What Next?

Paying to Watch Super Bowl Commercials!!

Yesterday, November 24, 2011 I observed this bundle on my drive way here in West Bibb County Georgia.  It turned out to be the "The Telegraph" which is printed in Columbus, Georgia and delivered in Macon and Middle Georgia.

I had never seen one single issue take this much space.  I knew to expect "Black Friday" flyers and as I opened the bag my expectations were true.  No problem with that.  This is free enterprise at work and the best of capitalism.  Letting potential customers know what will be on sale.



However, as I read my newspaper and stacked up all the "sales flyers" I recalled that on Wednesday, November 23, 2011 I had paid for an additional thirteen weeks of "The Telegraph."  No problem with that.   I usually renew my subscription every thirteen weeks.  Then I also remembered that somewhere on the renewal notice where I read that for the newspaper to be delivered on certain days that there would be an additional $1.00 charge.  If I recall correctly November 24, 2011 was one of the days where the $1.00 would be charged.

If my memory is correct I fear that when I receive my January 2012 Cox Communications Bill that I might also be charged an extra $1.00 for the opportunity to view the commercials during the Super Bowl which will air on February 5, 2012. 

Somehow this just does not seem appropriate.  The consumer being charged an extra fee to be able to stack "newspaper sales flyers" for great sales events or even worse, possibly being charged an extra fee to view coveted electronic media commercials for broadcast events which draw high viewing numbers.

I hate to even consider how the electronic media may now charge us "commercial fees" so that we can view and enjoy the 2012 Summer Olympics from London, England.

From my own point of view as a consumer and an avid reader of the print media and a viewer of the special events on the electronic media I do not appreciate being forced to pay for the advertising some may desire to charge me the customer for. 

I know, I know that I can terminate my print media subscription and if the electronic media follows the lead of the print media in charging to deliver commercials I can terminate my cable subscription.

However, somehow this does not seem to be the American way!!!!  By the way I support the concept of the free market; however I also support the opportunity to remain informed via the various media outlets that are available to the public.  In fact I also consider it my obligation as a citizen of this country to be informed; however having to pay for commercials seems to be very inappropriate.

I post this entry today to stimulate thinking and to also simply point out that we the general public may be considered a source of revenue who will allow this practice to happen. 

I know that there will be some who do not see the connection with the next picture as being appropriate to this post.  It is a picture of "Paperwhite Blooms and Rosemary Stems" which adorned the Thanksgiving Table at my home.  Please note that there is no additional charge to you for the opportunity to view my artistic side.

I grew these plants and assembled this informal arrangement for the enjoyment of Thanksgiving Holiday Guest.  I did not charge them either. However, should you so desire you can mail me a $1.00 fee for the opportunity to enjoy the above picture.

"A Date Which Will Live in Infamy"

The President of the United States made this statement on December 8, 1941 and he was talking about the "Attack on Pearl Harbor" by the Japanese which they conducted on December 7, 1941.

As we prepare to remember this even which happened seventy years ago I am sure that many like myself will only have the recorded history of this day or the story of this event as it was relayed to us by our Parents.

I have visited Pearl Harbor several times during the course of my U. S. Navy Career and I have memories of standing at attention on the flight deck of the USS Ranger (CVA-61) as we passed the Arizona Memorial.  I know that I will never forget.

However during recent weeks I have, and I am confident that you have also been exposed to the Public Service Announcements that December 7, 2011 is the last day you can revise your Medicare Plan for the coming year.

I know that the first time I heard this Public Service Announcement I immediately thought of the quote that our President made as he prepared to sign the declaration of war on December 8, 1941.

"A Date Which Will Live in Infamy"

I suspect that our Government could have selected a more appropriate day to cease taking revisions to the Medicare Plan for us older folks.  Or is our government attempting to revise our focus on December 7, 1941?

A Tale of  Three Houses

Macon, Georgia

(Continued)

I have decided that I will visit these three homes to record the progress and post pictures here in "The World This Week" Blog.  These pictures were taken on November 17, 2011.

Royalty Row

The 2011 Cherry Blossom Festival Royal Court decided to start a new tradition for the Cherry Blossom Festival.

The reign of the 2011 Royal Court will be complete as they participate in the Crowning of the 2012 Cherry Blossom Festival Royal Court on November 19th. 

The 2011 Royal Court determined to leave a legacy of their time by planting a Yoshino Flowering Cherry Tree on the Campus of Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia

The tree was donated by Agape Nursery also located in Macon, Georgia.  Here you see Victor who is the operator of this Nursery.

