Charlotte, NC

Man, are they SERIOUS?!?!

By now, you’ve heard that certain colleges want to lower the drinking age to EIGHTEEN! And why?? ‘Cause they wanna end “binge” drinking on their campuses! Now, how do they do that?? By makin’ it lawful for ‘em to get plastered at a younger age! (Ummm … is this makin’ any sense yet??)

Hey … it doesn’t matter if they’re 18 or 118 (well, that would matter! In fact, it’d be a miracle worthy of a guest shot on Letterman …): If people wanna binge drink, it doesn’t matter what the rulebook says: They’re gonna do it!

But college presidents from around a hundred U.S. universities (yep, including Duke!) are wantin’ lawmakers to cut the guzzle-age down. They say the laws that are on the books now actually encourage binge drinking on campus.

Ummm … HOW?? Is it the thrill of breaking the law?? Or is it because security and regulations are so lax at these schools that they can get away with it??

Oh … wait a minnit: “binge drinking” … “on campus” … are we hearin’ special-interest here? In other words (and correct me if I’m wrong), change the law so this or that specific school can benefit? What about high school seniors who are 18? Or drop-outs?

Look: Research has found more than 40% of college students reported at least one symptom of alcohol abuse or dependence. In fact, one study says that more than 500,000 full-time students at larger colleges suffer drinking-related injuries each year and about 1,700 die in alcohol-related accidents!

So whatcha wanna do — up the odds a bit?? Try this one:

Federal records show that 157 college-age people, including those under 21, drank themselves to death from 1999 through 2005!

Still wanna change the law??

Y’know, it’s crazy! I’ll be the first to admit that I usedta chug, drug and bug-out (been totally sober for 28 years now! Y’can thank my then-year-old son for that. Write me if you wanna know how …). I wasn’t a pretty sight when drunk (okay, okay … I’m not even when I’m sober. But at least now I can take it … lol). The effects of alcohol on a young person (I’m talkin’ about the psychological effects. You know the rest …) can … no, are (whether in short or long-run) devastating!

So, IMHO, there should be NO WAY that we pander to these colleges, risking the life-and-limb of innocent drivers, children, and others … just so their school won’t have their students doin’ some “binge drinking” on their campuses (psssst … it’s gonna happen anyway, so the “new law” wouldn’t amount to a hill of beans!).

I wanna thank a special person here: Years ago, I had the pleasure of communicating with HHS Director (now University of Miami President) Donna Shalala who served under President Clinton. She’s one of the most outstanding, genuine and child-safety-oriented people that’s ever held a government post! And, God bless her, she’s refused to sign this petition! She says (and we’ve gotta admit, she’s right!)
“I remember college campuses when we had 18-year-old drinking ages, and I honestly believe we’ve made some progress. To just shift it back down to the high schools makes no sense at all.”

One more thing: Is it just me, or does anybody else see some irony here?:

We’re tryin’ oh, so hard, through TV ads and local/state regs, to get our kids to stop smoking. We say it’s “bad for their health” or “they can die from it.” But …

WHY IS DRINKING UNTOUCHABLE??

I mean, I’ve yet to see a fatal car crash, a woman beaten or killed, a child hurt … just because someone had “too much to SMOKE!” No, it’s they’ve had “too much to _____” (fill in the word)! So why not protect the kids from that??

Yes, smoking can kill you — over time. But drinking?? It can be instantaneous!

Giving the 18-year-olds the right to drink is like puttin’ a gun in their hands and askin’ ‘em not to pull the trigger! If anything, there’s a crying need to discourage that.

Let’s hope the lawmakers decide against these “special-interest” colleges …

for the kids’ sake!

Well, it’s now official: Two of America’s top sleuths will be leaving us … but two more are waiting in the wings, ready to take their place!

As we’ll see over the next few weeks, Gil Grissom, head honcho of CSI — the most-watched of the franchise — will be re-evaluating his role as Chief of Forensics and headin’ into the sunset. Taking his place will be a character (to be introduced on an episode shortly) played by stage-and-movie superstar Lawrence Fishburne. Now, you’ve seen him in many films — and, if you were really lucky, you caught his amazing performance as the late Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall.
But didja know that this humble actor really became noticed as a bit-part actor on the TV series M*A*S*H?? He’s come a long way … and, no doubt, his new role will carry him even further.

