 'Flowing Streams Church' in Vero Beach, Florida. Pastor Wiles also hosts a right-wing radio program.
Just yesterday, Pastor Wiles stated, "If Donald Trump is removed from office, Veterans, Cowboys and mountain men who know how to fight will hunt down those causing Trump's removal and there will be violence." Saying such things become subliminal messages for a call to action.
God save us from false prophets.
Just yesterday, Pastor Wiles stated, "If Donald Trump is removed from office, Veterans, Cowboys and mountain men who know how to fight will hunt down those causing Trump's removal and there will be violence." Saying such things become subliminal messages for a call to action.
God save us from false prophets.
American Dignity Slippage
Striking protesters have the right to walk with picket signs in front of the institution or business they are striking as long as they remain on public grounds. Those strikers will be arrested should they enter the property, which they are picketing. Demonstrators at public buildings might enter the building with their chanting demonstration but they will be hauled away by police.
People cannot enter restricted areas, i.e. Hospital rooms, school classrooms, private business meetings in some willy-nilly fashion without consequences.
Yesterday, elected congresspeople entered a stated government security meeting area chanting protest slogans against an investigative process and wielding electronic devises, which are specifically prohibited. The actions were law-breaking but went without arrests. Those protesters not only interrupted the business of government but trashed the meeting room leaving leftover foods and boxes as would irresponsible drunken college fraternity members.
America's 'rule of law' is becoming more of a myth and yet we will want our children to follow rules.
Folks, the only proud performances happening in our Nation's Capitol these days is not in the halls of Congress but on a baseball field.
People cannot enter restricted areas, i.e. Hospital rooms, school classrooms, private business meetings in some willy-nilly fashion without consequences.
Yesterday, elected congresspeople entered a stated government security meeting area chanting protest slogans against an investigative process and wielding electronic devises, which are specifically prohibited. The actions were law-breaking but went without arrests. Those protesters not only interrupted the business of government but trashed the meeting room leaving leftover foods and boxes as would irresponsible drunken college fraternity members.
America's 'rule of law' is becoming more of a myth and yet we will want our children to follow rules.
Folks, the only proud performances happening in our Nation's Capitol these days is not in the halls of Congress but on a baseball field.
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
Games My Friends Played
These days, I notice that those little tabs are found on top of most soft drink cans and beer cans. On plastic bottles, I see the plastic screw tops...very few tin bottle caps these days. More on that later.
When I was a 1950's, teenager living on Rosemont Avenue (Washington Park) East St. Louis, Illinois, we did not have air-conditioning. Our bedroom windows were open at night begging for a breeze to ease the oppressive Mississippi River Valley summer heat and humidity. Many nights while waiting sleep, I'd hear the 'clanking' noise of iron striking. I knew that three doors to the east, neighbor 'Red' Miller was honing his already masterful skills of Horseshoe Pitching.
Recalling those years, I remember how most people (families) were always playing backyard games. In our neighborhood you'd find croquet, badminton, horseshoe pits and basketball goals. Many local taverns had horseshoe pits. Some of those pubs offered another long-standing St. Louis 'born' game dating back to the late 1800's...'Corkball.' Those taverns had Corkball cages to confine the batted ball. The Corkball is a 'mini' baseball 1.6 ounces and the bat is long and narrow at 1.5 inches in diameter. The game has a pitcher, catcher and outfielder. Balls in flight caught by fielders are outs. A ball hit over the outfielder's head is a home run; all other batted balls falling safely to the ground are singles.
There was another game played by kids similar to Corkball but less expensive. The game was played in alleys. It was 'Bottle Caps Baseball.' The bat was a broom handle, which had its whisk end cut off. Kids would go to drug stores and local taverns to solicit bottle caps from beer and soda bottles. The game rules were the same as Corkball. The unique thing about 'Bottle Caps Ball' was the many different ways a pitcher could release a bottle cap causing it to dart in every imaginable direction unlike any baseball, softball or corkball pitch. I believe that learning to hit a darting-slashing bottle cap caused hitters to eye-track with intensity, wait until the cap was deep upon the hitter and then take a very short swing. Let me say this: Today's major league home run hitters with those long looping swings would certainly strike out even more often back in the alley behind Rosemont Avenue in East St. Louis.
