One of Williams' best compositions!
Monday, December 3, 2007
Christina Aquilera - Candyman (Official Video)
Great 40's parody and Christina looks good as a blonde, brunette, and a redhead!
Undisputed Truth - You + Me = Love (1976 DISCO)
Loved this song back in the day, all nine minutes plus of it!
lovely day
These guys really had fun with the Bill Withers classic. Especially impressive is the guy on the left.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Sitting down to chat with an award-winning actor
Every day mainstream magazines and nightly entertainment “news” programs tout the latest exploits of those individuals that we consider movie superstars. Coverage of these individuals is so frequent that they are known solely by their first names: Lindsay, Nicole, Britney, Brad, Angelina, Denzel, Russell, and Tom (Cruise or Hanks), to cite a few.
Because the aforementioned stars are highlighted so often, we tend to forget the thousands of lesser knowns that linger in the background as supporting actors or part of the technical/production crew.
To be honest, many a film’s success can be credited to the talent of the gifted character actor that shines in his/her respective supporting roles. The work of past actors like Thelma Ritter, Agnes Moorehead, Akim Tamiroff, George Sanders, Frank Silvera, and other character actors is legendary and many of them received acting awards and nominations for their film contributions.
Today, thespians like Brian Dennehy, Joe Morton, Jenifer Lewis, and Charles Napier, though they are not household names, are immediately recognized on screen because they are so memorable in parts, whether big or small.
Peter Coyote is one of those whose presence on stage and screen is rarely forgotten. He has appeared in over 100 film and television programs and has worked with such illustrious directors as Steven Spielberg (E.T., the Extraterrestrial), Roman Polanski (Bitter Moon), Stephen Soderberg (Erin Brockovich), and Brian De Palma (Femme Fatale).
He has also had recurring roles on such television fare as The 4400, Brothers and Sisters, The Inside, and the short-lived Commander-in-Chief with Geena Davis.
He has just finished post-production work on an installment of the popular Law and Order: Criminal Intent.
We in Camilla are fortunate that he, along with co-star Tichina Arnold of Everybody Hates Chris fame, just happens to be staying in town while filming The Lena Baker Story in Colquitt.
I had the pleasure of making his acquaintance, initially at Camilla Java, our local coffee shop, and we later sat down for a friendly chat at McCree Hall, the town's bread-and-breakfast establishment, where the actor is residing while making the film.
In person the Emmy-winning actor stands a solid 6’3” and looks much younger than his threescore and six years. But, what is most impressive about him is his mellifluous voice, something that has been put to good use as the actor is much in-demand as a voiceover actor for commercials and documentaries.
However, Coyote did not actually set out to become an actor. He says, with a wry smile, “I had done sort of my best not to become an actor. I was in the black-turtleneck-Camel-cigarette-crowd in college. We were poets and writers. One day the drama teacher, who was this great Irish rogue, slipped in our booth at the student union and he said, ‘Has it ever occurred to you that theater is argument of great moment that is danced before the public?’”
Coyote was urged to audition and ultimately made the school’s repertory company, doing play after play after play, and honing his craft during his four years at Grinnell College (Iowa), receiving his B.A. in English in 1964.
Moving to San Francisco, the young actor got involved in the social-consciousness movement of the 60’s. “I got involved in this radical political theater, the San Francisco Mime Troupe. That, too, was fascinating, largely due to our political radicalism. We had this show called The Minstrel Show that was really dangerous show. We were arrested six or seven times, we were closed down, and finally Harry Belafonte and Dick Gregory brought us to New York and we dazzled the East Coast.”
Like the name implies, the show featured Coyote and five other actors (two other white performers and three blacks) dressed in the traditional blackface but the writing was skewered with lines that were critical of the establishment and the status quo, quite the norm for the counterculture of the era, of which Coyote was a part.
He is proud of his 60’s work that brought about significant change in the mindset of many Americans and chronicles his efforts in his best-selling autobiography “Sleeping Where I Fall.”
The 70’s found Coyote as the Chairman of the State Arts Council of California and he brought to the job the same radicalism that he used in his theatrical and social-activism of the previous decade.
“I had a big success out of that, raised the budget from one million to twenty million, and got people to see that the arts were a problem-solving mechanism and the artists were this reservoir of creative problem solvers in the culture.”
His untiring work led to some innovative use of art as a means of making societal changes. “We had dancers teaching old people how to get healthy, artists teaching convicts skills other than literacy, artists doing signs for the national parks, and filmmakers working with high school kids about teenage pregnancies, among other activities,” the actor proudly acknowledges.
After having success with the arts council, Coyote then decided to give acting one more try, though his heart was in writing. The actor says, “I went back and did theater for two years and decided to take a stab at the movies for no more than five years...and then I got lucky!”
Coyote did numerous plays, some written specifically for him, and won accolades for his performance in Sam Shepard’s play True West.
From that acting gig, Coyote was sought out by Hollywood and, at the ripe OLD age of 38, the actor got his first Screen Actor’s Guild card...and the rest is history, with him being a busy and frequently WORKING actor.
He tells this amusing story about his start as a voiceover artist: “I got into voiceover before I got into acting. When I was trying to break in the business, I got an agent in San Francisco and I made a really funny tape of about thirteen and fourteen dialects of people talking about Peter Coyote. I sent it around to all these advertising agencies and it made them laugh.”
As a result of this little bit of self-promotion, Coyote began to get gigs that paid triple the scale amount that others received. From then, he was very much in demand as a celebrity “voice” for many products.
Though acting pays the bills, Coyote is still a writer at heart. “One of the things that I’m doing, now that I’ve gotten older, is that I’m trying to put more of an out-rigger on my career as a writer. I just sold a pilot to Fox Television, which is probably on hold due to the writer’s strike. I’ve gotten three people interested in producing scripts that I’ve written. I also directed my first film this year and I really enjoyed doing that.”
He also said – and I don’t know whether it was original or not but it brought a smile to my face –, “Theater makes you excellent, films make you famous, and television makes you rich.”
During the course of the interview, Coyote voiced strong opinions on other non-acting related topics and these were most impressive.
Like in his days of yore, he is still politically active and offers this comment about the Presidential race: “I’m supporting John Edwards because he’s the most progressive of the three elect-able candidates. I just think that he’s a guy who has decided to go for broke and not play it careful and we need some radical change in the system.”
Surprisingly, the actor is not critical about the current Commander-in-Chief, George W. Bush: “He is an easy target. I’m sure that he suffers...His world is falling down around his heels. He’s being humiliated and he knows that he won’t have much of a legacy for his Presidency...and, for those reasons, I have sympathy for him.”
The actor, however, is not as forgiving for the media and the mediocrity of what goes for “reporting”: “It’s all based on the trivialization of news and the turning of news into entertainment to sell feminine hygiene products and razor blades and it’s dumbing us down as a culture.”
Coyote is also devoted to his religion and its tenets. “I’ve been a practicing Buddhist for thirty-five years and was ordained this year. I take a vow which I repeat every day to save all sentient beings. It’s a very deep and sustaining part of my life.”
When asked about his family, the married father of two adult children said, “I’m really proud of my children. Ariel, my daughter, has her PhD in psychology and my son Nick is an apprentice at Vanity Fair in New York. They both seem to have taken the best of me and left the worst behind and they’re doing O.K.”
Wife Stephanie, coincidentally, is also involved in the arts as the Executive Director of the San Francisco Film Commission.
During the course of our dialog, I couldn’t resist asking the actor his impressions of Camilla: “Relaxed is the first things that comes to mind. I sat out on the street and I watched folks, black folk and white folk and people seemed relaxed with each other. I didn’t see a lot of nervous behavior or deferential behavior and things moved at a nice pace...It’s a nice place to walk around.”
“Relaxed” is really how I felt as I listened to the man talk about his profession, his politics, and his years of “doing the sixties.” Coyote is indeed, a “man for all seasons” and it was indeed an honor to have the privilege of sitting down and “chewing the fat” with him.
I suppose, as Mr. Coyote might say, it was a bit of “karma” that led me to the coffee shop that afternoon for the two of us to meet and have a rewarding exchange of thought.
One never knows, does one???
Because the aforementioned stars are highlighted so often, we tend to forget the thousands of lesser knowns that linger in the background as supporting actors or part of the technical/production crew.
To be honest, many a film’s success can be credited to the talent of the gifted character actor that shines in his/her respective supporting roles. The work of past actors like Thelma Ritter, Agnes Moorehead, Akim Tamiroff, George Sanders, Frank Silvera, and other character actors is legendary and many of them received acting awards and nominations for their film contributions.
Today, thespians like Brian Dennehy, Joe Morton, Jenifer Lewis, and Charles Napier, though they are not household names, are immediately recognized on screen because they are so memorable in parts, whether big or small.
Peter Coyote is one of those whose presence on stage and screen is rarely forgotten. He has appeared in over 100 film and television programs and has worked with such illustrious directors as Steven Spielberg (E.T., the Extraterrestrial), Roman Polanski (Bitter Moon), Stephen Soderberg (Erin Brockovich), and Brian De Palma (Femme Fatale).
He has also had recurring roles on such television fare as The 4400, Brothers and Sisters, The Inside, and the short-lived Commander-in-Chief with Geena Davis.
He has just finished post-production work on an installment of the popular Law and Order: Criminal Intent.
We in Camilla are fortunate that he, along with co-star Tichina Arnold of Everybody Hates Chris fame, just happens to be staying in town while filming The Lena Baker Story in Colquitt.