A portion of the Royal Court with the Senior Cherry Blossom Queen.  This Court will be Crowning the new Queen and her Court as well as the Senior Queen for the 2012 Festival on Saturday, November 19th.

Neel Reid Homes

Macon, Georgia

Part III

Today I continue my journey around Macon and feature another Post in the Series, Neel Reid Homes of Macon, Georgia.

This home is located at 114 Buford Place just off of Vineville Avenue.  It was constructed in 1915 for Albert Bach.  It was Neel's Commission # 266



347 College Street.  This building is known as Massee Apartments.  It was Commission # 534 and constructed in 1924 for W. J. and O. J. Massee.

 Please note the Baroque limestone entry and the bull's eye in the roof pediment.  The iron torcheres and door grills are from the original construction.

 397 College Street.  This home was transformed by Neel Reid in 1911.  The Commission # was 146.  This home was a brick, turreted Victorian Mansion prior to the transformation.

 A close up view of the entrance portico of the home at 397 College Street. 

In an earlier post I featured this home at 1238 Jefferson Terrace.  Here you see the renovation process includes a fence.

Presidential Campaign Ethics

In view of all the allegations being made about current Presidential Candidates here in the United States of America I was recently contemplating what we would hear if Mother Theresa was alive, a U. S. Citizen and seeking the Nomination to run for President of the United States.

Can you imagine these allegations being reported by the print and electronic media.  It has been reported that Mother Theresa who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979:

Walked on the wrong side of the road as she proceeded to her Pre-School!

Once sassed her Mother when told to eat all of her Dinner!

Once looked at a boy in her Pre-School with lust filled eyes!

In her adult life she once asked a Hindu Priest for a Beefburger!

Challenged Muhammad Ali who claimed to be the Greatest!

We would be led to believe that these allegations are indeed true because there are so many of them.  Of course with this number of allegations there must certainly be more.  Such a person is unfit to seek the Office of President of the United States of Amercia!!

I appreciate that this would never happen in our Country.  Mother Theresa has passed on and I believe she is now considered a Saint!!





Second Sunday in the Park

Macon, Georgia

It was a very pleasant Sunday Afternoon in Washington Park, Macon, Georgia.  I enjoyed the Karen Bivins and Family Concert very much.  They performed music from many genre and everyone appeared to enjoy the Concert.

These Concerts are Sponsored in part by the "College Hill Alliance" with additional support from various civic minded organizations.

I understand that this November Concert was the last of the 2011 series and that they will commence in the Spring of 2012.

Thank You!!!!

Urban Renewal

I have recently completed a project that was long overdue.  I refinished the front door.  The first picture is the before picture.

I am very pleased with the results.  The door now has a nice shine and the entrance area looks so much better.

Middle Georgia Challenge

Many readers here may recall that I often post a Challenge to ascertain who knows the minute details which abound in any area.  This Challenge is to post in the comments section the location of this marker.

I can say that it is within the City Limits of Macon, Georgia.  It is also in an area that is enjoyed by many local, as well as out of town visitors.

Please post your answer in the comment section below.  The first correct reply will receive a free lunch at a place to be determined by the Flower Child.  This Challenge will expire on Sunday, November 27th, 2011 at 2400 hours.

The Genesis of a Hero

I have just finished reading Tim Tebow’s book entitled “Through My Eyes.” I would like to share my comments about this Hero:

He relates the circumstances of his birth. His parents were told that he should be aborted because of his pre-birth condition.

He related how he and his brothers often played in the mud on the small farm his parents owned. He called this opportunity being made “Farm Tough.”

He traveled with his Dad to the Philippines at the age of fifteen. He related how he shared the Gospel message to the students in the Philippines. He always started his presentation with the fact that he also was born in their country.

During his high school years he discussed a Coach that had three words posted on the Locker Room Wall:

Character

Strength

Honor

He had many role models but he specifically mentioned the 1982 Heisman Winner, Herschel Walker who was a Running Back from Georgia. Another role model was Danny Wuerffel, who earned the Heisman in 1996 while playing at Florida as a Quarterback.

On of his childhood friends, Kevin Albers had a Dad named Gary who trained to be a U. S. Navy Seal. It was Gary that developed an exercise routine for Tim.

While he was at Florida he made hospital visits to encourage patients. Tim related that these visits also did a lot to encourage him.