When I was a 1950's, teenager living on Rosemont Avenue (Washington Park) East St. Louis, Illinois, we did not have air-conditioning. Our bedroom windows were open at night begging for a breeze to ease the oppressive Mississippi River Valley summer heat and humidity. Many nights while waiting sleep, I'd hear the 'clanking' noise of iron striking. I knew that three doors to the east, neighbor 'Red' Miller was honing his already masterful skills of Horseshoe Pitching.
Recalling those years, I remember how most people (families) were always playing backyard games. In our neighborhood you'd find croquet, badminton, horseshoe pits and basketball goals. Many local taverns had horseshoe pits. Some of those pubs offered another long-standing St. Louis 'born' game dating back to the late 1800's...'Corkball.' Those taverns had Corkball cages to confine the batted ball. The Corkball is a 'mini' baseball 1.6 ounces and the bat is long and narrow at 1.5 inches in diameter. The game has a pitcher, catcher and outfielder. Balls in flight caught by fielders are outs. A ball hit over the outfielder's head is a home run; all other batted balls falling safely to the ground are singles.
There was another game played by kids similar to Corkball but less expensive. The game was played in alleys. It was 'Bottle Caps Baseball.' The bat was a broom handle, which had its whisk end cut off. Kids would go to drug stores and local taverns to solicit bottle caps from beer and soda bottles. The game rules were the same as Corkball. The unique thing about 'Bottle Caps Ball' was the many different ways a pitcher could release a bottle cap causing it to dart in every imaginable direction unlike any baseball, softball or corkball pitch. I believe that learning to hit a darting-slashing bottle cap caused hitters to eye-track with intensity, wait until the cap was deep upon the hitter and then take a very short swing. Let me say this: Today's major league home run hitters with those long looping swings would certainly strike out even more often back in the alley behind Rosemont Avenue in East St. Louis.
Monday, October 21, 2019
Currency Humor
Perhaps you've heard the story...nonetheless, here goes>
A well worn twenty dollar bill and an equally distressed one dollar bill met on the conveyor belt at the National Reserve Bank as the headed towards the burning bin. They struck up a conversation and each began to share stories of their respective journey's in society.
The twenty dollar bill boasted about the glamours life he experienced. Trips around Las Vegas, Atlantic City, swank hotels on the East coast and incredible restaurants across America. The one dollar bill spoke of his experiences from hand-to-collection-plates at Baptist Churches, Methodist Churches, Lutheran Churches and a number of other Churches. A bit puzzled, the twenty dollar bill asked, "What's a Church?"
A well worn twenty dollar bill and an equally distressed one dollar bill met on the conveyor belt at the National Reserve Bank as the headed towards the burning bin. They struck up a conversation and each began to share stories of their respective journey's in society.
The twenty dollar bill boasted about the glamours life he experienced. Trips around Las Vegas, Atlantic City, swank hotels on the East coast and incredible restaurants across America. The one dollar bill spoke of his experiences from hand-to-collection-plates at Baptist Churches, Methodist Churches, Lutheran Churches and a number of other Churches. A bit puzzled, the twenty dollar bill asked, "What's a Church?"
Praying for Our Military Troops
I never miss a day to be in prayer for our military; those men and women who are in harms way protecting human life, freedoms and our own Democracy. I pray for success in their missions. I pray for their safe return to loved ones. I pray that any physical and / or mental scars will heal.
This day, I shall add another prayer dimension. I will pray that those American soldiers who have been ordered to leave Syria and the Kurdish military with whom they fought side by side. The emotional trauma must be heart-wrenching for American soldiers as they witness hundreds of Kurds holding signs with pleading messages not to leave, which would ultimately allow them and their families to be slaughtered by Turkey. Those Kurdish faces begging our soldiers not to leave will no doubt haunt our soldiers forever. I suppose Union General William Teumesh Sherman was correct when he wrote the Mayor and Councilmen of Atlanta, "War is Hell." However, I believe some war missions can glorify the Grace of Our Lord and at this moment it appears we are turning our backs on the 'least of His people' who are in great peril.