I had the pleasure of making his acquaintance, initially at Camilla Java, our local coffee shop, and we later sat down for a friendly chat at McCree Hall, the town's bread-and-breakfast establishment, where the actor is residing while making the film.
In person the Emmy-winning actor stands a solid 6’3” and looks much younger than his threescore and six years. But, what is most impressive about him is his mellifluous voice, something that has been put to good use as the actor is much in-demand as a voiceover actor for commercials and documentaries.
However, Coyote did not actually set out to become an actor. He says, with a wry smile, “I had done sort of my best not to become an actor. I was in the black-turtleneck-Camel-cigarette-crowd in college. We were poets and writers. One day the drama teacher, who was this great Irish rogue, slipped in our booth at the student union and he said, ‘Has it ever occurred to you that theater is argument of great moment that is danced before the public?’”
Coyote was urged to audition and ultimately made the school’s repertory company, doing play after play after play, and honing his craft during his four years at Grinnell College (Iowa), receiving his B.A. in English in 1964.
Moving to San Francisco, the young actor got involved in the social-consciousness movement of the 60’s. “I got involved in this radical political theater, the San Francisco Mime Troupe. That, too, was fascinating, largely due to our political radicalism. We had this show called The Minstrel Show that was really dangerous show. We were arrested six or seven times, we were closed down, and finally Harry Belafonte and Dick Gregory brought us to New York and we dazzled the East Coast.”
Like the name implies, the show featured Coyote and five other actors (two other white performers and three blacks) dressed in the traditional blackface but the writing was skewered with lines that were critical of the establishment and the status quo, quite the norm for the counterculture of the era, of which Coyote was a part.
He is proud of his 60’s work that brought about significant change in the mindset of many Americans and chronicles his efforts in his best-selling autobiography “Sleeping Where I Fall.”
The 70’s found Coyote as the Chairman of the State Arts Council of California and he brought to the job the same radicalism that he used in his theatrical and social-activism of the previous decade.
“I had a big success out of that, raised the budget from one million to twenty million, and got people to see that the arts were a problem-solving mechanism and the artists were this reservoir of creative problem solvers in the culture.”
His untiring work led to some innovative use of art as a means of making societal changes. “We had dancers teaching old people how to get healthy, artists teaching convicts skills other than literacy, artists doing signs for the national parks, and filmmakers working with high school kids about teenage pregnancies, among other activities,” the actor proudly acknowledges.
After having success with the arts council, Coyote then decided to give acting one more try, though his heart was in writing. The actor says, “I went back and did theater for two years and decided to take a stab at the movies for no more than five years...and then I got lucky!”
Coyote did numerous plays, some written specifically for him, and won accolades for his performance in Sam Shepard’s play True West.
From that acting gig, Coyote was sought out by Hollywood and, at the ripe OLD age of 38, the actor got his first Screen Actor’s Guild card...and the rest is history, with him being a busy and frequently WORKING actor.
He tells this amusing story about his start as a voiceover artist: “I got into voiceover before I got into acting. When I was trying to break in the business, I got an agent in San Francisco and I made a really funny tape of about thirteen and fourteen dialects of people talking about Peter Coyote. I sent it around to all these advertising agencies and it made them laugh.”
As a result of this little bit of self-promotion, Coyote began to get gigs that paid triple the scale amount that others received. From then, he was very much in demand as a celebrity “voice” for many products.
Though acting pays the bills, Coyote is still a writer at heart. “One of the things that I’m doing, now that I’ve gotten older, is that I’m trying to put more of an out-rigger on my career as a writer. I just sold a pilot to Fox Television, which is probably on hold due to the writer’s strike. I’ve gotten three people interested in producing scripts that I’ve written. I also directed my first film this year and I really enjoyed doing that.”
He also said – and I don’t know whether it was original or not but it brought a smile to my face –, “Theater makes you excellent, films make you famous, and television makes you rich.”
During the course of the interview, Coyote voiced strong opinions on other non-acting related topics and these were most impressive.
Like in his days of yore, he is still politically active and offers this comment about the Presidential race: “I’m supporting John Edwards because he’s the most progressive of the three elect-able candidates. I just think that he’s a guy who has decided to go for broke and not play it careful and we need some radical change in the system.”
Surprisingly, the actor is not critical about the current Commander-in-Chief, George W. Bush: “He is an easy target. I’m sure that he suffers...His world is falling down around his heels. He’s being humiliated and he knows that he won’t have much of a legacy for his Presidency...and, for those reasons, I have sympathy for him.”
The actor, however, is not as forgiving for the media and the mediocrity of what goes for “reporting”: “It’s all based on the trivialization of news and the turning of news into entertainment to sell feminine hygiene products and razor blades and it’s dumbing us down as a culture.”
Coyote is also devoted to his religion and its tenets. “I’ve been a practicing Buddhist for thirty-five years and was ordained this year. I take a vow which I repeat every day to save all sentient beings. It’s a very deep and sustaining part of my life.”
When asked about his family, the married father of two adult children said, “I’m really proud of my children. Ariel, my daughter, has her PhD in psychology and my son Nick is an apprentice at Vanity Fair in New York. They both seem to have taken the best of me and left the worst behind and they’re doing O.K.”
Wife Stephanie, coincidentally, is also involved in the arts as the Executive Director of the San Francisco Film Commission.
During the course of our dialog, I couldn’t resist asking the actor his impressions of Camilla: “Relaxed is the first things that comes to mind. I sat out on the street and I watched folks, black folk and white folk and people seemed relaxed with each other. I didn’t see a lot of nervous behavior or deferential behavior and things moved at a nice pace...It’s a nice place to walk around.”
“Relaxed” is really how I felt as I listened to the man talk about his profession, his politics, and his years of “doing the sixties.” Coyote is indeed, a “man for all seasons” and it was indeed an honor to have the privilege of sitting down and “chewing the fat” with him.
I suppose, as Mr. Coyote might say, it was a bit of “karma” that led me to the coffee shop that afternoon for the two of us to meet and have a rewarding exchange of thought.
One never knows, does one???
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Sometimes you just want to say something nice about somebody
I initially thought to write an essay about the recent tragedy at Virginia Tech but I changed my mind, thinking that the media is covering that one to death – no pun intended.
I again considered writing about the run for the Presidency but opted not to because with a little over a year away, the playing field will change dramatically.
I even pondered what should be done to help the lost male members of our American society, the ones that are aimless, lacking ethics, and helping to overpopulate the nation’s prisons.
All these thoughts changed when did some early morning shopping at the local Wal-Mart.
As I was getting out of my car, I saw a grandmother with her grandchild. They were just sitting in their car, awaiting the return of some other family member, perhaps the child’s mother. Grandmother was singing away, much to the delight of the youngster, who appeared to be no older than two years of age. The bond between the two was unmistakable and truly loving.
I could only smile and feel that all was right with the world.
I started thinking about my own parents and how they possess the same attraction and affection for their grandchildren. They, like all other caring and devoted grandparents, are performing double duty, providing guidance for the generation that followed their own children.
And, for that, I can only smile and feel that all is right with the world.
I then thought of a friend of mine that is the mother of what is categorized as an “exceptional child.” Her child is in his early twenties and will require “assistance” for possibly the rest of his life. She herself has had to deal with her own physical ailments but she has not let that stand in the way of her dedication to her only child. She is a remarkable woman and words cannot express how much I admire her.
She shall remain nameless, for now, but she knows that I’m referring to her.
And when I think of her, I can only smile and feel that all is right with the world.
As I was looking at some pictures that I had taken of members of my church, I came upon one that caused me to pause: it was a dear friend that recently lost her husband. Not only has she had to suffer the pain of separation from her spouse of several decades, she had to deal with the death of a son some years ago and the recent hospitalization of one of her daughters.
Yet, every time that I see her, there’s a warmth and genuine sincerity that others could only wish that they possessed.
She, too, shall remain nameless, but anyone that knows her should know that I speak the truth.
And when I think of her, I smile and think that all is right with the world.
Finally, one of my students asked me if I was really going to retire at the end of the school year. I gave her an affirmative response. She then asked if another co-worker was going to work at another school. I gave the same answer as was given to the earlier question. The girl said, “Dog! All the good old teachers were leaving.”
I couldn’t help but smile at her innocence in calling me a “good, OLD teacher!”
And that, too, made me feel that all was right with the world.
So, what’s my point in the scenarios that I just presented?
When it appears that society is going to Hades in a hand basket, one need only look at and listen to the people around you.
In a world of ugliness, there’s a lot of beauty to be found there.
I find mine daily.
I again considered writing about the run for the Presidency but opted not to because with a little over a year away, the playing field will change dramatically.
I even pondered what should be done to help the lost male members of our American society, the ones that are aimless, lacking ethics, and helping to overpopulate the nation’s prisons.
All these thoughts changed when did some early morning shopping at the local Wal-Mart.
As I was getting out of my car, I saw a grandmother with her grandchild. They were just sitting in their car, awaiting the return of some other family member, perhaps the child’s mother. Grandmother was singing away, much to the delight of the youngster, who appeared to be no older than two years of age. The bond between the two was unmistakable and truly loving.
I could only smile and feel that all was right with the world.
I started thinking about my own parents and how they possess the same attraction and affection for their grandchildren. They, like all other caring and devoted grandparents, are performing double duty, providing guidance for the generation that followed their own children.
And, for that, I can only smile and feel that all is right with the world.