Prior to the 2007 Heisman Trophy presentation a former recipient, Danny Wuerffel took him into a back room and prayed with him. Tim later wrote that he appreciated that moment because Danny had taken an interest in him when he (Tim) was in high school.

One of many special moments that Tim shared in his book is when a family wrote him a letter to let him know that their son had accepted Christ after watching the Tim Tebow Heisman acceptance speech.

We have all read about Tim’s work in an orphanage in the Philippines, however he points out that all of us are indeed orphans who have been adopted into the family of God.

Tim’s speech in 2008 after the loss to “Ole Miss” is well known. He concluded that speech with two words – “God bless.”

The scripture text for Chapter 18, entitled “A Promise Fulfilled” is John 3:16. This Chapter is devoted to the conclusion of the 2008 Football Season. He related that for the Southeastern Conference Championship (SEC) game he continued to wear the Philippians 4:13 eye black. The Gators put that game away with a 24-14 win. The next game was the National Championship Game that he wore the John 3:16 eye black. I was impressed to read about Tim’s impromptu Bible Study just hours prior to the National Championship Game. After the study he made this statement, which I quote: “Guys, we are going to win the National Championship tonight. And when we do, we are going to give so much honor and glory to Jesus Christ. It is going to be awesome.”

He concluded his College Football Career he stated: “…..I did the best I could, trying to always finish strong.” As I read this I could not help but recall the “Farm Strong” attitude he developed in his younger years.

He then relates his situation concerning being a Denver Bronco. Of special importance to me was his story about speaking at a church in Memphis, TN on Mother’s Day. After sharing his story a young woman waited to talk to him. She is quoted here: “I have an abortion scheduled for tomorrow morning at 9 A.M.,” she cried, “and now I will not go through with it.”

As I read this book over the period of about six hours on two days I was impressed with how Tim Tebow shared his story and also his Faith. How he worked to achieve his fame. How His Family and Faith worked to make him the person he now is.

Tim dedicated this book:  "To all those who have been told that they couldn't achieve their dreams...."

I would humbly suggest that this book, “Through My Eyes” be required reading by every fourteen or fifteen year old on this Earth. It is a powerful book, which relates an impressive story of how success can be achieved.

Faith, Family, Academics and Football!!!!

"Heroes & Legends"

I recently enjoyed the opportunity to attend the Heroes and Legends Concert performed by the Macon Symphony Orchestra.

The Guest Conductor for this Concert was Ward Stare.  He led the Symphony in a most able manner.  His youthful attitude was reflected in his style of conducting the following selections:

The Flying Dutchman by Richard Wagner

The Sleeping Beauty Ballet by Protr Il'yich Tchaikovsky

Selections from 'Erocia' by Ludwig van Beethoven

Principal Sponsors for this Concert were:

William and Eleanor A. Lane Family Foundation

Neurology Associates/ S.I. Tsai

State Bank and Trust Company

As a Veteran I appreciated the theme of this Concert and also the selections.  They were enjoyable and fun to listen to.  Of special notice from my point of view was the fact that the Audience included many young people from the local High Schools.

We all know that Music and the other Arts can inspire everyone.  I am already looking forward to the Suite & Symphonic Concert which will be held on February 18, 2012 at 7:30 P.M. at The Grand right here in Macon, Georgia



"Burning Bush"

This image was taken on November 8, 2011 and shows a "Burning Bush" in full Fall color.  Of course the Flower Child had to get into the pictures.

"New/Proposed Medical Guidelines"

Recently we all read or heard of new guidelines for the use of the"PSA" also known as "prostate specific antigen" blood test for males to detect the onset of prostate cancer in males.  If I recall correctly it was determined that there is really no need for this test. 

A few days later I was in a discussion with a fellow citizen about this announcement.  It was stated that this was probably established as a new/proposed guideline to reduce medical test expenses now that our "New Health Care System" will soon be coming on line.

More recently I also heard that the recommendation for the first baseline evaluation mammogram for breast cancer detection be established as age 50 versus the previously published age of 40.  You can quickly view for your self the many websites that are discussing this matter with a quick internet search using the topic:  "mammogram guidelines."

Therefore there is much confusion for the citizens as well as the health care professionals in the United States.  Are these new guidelines/proposals being generated to reduce future health care cost?  Are these new guidelines/proposals founded on accurate research?  Of course I could post many questions/concerns about these new developments.

Then, on Friday, November 11, 2011 I was reading my local print media "The Telegraph" distributed in Macon, Georgia.  A certain radiation oncologist published an article entitled "Prostate cancer is literally killing Georgia's men."