Dear God: Please be with those in need.
This day, I shall add another prayer dimension. I will pray that those American soldiers who have been ordered to leave Syria and the Kurdish military with whom they fought side by side. The emotional trauma must be heart-wrenching for American soldiers as they witness hundreds of Kurds holding signs with pleading messages not to leave, which would ultimately allow them and their families to be slaughtered by Turkey. Those Kurdish faces begging our soldiers not to leave will no doubt haunt our soldiers forever. I suppose Union General William Teumesh Sherman was correct when he wrote the Mayor and Councilmen of Atlanta, "War is Hell." However, I believe some war missions can glorify the Grace of Our Lord and at this moment it appears we are turning our backs on the 'least of His people' who are in great peril.
Dear God: Please be with those in need.
Monday, October 14, 2019
Con Man or Shyster: Take Your Pick!
If I was to state that the 89-year old Reverend Pat Robertson is a 'blooming idiot,' I would be standing in judgment of the man, which is unchristian and ignoring Jesus Christ's admonishment to "Judge not that ye be judged." Therefore, I will NOT state that Reverend Pat Robertson is a 'blooming idiot.'
On October 11, 2019, Reverend Robertson, on his 700 Club 'fund raising' television program was asked a few questions regarding the death penalty, here are just a few exchanges:
Question: Why is it that the Christian stance seems to support the death penalty?
Robertson: "Are you kidding? Read the Old Testament. I tell you if a son is unforgivable and will not listen to his parents, the parents can bring him before the authorities and the son will be executed."
Question: But what about the New Testament, where Jesus prevented the woman from being stoned to death for adultery?
Robertson: "Yeah, but that, is non-scriptural." (Note: John 7:53-8:11)
Robertson: "We spent millions of dollars on Prison care for Charles Manson. He should have been put to death."
Robertson cites communication with God when making his predictions. In 1980, 'Ears' Robertson predicted that there would be a judgment on the World in 1982. Thanks be to God that didn't happen because my Cardinals won the '82 World Series. The good man of God advocated the assassination of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez...imagine that suggestion coming from our Lord. Pat also believes Trump has a mandate from God. Wonder who told Pat that nonsense?
So, what shall be done with this lunatic who invokes the Lord's name with crazy predictions. Well, let's not judge; let Scripture speak as Robertson seems to like to do. Deuteronomy 18:20 "But a prophet who presumes to speak in my name anything I have not commanded, or a prophet who speaks in the name of other gods , is to be put to death." Now, this scripture should square with Robertson since he promotes Deuteronomy 21:18-21 "If parents have an unruly, stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his parents then his parents shall bring the son to the elders of the city and have him stoned to death."
Some might say that Robertson is unscrupulous, fraudulent and deceptive. I won't say that because it would be judging him.
I hope my kids read this blog today because a thought just came to me. Had I been one of Pat Robertson's mindless followers back in the day while parenting, there might be fewer Christmas gifts bought by Mom and Pop Roustio.
On October 11, 2019, Reverend Robertson, on his 700 Club 'fund raising' television program was asked a few questions regarding the death penalty, here are just a few exchanges:
Question: Why is it that the Christian stance seems to support the death penalty?
Robertson: "Are you kidding? Read the Old Testament. I tell you if a son is unforgivable and will not listen to his parents, the parents can bring him before the authorities and the son will be executed."
Question: But what about the New Testament, where Jesus prevented the woman from being stoned to death for adultery?
Robertson: "Yeah, but that, is non-scriptural." (Note: John 7:53-8:11)
Robertson: "We spent millions of dollars on Prison care for Charles Manson. He should have been put to death."
Robertson cites communication with God when making his predictions. In 1980, 'Ears' Robertson predicted that there would be a judgment on the World in 1982. Thanks be to God that didn't happen because my Cardinals won the '82 World Series. The good man of God advocated the assassination of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez...imagine that suggestion coming from our Lord. Pat also believes Trump has a mandate from God. Wonder who told Pat that nonsense?