I then thought of a friend of mine that is the mother of what is categorized as an “exceptional child.” Her child is in his early twenties and will require “assistance” for possibly the rest of his life. She herself has had to deal with her own physical ailments but she has not let that stand in the way of her dedication to her only child. She is a remarkable woman and words cannot express how much I admire her.
She shall remain nameless, for now, but she knows that I’m referring to her.
And when I think of her, I can only smile and feel that all is right with the world.
As I was looking at some pictures that I had taken of members of my church, I came upon one that caused me to pause: it was a dear friend that recently lost her husband. Not only has she had to suffer the pain of separation from her spouse of several decades, she had to deal with the death of a son some years ago and the recent hospitalization of one of her daughters.
Yet, every time that I see her, there’s a warmth and genuine sincerity that others could only wish that they possessed.
She, too, shall remain nameless, but anyone that knows her should know that I speak the truth.
And when I think of her, I smile and think that all is right with the world.
Finally, one of my students asked me if I was really going to retire at the end of the school year. I gave her an affirmative response. She then asked if another co-worker was going to work at another school. I gave the same answer as was given to the earlier question. The girl said, “Dog! All the good old teachers were leaving.”
I couldn’t help but smile at her innocence in calling me a “good, OLD teacher!”
And that, too, made me feel that all was right with the world.
So, what’s my point in the scenarios that I just presented?
When it appears that society is going to Hades in a hand basket, one need only look at and listen to the people around you.
In a world of ugliness, there’s a lot of beauty to be found there.
I find mine daily.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
The Search for Jack Dawson: Titanic II
I wrote this seven years ago, too, for Themestream.
Lesser-grossing films have had sequels, thus, here is my idea for the follow-up to the biggest moneymaker of all time:
Several years after the sinking of the H.M.S. Titanic, it has been revealed that passenger Molly Brown (played by Kathy Bates in the original) has announced that the "Star of Omar," a centuries-old bracelet was among the priceless valuables lost on that ill-fated voyage. Brown recalls that the bracelet was in the pants pocket of the tuxedo that she loaned to Jack Dawson (Leonardo Di Caprio). Valued then at over $40,000, the piece is now worth billions in today's market.
Because the technology now exists which can allow another trek to the ocean's depths, Brock Lovett (Bill Paxton) spearheads another excursion to find the location of the stone in the icy waters of the North Atlantic. In thinking about the story told by Rose (Gloria Stuart), Lovett assumes that the "Star" can be salvaged and he and his crew (now including Ed Harris and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio) can make Bill Gates look like a pauper.
Embarking on his quest, Lovett again descends to the site of Titanic's demise in his quest. Knowing that long ago Jack Dawson has become fodder for the sea creatures that inhabit the region, the captain's is relentless in his pursuit of the sunken treasure.However, things take a turn when the underwater explorers discover a submerged spacecraft inhabited by otherworldly creatures. These aliens have been living undisturbed for eons. To their surprise, Lovett and company discovers that Jack Dawson rules the colony. The alien race has the technology to resuscitate the non-living; thus, they were able to bring the dead Dawson back to life. Because the aliens thought him to be unlike anything that they had seen, they made him their "King of the Undersea World." They were not able to halt the aging process, however; thus Dawson (now played by Senator Strom Thurmond) is now over one hundred years old.
Lovett presents his case as to why he and his men have come. He states that they mean no harm and was only seeking the lost item. Dawson, who rules with a tight fist, has the surface-dwellers arrested, demanding that in exchange for the stone they give him his precious Rose.A retrieval craft is sent up and an exhumed Rose (again played by Gloria Stuart) is reunited with her long-lost love.The salvagers return, laden with their booty, and Jack and Rose are now allowed to spend their remaining days in loving splendor.
There you have it: a cost-cutting and effective sequel. Cameron can utilize film from both "Titanic" and "The Abyss." Or he can join with George Lucas and have the undersea kingdom made up of relatives of Jar Jar Binks, which can serve as a tie-in to the next "Star Wars."
All he needs do is talk Celine Dion out of retirement.
Lesser-grossing films have had sequels, thus, here is my idea for the follow-up to the biggest moneymaker of all time:
Several years after the sinking of the H.M.S. Titanic, it has been revealed that passenger Molly Brown (played by Kathy Bates in the original) has announced that the "Star of Omar," a centuries-old bracelet was among the priceless valuables lost on that ill-fated voyage. Brown recalls that the bracelet was in the pants pocket of the tuxedo that she loaned to Jack Dawson (Leonardo Di Caprio). Valued then at over $40,000, the piece is now worth billions in today's market.
Because the technology now exists which can allow another trek to the ocean's depths, Brock Lovett (Bill Paxton) spearheads another excursion to find the location of the stone in the icy waters of the North Atlantic. In thinking about the story told by Rose (Gloria Stuart), Lovett assumes that the "Star" can be salvaged and he and his crew (now including Ed Harris and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio) can make Bill Gates look like a pauper.
Embarking on his quest, Lovett again descends to the site of Titanic's demise in his quest. Knowing that long ago Jack Dawson has become fodder for the sea creatures that inhabit the region, the captain's is relentless in his pursuit of the sunken treasure.However, things take a turn when the underwater explorers discover a submerged spacecraft inhabited by otherworldly creatures. These aliens have been living undisturbed for eons. To their surprise, Lovett and company discovers that Jack Dawson rules the colony. The alien race has the technology to resuscitate the non-living; thus, they were able to bring the dead Dawson back to life. Because the aliens thought him to be unlike anything that they had seen, they made him their "King of the Undersea World." They were not able to halt the aging process, however; thus Dawson (now played by Senator Strom Thurmond) is now over one hundred years old.
Lovett presents his case as to why he and his men have come. He states that they mean no harm and was only seeking the lost item. Dawson, who rules with a tight fist, has the surface-dwellers arrested, demanding that in exchange for the stone they give him his precious Rose.A retrieval craft is sent up and an exhumed Rose (again played by Gloria Stuart) is reunited with her long-lost love.The salvagers return, laden with their booty, and Jack and Rose are now allowed to spend their remaining days in loving splendor.
There you have it: a cost-cutting and effective sequel. Cameron can utilize film from both "Titanic" and "The Abyss." Or he can join with George Lucas and have the undersea kingdom made up of relatives of Jar Jar Binks, which can serve as a tie-in to the next "Star Wars."
All he needs do is talk Celine Dion out of retirement.
Recordings That Send Shivers Up My Spine
As far back as I can recall, music has always played an integral part of my life. Being raised in a household with a piano-playing mother and uncle didn't hurt, either. My dad tried to warble a bit, but his best work was in the shower. For me music has done more than soothed me when down, it is something of which I cannot live without. If I had to lose one of my five senses, I would not relish the loss of my sense of hearing.
If I did, then I would no longer be able to hear the strains, the melodies, and the performances of the following list of recordings that are "Heaven" for my ears. In no particular order have I compiled this list of performances that get my heart pounding with every perfectly blended note. This is a tribute to the artists, the lyricists, the band members, and Thomas Edison, who made all this possible for all to enjoy.
1. Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart/The Supremes
2. That's Life/Frank Sinatra
3. Send in the Clowns/Judy Collins
4. Summertime/cast from the Broadway Show
5. Love Shack/The B-52's
6. Stayin' Alive/The Bee Gees
7. Fanny (Be Tender With Your Heart)/The Bee Gees
8. Yesterday/The Beatles
9. I Want to Take You Higher/Sly and the Family Stone
10. You Make Me Feel (like a Natural Woman)/Aretha Franklin
11. Until You Come Back to Me (That's All I'm Gonna Do)-Aretha Franklin
12. Amazing Grace -Jessye Norman
13. I'm Every Woman-Chaka Khan
14. Superstition -Stevie Wonder
15. Do I Do -Stevie Wonder
16. As-Stevie Wonder
17. Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds-The Beatles
18. Something-The Beatles
19. All You Need is Love-The Beatles
20. Over the Rainbow-Judy Garland
21. Crazy-Patsy Cline
22. What's Goin' On-Marvin Gaye
23. I Want You-Marvin Gaye
24. Old Time Rock & Roll-Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band
25. Climb Every Mountain-from the Broadway musical "The Sound of Music"
26. New York, New York-Frank Sinatra
27. I Left My Heart in San Francisco-Tony Bennet
28. Fever-Peggy Lee
29. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas-anyone
30. The Christmas Song-Nat "King" Cole
31. This Christmas-Donny Hathaway
32. Theme from "Goldfinger"-Shirley Bassey
33. Johnny Angel-Shelley Fabares
34. Macarther Park-both the Richard Harris and Donna Summer renditions
35. Let's Stay Together-both versions by Al Green & Tina Turner, respectively
36. Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy-The Andrews Sisters
37. Freak Out-Chic
38. Good Times-Chic
39. People-Barbara Streisand
40. Love Me Tender-Elvis Presley
41. I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas–Bing Crosby
42. Never Can Say Goodbye-The Jackson 5
43. Bennie and the Jets-Elton John
44. Nessun Dorma-Aretha Franklin
45. The Look of Love-Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66, as well as Isaac Hayes's version
46. I Will Survive-Gloria Gaynor
47. Rescue Me-Fontella Bass
48. Stormy Weather-Lena Horne
49. Never, Never Gonna Give You Up-Barry White
50. Freeway of Love-Aretha Franklin
51. Midnight at the Oasis-Maria Muldar
52. You Don't Bring Me Flowers-Barbara Streisand and Neil Diamond
53. People-Barbara Streisand
54. Somewhere-Barbara Streisand
55. Sexual Healing-Marvin Gaye
56. 1999-Prince
57. When Doves Cry-Prince
58. Baby, I'm a Star-Prince
59. (Come on, Baby) Light My Fire-Jose Feliciano
60. Ode to Billy Joe-Bobbie Gentry
61. Ain't No Mountain High Enough-both the Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell and Diana Ross versions
62. Ebb Tide-Nancy Wilson
63. Shake Your Groove Thing-Peaches & Herb
64. Can You Feel What I'm Saying-Minnie Riperton
65. Get Down Tonight-KC & the Sunshine Band
66. Copacabana-Barry Manilow
67. Chuck-E's in Love-Rickie Lee Jones
68. Dancing Queen-ABBA
69. I Love the Nightlife (Disco 'Round)-Alicia Bridges
70. Take a Bow-Madonna
71. Vogue-Madonna
72. When I Need You-Leo Sayer
73. Flashlight-Parliament
74. Knee Deep-Parliament
75. 1812 Overture-Arthur Fieldler and the Boston Pops
76. And I'm Telling You, I Ain't Goin'-Jennifer Holiday
77. Great Balls of Fire-Jerry Lee Lewis
78. Strange Fruit-Billie Holliday
79. The Man That Got Away-Judy Garland
80. You and I-Rick James
81. Haven't Got Time for the Pain-Carly Simon
82. I'm Coming Home-The Spinners
83. Nobody Does it Better (theme from "The Spy Who Loved Me")-Carly Simon
84. You're No Good-Linda Ronstadt
85. Don't Wanna Fall in Love-Jane Child
86. Notorious-Duran Duran
87. Let's Dance-David Bowie
88. I Can't Believe that You Love Me-Barry White
89. Boogie Wonderland-Earth, Wind & Fire & the Emotions
90. Got to be Real-Cheryl Lynn
91. Best of My Love-The Emotions
92. Don't Ask My Neighbors-The Emotions
93. Since I Fell for You (1971)-Laura Lee
94. Teach Me Tonight (1977)-Phoebe Snow
95. Ain't Understanding Mellow-Jerry Butler/Brenda Lee Eager
96. Anything for Your Love-Nancy Wilson
97. I Feel for You-Chaka Khan
98. Vertigo/Relight My Fire-Dan Hartman
99. Deja vu-Dionne Warwick and Isaac Hayes
100. I'm Not in Love-10cc
101. Smiling Faces Sometimes-The Temptations
Whew! It is obvious that I have a lot of free time on my hands. Rolling Stone, and all you other compilers of lists, eat your hearts out!
