Highway to Heaven

I-16/I-75 Interchange

Macon, Georgia

A Google Search indicated that there are about 658 articles about this Interstate Road Project here in Macon, Georgia.

It can safely be stated that if all the paper work already expended on this Project as well as the Print Media coverage were laid out that the plans and reports would certainly cover more than any Super Interchange that is fourteen lanes wide. Every time I hear or read about this project I cannot help but think about the Television Program which commenced in 1984 staring Michael Landon entitled "Highway to Heaven." You may remember this program which featured a provisional Angel sent back to earth to "earn" his way back to paradise.

I am beginning to think that it will take more than any "Angel" to resolve this I-16/I-75 Interchange Project. In the short term the project appears to be too wide (large) in scope. Think back a moment to the early 1960s when the Eisenhower Interstate System was in the planning stages. Way back then the idea of so many automobiles and transport trucks on any highway system was merely a pipe dream. Things have changed. Some think for the better, while others think for the worse.

It is the opinion of this Blog Originator, The Flower Child, that our methods of transporting goods to the citizens of the United States of America may soon be revised. With the current high energy cost for fuel used to operate our transportation system, we may just revert back to moving things by rail. Then, the question could be asked, will we need to continue our expansion and/or improvement of the current Interstate Highway Transportation System?

As I recall, the Interstate Highway Transportation System was developed to allow our great country to transfer Military Equipment from one place to another. Of course, peacetime would allow the transportation of goods to citizens and also the side benefit of allowing motorist in private automobiles to travel throughout our great land.

That stated, we now have a system that needs to be improved. Just how much improvement appears to be the watchword of the day. Those who oppose the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) plans, all nine or ten revisions, say that the current planning is way too much. On the other hand the wise folks at GDOT are preparing for the future.

Admittedly, no one knows what the future holds or how the current dilemna will be resolved, be we all can be sure that there will be more automobiles in the future and we must all admit that all of our citizens should be free to travel anywhere they desire on safe and secure highways. Just this week we saw the reopening of the Interstate I-35 Bridge in the Twin Cities after the tragic bridge crash of fourteen months ago. We need to prepare for the future - this is a fact that we all can acknowledge.

The good folks at Georgia Tech who will be studying the current I-16/I-75 Interchange Project as to the real impact on the scenic beauty of this area of Macon have a giant project to accomplish. In the meantime the Flower Child hopes that "Cool Heads" will prevail and the future of the Interstate System in Middle Georgia serves the citizens. The old concept of "We The People," is reappearing in recent media pronouncements. Let us all hope that this concept continues to guide those who Govern and also those who work for the Government.

Economy in the United States of America

In recent weeks we have all heard that the major problem in the United States of America is the Economy. The Housing Crisis, the Energy Crisis, the Disaster Crisis, all of which cause our National Government to expend major funds.

Some of my Democrat Friends and some of our Elected Leaders are decrying the current War On Terrorism. The usual comment/s go something like this: If we were not spending Billions on the War on Terrorism, just think how much good our U. S. Government could do at Home.

I often recall when my Mother was counselling me regarding some of my favorite sins when I was in my late teens or maybe even early twenties. She would lament the expenditures of time that She and My Dad had performed in obtaining an adequate "religious" grounding for me. This was usually followed by "What Good Did it Do?" Then one day I replied in a respectful attitude (I might add) that no one would ever know how much worse I could have turned out had I not been exposed to their religious training. My Mother, with a sixth grade education quickly realized the truth in what I had just stated. No one, not even I will ever know how much worse I could have turned out. That was the last conversation that my Mother ever had with me regarding my favorite sins.

Which brings to my mind today, We will never know, not even one of us, Democrat or Republican; what our Billions of Dollars expended in the conduct of the War On Terrorism or the Billions expended through the Department of Homeland Security has prevented in the United States of America.

It is unfortunate that our learned elected leaders cannot appreciate the basic fact that it is impossible to determine what may have happened in our United States of America had not our Nations Heroes and our Commander in Chief acted appropriately to protect American lives and property in the United States of America.

So, why do we continue to hear about the "Unnecessary expenditures of Billions on the War on Terrorism" when even my own dear Mother realized that I had stated a very truthful and certain fact. "We will never know!!!!!"

Does anyone outside of the Department of Defense actually know how many Fighter Aircraft as well as Search Radar airplanes are in the air each day, dedicated to the mission of detecting potential threats with the additional mission of destroying them?

I am one citizen of the United States of America and I am very happy and also secure that we have a Government who is actually protecting us.

It would also be difficult to ascertain the possible state of our economy if we would have experienced additional attacks on America in other Cities like we all witnessed on September 11, 2001.

In short, things could be worse, but we will never know. So why do we have to suffer the unneeded comments of a few who desire to promote their agenda versus the Secruity and Welfare of all the Peoples - We The Peoples of the United States of America.

2008 Presidential Campaign

"The Question"

Who Has the Experience?