Over at Law & Order: Criminal Intent — which is now shown on USA Network rather than NBC (it wasn’t on CBS, as I earlier gaffed. Sorry … geez … the price I’ve gotta pay for bein’ human … lol)– Chris Noth (Det. Mike Logan) departed from the new episodes with this week’s installment (Chris’ character has left “to experience life beyond the badge”). Replacing him will be the star of “Jurassic Park”, Jeff Goldblum.
Now, while neither Fishburne’s nor Goldblum’s character has been given a name yet, Fishburne has some big shoes to fill (after all, Bill Peterson has been in the Grissom role for eight years!) while Goldblum will be trading episodes with Vince D’nofrio (Det. Bobby Goren). Still, they’re gonna add a refreshing style and look to the roles, and we’re lookin’ forward to it …

Now, what does WBTV have to do with all this? Well, Channel 3 is the CBS affiliate in the Queen City, and the lion’s share of local Thursday night Neilsens belongs to them. And, since Jerry Bruckheimer’s top show is bound to score heavily on the night that Grissom leaves, they can look at some serious ad revenue as well as viewers!
Of course, L&O:CI is gonna be on USA, so that’s up for the cable companies’ profits in both categories.
Either way, the shows are secure — especially with Fishburne and Goldblum on the case!

Today, kindergarten enrollment begins, huh?? Geez … how well I remember:

No, we didn’t have the luxury of kindergarten back when I was a young’un … but the teachers I had growin’ up in Pineville Elementary (remember Miss Beaver, Mrs. Brassfield, Miss Garrison and the “infamous” [meaning "tough but fair"] Miss Grier??) more than made up for it.

One of the fondest memories, though, came from my son, Mike, and his K teacher at Pineville, Betsy Blankenship (one of the most wonderful teachers ever to grace a classroom, IMHO).
He and his K-class were invited to the wedding of Mrs. B’s assistant, Theo Tolbert, and, of course, I was proud to see him so excited about it — Ms. T. was a fave of all the kids!

We arrived at the church and met some of his other classmates, then got to meet the “lucky guy”. He seemed all right — remember, he had to pass inspection by about 24 young people who were very cautious about letting their teacher’s aide go … it had to be to just the right one!
After the ceremony, the bride and groom headed out the vestibule door to a shower of birdseed balls (seed-filled mesh balls. It’s better to throw that than rice, since the latter can actually kill birds if eaten. Of course, at mine, they forgot the birdseed … picked up rocks instead …).

Now, in order for us to get ready for the wedding, I hadta come in from workin’ on our garden and take a shower. That meant the shovel, seed, and stuff were still out there.
Since it was too late to do any more work when we returned, I just “left it lay” until the next A. M.

The next morning, I was awakened by a “shishing” sound — sorta like … someone was digging in the garden! So I rushed to the window, looked outside — to see little Mike, digging a little hole. Beside him were the “birdseed balls”.
I ran out there and asked what he was doin’ out there … especially so early in the morning.
He shrugged his shoulders and said,
“Well, you plant bean seeds and ‘mater seeds, an’ they grow. So I’m gonna plant these bird seeds and grow some birds!”

Well, I chuckled — actually, I thought it was a tweet gesture! After explaining that birds don’t grow from seeds, I took him inside to wash his hands.
When we returned, there were birds all over the place, wanting the seed he left out there!
Excitedly, he grabbed my arm. “See, daddy? I KNEW I could grow those birds!!”

Y’know, if we just open our eyes to the innocence, the love …. and the ingenuity … of our kids, we’d be a lot happier people!

God bless ‘em as they start the new school year!

Geez … okay, so it’s my birthday … but I ain’t THAT far gone (am I??).

Yep … 58 years ago today (at 12:28 PM EST, to be almost exact), for some reason mama screamed to the world that my daddy was illegitimate.* (aaah, you who have birthed children know what I mean!) I woulda come to his defense, but what I wuz too busy at the time to notice …**
Anyway, the squallin’, poopin’, kickin’ mess that followed was remarkable. Finally, they escorted dad outta the delivery room, and I wuz born …**
Now … let’s move on:

IN THE NEWS AT THIS HOUR

Folk-rocker Jackson Browne is a bit miffed at Republican presidential candidate what’s-his-name for usin’ his song, Running On Empty, in one of his campaign commercials without permission. Natch, the McCain camp said it was the Ohio Republican Party (ORP’s) fault (ORP?? Maybe he just burped while he was answerin’, and reporters put 1 and 1 together [see the last post for answer]!). Anyway, Browne is suing ‘em in an L. A. court …

JIMMY PAGE TO CLOSE THE OLYMPICS?? Hey … that’s what the rumours are sayin’! They tell TRR that he’s set to perform at the closing ceremonies on 24 August, along with Leona Lewis. (By the way, London’s gonna host the next Summer Olympics in four years. Congrats, mates …)

SPEAKIN’ OF PAGE, here he is, lonnng before Yardbirds, Zep and the rest. If ya missed it on the old site, yer gonna dig seein’ him at … 14!