If I did, then I would no longer be able to hear the strains, the melodies, and the performances of the following list of recordings that are "Heaven" for my ears. In no particular order have I compiled this list of performances that get my heart pounding with every perfectly blended note. This is a tribute to the artists, the lyricists, the band members, and Thomas Edison, who made all this possible for all to enjoy.
1. Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart/The Supremes
2. That's Life/Frank Sinatra
3. Send in the Clowns/Judy Collins
4. Summertime/cast from the Broadway Show
5. Love Shack/The B-52's
6. Stayin' Alive/The Bee Gees
7. Fanny (Be Tender With Your Heart)/The Bee Gees
8. Yesterday/The Beatles
9. I Want to Take You Higher/Sly and the Family Stone
10. You Make Me Feel (like a Natural Woman)/Aretha Franklin
11. Until You Come Back to Me (That's All I'm Gonna Do)-Aretha Franklin
12. Amazing Grace -Jessye Norman
13. I'm Every Woman-Chaka Khan
14. Superstition -Stevie Wonder
15. Do I Do -Stevie Wonder
16. As-Stevie Wonder
17. Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds-The Beatles
18. Something-The Beatles
19. All You Need is Love-The Beatles
20. Over the Rainbow-Judy Garland
21. Crazy-Patsy Cline
22. What's Goin' On-Marvin Gaye
23. I Want You-Marvin Gaye
24. Old Time Rock & Roll-Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band
25. Climb Every Mountain-from the Broadway musical "The Sound of Music"
26. New York, New York-Frank Sinatra
27. I Left My Heart in San Francisco-Tony Bennet
28. Fever-Peggy Lee
29. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas-anyone
30. The Christmas Song-Nat "King" Cole
31. This Christmas-Donny Hathaway
32. Theme from "Goldfinger"-Shirley Bassey
33. Johnny Angel-Shelley Fabares
34. Macarther Park-both the Richard Harris and Donna Summer renditions
35. Let's Stay Together-both versions by Al Green & Tina Turner, respectively
36. Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy-The Andrews Sisters
37. Freak Out-Chic
38. Good Times-Chic
39. People-Barbara Streisand
40. Love Me Tender-Elvis Presley
41. I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas–Bing Crosby
42. Never Can Say Goodbye-The Jackson 5
43. Bennie and the Jets-Elton John
44. Nessun Dorma-Aretha Franklin
45. The Look of Love-Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66, as well as Isaac Hayes's version
46. I Will Survive-Gloria Gaynor
47. Rescue Me-Fontella Bass
48. Stormy Weather-Lena Horne
49. Never, Never Gonna Give You Up-Barry White
50. Freeway of Love-Aretha Franklin
51. Midnight at the Oasis-Maria Muldar
52. You Don't Bring Me Flowers-Barbara Streisand and Neil Diamond
53. People-Barbara Streisand
54. Somewhere-Barbara Streisand
55. Sexual Healing-Marvin Gaye
56. 1999-Prince
57. When Doves Cry-Prince
58. Baby, I'm a Star-Prince
59. (Come on, Baby) Light My Fire-Jose Feliciano
60. Ode to Billy Joe-Bobbie Gentry
61. Ain't No Mountain High Enough-both the Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell and Diana Ross versions
62. Ebb Tide-Nancy Wilson
63. Shake Your Groove Thing-Peaches & Herb
64. Can You Feel What I'm Saying-Minnie Riperton
65. Get Down Tonight-KC & the Sunshine Band
66. Copacabana-Barry Manilow
67. Chuck-E's in Love-Rickie Lee Jones
68. Dancing Queen-ABBA
69. I Love the Nightlife (Disco 'Round)-Alicia Bridges
70. Take a Bow-Madonna
71. Vogue-Madonna
72. When I Need You-Leo Sayer
73. Flashlight-Parliament
74. Knee Deep-Parliament
75. 1812 Overture-Arthur Fieldler and the Boston Pops
76. And I'm Telling You, I Ain't Goin'-Jennifer Holiday
77. Great Balls of Fire-Jerry Lee Lewis
78. Strange Fruit-Billie Holliday
79. The Man That Got Away-Judy Garland
80. You and I-Rick James
81. Haven't Got Time for the Pain-Carly Simon
82. I'm Coming Home-The Spinners
83. Nobody Does it Better (theme from "The Spy Who Loved Me")-Carly Simon
84. You're No Good-Linda Ronstadt
85. Don't Wanna Fall in Love-Jane Child
86. Notorious-Duran Duran
87. Let's Dance-David Bowie
88. I Can't Believe that You Love Me-Barry White
89. Boogie Wonderland-Earth, Wind & Fire & the Emotions
90. Got to be Real-Cheryl Lynn
91. Best of My Love-The Emotions
92. Don't Ask My Neighbors-The Emotions
93. Since I Fell for You (1971)-Laura Lee
94. Teach Me Tonight (1977)-Phoebe Snow
95. Ain't Understanding Mellow-Jerry Butler/Brenda Lee Eager
96. Anything for Your Love-Nancy Wilson
97. I Feel for You-Chaka Khan
98. Vertigo/Relight My Fire-Dan Hartman
99. Deja vu-Dionne Warwick and Isaac Hayes
100. I'm Not in Love-10cc
101. Smiling Faces Sometimes-The Temptations
Whew! It is obvious that I have a lot of free time on my hands. Rolling Stone, and all you other compilers of lists, eat your hearts out!
Larry Hagman: A Texan for All Seasons
With the ascension of George W. Bush to the rank of "leader of the Free World," seven years ago, it would seem that all things Texan are becoming in vogue. Well, I don't know if that is a long-lasting trend, but I want to pay tribute to one of the Lone Star State's premier sons and one of Hollywood's underrated and beloved talents: Larry Hagman, the once and always JR Ewing of "Dallas."
It is hard to believe that almost three decades ago, in 1978, the actor formerly known as Tony Nelson of "I Dream of Jeannie" would transform himself from that bumbling astronaut to the icon of corporate greed, Mr. Ewing. Never before had such a deliciously evil character graced the small screen.
Each week, Hagman's J.R. would delve into his malicious bag of tricks and wreck havoc on all who entered into his circle. He made life hell for his siblings Bobby (Patrick Duffy), Gary (Ted Shackleford), and "black sheep" Ray (Steve Kanaly). He was a thorn in the side of their respective spouses, and forced his own better half, Sue Ellen (marvelously played by Linda Gray) into an asylum for her repeated bouts with alcoholism. Hey, if you were married to such a disreputable shark, you'd be a lush, too.
Even JR's mother, Miss Ellie (Barbara Bel Geddes) was fodder for his machinations. He didn't care much for her second husband (film and stage star Howard Keel) after the death of his beloved "daddy" Jock (the late Jim Davis). Competing with father-in-law for the affections of mother as well as control of the family, Ewing did as much as he could to foil the relationship.
As a major player in the Texas oil market, JR accumulated many enemies, chief among them Cliff Barnes (Ken Kercheval), brother to Pam (Victoria Principal), Bobby's much beset-upon wife. Their continuing rivalry lasted the entire 13-year-run of the series with Barnes constantly being upstaged by the deliciously crafty JR.