The article cited the drafted recommendation from the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) concerning the PSA test.  He concluded his article with this sentence, which I quote regarding why should a young 40 year old male die from this disease of prostate cancer if a timely PSA test can not be funded:  "How would your proposed recommendations help this young man delay death from his cancer?"

I post this entry today to simply point out that there are those who are concerned about proper medical care while it also appears that there are those who have no medical expertise in Urological/Oncological  matters are now proposing new "Federal Guidelines."

It this the future of our Medical Care in the United States of America?  I sincerely hope that the good folks at the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) become aware in a most timely manner that their recommendations/proposals may indeed have dangerous consquences.  If money is there motivation I am confident that early detection is far less expensive than acute care anyday. 

Dr. James B. Benton, I appreciate your concern and on behalf of one Georgia Man I hope your column is well read and even mailed to our duly elected leaders as well as our Surgeon General.

Should any reader desire to contact our Surgeon General, which I would encourage, here is the contact information:

Regina M. Benjamin, MD, MBA

Surgeon General of the United States

Room 18-66

5600 Fishers Lane

Rockville, Maryland  20857



"I Fry Mine In Lard"

I enjoyed the opportunity to attend a fine music concert yesterday, Sunday, November 13, 2011.  During the course of the performance I had a "flash back" to my days as a performer in the Garnavillo High School's annual performance of George Frideric Handel's "Messiah."  More about the cause of my flash back later.

I was a Freshman in the Mixed Chorus of over 100 voices as we practiced the Messiah in 1953.  Our instructor, the voice/music teacher was a graduate of Northwestern University's famed Bienen School of Music.  Her mantra was that she could teach anyone to sing.  A few days prior to our performance on a Sunday afternoon in the High School Gym she took the time to tell us about audience conduct during the performance of the Messiah.  She told us this story from her time as a Chorus member:

Her group was performing "The Messiah" and I suspect it was at a Chicago location because of the location of Northwestern.  Two "matrons" were seated in the front row and really not paying much attention to the concert.  In fact they were discussing a matter that later proved to be most amusing.  During the performance of "The Hallejuah Chorus" where the singers pause a brief moment before the final "Hallejuah" the entire venue was able to hear the comment:  "I Fry Mine In Lard." 

Our Chorus Director/also the Voice Teacher told us this story so that we would share it with our family and friends prior to the performance so that no one would make this error at our Performance.

Needless to say, we all heard this story every year, always a few days prior to the performance because each year there were always new Chorus members - the Freshmen.  Additionally there were always new families attending the performance.  Please be aware that this High School was located in a town of 700 citizens and the High School was attended by over 120 Scholars.  If I recall correctly, there was always over 100 singers in the Mixed Chorus.  In fact, I have fond memories of singing the "First Tenor" Solos my Senior Year of High School. 

Now, for the balance of the story and the reason I had the "flash back" yesterday afternoon at a very nice concert venue right here in Macon, Georgia.

There was this individual seated to my left who waited until the performance started to unzip her handbag to acquire a cough drop.  Then zip it back shut.  Then the unwrapping of the cough drop.  I would suspect that she had not lubricated the zipper so it generated a fair amount of disturbance.  A few minutes later the coughing commenced.  Then the concert attendee seated in front of the loud zipper owner also had to have a coughing spell.  Needless to say this all generated the need for a new quest for another cough drop.  Thus a repeat of the zipper noise to open the handbag as well as close it again as the next cough drop was acquired. 

I thought to myself, why was not this whole procedure anticipated prior to the commence of the performance?  It would have been much more civil of the lady concerned to have planned ahead.  I can appreciate why no one would want to miss the concert.  It was a grand event and we enjoyed it very much, even though the zipper was a distraction. 

As I prepared to post this entry I also learned that the Bienen School of Music at Northwestern University is regarded as one of the premier music institutions in the United States.  When I was in High School as part of the Mixed Chorus I was not aware of the reputation of this School of Music or the background of our Concert Director/Music Teacher.  I do recall that she was a happy person; however she could keep all of us boys in line with a simple display of her anger with us when we misbehaved.  We all did respect her, not only because of her ability; but for her age.  We never knew her age, but we all thought she must have been in her 70s.  After we graduated we did learn of her position in the local community and our respect increased.

Thus, when I attend any Concert/Music Event I arrive early enough to get situated, read the program and attend to any personal problems that I anticipate so as not to disturb my fellow concert goers.