A QUICK WORD Hey … remember the book I toldja Lloyd Thaxton co-wrote with John Alston (Stuff Happens — and then you fix it)? Well, John’s in the hospital and needin’ yer good vibes and prayers at this moment. He’s one of the most positive, motivational people on the planet, and has touched a lotta lives with his advice and counsel! So let’s touch his by sayin’ a quick one, or sendin’ out some good thoughts, on his behalf! Thanks.

Well, that’s it for this edition! Until tomorrow (when I’ll will humbly hobble over to his keyboard, feebly take his old, wrinkled hand and, squinting hard to see the monitor [set on lowest resolution], try to type a few words to you young whippersnappers …), remember (HEY!! It’s a JOKE!! I hope …)

Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music …
and I’ll see ya on the FLIP SIDE!!
* My dad was obviously very legitimate. His mother and dad, F. V. and Martha Carnes Hinson, gave birth to him on April 8, 1917. He passed away August 25, 1990.
** Actually, The Relic was born with the umbilical cord wrapped tightly around his neck. Having not been able to breathe for a time and with face mottled black, he was considered dead at first. After many minutes of attempting to revive me (thankfully, Doc McDonald succeeded!) and an extended stay at Mercy Hospital in Charlotte, life permanently won …

Uh-huh … that’s me — first cup clears the fuzz, second one brings the buzz …
Naaaah … you know it’s a squirrel (and who says I’m not a little “squirrelly”??). But, when the furry creatures come to mind, ya automatically think of what??

NUTS!! Ya either have ‘em, eat ‘em, or are goin’ ‘em! Now, bein’ a Carolina boy, I guess the first two are pretty obvious. But what’s wrong with “goin’ nuts” on occasion? I mean, in the good sense.
Y’see, we’ve gotten so pre-occupied with the bills, ills, pills and chills of life that we forget about havin’ a few thrills every once-in-awhile!

I mean, when ya think about The Beatles, only part of your memories are about the music. Yeah, part of ‘em involves their individual personalities, but …

part of ‘em also remembers their madcap zest for life (I had both at one time, but my subscription ran out on one, and the other made my skin break out in italics oh, ye of wisdom shall know of what I speak. You’ve been down the soap aisle …).

These cats wanted to hit it big (in fact, early-on, John would yell “WHERE WE GOIN’?”, to which the others would respond, “TO THE TOP!” And, lemme tell ya, they didn’t mumble it, either!) and they did it by takin’ a lot of chances. They had an attitude that was unbeatable!
Ahhhh, but the rest of society — especially those over-30 — told ‘em againandagainandagain:

Are you NUTS??

And guess what the companion line was? Uh-huh … inevitably followed by “YOU can’t do that”! So they made it into a song.

Anyway, I said all that to say this: I recently got some email wonderin’ why I don’t write in … er, “proper” English (I reckon she means “without contractions”. Ya can’t go through anything without ‘em, ma’am! If ya have young’uns, you should know that by now …) and stop “foolin’ around” (huh?? At my age?? Who’d have me?? Oh … I get it …).
But, y’see, we don’t talk fancy when we’re with friends, right?? We want it all to exude life and happiness. Well, the purpose of any writing I do is to liven it all up a bit … make ‘em places where every person’s welcome and has fun as well as hopefully learn something! If it comes across as “nuts” or “zany”, so be it.

In fact, I’m gonna add a libbit to the zaniness:
First, here’s that vid y’all liked, called THE LEGENDS OF DOO-WOP
(by the way, you’ll never listen to Buddy Holly’s music the same way again!)

Now, for the second thing:

I’m officially openin’ my new MySpace space as well as the new Rock Relic site. See whatcha think and get back to me … if you’ve got any cool local sites you’d like me to add to the ‘Space, just lemme know.

NEEDIN’ A JOB?

Though many of us hold some kind of employment already, there are thousands of folks in our region who are lookin’ for decent, good-paying jobs. Of course, with the economy being in the shape it is, a weekly/biweekly paycheck is essential!
Now, the standard way to look, natch, is to either scour the Observer on Sunday, go through the ESC or even consider temp agencies. Otherwise, you’re just poundin’ the streets, hopin’ to run across the right one!
But there is a better way:
In a moment, I’m gonna give you a link to a site that’s so unique and precise that you’ll not only have a greater chance of landing that all-important job, but one that’s in your field … and at better pay!
Y’see, they have various “channels” in their network that can direct you to the job tailored for you! You can post a resume, find industry reports and success stories, and more! Whether it’s by skill or by city, you can find what you’re looking for — and more quickly — by clicking on the link that’ll bring you a more successful job search.
So save the shoe leather and go there today to enjoy a more productive tomorrow!

