Over the weekend, my bride and I did a little moving around of our king-sized bed, installing a new dust ruffle. As we did this, we rediscovered something we had under the bed besides dust and baseball bats (to defend ourselves in case of attack). What we found was an incredible charcoal drawing done by number 1 son.
Number 1 son was, it seemed, our "Rebel without a cause" throughout his high school years. Incredibly intelligent, he barely made "C's" for his grades, and, of our three children, was the one most often in trouble during the teenage years. For a time, we didn't know if he'd graduate from high school. Fortunately, he did, doing just enough to get by and receive his diploma.
He had always been a talented artist - and good with computers - so he went on to college, and majored in Graphic Arts. The drawing we found under the bed is one he did when he was in college as a project for an art class he was taking. It is a drawing of me, replicated from a posed photo taken long ago, shortly after I graduated from Marine Corps boot camp. It shows a rather stoic, scared, younger me in dress blues - a "head shot".
I vaguely remember him asking if he could borrow the picture, which was hanging in our game room upstairs at the time, along with pictures of both his Grandfathers - also Marines. When I asked why, he replied it was for a school project, and I answered yes, though somewhat hesitantly.
Some time later - either weeks, or months - memory fails me at this point - he brought home both the original picture AND his drawing. To say I was overwhelmed is an understatement. While I had known he could draw pretty well, I had never known to what extent his talent reached. The likeness of his artwork to the original photograph, plus the depth he added blew me away. Weeks later, he did another drawing - this time of the late actor, Vincent Price, which was even better.
My son had entered college with over 90 other students in the Graphic Arts program. Only 4 completed the studies and received their degrees. For his capstone project, he designed a new hotel project in Las Vegas. Creating a name, a theme for the hotel, it's restaurants, other amenities, and signage. Having been in Hotel Management and watched hotels being built from the ground up, I was amazed at his Savvy. Interestingly enough, following a family tradition, I had taken him to Las Vegas for his 21st birthday.
As the years have gone by, I have watched him grow in his field of endeavor. He began his career as a graphic artist at a very small Ad Agency. Now, in just a few months, he will celebrate his 30th birthday, and he is the Creative Director for an Ad agency he is helping to grow.
I've seen some of the work he's done since that drawing of me several years back and recently rediscovered, and I am continually amazed by his talent. Not only can he draw pictures, but he can create entire Marketing plans for large organizations; re-brand or create their public images; design web pages; and a host of things that I never could have imagined he was capable of when he was a junior in high school.
My bride and I are proud of the accomplishments of all of our children. But, this little tale just proves to all parents that you should Never, ever give up on your children.
Old Fart Mike
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
America gone Awry
Anyone who has picked up a newspaper, seen the news on TV, or listened to the radio is well aware of the big story in the media these days - Torture and abuse inflicted upon our declared enemies during the past 7 years by either civilian, or military citizens of the United States of America.
When photos were made public of the abuses suffered by prisoners at Abu Ghraib at the hands of a few of our soldiers, the world - including a majority of Americans - were shocked and repulsed that this type of treatment would take place. After the firestorm that initially transpired however, a few lower ranking NCO's were assigned all the blame and received punishment for their hand in these inhumane acts. No one in the upper ranks of the military nor the civilians above them so much as received an admonition. Instead, "The Brass" were able to slough off the blame to a few rogue soldiers, acting on their own. Such is the way of life too often in our world. The guys in the upper echelon get away with murder, while the poor everyday saps do the time.
As a boy, I was taught certain things. Play by the rules. Obey your elders. Do as you're told. And, America is different from the rest of the countries in the world. We (America) operate from a higher set of standards. That, in a nutshell, is what separated us from the rest. It was continually driven home to us - even in the movies, or TV shows we watched as youngsters. The TV Show, "Superman" even spouted words like "Truth, Justice, and The American Way". And we knew for certain that while the evil Japanese Empire that John Wayne was fighting might torture our servicemen, neither the Duke, nor any American would ever stoop so low.
When I grew older and became a member of the U.S. Marine Corps, this was reinforced to me during training at Boot Camp, and later during Infantry Training - which ALL Marines must complete, regardless of what their Individual Military Occupational Specialty might be. As time went on, and the "conflict" in Viet Nam continued for years, we found out that, just like the Japanese and North Koreans before them, the Viet Cong employed torture to our brave troops. Yet America refused to succumb to these methods of psychological and physical intimidation. Neither our Military, nor our civilian leaders would ever sanction this type of behavior. It was simply not the American way.
In fact, during World War II, we prosecuted both Japanese and American troops for the use of today's soup du jour - Waterboarding. It is a mystery to me why some people now are claiming that it is not torture, when for hundreds of years it has indeed been considered so. It was a war crime then, but not now? When we participated in - and were, in fact, a major player, in the establishment of the Geneva Convention rules which, of course, prohibit the use of such extraordinary methods - a few temporary elected office holders simply decide they can ignore those same rules?
I don't know whether it's right to go after - prosecute - high ranking officials (or the legal beagles who wrote the complicit memos to please their bosses) of the former administration or not. My gut instinct tells me not, as it will further divide our country into the partisan mess it's gone deeply into over the past 20 years. But, who knew what, who authorized, and, who did what should be known if for no other reason than to prevent these travesties from happening again.
America needs to become the country it used to be. One that did operate with a higher standard. One that everyone looked up to. One that didn't attempt to justify the means by an end whose results are skeptical. One that young boys can again say, with pride, "My country is Different. My Country doesn't torture", and, most importantly, know that when they say it, it is true.