I shall never forget "Lucia Roggman."  Here is her bio which was printed in my Class of 1958 Yearbook:

"Miss Roggman, who works so hard in the vocal music department, is a graduate of Chicago Musical  College, Grinnell College, and received her B.A. and B.M. at Northwestern."  Thank You!!!!

I shall never forget:

"I Fry Mine In Lard."

Veterans Day 2011

November 11

We can all expect the media, both print and electronic to focus on Veterans Day this coming Friday.

Today, I encourage everyone to plan ahead.  Think of and do something that you may not have done on any prior "Veteran's Day."  By doing this something special you will be Honoring all of our Veterans.

Please accept the challenge, and if you care to, please leave a comment here as to what you did.

Thank You!!!

Flower Child's Religion

Today I will focus on recent messages I have heard at the Church I attend, The Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity, Macon, Georgia.

Sep 18, 2011 - Matthew 20: 1-16.  "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a master......."   The message focused on the fact that we should always put others first, and that Jesus absolved us all from our sins.  Admittedly life here has many challenges; but Heaven is perfect.

Oct 2, 2011 -   Philippians 3:  4-14.  "....Christ Jesus has made me his own."  "Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it...."   I learned that I am not alone, however I also heard that I must stand firm.  We were all encouraged to use God's Word in our lives.  Focus on God's plan and do not be distracted!!!!

Oct 9, 2011 -  Philippians 4:  4-13.  "Rejoice in the Lord always....."   The message that day gave us a seven point program:

1. Focus on Jesus
2. Go into the World and make disciples for Jesus
3. Be Happy, but project Jesus' Love
4. Always ask God for Help
5. Rely on God
6. Share God's Love
7. Then Smile

Saint Paul made this statement:  "I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content."

Oct 16, 2011 -  Ephesians 2: 8-9.  "For it is by Grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works....."  Sharing our Faith!!!   The questions were asked "Are you 100% sure you are going to Heaven?"  How would we answer?  or "If God asked us 'Why should I let you into Heaven?' how would you answer?" 

Our speaker also asked us if we would believe him, if he told us there was a Dinosaur on the Parking Lot.  This statement was made to simply remind us that we should not place our faith in the mere words of him; but to place our faith and belief on facts that are presented in God's Word.

We were reminded that only Jesus' death and resurrection makes us perfect.  Jesus did the impossible because he was God's Son.  We are to acknowledge that eternal life in Heaven is a gift, a free gift from God through his Son, our Savior.  We can receive this gift by placing our faith in God's Plan for us.  Just as Saint Paul shared his faith with the peoples of Ephesus, we are to share our faith also!!

Oct 23, 2011 - Matthew 22:  34-46.  The Pharisees challenged Jesus with this question:  "Which is the great commandment in the Law?"  Jesus replied, "You shall love the Lord your god with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.  This is the great and  first commandment.  And a second is like it:  You shall love your neighbor as yourself."

Yes,we are to obey God's Laws; but know that God's Good News gives us total forgiveness when we error.  When we commit sin/s.  Yes we must believe this fact and "Love" God!!

Oct 30, 2011 -  The message on this date was short, yet powerful.  We were told that "We Can Achieve Eternal Life in Heaven" by being faithful to God.  For God's greatest gift, Salvation and the abundance we enjoy in our daily lives we are to Thank "God for Our Blessings!!"

Flower Child's Flowers

I am confident that someone, somewhere knows the name of this lovely flower and/or the plant that supports this lovely flower.  Please leave your comments here.  Thank You!!!

Neel Reid Homes

Macon, Georgia

Part II

On October 28, 2011 I commenced my Neel Reid Homes of Macon, Georgia project.  I will feature several of his Homes in each Blog Post.  I hope to be able to make a Neel Reid Post at least once a week.

Today I will focus on two  homes on Macon's College Street as well as one home on Bond Street.

This home is at 505 College Street.  It was commission 145 and constructed for T.D. Tinsley.  It was originally constructed as a cottage in 1854.  Neel Reid added the second story in 1911.  Note the signature fence and gate with is the landmark in the 500 block of College Street.

 A close up view of 505 College Street.  Several years ago I was fortunate in being a guest for an open house at this address.  The front garden of this home is very well done; however the Gardens in the Back are terrific.  The Neel Reid additions are known as Commission # 145.