Until later, that’s gonna be it for this episode … (oh … are yer friends & neighbours a little confused by yer zaniness? Worry not: NUTS spelled backward is STUN!)

Sounds like a country song, doesn’t it??

But what happened on South Boulevard this morning was hardly melodic: A fire engine from Company 12 was responding to a traffic accident, and an SUV collided with it just past Woodlawn Road a little after 10 AM.
Now, obviously all the details aren’t in yet, but it brings up one seriously valid and important reminder:

If you see any emergency vehicle coming toward you — and it’s runnin’ “hot” (meaning, has its lights and sirens on and heading to an emergency), pull over into the OUTSIDE lane ASAP and give em all the room they’ll need!

By law, they’ve automatically got the “right-of-way,” anyway. Now, you know to pull over to the curb when they’re comin’ up behind you, but didja know that, no matter which direction they’re coming from, at higher speeds these trucks are harder to control than smaller vehicles? And, normally, the truck’s size makes them an inch or so wider than the lane they’re in.

So, when ya see one approachin’ and its lights and sounds are goin’, play it on the safe side, okay? For you, the drivers, and the people they’re trying to help! We don’t need any more accidents …

KEEPING A-FLOAT

With the heat of summertime bearin’ down on us, and the last few weeks are ticking away before kids have to hunker down to some serious schoolwork, there’s a big rush to push in as much time as possible at the pool or beach!
Of course, the main focuses whenever we’re in the drink (be it ocean or pool) is safety and comfort. And, for decades, parent have known the value of good foam floats, lounges and the like to provide that!
Well, now, by clicking on the link I’m gonna give you, you’ll be able to get the best floats and rafts on the market … at great savings and with free shipping!
They even stock those adorable, inflatable baby floats and the popular poolside bean bags!
So, if poolside is where you wanna be, or if the seashore still beckons you, then why not click this link for the best pool floats on the market?
You’ll enjoy the savings and quality almost as much as the comfort you’ll get!

Shaft …

Whenever anyone hears that single word, they don’t think of Richard Roundtree; often, they don’t even think of the movie plot. They only think of one man … Isaac Hayes. He became the standard of Soul around the world — and especially here in Charlotte (anyone who worked on or around The Square at that time could tell ya that!) — when that song hit the airwaves!

Sadly, Hayes left this world — one that he buttered hot with soul — Sunday afternoon during a workout on his treadmill. Upon hearing of his death, the music world seemed to stop for a moment … partly in shock, partly in tribute to this giant who proved that anyone — anyone — can make it in this world, no matter their circumstances.

Y’see, Isaac was born in a tin shack in Covington, Tennessee, the son of sharecroppers. He was raised by his grandparents, where he learned the value of hard work — and reaped the benefits in the love that was shared in the household. When he was about nine years old, he entered a talent contest, doing a song from one of his idols (the late Nat “King” Cole). Though this cemented his interest in singing, in later years he dropped out of high school — finally earning his diploma at the age of 21, thanks to the urging of his former teachers.

Now, you can read a lot more about him by scouring the web than I can write here (you’ll find a most excellent one by clicking this link). But the main reason I brought up those first few facts is to remind you that no circumstances are bigger than your determination to better them!

Among all the lessons that the Black Moses, Isaac Hayes, has left us, there can be none stronger than that!

Brother, you’re gonna be missed … but your legacy will live on … and on … and on …

THE FORE: ACOUSTIC

As many of you know, I’m also a stateside promoter for the popular UK band, THE FORE . Well, Matt, Si, Luker and Spencer just finished an amazing “acoustic” gig on the High Street in Kent, England Sunday afternoon, and the crowd loved it! Oh, yeah … it looks like their new album’s gonna be called, RUN and HIDE! The title comes from a new track that got raves when they played it at Lennon’s Bar in Liverpool awhile back.

These guys are definitely on their way UP to superstardom! Keep an eye out on this site for further developments …

TO LIGHTEN THE MOOD A BIT

Gotta throw in some songs you can download:

First, a rarity by The Monkees called Calico Girlfriend Samba.

Next, you’ve got a Beatles number, recorded by a fan in the audience at one of their final shows. (btw, this is the famous incident where someone threw a cherry bomb onstage because he didn’t like John’s quote about the Beatles and Jesus (remember WTYC’s stupid ‘Beatle Bonfires’?). You’ll hear the bomb go off about a minute or so into the song (the Fab Four kept on playing, though).
So here’s If I Needed Someone.