An F/A-18 Hornet Being launched from an Aircraft Carrier

A U. S. Navy Jet Breaking the Sound Barrier!!

Can Barack Hussein Obama II fly anytype of Aircraft?

Can John Sidney McCain III Operate this Basic Computer?

The Flower Child has been aware that each Presidential Campaign in the 2008 Election cycle has questioned the experience level of the other Candidate. Admittedly the Airplane shown above is a U. S. Navy F/A 18 Hornet. The Republican Candidate for President of the U. S. A operated A4E Skyhawk Aircraft when he served us all while he was in the U. S. Navy.

The Democrat Canidate is making a big issue of the fact that the Republican Candidate can not operate basic computer equipment to send E-Mail or even surf the Internet.

Candidate John Sidney McCain III graduated from the U. S. Navy Academy three years prior to the birth of Candidate Barack Hussein Obama II. I also know that many attempts have been made to discredit Candidate McCain's Academy Education in as much as he did not have the best grade point average. That stated I believe that we all have to consider who really has the life experiences as we prepare in less than two months to exercise our sacred right to vote.

I never graduated from any College or University and I served our country as an enlisted person in the U. S. Navy. I was a Yeoman. In civilian terms that means I was an Office Clerk and in later years a Administrative Specialist as I advanced in rating. I had a background in keyboard operation. When I turned 62 years of age I attended a Summer Semester at Macon State College and was enrolled in the Information Technology Program. I learned how to surf the web and how to send E-Mails. I also leaned about other Computer Programs such as Excel and Word.

My real concern today as I compose this Blog is anybody can be an office clerk. I know, I was!!! I never qualified to be a Pilot in any branch of the Services. I know that it takes many skills to operate a modern Fighter/Attack Aircraft. I also know that I can operate a computer. Additionally, I know that many "Clerks" in our U. S. Government will be able to send the next President's E-Mails and Surf the Internet for him.

I think that the life experiences as a leader in the real world are far more important than haveing E-Mail skills as we consider who our next President should be.

Xenophobe

or

Hyperbole

As most of you faithful readers of "The World This Week" blog published by the Flower Child know, I usually read "The Telegraph" each morning as I enjoy my breakfast here in West Bibb County, Georgia.

The September 10th issue Viewpoints Page carried an interesting point of view entitled "Self-serving Xenophobes" which was written by Lindsay D. Holliday of Macon. In his viewpoint article he confessed that he watched the recent Democrat and Republican national conventions. This was great news. A great many Americans did so. However he also decried the television coverage from the standpoint that the Democrat Convention coverage clearly displayed "every television frame contained a colorful rainbow of diverse faces and clothing."

He also pointed out that the coverage of the Republican Convention coverage had an almost 100 percent of white face attendes, "(just like me)."

He concluded his Viewpoint submission with the fact that our great United States of America cannot afford four more years like the past eight years.

As I read the Viewpoint Submission I was shocked to learn that he considered Republicans as self serving xenophobes. As I understand the word "xenophobe" it means that "one unduly fearful of what is foreign and expecially of people of foreign origin" which is also from the Merriam-Webster's On Line Dictionary. It is also a word that has been around sine 1922.

As you have read the title of this Blog you will note that I also included the word "Hyperbole" which is also a word that has this meaning according to the Merriam-Webster's On Line Dictionary: "extravagant exxaggeration." I also noted that this word has been around since the 15th century.

I give you the genesis of each of the two words that comprise the title of this blog so that you may also appreciate the balance of this entry.

I have been on this planet a few years longer than Mr. Holliday and have fond recollections of even listening to the National Presidential Conventions on the radio a good number of years before Television was available to the masses in this great United States of America. I have also enjoyed viewing the National Presidential Conventions on Television. What I have observed during all of this listening and viewing activity is that a good amount of the activities at any National Presidential Convention could be called "Hyperbole" or to refresh everyone's mind, extravagant exaggeration. I know that a lot of Convention Statements and also Campaign Rheoric is stated and also published to simply win the election. This is a fact of political life at all levels. Once in office most candidates are actually confronted with the dynamics of the real world and have to confine their activities to governing in the "Real World." After all we all know that real leadership is best displayed from the viewpoint that campaign winners are actually "Caretakers" performing the will of the people for the benefit of all the citizens they govern/lead.

I also consider it vital that I share a few facts with you, my dear readers. Who are the xenophobe citizens in our United States of America?

• I recall that it was a Republican President that announced the Emancipation Proclamation on September 22 and put into effect on January 1, 1863.
• I also recall that it was our Republican President named Abraham Lincoln who worked dilligently to secure the 13th Ammendment to our Constitution to permanently abolish slavery throughout the Nation.
• I know that our current Secretary of State under a Republican President is a woman of color. In my view she has performed very well.
• I know that a former Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, United States Defense Department was a man of color. General Colin Powell was a U. S. Army Officer who served and was promoted with the authority of Presidents of both Political Parties.