So, what shall be done with this lunatic who invokes the Lord's name with crazy predictions. Well, let's not judge; let Scripture speak as Robertson seems to like to do. Deuteronomy 18:20 "But a prophet who presumes to speak in my name anything I have not commanded, or a prophet who speaks in the name of other gods , is to be put to death." Now, this scripture should square with Robertson since he promotes Deuteronomy 21:18-21 "If parents have an unruly, stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his parents then his parents shall bring the son to the elders of the city and have him stoned to death."
Some might say that Robertson is unscrupulous, fraudulent and deceptive. I won't say that because it would be judging him.
I hope my kids read this blog today because a thought just came to me. Had I been one of Pat Robertson's mindless followers back in the day while parenting, there might be fewer Christmas gifts bought by Mom and Pop Roustio.
Sunday, October 13, 2019
Gone But Not Forgotten
I like oldies movies and with today's endless political garbage on television, I find myself channel surfing for movies often. A few night past, I came across one of those classic gangster flicks recalling those prohibition bootlegging stories. My goodness, it doesn't get any better than watching the likes of George Raft, Peter Lorre and Edward G. Robinson playing tough-guy characters.
While watching the Tommy-gun shoot'em-up movie, I couldn't help but notice the number of 'things,' particularly fashions, which have disappeared from our lives. Even this writer at age eighty cannot recall seeing men wearing SPATS. Spats were those contrasting color cloth coverings men wore over their shoes in the 1910-to-late 1930's, to keep the mud and dirt from their socks and shoes. Then there is the FEDORA. Now, I can recall the men's Fedora hats, which gave way to the more causal men's look in the late 1950's. (Personal note: I purchased a white Stetson Fedora with a black ban back in 1955... I thought it complimented my White Buck shoes and blue pin-strip cord pegged pants). You don't see any those fashion items today except perhaps the Stetsons worn by country western singers.
One scene in the movie I watched depicted a shootout in an alley behind a Speak Easy. Both the alley and speak easy have long disappeared from our neighborhoods.
A few years ago, I purchased two new pairs of leather dress shoes. One pair was reasonable in cost while the second pair was listed at $235.00. I likely reminded the young female sales clerk of her grandfather because she looked about and then leaned towards me and said, "If you really want these shoes, I'll hold them for you because next week they are coming on sale." The following week, I bought the Johnston & Murphy, Gino Vitale two-tone brown leather shoes for $75.00. Now the only thing I cannot find is a 'Shoe Shine Boy' outside the Von Maur Store...but it seems they've disappeared, also.
(Touch)
Shoe Shine Boy
While watching the Tommy-gun shoot'em-up movie, I couldn't help but notice the number of 'things,' particularly fashions, which have disappeared from our lives. Even this writer at age eighty cannot recall seeing men wearing SPATS. Spats were those contrasting color cloth coverings men wore over their shoes in the 1910-to-late 1930's, to keep the mud and dirt from their socks and shoes. Then there is the FEDORA. Now, I can recall the men's Fedora hats, which gave way to the more causal men's look in the late 1950's. (Personal note: I purchased a white Stetson Fedora with a black ban back in 1955... I thought it complimented my White Buck shoes and blue pin-strip cord pegged pants). You don't see any those fashion items today except perhaps the Stetsons worn by country western singers.
One scene in the movie I watched depicted a shootout in an alley behind a Speak Easy. Both the alley and speak easy have long disappeared from our neighborhoods.
A few years ago, I purchased two new pairs of leather dress shoes. One pair was reasonable in cost while the second pair was listed at $235.00. I likely reminded the young female sales clerk of her grandfather because she looked about and then leaned towards me and said, "If you really want these shoes, I'll hold them for you because next week they are coming on sale." The following week, I bought the Johnston & Murphy, Gino Vitale two-tone brown leather shoes for $75.00. Now the only thing I cannot find is a 'Shoe Shine Boy' outside the Von Maur Store...but it seems they've disappeared, also.