Old Fart Mike
When photos were made public of the abuses suffered by prisoners at Abu Ghraib at the hands of a few of our soldiers, the world - including a majority of Americans - were shocked and repulsed that this type of treatment would take place. After the firestorm that initially transpired however, a few lower ranking NCO's were assigned all the blame and received punishment for their hand in these inhumane acts. No one in the upper ranks of the military nor the civilians above them so much as received an admonition. Instead, "The Brass" were able to slough off the blame to a few rogue soldiers, acting on their own. Such is the way of life too often in our world. The guys in the upper echelon get away with murder, while the poor everyday saps do the time.
As a boy, I was taught certain things. Play by the rules. Obey your elders. Do as you're told. And, America is different from the rest of the countries in the world. We (America) operate from a higher set of standards. That, in a nutshell, is what separated us from the rest. It was continually driven home to us - even in the movies, or TV shows we watched as youngsters. The TV Show, "Superman" even spouted words like "Truth, Justice, and The American Way". And we knew for certain that while the evil Japanese Empire that John Wayne was fighting might torture our servicemen, neither the Duke, nor any American would ever stoop so low.
When I grew older and became a member of the U.S. Marine Corps, this was reinforced to me during training at Boot Camp, and later during Infantry Training - which ALL Marines must complete, regardless of what their Individual Military Occupational Specialty might be. As time went on, and the "conflict" in Viet Nam continued for years, we found out that, just like the Japanese and North Koreans before them, the Viet Cong employed torture to our brave troops. Yet America refused to succumb to these methods of psychological and physical intimidation. Neither our Military, nor our civilian leaders would ever sanction this type of behavior. It was simply not the American way.
In fact, during World War II, we prosecuted both Japanese and American troops for the use of today's soup du jour - Waterboarding. It is a mystery to me why some people now are claiming that it is not torture, when for hundreds of years it has indeed been considered so. It was a war crime then, but not now? When we participated in - and were, in fact, a major player, in the establishment of the Geneva Convention rules which, of course, prohibit the use of such extraordinary methods - a few temporary elected office holders simply decide they can ignore those same rules?
I don't know whether it's right to go after - prosecute - high ranking officials (or the legal beagles who wrote the complicit memos to please their bosses) of the former administration or not. My gut instinct tells me not, as it will further divide our country into the partisan mess it's gone deeply into over the past 20 years. But, who knew what, who authorized, and, who did what should be known if for no other reason than to prevent these travesties from happening again.
America needs to become the country it used to be. One that did operate with a higher standard. One that everyone looked up to. One that didn't attempt to justify the means by an end whose results are skeptical. One that young boys can again say, with pride, "My country is Different. My Country doesn't torture", and, most importantly, know that when they say it, it is true.
Old Fart Mike
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
5 years ago
It hardly seems like 5 years ago when the phone rang and it was my daughter, telling me that she was heading to the hospital as she was beginning labor. "No need to rush, Dad. It just started, so you've got plenty of time."
I called my bride, her mother, of course, told her the wonderful news and told her to hurry up home. She was at work, and left immediately. When she arrived, we jumped in the car and headed to Oklahoma City - a mere 110 miles from our home in Tulsa. As the drive is mostly via a turnpike connecting the two largest cities in the state, we had made it numerous times in the past. While we hadn't been to the specific hospital where our first Grandchild would enter the world, we - or I should say, my wife - knew where it was at.
The drive to OKC usually takes about an hour and forty five minutes. However, this day, I'm sure I must have set a new record, making it in and hour and 20 minutes. After all, this was my daughter. My only daughter. Daddy's little girl. My first child. And soon, my first Grandson would be arriving. The magic of a sonogram allowed the parents, and, in turn, the grandparents, to predetermine the gender of the child months before delivery. You could surmise that my bride and I were excited.
We met our daughter and son in law in their room. While they appeared to be excited, I think the Grandma and Grandpa to be were filled with more anticipation than they were. As the minutes - then hours - slowly ticked by, the other prospective grandparents arrived, as well as our son in law's siblings. We were fortunate, as the location of their room was at the end of the building, so we had an area that we could all sit and make some infrequent visits in to visit the expectant parents.
Immediately prior to the birth, we were checking - for my daughter - how the TV Show "Survivor" was going. Specifically, who was getting voted out that night. Finally, with the moment at hand, doctors and nurses appeared from nowhere, scurrying about. I was even more nervous than when my little girl went out on her first date.
Then we heard him cry. We tried to peek around the corner to see him, but the doctor closed the door so we couldn't. My wife and I hugged each other as tears filled our eyes. After what seemed like hours, our son in law came out and asked us if we'd like to go in and meet our grandson. My beautiful daughter was holding him as she lie in the bed. She looked up at me with a smile and asked me if I'd like to hold him.
As I took my beautiful little grandson into my arms, I fell in love again. It was the fifth time in my life I had done so. The first was with my bride; the next three were when I held my three children in my arms for the first time. Now, with my grandson.
After spending some time visiting with him and the happy parents, my wife and I decided to drive home. She would make the drive back in a day or so after my daughter was released from the hospital, to help out a bit. On the drive back, I know my emotions overcame me and I started crying pretty hard. I'm just that way. The beauty of the day. The magic of birth.
In the five years since his birth, I have had so much fun with this little boy. We have laughed together and I have done so many silly things to make him laugh I know it's not dignified at all. But, he calls me "Bop" for whatever reason, and his hugs and kisses are something I treasure more than anyone can imagine.