Of course the list of facts could go on, but I certainly feel that it is an insult to simply state in a published "View Point" that Republicans are xenophobes.

In my own personal life I have fond memories of attending a "Rally" or "Sing-A-Long" in Macon's Washington Park on an Easter Sunday in either 1985 or 1986 when the purpose of the event was to make a recording of the song "We Are the World" written by Michael Jackson. The song was written to assist in raising funds to help famine-relief efforts in Ethopia, which experienced unusual drought in 1984/1985.

The "Flower Child" and his family attended this "Rally" or "Sing-A-Long". It was a well attended event. As you can ascertain from my profile image on the sidebar of this Blog the "Flower Child" is of the White race. I do not recall any other members of the White race being in attendance at this event. I think I would remember because the other attendees were all people of color. Hundreds of Men, Women and many Children were there.

So I would conclude, is a U. S. President of the Republican Party who freed slaves or for that matter the Flower Child considered among the ranks of the xenophobes. You decide for yourself. I trust that you will!!!!!

So When You Vote this November, ask yourself, will you rely on Hyperbole. Or will you be a Xenophobe misled by the "Viewpoint" message of Mr. Holliday.

Mail Call - USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76)

Greetings, The more some things change, the more some things remain constant. Even though each Hero onboard the USS Ronald Reagen (CVN-76) has an E-Mail address and an account to communicate with loved ones, it appears that "Mail Call" on a deployed U. S. Navy ship is still a highlight of the routine on board sea going warships.

We all know that some forty-five years ago the "Flower Child" was deployed to the Western Pacific on the "Top Gun of the United States Navy," the USS Ranger (CVA-61). Mail Call way back then was always anticipated for the Care packages received from home. The scene above certainly bears out the fact that deployed Sailors today still covet the old fashioned "Mail Call." Shown here is some 65 pallets of mail, or to be more accurate 65 pallets of "Care Packages." I would almost bet odds that the majority of these packages contain chocolate chip cookies. Just as chocolate chip cookies were the favorite item in care packages in 1963, I suspect that Sailors still enjoy chocolate chip cookies from home.

The USS Ronald Reagen (CVN-76) is currently deployed to the Near East standing guard on our behalf in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Budget Cuts

Georgia U. S. A. Department of Corrections

The Flower Child is seeing Red today. When is the last time you saw any headline such as the caption to this Blog?

Yet, I recall a few weeks ago that the School Systems of Georgia were faced with a Budget Cut imposed by the State of Georgia.

Recently I have been exposed to opinions from various respected individuals here in Middle Georgia. On August 30, 2008 I visited the Georgia Music Hall Fame, which is located in Macon, Georgia. Of special interest was the Otis Redding exhibit which will close on September 10th, 2008. This impressive gallery showcases the entire life of this Music Legend. The literature I was given as I visited the Otis Redding Exhibit contained a wealth of information concerning this great music man who met an early, untimely death. I quote from this literature:

"The Big "O" Foundation.

The Big "O" Youth Educational Dream Foundation, established by Zelma Redding, empowers youth to remain confident, motivated and interested in education through music and arts programs. It was always a personal mission of Otis Redding to encourage young people to stay in school. Before his passing, he had developed programs to be held at his ranch where he invited people from all areas of the music industry to lecture children on the importance of education and learning. Of her hustand's efforts, Zelma Redding says, "Otis would tell me, 'If it takes music to get the attention of these young people, then let's education them through music!'"

Then on Sunday evening, August 31 I attended the Douglass series to honor 3 'super giants' of local music. The event entitled "Jazz in the Courtyard" concluded the Summer 2008 series in the Douglass because of impending bad weather. The Three Super Giants honored were Oscar Jackson, Bob Barnette and Boudleaux Allen. The event was conducted by Jimmy Mills, Jr. Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Douglass and the Chorus Director at Southwest High School here in Bibb County. During the course of the evening several individuals spoke to the need to keep music in our Schools as we hone the Citizens of Tomorrow.

Ladies and Gentlemen, here we have respected leaders in our own Community speaking out for the need for music and also the arts in our schools, yet when the school systems of Georgia face money shortages the first items to be cut are music and the arts. What a shame.

The Flower Child entitled this Blog with the title - Budget Cuts - Georgia U. S. A. Department of Corrections as a dramatic way of capturing your attention. When was the last time you saw a Department of Corrections Budget Cut Announcement? In fact we build new prison facilities and simply state that we need them. It is an accepted fact of life.

Yet, we take budget cuts in our School Systems as a necessary event. After all no one likes to pay more taxes. May I humbly suggest that we are putting our Tax Monies into the incorrect areas. It just may be possible that Otis Redding, Oscar Jackson, Jimmy Mills and Bob Barnette as well as others have it right. These men dedicated their lives to performing music, mentoring youth and leading by example.

Yes, we need to focus on educating our Future Citizens and providing a Well Rounded Education. As Otis Redding so well stated it: "If it takes music to get the attention of these young people, then let's educate them through music!"