With the exception of his mother, sister-in-law Pam, and nymphomaniac niece Lucy (Charlene Tilton), there seemed to be no woman that JR would not bed. The bedroom became Ewing's company "subsidiary" where deals were "consummated," for want of a better word. It is no wonder that he was loathed by most of Dallas's male population.
I realize that the character's actions and lines were the creation of a fine and gifted group of writers. However, Hagman brought all of this to life with his vivid portrayal. So popular was the character during the show's heyday, the "Who Shot JR?" still remains a Neilson ratings powerhouse. It is beyond me why he never received an Emmy for his outstanding work. Even more than a decade after the last first-run episode was shot, Hagman's JR is still etched in the memory of American consciousness.
William Forsythe's "Blake Carrington," "Joan Collins's "Alexis Carrington-Colby," or even William Devane's "Greg Summer" could not hold a candle to Hagman in the acting department.
Not bad for a guy whose real mother, Mary Martin, is lovingly remembered donned in tights as Peter Pan!Texans can, at least, be proud of this native son.
The above is an article that I originally wrote for the now-defunct "Themestream" website. It is written here in its original form, with a few modification.
It is hard to believe that almost three decades ago, in 1978, the actor formerly known as Tony Nelson of "I Dream of Jeannie" would transform himself from that bumbling astronaut to the icon of corporate greed, Mr. Ewing. Never before had such a deliciously evil character graced the small screen.
Each week, Hagman's J.R. would delve into his malicious bag of tricks and wreck havoc on all who entered into his circle. He made life hell for his siblings Bobby (Patrick Duffy), Gary (Ted Shackleford), and "black sheep" Ray (Steve Kanaly). He was a thorn in the side of their respective spouses, and forced his own better half, Sue Ellen (marvelously played by Linda Gray) into an asylum for her repeated bouts with alcoholism. Hey, if you were married to such a disreputable shark, you'd be a lush, too.
Even JR's mother, Miss Ellie (Barbara Bel Geddes) was fodder for his machinations. He didn't care much for her second husband (film and stage star Howard Keel) after the death of his beloved "daddy" Jock (the late Jim Davis). Competing with father-in-law for the affections of mother as well as control of the family, Ewing did as much as he could to foil the relationship.
As a major player in the Texas oil market, JR accumulated many enemies, chief among them Cliff Barnes (Ken Kercheval), brother to Pam (Victoria Principal), Bobby's much beset-upon wife. Their continuing rivalry lasted the entire 13-year-run of the series with Barnes constantly being upstaged by the deliciously crafty JR.
With the exception of his mother, sister-in-law Pam, and nymphomaniac niece Lucy (Charlene Tilton), there seemed to be no woman that JR would not bed. The bedroom became Ewing's company "subsidiary" where deals were "consummated," for want of a better word. It is no wonder that he was loathed by most of Dallas's male population.
I realize that the character's actions and lines were the creation of a fine and gifted group of writers. However, Hagman brought all of this to life with his vivid portrayal. So popular was the character during the show's heyday, the "Who Shot JR?" still remains a Neilson ratings powerhouse. It is beyond me why he never received an Emmy for his outstanding work. Even more than a decade after the last first-run episode was shot, Hagman's JR is still etched in the memory of American consciousness.
William Forsythe's "Blake Carrington," "Joan Collins's "Alexis Carrington-Colby," or even William Devane's "Greg Summer" could not hold a candle to Hagman in the acting department.
Not bad for a guy whose real mother, Mary Martin, is lovingly remembered donned in tights as Peter Pan!Texans can, at least, be proud of this native son.
The above is an article that I originally wrote for the now-defunct "Themestream" website. It is written here in its original form, with a few modification.
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
For Those Who Must Face a Pet’s Demise
This past Friday was the scheduled day for my dog Misty to have her every two-month bath and grooming at an area vet. I arrived promptly at 8:30, her prearranged time. As we were exiting my car, another customer drove up. I didn’t notice whether he had a dog or cat in tow.
Anyway, Misty gets so “excited” when she gets to the vet’s that she must relieve herself prior to entering the office. I walked her out into the open spaces for just that purpose. When she had finished, we proceeded to head for the front door.
As she was led away - in anticipatory dread of the washing that was about to take place -I happened to ask the young customer if he were having the same thing done to his pet. I assumed as much because I had been told that another animal was to be “gussied up” also that morning.
He told with an obviously pained voice that he was there to have his 14-year-old dog put to sleep. I offered my condolences, but they were probably of minor comfort to someone who was struggling with the decision that he had made.
I could feel empathy because a little less than two years ago I was forced to do the same thing. For you see, Alex, my 16-year-old “pedigreed mutt” passed away on November 16, 1997.
There are never the right words when you have to say the ultimate farewell to a friend who has been there unconditionally. I knew exactly how the young man felt.
Before Alex’s death, I had begun dreading the moment when the Grim Reaper would call her. The signs were there that a visit was imminent: listlessness, lack of appetite, and diminishing faculties. But, I did not want to accept the inevitable.
Many of my friends and co-workers familiar with the oft-told stories about her were compassionate and offered comforting remarks to lessen my burden. For that I am most appreciative. Because of that, I am passing on the kindness to anyone preparing for the death of a pet and the choice for euthanasia.
Don’t dwell on your decision in regards to your pet. The animal is, without a doubt, in less pain and is in a better place. Yes, all dogs go to Heaven. Reverse the letters in the word “dog” and you’ll understand what I mean.
Do dwell on the fun times that you had. Think about how the dog loved to ride with you in the truck, how it would make that funny sound that you could never understand, or how it would tear up something of yours and give you that “forgive me” face.
Remember how it “trained” you to respond to its every wish, how it was particular about some of your friends, or how it had an unusual fondness for some un-doglike food.
You did the right and honorable thing, my friend. I am sure that if your dog were here, it would give you an approving lick and wag of the tail.
He’d probably say in perfect Southern doggy, “You done good, buddy!”
Anyway, Misty gets so “excited” when she gets to the vet’s that she must relieve herself prior to entering the office. I walked her out into the open spaces for just that purpose. When she had finished, we proceeded to head for the front door.
As she was led away - in anticipatory dread of the washing that was about to take place -I happened to ask the young customer if he were having the same thing done to his pet. I assumed as much because I had been told that another animal was to be “gussied up” also that morning.
He told with an obviously pained voice that he was there to have his 14-year-old dog put to sleep. I offered my condolences, but they were probably of minor comfort to someone who was struggling with the decision that he had made.
I could feel empathy because a little less than two years ago I was forced to do the same thing. For you see, Alex, my 16-year-old “pedigreed mutt” passed away on November 16, 1997.
There are never the right words when you have to say the ultimate farewell to a friend who has been there unconditionally. I knew exactly how the young man felt.
Before Alex’s death, I had begun dreading the moment when the Grim Reaper would call her. The signs were there that a visit was imminent: listlessness, lack of appetite, and diminishing faculties. But, I did not want to accept the inevitable.
Many of my friends and co-workers familiar with the oft-told stories about her were compassionate and offered comforting remarks to lessen my burden. For that I am most appreciative. Because of that, I am passing on the kindness to anyone preparing for the death of a pet and the choice for euthanasia.
Don’t dwell on your decision in regards to your pet. The animal is, without a doubt, in less pain and is in a better place. Yes, all dogs go to Heaven. Reverse the letters in the word “dog” and you’ll understand what I mean.
Do dwell on the fun times that you had. Think about how the dog loved to ride with you in the truck, how it would make that funny sound that you could never understand, or how it would tear up something of yours and give you that “forgive me” face.
Remember how it “trained” you to respond to its every wish, how it was particular about some of your friends, or how it had an unusual fondness for some un-doglike food.
You did the right and honorable thing, my friend. I am sure that if your dog were here, it would give you an approving lick and wag of the tail.
He’d probably say in perfect Southern doggy, “You done good, buddy!”
Teach Children Respect, Self-Discipline, and Work Ethics/Preparation
As one that has “fought” in the educational “trenches” for close to three decades now, I have seen it all. Programs have come and gone. Trends have become “revolutionary,” then have become passé. Budgets and other financial matters in regards to public schools have been expanded to cover new initiatives and then slashed when those initiatives are replaced with other “ideas.”
However, the biggest change that I have seen in these thirty years has been in those of whom I am directly responsible: the children. The students that I teach today are a far cry different from those that I dealt with thirteen years ago.
Students from 1994 seemed to have more realistic expectations for their future employment possibilities. Many wanted to be doctors, lawyers, cosmetologists, soldiers, and a couple aspired to follow in their teacher’s footsteps.
However, too many of today’s students, especially the males, have unrealistic expectations about their prospective careers. They believe that they are going to be the next “Michael Vick” or the next “Kobe Bryant,” never considering that they’re more likely to be struck by lightening than get drafted by the NFL or the NBA.
Unfortunately, both sexes have not the slightest clue as to how to attain their future objective(s). And they are also missing some of the basic social and self-discipline skills to reach their goals.
Too much of the school day is spent “correcting” and/or “disciplining” students that lack self-control, feelings of self-worth, and acceptable moral character. If these “weaknesses” are not addressed soon, the future for these students is quite bleak.
While schools do their best to prepare students for the challenges that they face in their adult lives, there is only so much that can be covered within that 180-day period known as the school term.