(Touch)
Shoe Shine Boy
Saturday, October 12, 2019
One Who Speaks With Forked-Tongue
Recently, Ellen DeGeneres and George W. Bush were seen seated next to each other at the Green Bay 'Packers' & Dallas 'Cowboys' football game. Of course it was noted that they shared some conversation and laughter, which ultimately created a twitter-storm from both sides of the political spectrum. It appears that 'civility' and tolerance for different views precludes American brothers and sisters befriending one another. Ellen caught most of the crap because those on the left seemed to feel that she should have given the Former President a piece of her mind or at least a cold shoulder because he did not support 'Gay Rights.' Ellen seized the event to speak eloquently and decisively about having friends and acquaintances who have different political views from her and continued to make a point when she encouraged her viewers to "be kind to each other," and she does not mean be kind to ONLY those who think like you.
The aftermath of this encounter caused many people to weigh-in suggesting Ellen is 'right-on.' Let's see, I wonder if this message fell on the ears of Donald Trump who once said: "Rosie O'Donnell is a fat pig." "In the old days, we'd take that guy out on a stretcher...punch him in the face." "Knock the crap out of him." "Many of those Mexicans are drug dealers and rapist." "She was bleeding from her eyes or bleeding from somewhere." "No-neck, Adam Schiff." "Lying Ted Cruz." "Little Marco." "Joe Biden was good at kissing Barrack Obama's ass."
My advice to the twitter crowd, who wishes to lecture their fellow Americans about civility and calling upon them to embrace their better Angels is to say something or do something about our discourteous, impolite, foul-mouth and divisive-speaking President. After all, he has torn apart any semblance of kindness towards our fellow man while giving license to that which you twitters seeming disdain.
Go ahead, speak with your forked-tongue. Lecture others but give this vulgar President a pass!
The aftermath of this encounter caused many people to weigh-in suggesting Ellen is 'right-on.' Let's see, I wonder if this message fell on the ears of Donald Trump who once said: "Rosie O'Donnell is a fat pig." "In the old days, we'd take that guy out on a stretcher...punch him in the face." "Knock the crap out of him." "Many of those Mexicans are drug dealers and rapist." "She was bleeding from her eyes or bleeding from somewhere." "No-neck, Adam Schiff." "Lying Ted Cruz." "Little Marco." "Joe Biden was good at kissing Barrack Obama's ass."
My advice to the twitter crowd, who wishes to lecture their fellow Americans about civility and calling upon them to embrace their better Angels is to say something or do something about our discourteous, impolite, foul-mouth and divisive-speaking President. After all, he has torn apart any semblance of kindness towards our fellow man while giving license to that which you twitters seeming disdain.
Go ahead, speak with your forked-tongue. Lecture others but give this vulgar President a pass!
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Bad Taste on a Good Day
Unquestionably, the St. Louis Baseball Cardinals have one of major league baseball's most storied historys. The city on the west bank's of the mighty Mississippi River is noted for great baseball fans who have an understanding and appreciation for the games intricacies and skills needed to perform at the highest level. Those fans readily applaud great plays from opponents as well as their own. The Cardinals organization also distinguishes itself with charity efforts through the Cardinals' Care Program. Suffice to say, St. Louis Cardinals Baseball has been a class show.
There has been thousands of players who have worn the Birds-on-the-Bat uniforms throughout the team's history and sixty-four men have sat in the managers' seat. Since the beginning of Cardinals' baseball in 1892, the team has won 11- World Series ( second most in baseball), 19-League Pennants
(third most in MLB) and 14-Division Titles. A rich history most assuredly.
The Cardinals have done omens work promoting the game. Major League Baseball works hard at promoting its brand. All of baseball suffers when cheating occurs and all of baseball suffers when obnoxious and or vulgar behavior happens around the game. The latter was the case after the Cardinals 13-1 victory over the Atlanta Braves, which propels St. Louis into the National League pennant chase with the winner advancing to the World Series. Cardinals' manager, Mike Schildt who has done an outstanding job in his brief tenure at the helm, was live-streamed on Intagram by a Carindals' player in the post-Atlanta game locker room comments during which time Manager Schildt used the most disgusting language as he down-graded opponents and bragged boorishly about his ball team. The moment is a low point in Cardinals history and Mike Schildt's baseball career. His remarks give fodder to future opponents and creates a fan attitude of hate towards the team and city. Schildt's post game comments are as troubling as those of former Chicago Cubs' Manager, Lee Elia's vulgar post game tirade in 1983.