Flint River - Georgia, U.S.A.

Admittedly this Blog entry does not involve the World Situation. I, the Flower Child have been following a situation that appears to be developing and even gathering momentum here in Middle and even Southwest Georgia.

Way back on Wednesday, July 2, 2008 "The Citizen Georgian," the legal organ for Macon County, City of Montezuma, City Of Oglethorpe, City of Ideal and City of Marshallville published a front page story about as the headline read: "Paddlers celebrate trip's end at Oglethorpe gym." The subheading for this was "Organization forms to protect Flint" and it was written by Roger Ann Davis, Editor, Oglethorpe. Additional articles on the front page were: "Paddle Georgia 'a great trip' for 81-year-old" and "People need to be educated about the river" as well as "Preparing dinner for 400 people and a former president."

I developed the impression that a grass roots organization was being formulated to protect the Flint River.

Then on Monday, July 28, 2008 "The Telegraph" of Macon, Georgia featured an article on the Local & State Page with this heading: "Carter's fight against dams a familiar one." The article was written by Greg Bluestein of the Associated Press. The article discussed that there is a current movement to build several dams on the Flint to provide water for drought-striken Georgia. The article went on to explain that this concept was broached many years ago and that again there would be a fight to "Save the Flint."

The Flower Child is of the opinion that our 2009 Georgia General Assembly will again discuss this project which also appears to fall under the control of the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers. It is not my purpose today to encourage the dam building or even hinder the dam building, but to simply point out that the overall needs of Georgia's Citizens need to be considered as this project again is broached by respective Government Agencies and our Georgia Lawmakers.

It is my personal opinion that if the dams are build that they should be configured to also generate hydro-electric power. No matter who wins out in this situation there will be those who will be unhappy. Some will say we need the dams to provide water for the farmers and future urban development in this region of Georgia. Yet others will say that we should let the Flint River run free because they fear that the Flint River will cease to exist, it will simply become a ditch.

Let us sincerely hope that cool heads prevail as this project becomes an issue. Georgia and the entire population of this State need to be considered. Farmers need water to grow our food. We all enjoy eating fresh produce and it is also far more healthful than consuming produce that is imported from countries where there is no control or even asssurance that the proper health safeguards are even implemented.

While we the People think Green, we also need to remember that we also think hungry and also healthy.

The Fresh Market - Macon, Georgia

Grand Opening - August 27, 2008

This Market celebrated the Grand Opening with a delightful open house and breakfast for all attendees before 9:00 A.M. which is when the check-out clerks commenced working. The Welcome included all Staff Members in their respective areas that featured displays of the merchandise available.

This vegetable produce display certainly captured the "Flower Child's Eye" as he toured the entire store after enjoying a delightful breakfast.
Above the food display counters there were vignettes that featured memoriblia from days gone bye. The decor of the store and the presentation were excellent. The deli and meat market areas captured the heart of the "Flower Child."
Everyone was given a "The Fresh Market" tote bag for the transportation of their food products. Shown here is an empty tote bag, but you can be certain that the "Flower Child" or His Bride will enjoy the fine selections available at Macon's newest Food Market.

Time for Immediate Action!!!

What Can All Americans Do?

Recent media coverage of Campaign 2008 which is focused on two candidates for President of the United States of America has caused me intense concern. As you all know, the Flower Child is a firm believer of the Political Process that we all enjoy here in America.

It seem that one of the current candidates has a spouse who has eight homes. This is of course a great unjustice. I have done some research to ascertain that a former candidate for the office of President of the United States of America had a spouse who had only six homes. Thus this message today in my Blog: "The World This Week."

I am requesting that everyone who is a "God Fearing American" boycott the Ketchup product shown above. You are hereby strongly urged to acquire "Heinz Ketchup" on your next marketing outing. We simply need to rally around the Kerry Family so that, even though he lost his bid to become the President of the United States, they should not have to suffer any longer. No Presidential candidate in the current race, or for that matter any former race, should have to suffer this type of injustice. I sincerely believe that if everyone boycotts the Ketchup product shown above that we can all assist the Kerry Family in achieving equality.

There, I feel much better already as I post this Blog to assist those who are less fortunate!!!! Just please remember that I do not intend to post a Blog requesting that the male readers here father a "Love Child!!" We have enough of them already.

Thank You and continue to have a Great Day.

Customer Service - Duh!!!!!!

The following is a dialogue that I originated in my quest to locate a place to turn in "Pull Tabs" in support of the Ronald McDonald House Charities. It clearly reflects the out moded concept that some of us older citizens regard as "Customer Service."