Unfortunately, I never had the chance to know either of my grandfathers. One - my mom's dad - left my grandmother when my mom was a young girl; the other, my Grandpa Hughes, died when I was an infant. Not having known them is something I regret. I will do anything humanly possible to make sure my beautiful grandson knows and remembers me.
He is at Disney World today with his Mom & Dad. Happy Birthday - I love you more than life itself!
Old Fart Mike
I called my bride, her mother, of course, told her the wonderful news and told her to hurry up home. She was at work, and left immediately. When she arrived, we jumped in the car and headed to Oklahoma City - a mere 110 miles from our home in Tulsa. As the drive is mostly via a turnpike connecting the two largest cities in the state, we had made it numerous times in the past. While we hadn't been to the specific hospital where our first Grandchild would enter the world, we - or I should say, my wife - knew where it was at.
The drive to OKC usually takes about an hour and forty five minutes. However, this day, I'm sure I must have set a new record, making it in and hour and 20 minutes. After all, this was my daughter. My only daughter. Daddy's little girl. My first child. And soon, my first Grandson would be arriving. The magic of a sonogram allowed the parents, and, in turn, the grandparents, to predetermine the gender of the child months before delivery. You could surmise that my bride and I were excited.
We met our daughter and son in law in their room. While they appeared to be excited, I think the Grandma and Grandpa to be were filled with more anticipation than they were. As the minutes - then hours - slowly ticked by, the other prospective grandparents arrived, as well as our son in law's siblings. We were fortunate, as the location of their room was at the end of the building, so we had an area that we could all sit and make some infrequent visits in to visit the expectant parents.
Immediately prior to the birth, we were checking - for my daughter - how the TV Show "Survivor" was going. Specifically, who was getting voted out that night. Finally, with the moment at hand, doctors and nurses appeared from nowhere, scurrying about. I was even more nervous than when my little girl went out on her first date.
Then we heard him cry. We tried to peek around the corner to see him, but the doctor closed the door so we couldn't. My wife and I hugged each other as tears filled our eyes. After what seemed like hours, our son in law came out and asked us if we'd like to go in and meet our grandson. My beautiful daughter was holding him as she lie in the bed. She looked up at me with a smile and asked me if I'd like to hold him.
As I took my beautiful little grandson into my arms, I fell in love again. It was the fifth time in my life I had done so. The first was with my bride; the next three were when I held my three children in my arms for the first time. Now, with my grandson.
After spending some time visiting with him and the happy parents, my wife and I decided to drive home. She would make the drive back in a day or so after my daughter was released from the hospital, to help out a bit. On the drive back, I know my emotions overcame me and I started crying pretty hard. I'm just that way. The beauty of the day. The magic of birth.
In the five years since his birth, I have had so much fun with this little boy. We have laughed together and I have done so many silly things to make him laugh I know it's not dignified at all. But, he calls me "Bop" for whatever reason, and his hugs and kisses are something I treasure more than anyone can imagine.
Unfortunately, I never had the chance to know either of my grandfathers. One - my mom's dad - left my grandmother when my mom was a young girl; the other, my Grandpa Hughes, died when I was an infant. Not having known them is something I regret. I will do anything humanly possible to make sure my beautiful grandson knows and remembers me.
He is at Disney World today with his Mom & Dad. Happy Birthday - I love you more than life itself!
Old Fart Mike
Saturday, April 18, 2009
My mind is warped
For years I've known I'm kinda weird. My mind wanders sometimes and I have stray thoughts that are - shall we say, warped. Many of my long-term friends, who send me incredible e-mail jokes realize this as they fall into the same category as I - deranged - which is why they send me such crazy, over the top, e-mail jokes and downloads. I, of course feel compelled to send them on to other friends, which continues the aura of my wackiness.
In any case, though I CAN be quite serious, I thought I'd let some of these offbeat meanderings spew forth on occasion. Here's just a couple to whet your appetite (or drive you away for good):
1. DEATH of a legend. Not a whole lot of coverage during the past week for the sudden passing of a legend. Marilyn Chambers, movie star of such classic films as Behind the Green Door; Insatiable; and Inside Marilyn Chambers was found dead last week in her California home. Cause of death has not been determined as of yet. I can't help but wonder if Miss Chambers, 56, died as a result of being accosted with a hot poker, or was in need of the Heimlich Maneuver due to choking. Just a thought.
2. My dog. Yesterday, I accompanied my aged Golden Retriever outdoors while she....uh....did her business. Specifically, number 2. Now I know that this is something that people don't discuss in polite company, but it just goes to prove that my thoughts are goofy, as I've wondered this for many years - with the myriad dogs that I've had - snd the umpteen million observations I've witnessed of said dogs defecating. Anywho, so my dog goes into the yard and squats. She then looks over at me, all downcast and squeamish looking. My question is this: Are dogs embarrassed when they take a dump and their humans are watching them? Please comment if you will - no real scientific poll here, I'm just kinda curious as to how other dog owners perceive "that look".
I'll, from time to time, let you inside the warped side of my brain.
Old Fart Mike
In any case, though I CAN be quite serious, I thought I'd let some of these offbeat meanderings spew forth on occasion. Here's just a couple to whet your appetite (or drive you away for good):
1. DEATH of a legend. Not a whole lot of coverage during the past week for the sudden passing of a legend. Marilyn Chambers, movie star of such classic films as Behind the Green Door; Insatiable; and Inside Marilyn Chambers was found dead last week in her California home. Cause of death has not been determined as of yet. I can't help but wonder if Miss Chambers, 56, died as a result of being accosted with a hot poker, or was in need of the Heimlich Maneuver due to choking. Just a thought.