This house was Commission # 82 and was constructed in 1910 for W. P. Coleman.  It is located at 596 College Street.  The home was situated on the lot so that the front door would look directly down Tinsley Lane.  This Federal style home features a ionic-columned portico with side lights at the entry. 

This home faces North at 1116 Bond Street and is regarded as being constructed in 1910.   It was Commission # 83 for Mrs. Everett Coleman.  It features a classic cottage-style garden.

The World This Week

At least once a month I visit the Stats Page of this Blog.  I am always impressed with the number of Pageviews.  Today I will publish a summary of the pageviews by Country:

United States - 8,457

India - 674

Netherlands - 670

Russia - 403

United Kingdom - 267

Germany - 217

France - 208

Iran - 145

Canada - 127

Ukraine 112



"God Bless America"

Yes, this is an often used phrase by "We The People" and also those seeking election and even re-election.  It is a noble phrase and I use the sentence often in my Post here and in my engagement during many discussions with my fellow peoplekind.

 I use this picture here because it certainly reflects my love of America and our great symbol, Our Flag.

Now, just in case you are reading this blog which I have published over the period of several years and do not know who I am, this picture will quickly let you know that I have a considerable investment in the United States of America.  This picture was taken in 1963 when I was a proud Sailor assigned to an Attack Aircraft Carrier named USS Ranger (CVA-61).  The Ranger was a Carrier assigned to the United States Pacific Fleet.  Her period of service spanned over 30 years.

As you may suspect I remain involved in the events in my Country.  I will quickly add, that for most of my readers here, your Country, also.

I recently experienced the opportunity to hear a Doctor who is in practice within 100 miles of Macon, Georgia discuss "Obamacare."

It was a very interesting presentation and the discussion focused on the "Commerce Clause" of our U. S. Constitution.  I also learned about the "wheat wars of 1941" which also involved the Commerce Clause.  The current "Obamacare" legislation will soon be considered by the U. S. Supreme Court.  The speaker spoke openly about the fact that the Commerce clause is now being abused.

We were also informed that "Obamacare" is all about control.  The basic motivation for this Obamacare is:

A Lure for all from all over!

Illegals and legals are covered!

A vote buying scheme!

During the presentation, which was brief our current President was quoted as saying:

"I have considered going it alone!"  when he received opposition from various Lawmakers from our duly elected U. S. Congress.

The speaker then addressed the fact that our Medical Care System is currently mired down with much fraud.  He cited the "baby's first picture" scam where the hospital of his employment expends between $2,500 to $3,500 to generate an image of the baby in the womb.  This usually happens in the middle of the night when the pregant person presents herself at the ER after an expensive Ambulance Ride also funded by the Taxpayers with the compliant that "the water broke."

As the ultrasound technican concludes the procedure the "pregant person" request a copy of the image.  Certainly an expensive method which is employed to get that first coveted picture of the yet unborn.

This, we were informed is but one of many scams that generate great expense to the Medical Care Facilities in our United States of America. 

The speaker concluded his presentation with these words:

"If we could eliminate fraud we would not have our current financial problems."

"For Whom the Bell Tolls"

Some here may have read my Blog Post entitled "Wreaths Across America" which I posted a few days ago.

Within hours of posting this entry I received an E-Mail from a peer that discussed the Blog and the contents.  The purpose of my Blog Post was to encourage readers to participate in the 2011 "Wreaths Across America" be making an appropriate donation to honor our Nation's Past Heroes at various National Cemeteries.

After I read my peer's comments I considered posting his comments.  I also requested his permission, which was granted.   During my preparation to do so I thought "What Should I Title" this post.  I quickly thought of the title and conducted appropriate research.  I suspected that it was a great novel and I quickly ascertained that it was written by Ernest Hemingway in 1939 and published in 1940. 

I found a brief summary of this book and  quote it here:

"This novel is told primarily through the thoughts and experiences of Robert Jordan, a character inspired by Hemingway's own experiences in the Spanish Civil War, as a reporter for the North American Newspaper Alliance. Robert Jordan is an American who travels to Spain to oppose the fascist forces of Francisco Franco"

I now take the opportunity to quote my peers comments regarding my post about "Wreaths Across America."