A Message to McDonalds Corporation
regarding
Pull Tabs from Drink Cans
to
Raise Funds for the Ronald McDonald Houses

On Wednesday, August 20th I sent this message after two McDonalds Fast Food Stores here in West Bibb County Georgia informed me that they no longer take Pull Tabs from Drink Cans to support the Ronald McDonald Houses:

Today I sent Jennifer of the McDonald’s Corporation on the Corporate Website the following message regarding Pull Tabs in support of RMHC.What a shame that your stores no longer support this donation scheme. The message is quoted here:"Dear Jennifer, Today, August 20th, 2008 I visited the McDonald's Store on Zebulon Road very near I-475 in Macon, Georgia. I had a house full of pull tops to place in the donation box. To my shock the box was gone. I inquired of the staff and I was told that we no longer do that. That was shocking to hear. Here we have a McDonalds Store that is not taking the pull tabs from soft drink cans for Ronald McDonald House Charities. Later today I visited the McDonald's Store at the WalMart Super Center on Zebulon Road here in Macon, Georgia. The register person there told me to take the pull tabs to the other McDonalds Store over by I-475. I replied that I have already visited that Store and the employees there were so busy holding hands that it took some time before anyone asked me what I wanted, only to be told that they did not any longer take the pull tabs. So the concern today is, who takes the Pull Tabs to support the RMHC?"Of course I would appreciate a reply. Thank You!!!!

The Response I received from the McDonalds Corporation
regarding my comments to them
about the Pull Tabs

Hello Alan:
Thank you for taking the time to contact McDonald's. We truly appreciate customer feedback and welcome this opportunity to share some information with you.
Ronald McDonald's Children's Charities was formed in 1984 in memory of Ray A. Kroc. In 1995, the name was changed to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). To date, RMHC has donated more than $440 million to non-profit organizations. RMHC "lifts children to a better tomorrow" by supporting Ronald McDonald Houses in communities around the world, and by making grants to other not-for-profit children's programs. Grants are awarded in three main areas: Healthcare and medical research; Education and the arts; and Civic and social services. Non-profit organizations selected for grants must demonstrate an ability to respond to real problems in a definitive, "hands-on" manner and show measurable impact.For more detailed information about RMHC grants and funding, please refer to the Community Section of our website at www.mcdonalds.com, or the RMHC website at www.rmhc.org.
Again, thank you for contacting McDonald's. We look forward to serving you for many years to come.

Sarah

McDonald's Customer Response Center

As you can quickly ascertain from Sarah's response I am left to wonder if anyone at this Response Center can read. Sarah certainly missed the point of my message which discussed where I should deliver "Pull Tabs from Drink Cans" to help raise funds for the Ronald McDonald Houses.

Or, should all of us older citizens simply give up on expecting "Customer Service" from any major, multi-national corporation.

Enjoy Life - The Flower Child's Review

World Wide Photography Day

August 19th, 2008

I did this photograph at about 8:45 P.M. this evening in celebration of World Wide Photography Day. I set my new Olympus for Night Time Photography and was totally impressed with the clarity I was able to obtain in this photo. The home featured above is where the Flower Child and his Bride reside and it is located in West Bibb County, Georgia.

Taxes, Taxes, Taxes

Page 4A of "The Telegraph" of Macon, Georgia announced a Hearing today. The Headline for the article read "Bibb holding public hearings on school tax increase today."

The article went on to clearly state that the Bibb County school system will hold two hearings today about its proposed tax increase. Because I am a product of Public Education and most of the citizens in the United States of America are, I am always ready to voice my concerns regarding education.

I attended the 10:00 A. M. hearing and delivered the following testimony:

"I respectfully submit that you should raise the 2008-2009 Bibb County School Millage rate to the ceiling of 20 mills."

This .21 mill increase would generage an additional $720,000.00 or a possible $29.00 for each student in the Bibb System."

"With so many unknown, unpredictable cost such as APY transfers to name just one item for the coming year I think it would be prudent to plan ahead and set the millage rate at 20 mills."

"A mere $29.00 of additional funds for each student is a small price to pay if it allows our system, yours and mine, to do a better job of educating our future citizens. I would also add that proper prior planning should be our mantra as we all look to the future. Thank You!!!!"

There were two citizens from Bibb County at this hearing. The other spoke against the Millage increase. He also thanked Board Member, Mr. Gary Bechtel for voting against the recommended Bibb County School Budget propsed for Fiscal Year 2009. I may be incorrect but it is my understanding that Mr. Bechtel voted against the recommended Bibb County School Budget because of "Chain of Command Concerns" within the administration and relations/contact between System Employees and members of the School Board.

From my point of view we simply can not afford to short change our citizens of tomorrow. Everyone knows that fuel and food will cost more in the future so it would appear to me that the prudent thing to do is the difficult thing to do. Additionally I might add that the projected school budget for Fiscal Year 2009 was going to draw down the cash reserves of the system almost $7,000,000.00 (that is Seven Million Dollars). I am not an accountant but I would certainly think that such a drawdown in the face of known increases in operating expenses in the future will position the Bibb System in a precarious position for Fiscal Year 2010.