2. My dog. Yesterday, I accompanied my aged Golden Retriever outdoors while she....uh....did her business. Specifically, number 2. Now I know that this is something that people don't discuss in polite company, but it just goes to prove that my thoughts are goofy, as I've wondered this for many years - with the myriad dogs that I've had - snd the umpteen million observations I've witnessed of said dogs defecating. Anywho, so my dog goes into the yard and squats. She then looks over at me, all downcast and squeamish looking. My question is this: Are dogs embarrassed when they take a dump and their humans are watching them? Please comment if you will - no real scientific poll here, I'm just kinda curious as to how other dog owners perceive "that look".
I'll, from time to time, let you inside the warped side of my brain.
Old Fart Mike
Friday, April 17, 2009
Some Days....
...you just feel old. Today the Old Fart feels that way. Some stuff occurring, I suppose, assists this sinking feeling of the need to check into an assisted care facility.
One of my brothers celebrated (if you can call it that) his birthday yesterday. He is the oldest of the three of us. He turned (gasp) 77. My other brother will, later this year, turn 73. I am the "baby" of the family. My next birthday, I will ONLY be 63. How the years passed so quickly - to the point that my brothers have become elderly, and I am only a few steps behind them, is a mystery. It doesn't seem that long ago when, living at Mom & dad's house, my brothers - and other family members of their same age - were referred to as "The younger generation". Me too, I guess. Those days are long gone. As are my parents. My dad will have been dead 30 years this coming December. Hard to believe. My mom passed away merely 9 years ago.
On a brighter note, in but 2 weeks, my bride and I will celebrate our anniversary. The 38th. That is one of the things I am most proud of - somehow I managed to convince her to stay married to me all these years. I am one helluva salesman.
My beautiful Grandson, Jacob, will turn 5 next week. He, all by himself, makes life worth living. Don't take that wrong - I only meant it as a testament to how much I love that little boy and how much joy he brings to this old fart's life.
My bride and I are attending the wedding of one of our eldest son's best friends tomorrow. As they grew up together, this kid was over to the house on many occasions since about the 7th grade or so. AS my son will reach the ripe old age of 30 in just a couple months, his friend has hung out here for a long time. The other Best friend - the third of this Unholy trio - just celebrated the birth of his second child a couple weeks ago.
Finally, today, was my Major grooming day. Understand, I take care of myself every day. But every six or so days I need to do the whole trim the beard thing. This, of course, can cause some concern too. My formerly Salt and Pepper beard is primarily salt these days. There might be one or two stray peppers in the mix, but that's about all. The remainder of the "Major Grooming" also requires some significant time - and perhaps that's really what is causing my feeling old.
See, something happens to a lot of men when they reach a certain age. Or at least to me. Those who know me are certainly aware that I am bald on top of my pate. However, there are a few errant reminders of the hair I once had up there. Though it's difficult to count them as I am not a contortionist, I'd estimate that there might be as many as 48 of them. They appear as stubble about 8 to 10 days after having shaved them. They are rearing their ugly head, so to speak.
Additionally, unwanted hair appears in strange places at my age that must be dealt with. Nose hair is bad enough - but when your ears start sprouting hair it is absolutely disconcerting. These things must also be addressed during my "Major Grooming". It isn't funny either that they are made even more visible by the fact that they have not taken on the characteristic of the remaining hair I have, which is white. The stuff sprouting anew from my nose and ears is a deep, dark brown.
Finally, as I was doing my grooming this morning, contemplating aging and wondering why I seemed to have more wrinkles than ever, I noticed, for the first time, I actually had white hair in my eyebrows. YIKES!
Old Fart Mike
One of my brothers celebrated (if you can call it that) his birthday yesterday. He is the oldest of the three of us. He turned (gasp) 77. My other brother will, later this year, turn 73. I am the "baby" of the family. My next birthday, I will ONLY be 63. How the years passed so quickly - to the point that my brothers have become elderly, and I am only a few steps behind them, is a mystery. It doesn't seem that long ago when, living at Mom & dad's house, my brothers - and other family members of their same age - were referred to as "The younger generation". Me too, I guess. Those days are long gone. As are my parents. My dad will have been dead 30 years this coming December. Hard to believe. My mom passed away merely 9 years ago.
On a brighter note, in but 2 weeks, my bride and I will celebrate our anniversary. The 38th. That is one of the things I am most proud of - somehow I managed to convince her to stay married to me all these years. I am one helluva salesman.
My beautiful Grandson, Jacob, will turn 5 next week. He, all by himself, makes life worth living. Don't take that wrong - I only meant it as a testament to how much I love that little boy and how much joy he brings to this old fart's life.
My bride and I are attending the wedding of one of our eldest son's best friends tomorrow. As they grew up together, this kid was over to the house on many occasions since about the 7th grade or so. AS my son will reach the ripe old age of 30 in just a couple months, his friend has hung out here for a long time. The other Best friend - the third of this Unholy trio - just celebrated the birth of his second child a couple weeks ago.