"I totally agree with the concept and will contribute but that was not the first think that I thought of when I received your post this a.m.  What I thought of was funeral wreaths strung on every door of this once great nation.  America is dying, she may even be dead!  And this chills my heart to the bone.  We have a self-appointed, as they are truly not elected, any longer government of princes,/  Princesses', kings' and queens' most of whom don't give a damn about anyone's rights but their own.  Over the past 20 years I've watched as the Bill of Rights has progressively been eaten away at the fringes.  Very soon now the meat of our rights will be at stake.  The manner in which the "Occupy" groups are bein ghandled are the mere tip of the ice berg.  It starts with the right to protest what are truly grave injustices and ends by the loss of free speech being couched in terms of politically correct behavior.  I'm not so young as to have forgotten the vivil atrocities and mindset that occurred and were required under Brezhnev and his formidable lackey's.  The Marxist mentality, though utopian in its sounds, smells of bull manure now just as it did then...nothing has changed but the countries at the table!!  So the first question I'd like to ask our great men and women in harm's way right now is "what are you fighting for as the enemy is now within?"  I'd like to ask them to come home as there are more important things to do here.  But these are simply the ramblings of a very well travelled constitutionalist and of one who does truly love AMERICA not the current country, the once awesome country but the continued idea!"

I will conclude this post entitled "For Whom the Bell Tolls" with this reminder from an earlier post today.  "We Are At War!!!"  It will take the engagement of "All Hands" to win this Battle.  Are you ready?

"Vulnerable"

I was recently afforded the opportunity to hear a well regarded speaker discuss the "Vulnerabilities" that confront our very way of life here in the United States of America.

The speaker commenced his discussion with a brief story of how the "Lessons of Our Lives" are often sometimes hard to learn or even appreciate at the time these situations happen.

He then went on to discuss the events of September 11, 2001 and how we in the United States are still "vulnerable" today.  Additionally he informed us that eternal vigilance is required to keep America Safe.

I learned that the planning for 9-11 took a total of five years.  Our enemy, focused on how our Country reacted to Airplane Hi-jackings over the span of the past 30 some years and employed tactics to con the passengers on the first two planes that hit the Twin Towers in New York City.

Because of "cell phone technology" the passengers on the plane that eventually crashed in Pennsylvania knew what was going to happen to them.  Thus they stormed the cockpit to avoid the unknown target of their Hi-jackers.  These Heroes saved the "potential target" from great harm and possibly the loss of many, many more lives.

The "con" the enemy employed was the fact that in the past our Airliners and Government usually gave in to the Hi-jackers.  The Hi-jackers on 9-11 were counting on the same reaction to execute their missions.  They were successful in executing three of the four missions. 

The speaker then discussed that our Country is still "vulnerable" today.  Do we know what our enemy/s have planned or are even planning as I compose this Blog Post today? 

When the word "vulnerable" is used as an adjective is means:  "Exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed."  I would have to agree with the speaker at this event.  We are still vulnerable today, in spite of what we as a Country have accomplished as regards security measures.  I would submit that we all, our elected and even appointed leaders need to commence thinking like a potential enemy.  Where are our weak areas?  What have we overlooked? 

As a Society we have accepted the human mantra of "Our Fellow Peoplekind Are Decent And Respect Our Way Of Life!"   This may be how we conducted our foreign affairs in the past, but I would remind you of the terrible attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.  Our Government had incorrectly assumed that "Japan could not attack our base so far away from their homeland." 

We now know better.  What are we currently doing to insure our current and future safety?  First of all, we as citizens and our duly elected leaders as well as our appointed leaders must acknowledge and admit that "Yes We Are At War!!!"

Once we accept that germane fact we can proceed with appropriate funding and actions to prevent an attack or at least decrease our vulnerability to such an attack.  Will it be easy?  Of course not, but I would humbly suggest that rather than focus on the feel good programs that now appear to be the focus of our Federal Government we need to reassess our National Priorities and plan to protect American Interest both here in the United States and Abroad.

When I state the "feel good programs" I am specifically addressing the plethora of programs that our Government has in place to buy the votes of "We The People!"

As we engage in our daily living I think that it is important that we always remember September 11, 2001.  We are vulnerable today.  We may not desire to acknowledge that fact or we may not want to conduct appropriate planning for our future security however as the speaker at this event informed us:  "We are as vulnerable today as we were on 9-11 because of our current policies!!!"  This my dear fellow American Citizens is a fact of life.

In summary, I would suggest that "We The People" need to wake up before it is too late.  Additionally we must all work to educated our duly elected leaders that yes, "We Are At War!!"

Ready for Autumn

This is the view from the front door of my home in West Bibb County Georgia.  Autumn is finally here.  I appreciate the cool evenings and the warm afternoons.  It is a most pleasant time of the year.