Up next, a song that every high school rock band learned to play (I know The Ho-Dads did it at South Meck’s gym dances!): Sunshine Games by the Music Explosion.

FINDING THE PRINCE OF PRINTERS

You know, if your work (business or school) depends on the computer, you’ve gotta have a good printer to give you quality, hard-copy material!
Now, finding the right one for your PC can be a hassle if you’re not careful: You can go through the phone book, find one that might sell your brand, drive alllll the way over in this heat, deal with salesmen who know how to add unneeded “accessories” (especially if they get a commission from them!), then go through long lines and pay beau coup money … and hope it works when ya get home …
OR …
You can simply click on the link you’re about to see, and find just the right one, at the right price, and save money in the process! But there’s a lot more: You can also find scanners, fax machines and even greater deals when you buy from these folks! Oh … and how does free shipping sound?? You can find that on selected models, too!
And you can purchase these at low prices and on an extremely secure server! Now … all you have to do is click on this link, which will take you to the best printers in the business!
Go ahead and do it now! Why wait for your “prints” to come??

Well, I toldja this would happen …

Trader Joe’s, the superstore of discount retail markets, is gonna be opening this Fall over at the new Metropolitan retail center (where the old Outlet Square usedta be). A number of clicks back, I toldja this store was gonna really plant its roots in the Queen City, and for it to come thisclose to Uptown will be a big boost for the economy.

Now, I said Fall ’cause there’s a little bit of concern about whether it’ll really meet its October deadline (after all, it’s just two months away!). Still, it’s gonna be big, with over 13,000 square feet! The manager of our first “Joe’s” will also manage this one, btw!

A QUICK REMINDER

For you who’ve looked for my alter-ego, The Rock Relic, you can now find him at his new blog! While you’re there, leave a shout-out, okay?

BRANSON IS ENTERTAINMENT!

Of all the places that you can go to unwind, kick up your heels and really have fun, nothing beats the times you’ll have in the entertainment mecca of Branson. From rides and food to musicals and more, this place is more than a theme park; it’s a memorable event!
One of the most popular among us music buffs is Legends In Concert, a tribute show to the musical greats. These great performers have the sounds, looks and styles down pat. You’ll love it!
And, listen … they’ve got Andy Williams and Ann-Margret for a limited engagement; who wouldn’t wanna hear the velvety vocals of the Man from Moon River?
Oh … and you’ve just gotta check out their Titanic Museum, which is a half-scale replica of the ship! Awesome! You’ll wanna go back again and again!
From the quaint shopping center of Branson Landing, which is reminiscent of the High Streets of London, to their beautiful Fountain Showyou’ll find loads of fun and memories all around you!
So why not go ahead and plan your next vacation there? Whether it’s for next week or next year, that getaway is gonna be one you’ll remember for the rest of your life!

Now, this link I’m about to give you will introduce ya to some fantastic folks who’ll be glad to help you make your plans for the trip; all you’ll haveta do is pack up the family and get ready for a great outing!
You’ll find out much more about Branson, its attractions and shows, shopping and more … and you’ll even have a chance to win a free vacation!
One of the most popular vacation offers is their Great American Package, where you not only save money, but get 4 days and 3 nights in the lovely Welk Resort Hotel, and tickets to the Magnificent Seven, Legends In Concert and the Veteran’s Museum (a tour that’ll definitely bring a lump in your throat as you remember …).
So what’s holdin’ ya back? Do like almost 120,000 others have done — and click here now for your great Branson getaway!

On the heels of Mark Johnson’s Charlotte Observer blog about tourists comes this little memory:

Awhile back, I had the company of a rather nice-looking lady-visitor from up Nawth — one who had a slight sinus problem. During our date, she found that she’d run out of nasal spray and asked me if I’d run to CVS for her and get something to alleviate her sniffiness.

Well, she told me what she needed and, though I thought it was a bit odd, maybe it was part of some Yankee concoction for the nose — sorta like a poultice or something!
Anyway, I went into the store, found it, went up to the cashier and asked if this could help clear sinuses. She called another cashier over, since she was too busy laughing.

Nevertheless, I paid for the merchandise, and went back to where the lady was staying and gave it to her. She looked at me like I was a few bricks short of a load and said, “What’s THIS?? I asked for nose spray. It’s called … Ocean™ spray!”

Uh-huh. I’d gone out and gotten her a big bottle of … cranberry juice by mistake! Or was it? I mean, when we hear “Ocean Spray” down here, we think of the juice, right? Not something to alleviate someone’s nose juice!!