Finally, today, was my Major grooming day. Understand, I take care of myself every day. But every six or so days I need to do the whole trim the beard thing. This, of course, can cause some concern too. My formerly Salt and Pepper beard is primarily salt these days. There might be one or two stray peppers in the mix, but that's about all. The remainder of the "Major Grooming" also requires some significant time - and perhaps that's really what is causing my feeling old.
See, something happens to a lot of men when they reach a certain age. Or at least to me. Those who know me are certainly aware that I am bald on top of my pate. However, there are a few errant reminders of the hair I once had up there. Though it's difficult to count them as I am not a contortionist, I'd estimate that there might be as many as 48 of them. They appear as stubble about 8 to 10 days after having shaved them. They are rearing their ugly head, so to speak.
Additionally, unwanted hair appears in strange places at my age that must be dealt with. Nose hair is bad enough - but when your ears start sprouting hair it is absolutely disconcerting. These things must also be addressed during my "Major Grooming". It isn't funny either that they are made even more visible by the fact that they have not taken on the characteristic of the remaining hair I have, which is white. The stuff sprouting anew from my nose and ears is a deep, dark brown.
Finally, as I was doing my grooming this morning, contemplating aging and wondering why I seemed to have more wrinkles than ever, I noticed, for the first time, I actually had white hair in my eyebrows. YIKES!
Old Fart Mike
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Tea Parties
With the exception of FOX News and right-wing radio commentators, most folks figured out that those events weren't Really "Grassroots". Instead, as a lot of people have referred to it, they were "Astroturf" events - mostly created and/or sponsored by an organization called Freedomworks -a group put together by Dick Armey, former Republican house majority leader and now, of course, a lobbyist. The events were then promoted, ad nauseum by same Fox News, Rush Limbaugh, et al., and, of course, in some major cities, Fox News Headliners were present at the rallies.
Interestingly enough, the participants were there to protest both high taxes and the excessive spending (primarily the Government bailouts) that they see in the Obama administration. I wonder sometimes about our citizenry. Do they ever read? Are their memories really so short-term as to forget what occurred during the years 2001 through 2008? Or even November and December of 2008? I do realize that trying to remember what the tax rates you paid back in the 80's, during the regime of the Beloved Ronald Reagan, or his successor, George H.W. Bush (another Republican, I might add), is a chore. After all, for me, an admitted Old Fart, it is difficult to remember things that long ago. But then again, I do things like read to refresh my memory. And I use numerous sources - I don't just rely on, say, one cable news channel to get my info.
So, here's the scoop. Taxes, as a percentage of income are near historic lows. Hey - don't believe me. Read this:http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/15/AR2009041503371.html?wpisrc=newsletter
The Bailout spending. Am I missing something here? Didn't this start with Dubya? Didn't incredible deficit spending really start going bonkers under Dubya? Didn't Reagan begin this type of thinking and Policy way back in the 80's? Why is it NOW a problem that these same Republican leaders, who once supported it, are going nuts about? Someone's got to 'splain it to me, cause it seems to me the real reason is the Republican Party is currently out of power.
What bothers me the most, though, is that so many "middle class" citizens are protesting about paying too many taxes under Obama, when he has given all of them - except people making over $250k a year - a tax cut. Do they still not know this? Are all those folks in attendance at the tea parties yesterday making that much money? Or have they fallen prey to what is being fed to them each and every day by Fox news, Rush, Hannity, and the like?
They are also complaining about excess spending by the government - all the while they charged more and more things to their credit cards, bought bigger homes, upgraded to gas-guzzling SUV's and Hummers, and are bitching about "entitlement programs" - which they'll continue to do until they lose their jobs and need Unemployment checks, or don't have insurance coverage anymore.
Maybe then these folks will realize the truth.
Old Fart Mike
Interestingly enough, the participants were there to protest both high taxes and the excessive spending (primarily the Government bailouts) that they see in the Obama administration. I wonder sometimes about our citizenry. Do they ever read? Are their memories really so short-term as to forget what occurred during the years 2001 through 2008? Or even November and December of 2008? I do realize that trying to remember what the tax rates you paid back in the 80's, during the regime of the Beloved Ronald Reagan, or his successor, George H.W. Bush (another Republican, I might add), is a chore. After all, for me, an admitted Old Fart, it is difficult to remember things that long ago. But then again, I do things like read to refresh my memory. And I use numerous sources - I don't just rely on, say, one cable news channel to get my info.
So, here's the scoop. Taxes, as a percentage of income are near historic lows. Hey - don't believe me. Read this:http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/15/AR2009041503371.html?wpisrc=newsletter
The Bailout spending. Am I missing something here? Didn't this start with Dubya? Didn't incredible deficit spending really start going bonkers under Dubya? Didn't Reagan begin this type of thinking and Policy way back in the 80's? Why is it NOW a problem that these same Republican leaders, who once supported it, are going nuts about? Someone's got to 'splain it to me, cause it seems to me the real reason is the Republican Party is currently out of power.
What bothers me the most, though, is that so many "middle class" citizens are protesting about paying too many taxes under Obama, when he has given all of them - except people making over $250k a year - a tax cut. Do they still not know this? Are all those folks in attendance at the tea parties yesterday making that much money? Or have they fallen prey to what is being fed to them each and every day by Fox news, Rush, Hannity, and the like?
They are also complaining about excess spending by the government - all the while they charged more and more things to their credit cards, bought bigger homes, upgraded to gas-guzzling SUV's and Hummers, and are bitching about "entitlement programs" - which they'll continue to do until they lose their jobs and need Unemployment checks, or don't have insurance coverage anymore.
Maybe then these folks will realize the truth.