With that in mind, here are ten little “tips,” in no particular order, to assist you, the parents, as you assist in the “growth” of your children toward adulthood responsibility:
1. Take them regularly to the library. Toddlers should begin to marvel at the wonders of books. Older kids should have a library card that is used frequently. With the advent of computer use and other technological wizardries, the library is more than just a haven for books; it is a melting pot of all sorts of media, designed to enlighten and amaze.
2. Get the child a subscription to a magazine of his/her choice, with your guidance, of course. Children love seeing their names and will excitingly read the book that is just for them. Also, depending on the type of magazine selected, children might get their first “peek” at a job that may interest them.
3. Give your children daily tasks that are their singular responsibilities. This will teach the importance of “pulling their own weight”, preparing them for the work world of tomorrow.
4. Though they can be expensive, a pet is a wonderful “gift” for a child. Whether it is four-legged, six-legged, finned, or winged, a pet is ideal in teaching responsibility and, indirectly, compassion, patience, and humility.
5. Spirituality is an essential to ethical development; thus, regular fellowship with like-minded individuals is a must. It doesn’t matter if it is a church, synagogue, mosque, tent, or the confines of one’s own home.
6. Become familiar with the media of which your child is introduced. Though it is hard to keep up with the changes that occur in entertainment/technology, it is mandatory that parents do their best to be abreast of what “enters” the home.
7. If your child is of school age, make visits to announced gatherings or even set up appointments to meet with your child’s teacher. It would also be advantageous to volunteer, if possible, in your child’s class. Not only will the teacher welcome the help but also, for some children, it will be a badge of honor to have “Mom” or “Dad” to come into the classroom.
8. Be an informed voter. Politicians that really do not have an adequate knowledge base about or vested interest in America’s schools have meted out too many changes in the education system. An educated electorate can assure that schools are adequately funded and equipped to meet the needs of each child.
9. Praise your child as much as possible. Allow him/her to express his/her feelings and thoughts about preferences and dislikes. Have daily conversations with your child and avoid shouting matches. There is no “winner” in verbal jousts. Orderly and mutually respected “chats” will allow you and your child to bond and, perhaps, set the stage for a “discovery” that will be rewarding for both parties.
10. But, most of all, remember that you are the parent and are in charge. Too many parents want to be “friends” with their children, forgetting that they have the task of being the primary example of how that child will act when he/she is outside of the parent’s eyesight. By being role models for awareness of socially acceptable behavior, parents can be sure that their children will always make the right decisions and positively interact with teachers and peers alike.
Most of the aforementioned “tips” are familiar but a little “refresher” can go a long way in benefiting the teacher, the school, the community, and the child.
However, the biggest change that I have seen in these thirty years has been in those of whom I am directly responsible: the children. The students that I teach today are a far cry different from those that I dealt with thirteen years ago.
Students from 1994 seemed to have more realistic expectations for their future employment possibilities. Many wanted to be doctors, lawyers, cosmetologists, soldiers, and a couple aspired to follow in their teacher’s footsteps.
However, too many of today’s students, especially the males, have unrealistic expectations about their prospective careers. They believe that they are going to be the next “Michael Vick” or the next “Kobe Bryant,” never considering that they’re more likely to be struck by lightening than get drafted by the NFL or the NBA.
Unfortunately, both sexes have not the slightest clue as to how to attain their future objective(s). And they are also missing some of the basic social and self-discipline skills to reach their goals.
Too much of the school day is spent “correcting” and/or “disciplining” students that lack self-control, feelings of self-worth, and acceptable moral character. If these “weaknesses” are not addressed soon, the future for these students is quite bleak.
While schools do their best to prepare students for the challenges that they face in their adult lives, there is only so much that can be covered within that 180-day period known as the school term.
With that in mind, here are ten little “tips,” in no particular order, to assist you, the parents, as you assist in the “growth” of your children toward adulthood responsibility:
1. Take them regularly to the library. Toddlers should begin to marvel at the wonders of books. Older kids should have a library card that is used frequently. With the advent of computer use and other technological wizardries, the library is more than just a haven for books; it is a melting pot of all sorts of media, designed to enlighten and amaze.
2. Get the child a subscription to a magazine of his/her choice, with your guidance, of course. Children love seeing their names and will excitingly read the book that is just for them. Also, depending on the type of magazine selected, children might get their first “peek” at a job that may interest them.
3. Give your children daily tasks that are their singular responsibilities. This will teach the importance of “pulling their own weight”, preparing them for the work world of tomorrow.
4. Though they can be expensive, a pet is a wonderful “gift” for a child. Whether it is four-legged, six-legged, finned, or winged, a pet is ideal in teaching responsibility and, indirectly, compassion, patience, and humility.
5. Spirituality is an essential to ethical development; thus, regular fellowship with like-minded individuals is a must. It doesn’t matter if it is a church, synagogue, mosque, tent, or the confines of one’s own home.
6. Become familiar with the media of which your child is introduced. Though it is hard to keep up with the changes that occur in entertainment/technology, it is mandatory that parents do their best to be abreast of what “enters” the home.
7. If your child is of school age, make visits to announced gatherings or even set up appointments to meet with your child’s teacher. It would also be advantageous to volunteer, if possible, in your child’s class. Not only will the teacher welcome the help but also, for some children, it will be a badge of honor to have “Mom” or “Dad” to come into the classroom.
8. Be an informed voter. Politicians that really do not have an adequate knowledge base about or vested interest in America’s schools have meted out too many changes in the education system. An educated electorate can assure that schools are adequately funded and equipped to meet the needs of each child.
9. Praise your child as much as possible. Allow him/her to express his/her feelings and thoughts about preferences and dislikes. Have daily conversations with your child and avoid shouting matches. There is no “winner” in verbal jousts. Orderly and mutually respected “chats” will allow you and your child to bond and, perhaps, set the stage for a “discovery” that will be rewarding for both parties.
10. But, most of all, remember that you are the parent and are in charge. Too many parents want to be “friends” with their children, forgetting that they have the task of being the primary example of how that child will act when he/she is outside of the parent’s eyesight. By being role models for awareness of socially acceptable behavior, parents can be sure that their children will always make the right decisions and positively interact with teachers and peers alike.
Most of the aforementioned “tips” are familiar but a little “refresher” can go a long way in benefiting the teacher, the school, the community, and the child.
Profanity is in the ear of the beholder
I am sure that most have heard about the Michigan man who faced criminal chargess some years ago for uttering profanities in the presence of young impressionable ears. For those unfamiliar with the case, the guy was not having a good fishing day and began very vocally expressing in “colorful” language his disgust and irritation. A mother overheard his tirade and promptly reported his behavior to the authorities. Apparently, some obscure law is on the books in that state concerning public displays of profanity and the guy has to appear before a judge.
The gentleman’s unfortunate choice of words could result in him being fined or, heaven forbid, being incarcerated. Maybe the latter would be an appropriate lesson for the rest of us to refrain from frequently using four-letter expletives.
Sadly, we have become a nation of cursers. One cannot turn on the television or the radio without being bombarded with profane and offensive speech. Recordings come with warning labels advising parental discretion due to the content of the “lyrics.” So accustomed have we become that we rarely flinch anymore.
Well, I, for one, still raise an eyebrow when I hear Bart Simpson rattle off a zinger or two. I become upset when I hear a rapper refer to his girlfriend by a term that I would only give to my dog to identify her gender.
But, the words that we collectively label as profane are not the only words that annoy me. I have a short list of words and phrases that really make me cringe as if I have been royally “blessed out.”
They are as follows:
1. racial tolerance – I tolerate my dog’s snoring because I can’t do a thing about it. I tolerate the raucous laughter of a fellow movie patron who forgets that there are others in the auditorium. Toleration should not be equated with one’s skin color; in fact, skin color should be looked at for what it really is: a beautiful variation of the gene pool.
2. Diva – It seems as though any female performer who sells a million copies of a CD or brings in big bucks at the box office is being touted by that name. Diva status should not be brandished so easily.
Aretha Franklin, Faye Dunaway, Lauren Bacall and Eartha Kitt are divas; Mariah Carey, Julia Roberts, Sandra Bullock, and Sharon Stone are not. Judy Garland was a diva; her daughter, Liza Minnelli is not. Lauren Hutton is a diva; Tyra Banks is not. And no matter how hard she tries, Madonna will never attain divahood as did Maria Callas, Marian Anderson, or Georgia’s own, the magnificent Jessye Norman.
3. Transition – It seems as though this noun has taken on the role of a verb. I have heard everyone from television commentators to national politicians incorrectly use the word. Enough is enough already! One cannot transition!
4. Dissemination – As a nation of paper pushers, we are forever “disseminating” memos, directives, forms, handouts, and other “important” documents to each other. Most of these end up in a wastebasket or provide nourishment for a hungry shredder. We are really making the stockholders of Georgia-Pacific and the Mead Company filthy rich.
5. Monica Lewinsky, Linda Tripp, Paula Jones, etc. – Yeah, yeah, yeah, the President’s women have used up your fifteen minutes and mine, too.
6. Independent counsel – Let’s see. With forty million bucks I could buy a bus for my church, a new wing for each school, a movie theater, and still have enough left over to purchase the presidency of a Third World country.
7. “Sweeps” – The television networks pull out their “best” programming efforts during the months of November, February, and May in order to maximize ratings and corporate dollars. So what? Half of the programs can’t hold a candle to an I Love Lucy or Star Trek rerun!
8. “You know what I’m saying?” – This is the latest catchall phrase that America’s youth are so fond of uttering. Unfortunately, the kids are not really saying anything when they use it. Stop buying the Tommywear and get those teens some Merriam-Webster’s!