It will be interesting to ascertain the comments of my fellow citizens here in Bibb County as they also participate in the Budget Hearing that is scheduled for 6:00 P.M. this evening as well as the required third hearing next Tuesday, August 26, 2008 at 5:00 P.M. I will be looking forward to reading the future editions of "The Telegraph" to acquire this knowledge.

Middle Georgia Challenge

or

America, America, America

Since August 8th we in the United States of America have become avid "Swimming Fans" of one young Man on the U. S. Olympic Team. You know him as Michael Phelps. Yes, he has made us all proud to be Americans.

I, the Flower Child, am also proud to be an American. That is why I publish this Middle Georgia Challenge today. It is a scene taken from a Macon Street/Road and certainly reflects the attitude of some of our Fellow Citizens. What a shame. I would say that this appears to be an illegal dump, which is in the City of Macon, Georgia. From my point of view this is a disgrace which should not be allowed and it is not activity that anyone who is proud to be an American would be involved in.

All of this stated to certainly bring this scene to the attention of our duly elected officials here in Middle Georgia. A know for a fact that this illegal dumping activity is not restricted to locations in Macon, Georgia. It must also be realized that you do not have to be a Citizen of Macon to conduct illegal dumping activities in the City of Macon. That is not my mission today.

The Mission today is to request that we all become involved in reporting this type of activity. You can be sure that this dump site was not established in daylight hours.

For anyone who desires to participate in this "Middle Georgia Challenge" please be aware that you have until midnight, 2400 hours on Sunday, August 24, 2008 to post a "comment" as to the location of this dump site in order to receive a "Lunch For One" provided by the Flower Child.

Korean War Veterans Memorial

5530 Thomaston Road

Macon, Georgia

This Memorial was dedicated on May 29th, 2008. To visit this Memorial travel West on Mercer University Blvd which becomes Thomaston Road (also known as Georgia Highway 74). After you cross over the I-475 Bypass of Macon, Georgia the Memorial is about one half a mile on the left side of the Road at the American Legion Post Three Headquarters.

If you are traveling on the Interstate System take the I-475 Bypass of Macon, Georgia and exit at the Georgia Highway 74 exit and proceed West about one half mile to the American Legion Post Three Headquarters.

This Monument to the brave heroes who fought in the Korean War would not have been possible without the gratitude of the Citizens of the Republic of Korea.

Please note that the quotes from four individuals who played key roles in the History of our United States of America are displayed in the "Obelisk" in the center of this Memorial. The last picture is of the entrance and appropriately displays the United States of America and the Republic of Korea Information.

It is the humble opinion of the author of this Blog that the Quote from Abraham Lincoln is most fitting and also an appropriate tribute to the Heroes of our United States of America.

"A Nation That Forgets Its Past Is Doomed To Repeat it."

Scroll down to view the rest of this Fitting Memorial. To view each image in greater detail simply click on the picture. You are encouraged to leave a comment regarding this Memorial.

The Korean War Veterans Memorial. The Korean War was during the period of June 1950 - July 1953. This Memorial is constructed of four stone tablets with a total of eight sides and contains the facts and historical data concerning this War. To read each stone easier you may simply click on the image to enlarge it.

The final four sides of the Korean War Veterans Memorial on Highway 74 in Macon, Georgia. Please note that by clicking on the picture that you can enlarge the image for easier reading.




Certainly a fitting tribute to the Heros of who fought in the Korean War.

Angel Trumpets

A few years ago the Flower Child became fastinated with the Angel Trumpet Flower. I do not recall where! I did a Google "Image" search and found a source for this plant. I ordered one and the rest is history. I have taken cuttings from the plant and placed them in the East Gardens!!

They grow well with a heavy mulch cover to allow them to survive over our mild Middle Georgia Winters. This particular planting has already provided a flush of blooms this year. They are doing well and I am looking forward to one more batch of blooms this Fall. It just depends on how the weather cooperates. Just to insure blooms each year I have retained the original plant in a pot which I winter over in the Garage.

This is the same image but converted to Black and White. I also sharpened it and adjusted the contrast slightly.

I, the Flower Child, appreciate the Digital Age of Photography. It allows one to capture images and see them almost immediately.

Western Loop - West Bibb County, Georgia

The Flower Child attended the "Western Loop" presentation at Sonny Carter Elementary School last evening. The proposal appears to have many valid points that certainly merit serious consideration. The path of this road improvement program project will have a major impact on the traffic patterns in West Bibb County, Georgia for years to come. I can recall when there about three church congregations in the area that this project will be routed through. If I have counted correctly there are now thirteen or fourteen church organizations who have meeting houses on the Bass/Foster/Tucker/Heath/Fult0n Mill corridor which is what the "Western Loop" will involve. Additionally, I might add that the school traffic in this area has simply exploded with the private schools and the new public schools that have been built in this area. With the multi-lane approach of four lanes in some areas and three lanes, including a turning lane it appears that serious consideration has been given to allowing the motorist to ingress and/or egress the various organizations, businesses and learning centers without excessive delays to fellow motorist. This can only help decrease the use of fuel for everyone who travels this area on a daily basis.