Old Fart Mike
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Home
Today, of course, is Easter Sunday. However, today also marks another anniversary for yours truly. On Sunday, April 12th, 1992, I arrived in Tulsa to begin my job the next day as General Manager for a hotel here in town.
This is particularly noteworthy on many accounts. Those who know me well, or who have heard my voice on more than one occasion, are aware than I was born in Chicago - and lived there until a couple months before my 8th birthday. In June of 1954, my mom, grandmother, and I boarded the El Capitan Train in Chi-Town, and arrived some three days later in Pasadena, California, to be greeted by my dad and older brother, John, who had previously moved out west.
I spent from June of 1954 until January of 1970 - not quite 16 years - as a resident of California until accepting a transfer by my employer to Omaha, Nebraska. Much like my own father, the youngest of his siblings as I am, I was the first to leave the family hearth for new environs. This move to Nebraska was, though short-lived, the most eventful of my life. It was there that I met my bride - now almost of 38 years.
From there, my life was filled with moves to places around the United States as I sought the Brass Ring. Having fallen into a career in hotel management, I accepted transfers that required 8 more cross-country moves, the last one being to Tulsa, Oklahoma in, as I mentioned, April of 1992.
At the time, I fully believed that Tulsa would simply be yet another of my career moves, perhaps keeping me in residence from 3 to 5 years, which seemed to be the average for the position I held. As I was but a mere 46 years old when I transferred here, this seemed to be a logical assumption. There were a couple of potential situations offered to me - one being a relatively high profile job within the company, back in Southern California at a rather large hotel at Los Angeles Airport. I gave it some thought - for about 3 minutes. The reality, of course, was that "going home" would have caused an incredible drop in lifestyle. Though the money presented in such a move seemed good on the surface, the cost of housing, the factors such as where we'd live and how long it'd take for me to drive to and from work, and how my kids would fare being uprooted once again, played heavily in my decision making. As a result, I turned down this offer.
All of a sudden, the calendar reflected that I was fast approaching 8 years in the same city - at the same job. Then the proverbial Sh*t hit the fan. I suffered a life-changing health event - one that caused me to have to stop working. That occurred in December of 1999. While I attempted to return to my job, I was unable and after 3 months, it was apparent that I couldn't perform my hectic work schedule anymore. My last day working was April 14, 2000.
We have remained in Tulsa. Initially because we had children to get educated. All three of our kids graduated from high school here in Tulsa. All three have also graduated from State Universities - one from Oklahoma; two from Oklahoma State. Although one of our children - coincidentally, the youngest - strayed the furthest, moving to Colorado - the other two live within a two-hour drive of us.
We have now been in Tulsa 17 years. It has been longer than anyplace else I have ever lived - including my home state of California. Both my wife and I have grown to love it here. When we complain about the traffic, it's because we've been stuck for over 10 minutes, not an hour or more. When we complain about the weather, it's because of the change of seasons, and all that those changes bring. Does it have as much to do as California, or other BIG cities we've lived in? No, but the truth is we never took much advantage of all the things available to us - either due to the drive involved or the costs associated with them.
It is home.
Old Fart Mike
This is particularly noteworthy on many accounts. Those who know me well, or who have heard my voice on more than one occasion, are aware than I was born in Chicago - and lived there until a couple months before my 8th birthday. In June of 1954, my mom, grandmother, and I boarded the El Capitan Train in Chi-Town, and arrived some three days later in Pasadena, California, to be greeted by my dad and older brother, John, who had previously moved out west.
I spent from June of 1954 until January of 1970 - not quite 16 years - as a resident of California until accepting a transfer by my employer to Omaha, Nebraska. Much like my own father, the youngest of his siblings as I am, I was the first to leave the family hearth for new environs. This move to Nebraska was, though short-lived, the most eventful of my life. It was there that I met my bride - now almost of 38 years.
From there, my life was filled with moves to places around the United States as I sought the Brass Ring. Having fallen into a career in hotel management, I accepted transfers that required 8 more cross-country moves, the last one being to Tulsa, Oklahoma in, as I mentioned, April of 1992.
At the time, I fully believed that Tulsa would simply be yet another of my career moves, perhaps keeping me in residence from 3 to 5 years, which seemed to be the average for the position I held. As I was but a mere 46 years old when I transferred here, this seemed to be a logical assumption. There were a couple of potential situations offered to me - one being a relatively high profile job within the company, back in Southern California at a rather large hotel at Los Angeles Airport. I gave it some thought - for about 3 minutes. The reality, of course, was that "going home" would have caused an incredible drop in lifestyle. Though the money presented in such a move seemed good on the surface, the cost of housing, the factors such as where we'd live and how long it'd take for me to drive to and from work, and how my kids would fare being uprooted once again, played heavily in my decision making. As a result, I turned down this offer.
All of a sudden, the calendar reflected that I was fast approaching 8 years in the same city - at the same job. Then the proverbial Sh*t hit the fan. I suffered a life-changing health event - one that caused me to have to stop working. That occurred in December of 1999. While I attempted to return to my job, I was unable and after 3 months, it was apparent that I couldn't perform my hectic work schedule anymore. My last day working was April 14, 2000.
We have remained in Tulsa. Initially because we had children to get educated. All three of our kids graduated from high school here in Tulsa. All three have also graduated from State Universities - one from Oklahoma; two from Oklahoma State. Although one of our children - coincidentally, the youngest - strayed the furthest, moving to Colorado - the other two live within a two-hour drive of us.