What should be a glorious moment for the Cardinals players, manager, coaches, ownership and fans has been tarnished by Mike Schildt's most unfortunate comments. Too bad!
There has been thousands of players who have worn the Birds-on-the-Bat uniforms throughout the team's history and sixty-four men have sat in the managers' seat. Since the beginning of Cardinals' baseball in 1892, the team has won 11- World Series ( second most in baseball), 19-League Pennants
(third most in MLB) and 14-Division Titles. A rich history most assuredly.
The Cardinals have done omens work promoting the game. Major League Baseball works hard at promoting its brand. All of baseball suffers when cheating occurs and all of baseball suffers when obnoxious and or vulgar behavior happens around the game. The latter was the case after the Cardinals 13-1 victory over the Atlanta Braves, which propels St. Louis into the National League pennant chase with the winner advancing to the World Series. Cardinals' manager, Mike Schildt who has done an outstanding job in his brief tenure at the helm, was live-streamed on Intagram by a Carindals' player in the post-Atlanta game locker room comments during which time Manager Schildt used the most disgusting language as he down-graded opponents and bragged boorishly about his ball team. The moment is a low point in Cardinals history and Mike Schildt's baseball career. His remarks give fodder to future opponents and creates a fan attitude of hate towards the team and city. Schildt's post game comments are as troubling as those of former Chicago Cubs' Manager, Lee Elia's vulgar post game tirade in 1983.
What should be a glorious moment for the Cardinals players, manager, coaches, ownership and fans has been tarnished by Mike Schildt's most unfortunate comments. Too bad!
Wednesday, October 9, 2019
Idiots & Criminals Abound!
Up until the year 2016, most Presidential historians and scholars generally agree that Warren G. Harding's Administration was the most corrupt. Harding occupied the Oval Office from 1921 until 1923, when the 29th President died of a massive heart attack.
If Harding could only be aware of what's going on in the 45th President's Administration, he (Harding) would be doing back flips knowing that the dubious distinction of being America's boss during the most scandalous Administration was soon going to be erased from his biography.
Whereas Harding suddenly died early in his first term, his Republican Party friends were spared the embarrassments of foolishly attempting to defend him. Not so lucky are the GOP buddies of President Trump. Take for example how foolish and lame-brained Florida Republican Congressman, Matt Gates sounded recently defending his President by attacking Democrat Congressman, Adam Schiff who is leading the House of Representatives' impeachment inquiry. Gates said, "The investigation is nothing more than a 'Kangaroo Court' and Chairman Schiff is acting like Captain Kangaroo." Folks, Captain Kangaroo is a fictitious person developed by actor Robert James Keeshan and was the main character in the longest running daytime children's program, 'Captain Kangaroo.'
Speaking of television shows; Surely there is a television theme with 'Trump, Giuliani and Gates' starring as the central characters. We've already had 'The Three Stooges' and 'The Three Amigos.' Perhaps...'The Unstable Genius & His Clowns.'
If Harding could only be aware of what's going on in the 45th President's Administration, he (Harding) would be doing back flips knowing that the dubious distinction of being America's boss during the most scandalous Administration was soon going to be erased from his biography.
Whereas Harding suddenly died early in his first term, his Republican Party friends were spared the embarrassments of foolishly attempting to defend him. Not so lucky are the GOP buddies of President Trump. Take for example how foolish and lame-brained Florida Republican Congressman, Matt Gates sounded recently defending his President by attacking Democrat Congressman, Adam Schiff who is leading the House of Representatives' impeachment inquiry. Gates said, "The investigation is nothing more than a 'Kangaroo Court' and Chairman Schiff is acting like Captain Kangaroo." Folks, Captain Kangaroo is a fictitious person developed by actor Robert James Keeshan and was the main character in the longest running daytime children's program, 'Captain Kangaroo.'