Yet, when I arrived home from the presentation I was shocked to see that "Caution Macon" is already up in arms about this project. Too Wide, Too Fast, yada, yada. May I humbly suggest that "Caution Macon" involved themselves with assisting Macon die. Those who live in West Bibb County who travel the roads involved on a daily basis can appreciate the potential fuel savings that this project will allow. Additionally there will be less congestion as motorist, and yes, citizens attend worship services, provide their children transportation to schools and also do their weekly marketing.

No one has to tell anyone that West Bibb County has seen tremendous growth in the last twenty years. I, the Flower Child, appreciate the efforts that have been expended to plan this Western Loop.

Or, maybe, if Caution Macon has there way, we can all look forward to the progress that is currently being enjoyed in the City of Macon. I say, we need progress for the betterment of this area.

Certainly something to consider. Do we the people of West Bibb County, Georgia want to emulate the City of Macon? May I humbly suggest that progress can be painful, but we all deserve better than the future that is currently facing Macon, Georgia.

Game Day Preparations

The Flower Child and His Bride attended an Atlanta Braves Baseball Game on Wednesday, July 30, 2008. It was the annual "Lutheran Night at the Braves" game where the Braves donate a portion of the ticket sales to "Lutheran Services of Georgia" for everyone who acquires a ticket through a special Web Site. The above image was taken during the pre-game preparations. You can see the Player Pujols warming up for the game and also the Pujols Fan in the Front Row of the Field Level Stands. It was a hot, humid night in Atlanta and the game did not proceed in favor of the Home team. The Saint Louis Cardinals won with a score of 7 - 2.

The after game summary included this statement:

Albert Pujols drove in the go-ahead run in the seventh for the Cardinals and Joe Mather put the game out of reach with a two-run homer in the eighth.

In summary a fun event for a worthy cause.

West Bibb County, Georgia "Western Loop"

Many, many years ago I attended a presentation at Springdale Elementary School concerning a Special Local Option Sales Tax for the purpose of obtaining Macon Transit Authority Busses that could kneel down and also a pelthora of proposed "Road Improvement Projects." The Western Loop consisting of Bass/Foster/Tucker/Heath/Fulton Mill was then on the drawing boards. If I recall correctly this was about fourteen years ago.

As you can ascertain from the image of the sign above there will be a Public Information Meeting this Thursday, July 31, 2008 at Sonny Carter Elementary School from the hour of 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M.

As a citizen of West Bibb County and also a concerned citizen of Middle Georgia, I would urge each of you to attend this vital meeting.

Middle Georgia Challenge

Once again the Flower Child is publishing a Middle Georgia Challenge. The deadline for submission via the "Comments" section of this Blog is Midnight, Sunday, August 3rd, 2008. This door is on a building in the City of Macon, Georgia. Every day thousands of people pass this building as they proceed to the homes of their Loved Ones.

The Flower Child can also assure you that this is not the entrance to a Massage Parlor. As always the Flower Child will reward the first correct answer with a delightful Lunch for One, which he will host at one of many fine lunch time dining establishments in Middle Georgia.

Transportation Update

A recent Blog entry featured a Dodge Intrepid ES which has served the Flower Child well. Today the replacement automobile was delivered. Would you believe that this automobile was actually delivered to our home here in West Bibb County, Georgia?

Automobile Maintenance

Just a few days ago I posted a report on this Blog about the great fuel milage this automobile achieved during a recent road trip to the Great Upper Midwest. Last Thursday my Bride was going on some errands and as she achieved normal road speed on Tucker Road here in West Bibb County she heard a funny sound like the front air dam falling down and rubbing on the road. The check engine light came on and the engine stopped. The automobile had enough speed to coast to a stop well off of the road on a broad wide shoulder.

The evaluation of the automobile's problem indicated that the tensioner for the timing belt had failed and that the belt jumped and caused a piston to receive major damage. The cost to repair and/or replace the engine was greater than the value of the ten year old automobile so the decision was made to donate the entire automobile to "Goodwill Industries" here in Macon, Georgia.

Lesson Learned: Listen to your Bride when she tells you of a strange sound from the car. It could be a major problem. In this case the Flower Child was told of a frequent strange sound but chose to ignore the comment.

Fine Dining - The Midwest

During the recent trip to the Midwest and specifically Northeast Iowa to visit Siblings, the Flower Child's youngest Sibling hosted a delightful Supper at Brietbach's in Balltown, Iowa. This establishment had the reputation as Iowa's Oldest Bar and Restaurant until it burned down on Christmas Eve 2007.

Shown here is the new Fine Dining Establishment which was constructed during the period of Mid-March 2008 through Mid-June 2008. It opened just in time for Father's Day in June 2008. This Establishment is Family Owned and has been in the same Family since 1861 and the Couple that owns it has seven children who all work at the Restaurant. A fine example of a "Family Owned" business which has stood the test of time. As you can ascertain from reading this Blog, the Flower Child enjoys fine food.