We have now been in Tulsa 17 years. It has been longer than anyplace else I have ever lived - including my home state of California. Both my wife and I have grown to love it here. When we complain about the traffic, it's because we've been stuck for over 10 minutes, not an hour or more. When we complain about the weather, it's because of the change of seasons, and all that those changes bring. Does it have as much to do as California, or other BIG cities we've lived in? No, but the truth is we never took much advantage of all the things available to us - either due to the drive involved or the costs associated with them.
It is home.
Old Fart Mike
Thursday, April 9, 2009
YAY for the Stimulus Plan!
So, a lot of people are complaining about the stimulus plan that President Obama signed into law in February. Too costly some say. Others claim it doesn't affect the middle class. Well, I'm here to tell you I learned today that it has a tremendous benefit for my bride and I.
In September of last year, my wonderful wife of almost 38 years was RIF'ed. After having survived two previous cuts by her company, she, along with a bunch of other people, didn't make this one. So, she was unceremoniously given a measly severance package of a few weeks of pay - and told health insurance coverage stopped at the end of the month. Those who know me are also aware of my health situation and realize I simply cannot go without health coverage.
So, we were left with no choice but to enroll in the government sponsored COBRA program, which, makes it mandatory for employers to extend health insurance coverage to former employees. The problem is it is extremely costly. For just my wife and I the monthly cost of same coverage, under COBRA, is well over $900. However, the situation being what it is, we had no choice but to enroll.
As my lovely bride has not been able thus far to find gainful employment in a job market where jobs are exponentially disappearing quicker each month, we have spent, since September of 2008, some $4,600+ on COBRA premiums. With me collecting Social Security disability and her getting income (only recently) from a part-time job paying less than 2/3 of what she formerly made - without ANY benefits, this is not good for the bank book - already impacted by the economy by some 40%.
Was I happy yesterday when I read an article in our local newspaper about the "American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009" (a.k.a. The Stimulus plan) signed into law by President Obama on February 17th? No. Ecstatic. Why? Because it detailed the impact it has on COBRA - which is a subsidy reducing the cost of COBRA by 65% to the employee and their families for up to 9 months.
I called the organization handling COBRA for my wife's former company and they verified this information. Further, they told me it was retroactive to March 1st. When all is said and done this means that President Obama and his Stimulus plan will save us - my wife and I - over $5,500.
For those naysayers who claim the stimulus does help the average person - you are WRONG! To our new President and the congress members who voted to pass this legislation, THANK YOU, We needed this help.
Old Fart Mike
In September of last year, my wonderful wife of almost 38 years was RIF'ed. After having survived two previous cuts by her company, she, along with a bunch of other people, didn't make this one. So, she was unceremoniously given a measly severance package of a few weeks of pay - and told health insurance coverage stopped at the end of the month. Those who know me are also aware of my health situation and realize I simply cannot go without health coverage.
So, we were left with no choice but to enroll in the government sponsored COBRA program, which, makes it mandatory for employers to extend health insurance coverage to former employees. The problem is it is extremely costly. For just my wife and I the monthly cost of same coverage, under COBRA, is well over $900. However, the situation being what it is, we had no choice but to enroll.
As my lovely bride has not been able thus far to find gainful employment in a job market where jobs are exponentially disappearing quicker each month, we have spent, since September of 2008, some $4,600+ on COBRA premiums. With me collecting Social Security disability and her getting income (only recently) from a part-time job paying less than 2/3 of what she formerly made - without ANY benefits, this is not good for the bank book - already impacted by the economy by some 40%.
Was I happy yesterday when I read an article in our local newspaper about the "American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009" (a.k.a. The Stimulus plan) signed into law by President Obama on February 17th? No. Ecstatic. Why? Because it detailed the impact it has on COBRA - which is a subsidy reducing the cost of COBRA by 65% to the employee and their families for up to 9 months.
I called the organization handling COBRA for my wife's former company and they verified this information. Further, they told me it was retroactive to March 1st. When all is said and done this means that President Obama and his Stimulus plan will save us - my wife and I - over $5,500.
For those naysayers who claim the stimulus does help the average person - you are WRONG! To our new President and the congress members who voted to pass this legislation, THANK YOU, We needed this help.
Old Fart Mike
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
DANCING IN THE DARK
Like the over 15,000 other people assembled last night in Tulsa's new BOK Center, that's what I did for 2 1/2 hours last night. The occasion was the appearance of "The Boss" - a.k.a. Bruce Springsteen and the incredible E Street Band.
He - and the band - absolutely rocked the house with a multitude of his songs spanning 3 decades. Some of his most well known hits, plus a bunch from his albums that were never chart toppers, but were well known to the Springsteen fans in attendance, were played with equal passion.
I always liked Springsteen, but truly became an avid fan after hearing his CD, "The Rising" - recorded after 9/11. That album, in my opinion, is one of the greatest - by anyone - ever recorded. It is a mix of poignancy and hope, with faith built in throughout. Some songs are somber; others incredibly uplifting. Last night the cuts he sang from that album were only the uplifting ones. Probably something much needed in this time of concern with our economy.
Almost all of Springsteen's songs celebrate the common man and his struggles. That's why he strikes such a chord with so many people, I suppose. His voice isn't what you might call beautiful, or classically trained. But what it is is honest. Passionate. And full of depth. You can feel the pain when he sings about struggles or his hope for a better day to come. It is that obvious.