Speaking of television shows; Surely there is a television theme with 'Trump, Giuliani and Gates' starring as the central characters. We've already had 'The Three Stooges' and 'The Three Amigos.' Perhaps...'The Unstable Genius & His Clowns.'
Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Don't Tell My Kids
It's imperative that you honor my theme plea...do not to tell my kids. They seldom read my blogs or rants for fear I'm embarrassing the family with my periodic meltdowns. That said, your agreement not to share this writing is appreciated.
My wife and I left the Pet Clinic with Poodle, Yodie and headed to Pet Smart and grocery store to pick up dog food and various food staples plus an assortment of greeting cards. (My wife sends out cards to an endless list of folks for every imaginable reason and occasion).
On our way home, I said to the better-half that I'd make a lunch familiar to us in 1960-61. Back-in-the-day this dish was a common evening meal for the newlyweds while, I was completing my senior year at Illinois State University. My wife was working as a dental technician for a meager income and I was making little to nothing with a 'jock job' doing little to nothing. Back then a meatloaf supper saw a hamburger roll the size of a baseball or three wiener-franks cut up with a can of Campbell's Pork-n'-Beans. My lunch on this 2019 day would be the latter delicacy. The 1960, three wieners cost .15 cents and the can of beans about .23 cents. We survived and have enjoyed married life for 59+ post wieners' years!
Interesting how we are less frugal in 2019. Yodie's Pet Clinic checkup cost $190.00, his Pet Smart grooming rings up at $51.00, his special diet dog food lists at sixteen bucks-a-bag and his annual vaccinations hammer out at $230.00. Did I tell you his teeth extractions of a year ago was $1,100.00?
Just don't tell our kids what we spend on Yodie. They are under this bizarre impression that we treat the Pup better than them!
My wife and I left the Pet Clinic with Poodle, Yodie and headed to Pet Smart and grocery store to pick up dog food and various food staples plus an assortment of greeting cards. (My wife sends out cards to an endless list of folks for every imaginable reason and occasion).
On our way home, I said to the better-half that I'd make a lunch familiar to us in 1960-61. Back-in-the-day this dish was a common evening meal for the newlyweds while, I was completing my senior year at Illinois State University. My wife was working as a dental technician for a meager income and I was making little to nothing with a 'jock job' doing little to nothing. Back then a meatloaf supper saw a hamburger roll the size of a baseball or three wiener-franks cut up with a can of Campbell's Pork-n'-Beans. My lunch on this 2019 day would be the latter delicacy. The 1960, three wieners cost .15 cents and the can of beans about .23 cents. We survived and have enjoyed married life for 59+ post wieners' years!
Interesting how we are less frugal in 2019. Yodie's Pet Clinic checkup cost $190.00, his Pet Smart grooming rings up at $51.00, his special diet dog food lists at sixteen bucks-a-bag and his annual vaccinations hammer out at $230.00. Did I tell you his teeth extractions of a year ago was $1,100.00?
Just don't tell our kids what we spend on Yodie. They are under this bizarre impression that we treat the Pup better than them!
Wednesday, October 2, 2019
Time To Sell
I think it's time to 'sell.' Things are what they are and we have little control over outcome, therefore let's sell the country. No, I have not lost my mind. It's the smart thing to do.
It was a terrific run starting with the Pilgrims, the westward expansion, industrialization and high end technology; we did ourselves proud, nonetheless let's face reality, as Archie Bunker would say, "Things are goin' down the turlet." Let's make a deal.
I trace the beginning of our demise back to those Bob Hope, Bing Crosby 'Road Movies.' Those two made fun of the Arab nations and those folks got their nose out of joint and started targeting America with terrorists tactics. Then we have the Mexicans who are mad about losing that war to us and today, Santa Ana descendants keep sneaking across our borders to take our jobs, rape women and get all our good freebies. And don't forget China who is poisoning our children with chemical-laced toys and screwing up our economy by manufacturing cheaper goods. China has also been on an America real estate buying spree for years. Do you realize that foreign owned farmland in America exceeds the size of Tennessee. Add to this downward spiral, some States have sold 6-Tollways to foreign countries. The notion to sell America should not offend anybody; it's already happening and we seemingly don't care plus we're not getting top dollar.