Dang Yankees. They’ve gotta learn howta speak English correct …

THE BEST FAUCETS

As some of you might remember, before starting his own well-pump company, my daddy was the best plumber in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area! So I grew up with faucets, and have seen many brands!
But, for durability and beauty, one brand stands out above them all. In a moment, I’ll give you a link to their site; but you’ll find a lot more on there than you’d imagine! For example, you’ll find a fabulous low-price guarantee, as well as fast delivery, free shipping on faucets over $99, no sales tax outside New York, fantastic customer service and much more!
Besides that, you have the satisfaction of knowing that your order will be transacted securely! Ya don’t have to worry about anyone getting your information, other than you and the faucet people!
You’ll find the best selection of sinks, fixtures, faucets, and a lot more by just clicking on the link that’ll take you to Kohler faucets.
Take it from a guy who grew up with these fixtures around him: they are the best! Click on that link now and see for yourself!

It’s a sad day for the town of Lancaster …

A 5:00 AM fire destroyed the stately building, which was 180 years old (designed by Robert Mills, who also designed the Washington Monument!) and still being used for court cases. Police and investigators now say that the perps who set the blaze did so on the second floor, then escaped through a back exit downstairs.

Everybody who’s ever visited this quaint town, just over the NC border and south of Pineville (but why’m I tellin’ you that?? You’ve been there, right??) has been in awe of the courthouse’s spendor and history. In 1973, the couthouse was designated a National Landmark — in part, due to its present history, and partly due to the building that was there just before this one was built in 1828 (the old one? It held the last of the witchcraft trials in the US in 1813!).

It took eight fire departments to fight the blaze, and, fortunately, no one was injured. The destruction of this monument to integrity also is a slap in the face of one of the most peaceful towns in the South — one that was rightfully proud of the courthouse and its history!
As we all were …

THINNING IT ALL OUT

As summer continues to beat us with unbearable heat and humidity, a lot of people are thinking seriously (and rightly so!) about losing unnecessary pounds! Not only does it make you healthier, but obviously helps you withstand the summer weather andmost of those people ask is: Which fat-burner would work the best in my situation?
Well, now there’s a site that’ll help you find the right one! Not only does it show you the best fat-burners and inform you of the ingredients, but it also introduces you to the product Anoretix™, which has nine patented, clinically proven and scientifically-tested weight-loss ingredients! It’s totally safe, and works with you to take off those excess pounds!
But there’s a lot more to this site, and if you’re serious about losing weight, then this spot is the place to go for the anoretix review that’ll help you accomplish that goal safely!
Go there now, and start feeling healthier, livelier and lighter tomorrow!

YEP!! No doubt about it!!

Y’know, our hometown television stations and newspapers very rarely get the nod from folks around this area; we take their coverage/delivery of the paper/radio airplay for granted. I mean, it’s just … there!

But lemme tell ya somethin’: In my alter-ego of The Rock Relic, I’ve had a chance to travel the U.S. of A. and even out of country (’course … ahem! … they threw me back in …) and have seen loads of news, weather and sports from local stations everywhere!
Without a doubt (I think I said something like that already, huh?), the stations in this area are the best — a mix of polished, up-to-the-minute professionalism with the all-important hometown touch!

I’ve known personalities, past and present, from most of the stations — and have witnessed some of the workings at video-shoppes like WCNC — and can tell ya these folks are totally sincere about their community! Not only that, but they have the latest in newsfeeds, wirenews, and the savviest reporters anywhere!
Many years ago, I had the privilege of broadcasting myself — from the old Big Ways 61 studios. ‘Course, back-in-the-day, ya had a few egos (one, who’ll remain nameless, went on to become a sorta-big national “star”), but, at that time as you know, everything was changing and re-forming in this country! As the years passed, and I went on to other endeavours, the station changed to an all-news format. Still, it had the best-trained on-air personalities you could ask for!

On the hard-copy front, we’ve got the best right here in the Charlotte Observer — both “hand-held” and online!
Now, there are other areas that have that, but the news isn’t as varied or as updated. In fact, in one community in Kentucky, the paper comes out too early to carry updated news, and the publishers even close on certain holidays — thus leaving the customers “without”!

So we’ve gotta start givin’ props and attention to the stations (TV and radio), newspapers, reporters, anchors, publishers, GMs and all who’ve kept us informed for so long! They deserve a shout-out or two … or three …
Why not call ‘em and tell ‘em how much you appreciate ‘em? Tell ‘em the Rock Relic sentcha!

RECIPES FOR A SMILE!