9. Y2K – I seem to recall from childhood that the world was to have ended in 1965. I wonder if that had something to do with the British Invasion of the Beatles, the Stones, or even Herman’s Hermits.
10. Progressive lenses – I actually like the term; it sounds better than the dreaded “b-word” that it is synonymous with. The only regret that I have is that by having to wear them I realize that I have entered . . .
11.Middle age – I would really like to know when this phrase was coined. According to the statisticians I now fall into the demographic just before senior citizenship. I do not belong to the “ideal” target group prized by many of America’s leading commercial conglomerates. I was even told by the publisher of my men’s health magazine that they have a publication that is more suited for “a man of my years.”
So what? My money will still spend. I can still hold my own with the twentysomethings at the gym. Label me “middle age” and I’ll show you what I’m made of! Just let me find my glasses with the progressive lenses!
Well, there you have it! The eleven words or phrases above may not offend you as much as they do me. But say them in my presence and I may be forced to make a citizen’s arrest.
Hopefully, Georgia has some law on the books that we just don’t know about!
The gentleman’s unfortunate choice of words could result in him being fined or, heaven forbid, being incarcerated. Maybe the latter would be an appropriate lesson for the rest of us to refrain from frequently using four-letter expletives.
Sadly, we have become a nation of cursers. One cannot turn on the television or the radio without being bombarded with profane and offensive speech. Recordings come with warning labels advising parental discretion due to the content of the “lyrics.” So accustomed have we become that we rarely flinch anymore.
Well, I, for one, still raise an eyebrow when I hear Bart Simpson rattle off a zinger or two. I become upset when I hear a rapper refer to his girlfriend by a term that I would only give to my dog to identify her gender.
But, the words that we collectively label as profane are not the only words that annoy me. I have a short list of words and phrases that really make me cringe as if I have been royally “blessed out.”
They are as follows:
1. racial tolerance – I tolerate my dog’s snoring because I can’t do a thing about it. I tolerate the raucous laughter of a fellow movie patron who forgets that there are others in the auditorium. Toleration should not be equated with one’s skin color; in fact, skin color should be looked at for what it really is: a beautiful variation of the gene pool.
2. Diva – It seems as though any female performer who sells a million copies of a CD or brings in big bucks at the box office is being touted by that name. Diva status should not be brandished so easily.
Aretha Franklin, Faye Dunaway, Lauren Bacall and Eartha Kitt are divas; Mariah Carey, Julia Roberts, Sandra Bullock, and Sharon Stone are not. Judy Garland was a diva; her daughter, Liza Minnelli is not. Lauren Hutton is a diva; Tyra Banks is not. And no matter how hard she tries, Madonna will never attain divahood as did Maria Callas, Marian Anderson, or Georgia’s own, the magnificent Jessye Norman.
3. Transition – It seems as though this noun has taken on the role of a verb. I have heard everyone from television commentators to national politicians incorrectly use the word. Enough is enough already! One cannot transition!
4. Dissemination – As a nation of paper pushers, we are forever “disseminating” memos, directives, forms, handouts, and other “important” documents to each other. Most of these end up in a wastebasket or provide nourishment for a hungry shredder. We are really making the stockholders of Georgia-Pacific and the Mead Company filthy rich.
5. Monica Lewinsky, Linda Tripp, Paula Jones, etc. – Yeah, yeah, yeah, the President’s women have used up your fifteen minutes and mine, too.
6. Independent counsel – Let’s see. With forty million bucks I could buy a bus for my church, a new wing for each school, a movie theater, and still have enough left over to purchase the presidency of a Third World country.
7. “Sweeps” – The television networks pull out their “best” programming efforts during the months of November, February, and May in order to maximize ratings and corporate dollars. So what? Half of the programs can’t hold a candle to an I Love Lucy or Star Trek rerun!
8. “You know what I’m saying?” – This is the latest catchall phrase that America’s youth are so fond of uttering. Unfortunately, the kids are not really saying anything when they use it. Stop buying the Tommywear and get those teens some Merriam-Webster’s!
9. Y2K – I seem to recall from childhood that the world was to have ended in 1965. I wonder if that had something to do with the British Invasion of the Beatles, the Stones, or even Herman’s Hermits.
10. Progressive lenses – I actually like the term; it sounds better than the dreaded “b-word” that it is synonymous with. The only regret that I have is that by having to wear them I realize that I have entered . . .
11.Middle age – I would really like to know when this phrase was coined. According to the statisticians I now fall into the demographic just before senior citizenship. I do not belong to the “ideal” target group prized by many of America’s leading commercial conglomerates. I was even told by the publisher of my men’s health magazine that they have a publication that is more suited for “a man of my years.”
So what? My money will still spend. I can still hold my own with the twentysomethings at the gym. Label me “middle age” and I’ll show you what I’m made of! Just let me find my glasses with the progressive lenses!
Well, there you have it! The eleven words or phrases above may not offend you as much as they do me. But say them in my presence and I may be forced to make a citizen’s arrest.
Hopefully, Georgia has some law on the books that we just don’t know about!
A Lesson to Be Learned from Our Four-Legged Friends
A little over five years ago, our home was enlarged by the addition of one new member: a cat named “Crystal.” Always having a soft spot for the downtrodden animals of the world, I did not hesitate to accept her as another pet in an already semi-large menagerie comprised of three dogs.
Having not had a cat in my life since I was very young, it took some time getting used to her behaviors. I have had to be prepared for her dash from out of nowhere when I walk to my car. I must be ready when she decides that my leg would make an appropriate “scratching post” or when she thinks that my book bag might yield some delectable treat. On occasion when I get to school, I realize that my clothing sports some cat hairs that weren’t there when I got ready for the workday.
She “announces” that it’s time for her meal by scratching on the backdoor screen. As soon as I exit, heading for her dish, she patiently waits for the familiar “plop” of the Special Kitty meal of the moment.
Sometimes, however, she decides to share her repast with a neighborhood stray. I guess she recalls the days that she herself was fending for herself prior to becoming my pet.
Crystal has soon endeared herself, not only to our family, but is an ever-present visitor to our neighbors next door. A visitor will either find her lounging on our front porch or stalking an inviting bird or squirrel as her intended prey.
As I mentioned earlier, I have three dogs. Although she has no dealings with the outside pair, Crystal has become a friend to the inside cocker Misty. At first I thought they wouldn’t hit it off, but to my surprise, the two of them quickly became amigos.
While Crystal stays on the outside, there are a few instances where she “slips” into the house. In her inside ramblings, she dips her head in Misty’s food bowl, decides to “examine” Misty’s bed, and even licks the dog’s chew toy. Misty just sits and watches, never making an aggressive move or growl toward the feline.
When Misty is taken out to “relieve” herself, Crystal hides in the bushes, waiting to pounce or slap Misty with her paw. Misty’s stub of a tail wags as she spots her buddy. Crystal plays with Misty’s leash when the dog is standing in one spot. They seem to enjoy the pleasure of each other’s company.
Aren’t dogs and cats supposedly “natural enemies”?
By the way, Crystal is white and Misty is predominately black.
Having not had a cat in my life since I was very young, it took some time getting used to her behaviors. I have had to be prepared for her dash from out of nowhere when I walk to my car. I must be ready when she decides that my leg would make an appropriate “scratching post” or when she thinks that my book bag might yield some delectable treat. On occasion when I get to school, I realize that my clothing sports some cat hairs that weren’t there when I got ready for the workday.
She “announces” that it’s time for her meal by scratching on the backdoor screen. As soon as I exit, heading for her dish, she patiently waits for the familiar “plop” of the Special Kitty meal of the moment.
Sometimes, however, she decides to share her repast with a neighborhood stray. I guess she recalls the days that she herself was fending for herself prior to becoming my pet.
Crystal has soon endeared herself, not only to our family, but is an ever-present visitor to our neighbors next door. A visitor will either find her lounging on our front porch or stalking an inviting bird or squirrel as her intended prey.
As I mentioned earlier, I have three dogs. Although she has no dealings with the outside pair, Crystal has become a friend to the inside cocker Misty. At first I thought they wouldn’t hit it off, but to my surprise, the two of them quickly became amigos.
While Crystal stays on the outside, there are a few instances where she “slips” into the house. In her inside ramblings, she dips her head in Misty’s food bowl, decides to “examine” Misty’s bed, and even licks the dog’s chew toy. Misty just sits and watches, never making an aggressive move or growl toward the feline.
When Misty is taken out to “relieve” herself, Crystal hides in the bushes, waiting to pounce or slap Misty with her paw. Misty’s stub of a tail wags as she spots her buddy. Crystal plays with Misty’s leash when the dog is standing in one spot. They seem to enjoy the pleasure of each other’s company.
Aren’t dogs and cats supposedly “natural enemies”?
By the way, Crystal is white and Misty is predominately black.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
I wrote this some years ago
America's Demise Rests on a Pair of Sweats
For many, Edward Gibbons’ classic opus "The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire" has served as a warning of the fallacies of placing greater emphasis on power than on the needs and concerns of the general populace.
Gibbons wrote that Rome fell due to a combination of its own barbaric and self-serving practices and the emergence of the Christian faith that spoke to the persecuted masses.
It has been felt that our own nation is on the verge of collapse dues in part to a variety of factors such as increased crime, marital infidelity, moral and ethical decay, the globalization of industries, and an apparent decline in church attendance.