Folks, things in the U.S. of A. are going to hell in a hand basket. Those left-wing crazies want to confiscate people's guns and have us become a socialist nation. Any good Trump supporter knows that we can't say Merry Christmas anymore and the lack of prayer in schools is the fault of liberal atheist. Ask any good Evangelical like Rev. Robert Jeffress who talks of a civil war should Trump be impeached and removed from office. Now that's a wonderful witness and testimony for love!
Let's sell America. Just make sure we get a good deal like the American Natives...you remember those 'Red Skin Savages,' who were nothing like our civilized European Anglo-Saxon founders. Most American men today simply need a comfortable recliner, High Definition cable TV and enough beer for tailgating. Oh, you ask what do the women want? Come on, we're never gunna Make America Great Again since women put on shoes and left the kitchen and 'dark folks ' forgot 'their place.'
Time to sell!
It was a terrific run starting with the Pilgrims, the westward expansion, industrialization and high end technology; we did ourselves proud, nonetheless let's face reality, as Archie Bunker would say, "Things are goin' down the turlet." Let's make a deal.
I trace the beginning of our demise back to those Bob Hope, Bing Crosby 'Road Movies.' Those two made fun of the Arab nations and those folks got their nose out of joint and started targeting America with terrorists tactics. Then we have the Mexicans who are mad about losing that war to us and today, Santa Ana descendants keep sneaking across our borders to take our jobs, rape women and get all our good freebies. And don't forget China who is poisoning our children with chemical-laced toys and screwing up our economy by manufacturing cheaper goods. China has also been on an America real estate buying spree for years. Do you realize that foreign owned farmland in America exceeds the size of Tennessee. Add to this downward spiral, some States have sold 6-Tollways to foreign countries. The notion to sell America should not offend anybody; it's already happening and we seemingly don't care plus we're not getting top dollar.
Folks, things in the U.S. of A. are going to hell in a hand basket. Those left-wing crazies want to confiscate people's guns and have us become a socialist nation. Any good Trump supporter knows that we can't say Merry Christmas anymore and the lack of prayer in schools is the fault of liberal atheist. Ask any good Evangelical like Rev. Robert Jeffress who talks of a civil war should Trump be impeached and removed from office. Now that's a wonderful witness and testimony for love!
Let's sell America. Just make sure we get a good deal like the American Natives...you remember those 'Red Skin Savages,' who were nothing like our civilized European Anglo-Saxon founders. Most American men today simply need a comfortable recliner, High Definition cable TV and enough beer for tailgating. Oh, you ask what do the women want? Come on, we're never gunna Make America Great Again since women put on shoes and left the kitchen and 'dark folks ' forgot 'their place.'
Time to sell!
Tuesday, October 1, 2019
Perhaps?
Is it possible that years from now American Historians will view the 'whistle blower', who disclosed President Trump's invitation to a foreign government to interfere in America's election process, as a greater American patriot than the American Generals who served in Trump's cabinet: Michael Flynn, John Kelly, James Mattis and H. R. McMasters.
OMG! It also appears that Vice President Pence was in the room when his boss (Trump) committed the crime of inviting a foreign country to interfere with our Democracy...Holy Cow! This situation just may end up becoming Republicans' greatest nightmare>>President Nancy Pelosi.
Everybody's got their own opinion and you know...
(Touch)
What Say You?
OMG! It also appears that Vice President Pence was in the room when his boss (Trump) committed the crime of inviting a foreign country to interfere with our Democracy...Holy Cow! This situation just may end up becoming Republicans' greatest nightmare>>President Nancy Pelosi.
Everybody's got their own opinion and you know...
(Touch)
What Say You?
Sense of Humor Varies
A few weeks ago, I had a couple of medical test one of which was a Cat Scan. When the young female technician guided me into a room and had me lay down, I pointed to the large Cat Scan apparatus and said, "I've got one of these in my basement. I bought it at a yard sale several years ago but every time I plug it in it blows a fuse." The young female tech said absolutely nothing but looked at me as if she didn't want to be in the room alone with me.
Different strokes for different folks, eh?
Different strokes for different folks, eh?
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