Y’know, nobody … and I mean NOBODY … could cook better and more mouth-waterin’ meals than my late mama, Irene Hinson! Of course, she’s gone on to her reward now, and that’s leavin’ a big void when it comes to sumptuous meals around the Relic household (party of one, many cats. But they have their Friskies®).
But I’ve found a great place online that’ll help you take any dish and make it fit for royalty! These folks have ideas that’d even make those TV chefs envious!
They’ve even got a search engine that’ll help you find just the right recipe for your party, dinner, business get-together or special event!
Not only do they have that, but they also present ya with a network of different, taste-tempting recipe sites to choose from! And a free newsletter … the top five recipes … even (if ya hurry!) a chance to win a wonderful kitchen — and a one-million-dollar house to go WITH it!
So whatcha waitin’ for?? Click on this link to find the best recipe for your special occasion — or just to satisfy your own tastebuds!
You — and that soon-to-be-happy tummy of yours — will be glad ya did!

So the new COP (Chief of Police), Rodney Monroe, says he’s gonna make changes that’ll beef up crime-fighting in every Queen City community, huh??

Hey … I’m all for it! Some of the ideas he has, like cracking down on gangs, improving their patrols, smaller focus areas — and especially having more units in neighborhoods — oughtta be a boost to our area!
In a way, it sorta takes ya back to the old days, when things … wellll, they were a little safer.

Look … during my ‘rasslin’ days (as announcer, remember?), I did a lotta footwork in the Ashland/Huntington area of Ky/WV, and I/noticed a/lot (Sorry … heh-heh! … couldn’t resist …) that many of the crimes happenin’ were actually from out-of-state perps. They fed mainly on neighborhoods, created or joined gangs, etc.
The police? They were busy … er, doin’ something, but that didn’t include patrolling neighborhoods or havin’ a decent gangbusting unit or two (or three …)

The Charlotte area’s residents deserve what Chief Monroe is proposing. If he’s successful (and, look — it’s gotta be a combined effort; we’ve gotta work with ‘em on this!), then the Queen City could end up a role model for other law-enforcement agencies across-the-board! Or across America, for that matter …

Let’s get behind the man on this and support the issue. ‘Nuff said!

THE LITTLE BLACK BOX

Have you ever gone into a college, high school — or even the mall — and seen a big plasma or LCD screen with repetitive, informative messages or displays on it? Then you can thank the world of digital signage for that!
It’s one of the best advertising and promotion tools available to businesses, but it’s also a godsend to students who want to know the latest updates on classes, fees — even emergency procedures!
This is one tool that I’d recommend to any place of business (or institution of learning)!
Now, to find out more about how your school or business can benefit from the little “black boxes”, just click on the link I’m about to give you. Once there, you’ll find it’s not only easy to get started, but you’ll have all the support you need! They’ll explain what it is, why you should have it, and then, after all is said and done, present it to you at a very affordable cost!
Imagine, though; you’ve made a sale, helped a student, drawn more prospects your way — and any of these could be far more effective than just trying to email or hard-copy your info to them!
So, for the best in digital signage equipment, just click on the link you just passed …
and have a successful and profitable year!

Okay, so the Jonas Brothers are coming to the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater on Tuesday night.
I’m also promoting a couple of UK acts, so ya might think I’m a bit jealous of these boys’ success. Actually, it’s great that they’re so popular; the music they provide is a refreshing change from the metal/rap/alternative that floods the airwaves and CDs today. Besides, they look great as well (is it my imagination, or does one of ‘em look like he could be Tom Hanks’ son??)! Yep, reckon I’m a fan, too!
But there is somethin’ that’s gotta be addressed here (other than this envelope holdin’ my water payment)! Y’see, the guys are part of the Disney conglomerate, which means they’ve got a ready-made boost. They’ve gotta prepare themselves for the inevitable day when they’re released from Mickey Manor and have to stand on their own!
They have everything it takes to maintain their momentum, but, as a promoter myself, I can’t help thinkin’ of another “brothers” act who took a lot on the chin after their big hit, MMMM-Bop. Today, Hanson still sounds great, but they’re just not getting the airplay they deserve!
They’ve not only gotta prepare for that independent “push”, but also have to realize they’ll haveta find someone new to do the books (ie, financial, management, etc.) for them. There’s a lot at stake here, and I hope they’ll be able to make the transition. But, for now, they’re superstars, sound fantastic, and are doin’ well. The concert’s bound to be a “sold-out” screamfest, and I’d recommend everyone to go … it’s gonna be fab!