I agree that some of these are contributing to America’s slow decent, but I feel that a greater threat is not coming from some foreign power or the dollar’s devaluation on the world market. We need look at Madison Avenue and our changing attitudes about how we dress as a sign that our days are surely numbered.
We are “dressing down” too much!!!
Blue jeans were once considered to be the clothes of the “working man.” Sneakers were worn on basketball courts and the playgrounds of America. Stocking caps did not leave the confines of one’s bedroom. And one’s choice of boxer shorts was a private matter between the wearer and the pants that covered the underwear.
Not any more. Ever since Brooke Shields has us wondering what “came between her and her Calvins back in the early 80’s, this country has been obsessed with the look and fit of jeans. With big-name athletes touting their signature “shoes,” everyone wants to wear what Mike, Shaq, or Allen wears.
Usher and other contemporary pop stars have made it acceptable to wear a stocking cap as a complement to one’s ensemble. And actor Mark Walhberg opened the world’s eyes to the endless possibilities of “undies” as a fashion statement.
Although much of the marketing strategies have been geared toward impressionable youth, it is the more mature individuals who are also jumping on the “dress down” bandwagon. Major retailers carry clothes for those days when the boss lets you “hang loose.” National publications are filled with “cool” fashion ads from the likes of Ralph Lauren, Fubu, Karl Kani, and, Phatt Pharm, making it unhip to be seen in traditional wear.
Just the other day, I saw one of my contemporaries walking down the street in a sweat suit. It was not the outfit the bothered; it was how she was wearing it. She concurred that is was “chic” to have one leg rolled up like popular rapper L.L. Cool J. Maybe she wanted to be like her teenaged kids, but in reality, she looked ridiculous.
I do not desire to wear a pair of pants with the name of some multimillionaire fashion designer embellished on my hindquarters. I have secret wish to be attired in any oversized outfit larch enough for the front line of the Denver Broncos and myself.
I am a realist when it comes to the impression given by the clothing we wear, especially on the job.
One cannot deny that the suit and tie is the standard of the professional image. It conveys status, breading, and education. Another message sent by the suit and tie is innocence. If this were not the case, then lawyers would not have their “guilty” clients dress in such a manner for the benefit of the jury.
These views may seem to be a bit elitist, but it is the truth.
CEO’s of major corporations do not wear baggy jeans or shoes with basketball players’ names on them!
It must be noted that when I use the word “suit,” I am speaking in the general sense. Women wear suits, also; therefore, their image is also enhanced by the appropriate workplace attire.
If anyone, regardless of gender, wants to forge ahead on his or her job, he or she must be "dressed for success."
By continuing this dress down mentality, the powerbrokers are making sure that the rest of us never make it out of the stockroom. We are allowed to be "casual" so as not to be a threat to their position of power. We are even told that they envy our "freedom' to not be bound by the restrictions of fashion.
And therein lays the eventual demise of America as we know her.
When we "fall into The Gap," we are creating a wider chasm between the haves and the have nots.
I seriously doubt that Tommy wears his own clothing!
For many, Edward Gibbons’ classic opus "The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire" has served as a warning of the fallacies of placing greater emphasis on power than on the needs and concerns of the general populace.
Gibbons wrote that Rome fell due to a combination of its own barbaric and self-serving practices and the emergence of the Christian faith that spoke to the persecuted masses.
It has been felt that our own nation is on the verge of collapse dues in part to a variety of factors such as increased crime, marital infidelity, moral and ethical decay, the globalization of industries, and an apparent decline in church attendance.
I agree that some of these are contributing to America’s slow decent, but I feel that a greater threat is not coming from some foreign power or the dollar’s devaluation on the world market. We need look at Madison Avenue and our changing attitudes about how we dress as a sign that our days are surely numbered.
We are “dressing down” too much!!!
Blue jeans were once considered to be the clothes of the “working man.” Sneakers were worn on basketball courts and the playgrounds of America. Stocking caps did not leave the confines of one’s bedroom. And one’s choice of boxer shorts was a private matter between the wearer and the pants that covered the underwear.
Not any more. Ever since Brooke Shields has us wondering what “came between her and her Calvins back in the early 80’s, this country has been obsessed with the look and fit of jeans. With big-name athletes touting their signature “shoes,” everyone wants to wear what Mike, Shaq, or Allen wears.
Usher and other contemporary pop stars have made it acceptable to wear a stocking cap as a complement to one’s ensemble. And actor Mark Walhberg opened the world’s eyes to the endless possibilities of “undies” as a fashion statement.
Although much of the marketing strategies have been geared toward impressionable youth, it is the more mature individuals who are also jumping on the “dress down” bandwagon. Major retailers carry clothes for those days when the boss lets you “hang loose.” National publications are filled with “cool” fashion ads from the likes of Ralph Lauren, Fubu, Karl Kani, and, Phatt Pharm, making it unhip to be seen in traditional wear.
Just the other day, I saw one of my contemporaries walking down the street in a sweat suit. It was not the outfit the bothered; it was how she was wearing it. She concurred that is was “chic” to have one leg rolled up like popular rapper L.L. Cool J. Maybe she wanted to be like her teenaged kids, but in reality, she looked ridiculous.
I do not desire to wear a pair of pants with the name of some multimillionaire fashion designer embellished on my hindquarters. I have secret wish to be attired in any oversized outfit larch enough for the front line of the Denver Broncos and myself.
I am a realist when it comes to the impression given by the clothing we wear, especially on the job.
One cannot deny that the suit and tie is the standard of the professional image. It conveys status, breading, and education. Another message sent by the suit and tie is innocence. If this were not the case, then lawyers would not have their “guilty” clients dress in such a manner for the benefit of the jury.
These views may seem to be a bit elitist, but it is the truth.
CEO’s of major corporations do not wear baggy jeans or shoes with basketball players’ names on them!
It must be noted that when I use the word “suit,” I am speaking in the general sense. Women wear suits, also; therefore, their image is also enhanced by the appropriate workplace attire.
If anyone, regardless of gender, wants to forge ahead on his or her job, he or she must be "dressed for success."
By continuing this dress down mentality, the powerbrokers are making sure that the rest of us never make it out of the stockroom. We are allowed to be "casual" so as not to be a threat to their position of power. We are even told that they envy our "freedom' to not be bound by the restrictions of fashion.
And therein lays the eventual demise of America as we know her.
When we "fall into The Gap," we are creating a wider chasm between the haves and the have nots.
I seriously doubt that Tommy wears his own clothing!
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Today's announcement
Well, the time has finally come. After closing in on thirty-two years, I have decided to throw in the proverbial towel and bring my daily teaching career to a close.
Yes, I am retiring at the end of the school year. Though I'm still at the ripe, YOUNG age of fifty-three, I think that I have reached my wits end with a endless paperwork and students that lack direction or focus.
Perhaps I can use my talents in other areas and I will be pursuing those in the very near future.
Wish me luck.
Yes, I am retiring at the end of the school year. Though I'm still at the ripe, YOUNG age of fifty-three, I think that I have reached my wits end with a endless paperwork and students that lack direction or focus.
Perhaps I can use my talents in other areas and I will be pursuing those in the very near future.
Wish me luck.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
A Simple Appeal for Cameron
To the World’s Honorable Heads of State:
To the right is a picture of my great nephew Cameron. He’s quite handsome, don’t you think? Of course, I am slightly biased based on my kinship with him and that is understandable. But, I just wanted you to know the reason behind this communiqué.
Some time ago, while watching CNN, I saw two political and world analysts debating the state of the planet at the moment. Both were saying that World War III is inevitable and that conditions are favorable, especially in the Middle East, China, and North Korea that such an event is likely to occur within the very, very near future.
Of course, the world has been on the brink since the end of World War II, with countries all vying to get their perceived “piece of the pie,” all the name of national pride.
Well, I cannot just idly sit by and see the world that Cameron, and all the other Cameron’s, will inherit go up in flames before he gets a chance to experience life...and what an experience I want him to have.
I want him to be able to go hang-gliding off the Northern California coast. I want him to be able to go scuba-diving in the Great Barrier Reef. If he chooses, I want him to be able to climb to the top of The Great Pyramid of Giza. I want him to have the chance to run a partial expanse of The Great Wall of China. I want him to be able to see Nairobi, London, Beijing, Paris, Tokyo, and all the beautiful cities of the world.
I want him to have a work career that he loves, find a soul mate with which he can spend eternity, produce a couple of great, great nieces or nephews (for yours truly), and live to be a ripe, old age.
I want him to be able to live in a world where nature is valued and animals flourish in their natural habitats, free from man’s intervention.
If I could, I would gladly give him my fifty-three years to insure that he has at least that time to experience life with all its highs and lows.
I just want him to have that chance.
However you came to power (be it democratic election, inheritance, or military coup), I beseech you, as your country’s chosen representatives, to consider what is at stake, as we continue this path that I fear may prove the end for us all. Put these political differences aside or come to some compromises that can be agreeable to all.
Most of us on this planet are more concerned with the every day tasks of maintaining a day-to-day existence: caring for our families, doing our jobs, paying our bills, taking care of our households, and trying to live an honest and respectful life than we are in world domination or control.
We pray and worship and hope that our efforts will be pleasing to that “Supreme Being” that we hold dear to our hearts.
As Heads of State, I want you to ask whatever Deity you worship for Divine Guidance, consider your constituents, think of your own children, and, please, think of Cameron.
He has so much ahead of him and I, selfishly, want nothing to prevent him from LIVING!
Yours truly,
Reginald D. Garrard
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