I would urge everyone to take the time to enjoy the Fall Foliage during their daily activities.  Beauty abounds everywhere, we just have to be alert to see it.

Middle Georgia Challenge

On Tuesday, October 25, 2011 I published another Middle Georgia Challenge.  The first picture below shows the image.  The challenge involved any reader to respond with the correct location of this marker.

This is a picture of the intersection of the two streets that are closest to the marker which is embedded in the Brick Pathway on the Northeast corner of Washington Park in Macon, Georgia.

I had one response to the Challenge and it was not even close to this location.  Thus there was no winner. 

"Review"

For several weeks I have been keeping articles that have captured my interest:

Sep 25, 2011 - "Prison of the Mind" by Charles E. Richardson.  In this column the author pointed out that the former mantra employed by some is "That it was still their way or the highway" as he discussed the "changing political winds under the Gold Dome....."  I believe that he was referring to the new focus of our current "Bibb Delegation" to the Georgia General Assembly.  We were encouraged to not let our minds become a prison focused on the past.

Sep 26, 2011 - A "Your Say" column by George A. Fadil Muhammaad was focused on the recent Democrat primary that elected candidate Robert Reichert.  The article was entitled "Now that he's won, the Mayor must address the total comunity's needs."  The author focused on the fact that the Mayor needs to focus on many situations in the City of Macon.  Yet, I continue to be amazed that the City Council of Macon has neglected to implement the Mayor's Plan, which was formulated by the Police Department.  I would submit that if the Mayor's Plan is inferior, I would humbly suggest that maybe the "City Council" could develop a superior scheme to address the Youth Violence issue that has troubled Macon in recent weeks.

Sep 28, 2011 - "A new day is dawning" by Dr. Catherine Meeks.  From my point of view she correctly summed up the situation here in Macon/Bibb County  as she stated"we have to change."  Her concluding sentence stated "Let's begin with collective cooperation and work together for the sake of all the children and our collective futures."

Oct 5, 2011 - Page 1A of "The Telegraph" a subheadline - "County hangs $7550 assessment on man's johnboat."  Admittedly I may have missed the article informing us all how this "crisis" was resolved; but I would submit that this was really a non-story that should have been resolved quickly if certain officials had used common sense.

Oct 5, 2011 - "On this matter, let's take the tea party at its word" by Leonard Pitts Jr.  The author discussed the challenges our Country faces.  I am aware that in order to bring about change two extremes must meet in the middle.  I would suggest that the "tea party" realizes that changes must be accomplished; however everybody must practice the gentle of negotiation so that an appropriate compromise can be achieved for the best interest of our Society.

Oct 16, 2011 - "Profile in courage" by Charles E. Richardson.  In this article the author presented a situation which happened in April of 1967.   I was not aware of this incident; but I am also confident that many local citizens learned of a Lester Maddox of ax handle fame that did enact much needed prison reform in Georgia.  While I did not reside in Georgia in 1967 I was aware of an ax wielding Lester Maddox during this time period. 

Oct 16, 2011 - "The aimless occupiers" by Kenny Burgamy.  In this article the author reminded us that the occupiers may be serving a useful purpose.  The occupiers may be allowing the voters of this country to vote for appropriate change in 2012.

Oct 26, 2011 - "Fixing schools depends largely on their leaders" - A special article by Charles H. Roberts.  The author submitted three challenges; however I will focus on the third challenge, which I will quote:

"The third challenge is to ensure that all students are engaged in meaningful and rewarding co-curricular and extracurricular activities.  A strong effort should certainly be made to strengthen and increase participation in existing activities, such as ports teams and marching bands, emphasizing discipline and excellence in all aspects.  School leaders should then implement intramural activities during the school day, while operating high quality after-school programs.  Parents and members of the surrounding communities could become instrumental in this process.  Once students are meaningfully engaged in these activities, their dispositions can change dramatically for the better, and their continued participation in these activities could be used as leverage to instill discipline and maintain order, rather than continuing to suspend and expel students to no effect, or with negative effect."

Finally Dr. Roberts suggest that the musical heritage of Macon and Middle Georgia be stressed to properly engage our Scholars and achieve positive education results.

I salute Dr. Roberts for his "Your Say" article and I will simply add my observation.  If we continue the same tactics, while expecting different results; we are all indeed insane.

Maybe, as Dr. Meeks pointed out - "It is time for change."  Or words with that emphasis.  Thank You, Dr. Roberts.  Maybe you are on to something!!!

Let us all hope that our leaders are awake!!!