Saint Louis, Missouri and Ice Cream

Here you see the Flower Child's Bride and their Youngest Son as they prepare to make selections at the Famous Ted Drewes Ice Cream Store in Saint Louis, Missouri. Our recent trip to the Midwest (Holy Land) involved visiting our Son and His Bride. While anyone is in Saint Louis they must participate in the Ice Cream Treats from Ted Drewes.

Of Course the favorite Ice Cream Treat for the Flower Child is a Banana Split. This generous dessert only cost $4.50.

Perfect Male Bonding with Ice Cream as a side benefit. Note the Pick-up Truck. It simply does not get any better than this.

Flowers

It is considered appropriate that today the Flower Child share some images of the blooms that are in the Gardens. Shown here is a Dinner Plate Hibiscus.

This is an image of Angel Trumpet Blooms. These lovely blossoms hang down so it is often difficult to obtain a nice picture.

Clean Rest Rooms

Everyone now knows that the Flower Child recently completed a long Road Trip to the Holy Land. It is always interesting to read the signs that adorne the landscape and contemplate the real meaning of the wording.

Clean Rest Rooms - This one is often on the signs which promote a certain Fueling Station at the next Interstate Exit. Does that mean that all the other Fueling Stations have "Dirty Rest Rooms?"

American Owned - This one is my favorite. Does this phrase indicate that the Standards of Service is better? Or is this a phrase that is designed to pull at the heart of the American Citizen. Spend you money here so that some foreign person or business will not survive?

Of course I have a concern about the phrase that simply states that "One Should Do Business with the Locally Owned Business." A recent experience which reflected a lack of service or even concern for the customer has prompted me to seek the assistance of an out of state Business Organization to provide the "35 MM Slide Processing" I need. This out of state Business provides outstanding Customer Service and even sends the Customer pre-paid mailers so that film may be shipped to them. No wonder the "Big Box" organizations thrive here in Middle Georgia. The locally owned businesses simply, in some cases, fail to provide Customer Service. This is a shameful situation as we hear local political candidate after political candidate state that Bibb County and the City of Macon need to grow. Part of having a local area grow is to have businesses that serve the Citizens who live there.

So while Fueling Stations and other Firms attempt to lure the traveling public to their businesses, we here in Macon and Bibb County must look elsewhere to have our needs satisified. Certainly something to consider and also think about. The Customer who is seeking goods and/or services will not be satisfied with medicore service, or worse yet, a total lack of cooperation on the part of local business firms.

Budweiser

Everyone knows that the Flower Child visited his youngest Son in Saint Louis, Missouri recently. On June 28th he took my Bride and I to Gus's Pretzel Bakery in Saint Louis. As we departed the pretzel shop I saw this view. I thought I should get this picture. During recent days I have seen this same view on several Electronic Media Outlets as the ownership of the Anheuser-Busch, Inc. Company is changing hands.

Veterans Memorial - Guttenberg, Iowa

This Monument has been located in Riverside Park next to the Mississippi River in Guttenberg, Iowa since the 1950s. It has been updated to include the Vietnam Conflict. In the early 2000s a Memorial Wall of two black stones with names on each side was also added to this Monument.

Guttenberg, Iowa Navy Veterans

Alan F. E. Thiese served in the U. S. Navy as a Yeoman

David L. Thiese served in the U. S. Navy as a Fire Control Technician - Guns

John Paul Thiese served in the U. S. Navy as a Fire Control Technician - Missiles

Alan, David and John served in the U. S. Navy during the Vietnam War. David was a Tonkin Gulf Yacht Club Member. All three were Sons of Ferdinand O. and Gertrude L. Thiese of Rural Guttenberg, Iowa

Eric Michael Thiese served in the U. S. Navy as a Gunner's Mate

Eric is the Son of Norma and David Thiese of Rural Guttenberg, Iowa. Eric was in Boot Camp when the Attack on America of September 11, 2001 happened. He Served in the USS Abraham Lincoln, a Nuclear Powered Aircraft Carrier.

This Monument was constructed in Guttenberg, Iowa so that all Warriors of all Generations would be remembered.

Fuel Consumption

The Flower Child has recently completed a lovely vacation to the Holy Land. During the first 595 miles of this road trip the fuel consumption was 18.137 gallons which computes to 32.7 miles per gallon. This was not achieved by a small auto. The car used for this trip was a 1998 Dodge Intrepid. You may be aware that this is a full size auto with four doors and a trunk capable of holding the luggage for a two week trip.

Yet we hear of the plethora of new automobiles which have a fuel milage of 30 to 35 miles per gallon on our TV advertising. None of these 30 miles per gallon autos have the space that is available in the Dodge Intrepid. So after we hear about these new autos with great gasoline milage, we often forget that our Autos of a few years ago did quite well. Surely, one would think that after ten years of additional engineerging and new technology that the 30 miles per gallon barrier would have been broken before now.