Now, there’s more and more about this “pregnant man” having a “baby girl.” Honestly, I’m gettin’ a little sick of it!! Look … although “he” has no breasts and has facial hair, “he” is still a woman! To hear the tabs talk about it, it’s a miracle that this “man” had a child. Ummmm … sorry, but NO man can become pregnant. Full stop. Period. End of discussion.

ATTENTION: JIMMY PAGE FANS!

Now, here’s a rare treat for ya. Yer fave Yardbirds/Zep guitarist, performing with a skiffle band, back when he was about 14 years old! It’s got a few interviews after the song, but it’s worth the wait to hear Page at that age:

THE PROBLEM OF ACNE

Well, to most (especially teens), it is a problem. They’ll go out and buy medicine after medicine to try and fight it, but to little or no avail.
But now there’s a site where you can review the best and most effective remedies for acne! From creams to kits to soaps and more, it’ll cover the treatments that are most popular, and how effective they’ll be (they use some pretty strict criteria for that!).
You’ll also find a host of articles on the treatment of acne, and a whole lot more! And all you have to do to find the best in pimple creams and more, just click on the link you just passed.
Go there now, and get ready to clear and refresh your skin!

I dunno … is it just me, or is anybody else out there sick and tired of the abusive perps in our community gettin’ away with their crimes?

Obviously, I’m talkin’ about the Observer article, where another impulsive idiot (who thought himself the “owner” of his girlfriend) shot her and her sister. Fortunately, and as of this writing, it looks as if the two ladies will pull through.

But it brings up three questions:

• Why was this jerk released from jail in the first place? If he was in there for DV, wouldn’t it have at least made sense to have him monitored when he left?
• Why are abusers (especially male, though there are female abusers, too! Trust me … I’ve been through that …) let off with a slap on the wrist? Don’t the courts realize that abuse isn’t just a “one-time thing”? It becomes an enjoyable habit with these perps … they love the feeling of power — especially over an innocent victim. Hey … IT’S ASSAULT, PLAIN AND SIMPLE!! ASSAULT THAT CAN LEAD TO MURDER! They’ve gotta treat it as such …
• Why is it so easy for abusers to hide from police when they’ve committed the crime? These idiots are yellow-bellied COWARDS who only want to control whatever is weak. They can’t handle the strong … they can’t handle the responsibility of facing up to what they did, especially in front of anyone bigger or smarter than them!

  It’s a true shame … and it doesn’t just happen in the Queen City, either! It’s across-the-board, coast-to-coast … and, sadly, often the courts are just as responsible for the outcome as the perps themselves!

  Okay … so what are the signs of abuse? Listen …

  If YOU’RE in a questionable relationship; if YOUR partner is exhibiting any of the following signs; if HE or SHE won’t seek partners counseling with you … then you’d better think twice about stayin’ with that person!
  Study this wheel closely:
  
  If ya wanna make a copy of it, go to http://crisis-support.org/images/whatdom.gif. For more information on abuse, PLEASE go to this page, okay?? It’s a tremendous help …

  Let’s hope they catch the jerk who shot the two sisters. And, this time, maybe park him behind bars for GOOD!

Okay, why aren’t we surprised by this??
The news says that Wachovia … our Wachovia, HQed here in our town … posted an 8.5 billion buck loss and is knocking off almost 11,000 jobs!
Now, it’s not the bank that’s to blame for this; personally, I gotta believe (as 99% of us do) that this Administration is, ’cause they just had to start their little private war to throw our money into repeatedly!

I honestly like Wachovia and its employees (hear that, Nina?), and have banked there before! But I really appreciate the heck out of ‘em now, especially since CEO Bob Steel actually took responsibility for the bank’s performance. I mean, maybe it’s not the bank’s fault directly, but it’s good to know that a Chief Executive Officer will own up and say that, on their end, performance coulda been a little bit better!

Ummm … hey, Bob? Ya … do ya reckon you could get, er, another Chief Executive Officer to think … well, to be a little more like you? We’d be a lot better off, all the way ’round!

HAVIN’ A PARTY?

Well, what good is a party without invitations, right?? You want as many of your friends, family, co-workers or whoever to show up and enjoy themselves at your wing-ding!
But WAIT!! You don’t want just any invites to be sent out, especially if it’s a wedding, bar mitzvah, grand opening or baby shower! They’ve gotta have a style and look that’ll say “Hey … I’ve wanna BE there!”
And for those, you’ll wanna go to the site I’ll send ya to in a second! These folks not only have the best selection of cards available, great prices, secure checkout and speedy delivery, but I dare ya to find a happier-looking card site on the web!
No doubt about it … you’ll find the very best party invitations by clicking that link you just saw! So do it now … and enjoy your party!