The mix of the crowd was interesting too. A bunch of old farts like me. But also younger types too. His music transcends a specific age group, though he's 59 and has been churning out the hits for some 30 years. Legends are like that, I suppose.
In my lifetime I've been fortunate to be able to see a number of Rock stars perform live, in person. I had anticipated this particular concert with great excitement, as The Boss had been one of the superstars I've always wanted to see. Sometimes looking forward to an event can set you up for disappointment. It didn't happen this time.
Old Fart Mike
He - and the band - absolutely rocked the house with a multitude of his songs spanning 3 decades. Some of his most well known hits, plus a bunch from his albums that were never chart toppers, but were well known to the Springsteen fans in attendance, were played with equal passion.
I always liked Springsteen, but truly became an avid fan after hearing his CD, "The Rising" - recorded after 9/11. That album, in my opinion, is one of the greatest - by anyone - ever recorded. It is a mix of poignancy and hope, with faith built in throughout. Some songs are somber; others incredibly uplifting. Last night the cuts he sang from that album were only the uplifting ones. Probably something much needed in this time of concern with our economy.
Almost all of Springsteen's songs celebrate the common man and his struggles. That's why he strikes such a chord with so many people, I suppose. His voice isn't what you might call beautiful, or classically trained. But what it is is honest. Passionate. And full of depth. You can feel the pain when he sings about struggles or his hope for a better day to come. It is that obvious.
The mix of the crowd was interesting too. A bunch of old farts like me. But also younger types too. His music transcends a specific age group, though he's 59 and has been churning out the hits for some 30 years. Legends are like that, I suppose.
In my lifetime I've been fortunate to be able to see a number of Rock stars perform live, in person. I had anticipated this particular concert with great excitement, as The Boss had been one of the superstars I've always wanted to see. Sometimes looking forward to an event can set you up for disappointment. It didn't happen this time.
Old Fart Mike
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Gas Tax
Just a small tidbit here. The other day an article in the newspaper caught my eye. It was about a House bill dealing with taxes. Apparently this is something that had been circulating for a while. Basically, it had been proposed, a few months back, by the USDA to the EPA that Congress should enact a new type of "Gas Tax".
Purportedly, this tax would, in an effort to combat greenhouse gases, place a tax on - ARE you READY for this? - cows and hogs. This is because these animals release incredible amounts of methane gas into the atmosphere when they - uh - pass gas, or, in the not so genteel phraseology I am accustomed to, "let farts".
Farmers were, Literally, holding their respective breaths (pun intended) until being reassured by congress members that no such tax would be passed on flatulence.
One's imagination wanders when thinking about a fair and equitable measurement of such a tax. Would it be assessed equally, across the board, regardless of how many explosions a particular cow might have in a given day, month, or year? Would it be based on the noxious quality of said flatulence?
One is absolutely sure there would be a need for a new bureaucratic division to develop within the halls of government to actually measure output by cow. If so, it sounds like that would be a likely candidate for the "Dirtiest Jobs" TV show. What would the Government name this division if created? Division of Flatulence? Would it's workers be known as Flatulence Animal Recordss Team?
The main problem, as I see it, is that IF methane gas were to be assessed on animals such as cows and hogs - which we've been assured won't happen - what's next? Will it affect the typical Human Male? From toddler stage until death, most males relish the blasting of farts - especially if they are married and can torment their wives with them. Beano is a sworn enemy of man, and I fear that should this new "Gas Tax" ever gain acceptance in congress, a new strain of the stuff could be developed that could wipe out (get it?) one of Man's (and cow's) greatest pleasures and pastimes. Then all we'll be left with is picking our nose when we drive. And cows can't do that. Can they?
Old FART Mike
Purportedly, this tax would, in an effort to combat greenhouse gases, place a tax on - ARE you READY for this? - cows and hogs. This is because these animals release incredible amounts of methane gas into the atmosphere when they - uh - pass gas, or, in the not so genteel phraseology I am accustomed to, "let farts".
Farmers were, Literally, holding their respective breaths (pun intended) until being reassured by congress members that no such tax would be passed on flatulence.
One's imagination wanders when thinking about a fair and equitable measurement of such a tax. Would it be assessed equally, across the board, regardless of how many explosions a particular cow might have in a given day, month, or year? Would it be based on the noxious quality of said flatulence?
One is absolutely sure there would be a need for a new bureaucratic division to develop within the halls of government to actually measure output by cow. If so, it sounds like that would be a likely candidate for the "Dirtiest Jobs" TV show. What would the Government name this division if created? Division of Flatulence? Would it's workers be known as Flatulence Animal Recordss Team?
The main problem, as I see it, is that IF methane gas were to be assessed on animals such as cows and hogs - which we've been assured won't happen - what's next? Will it affect the typical Human Male? From toddler stage until death, most males relish the blasting of farts - especially if they are married and can torment their wives with them. Beano is a sworn enemy of man, and I fear that should this new "Gas Tax" ever gain acceptance in congress, a new strain of the stuff could be developed that could wipe out (get it?) one of Man's (and cow's) greatest pleasures and pastimes. Then all we'll be left with is picking our nose when we drive. And cows can't do that. Can they?
Old FART Mike
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
April Fools
As April 1st rolls around once more, it is apparent that the legions of Fools are growing. On my list for today are people in the news:
1. NOTRE DAME UNIVERSITY. In keeping with the tradition of Universities all across the United States, The country's most renowned Catholic university invited the new President of the United States, Barrack Obama, to speak at their commencement. This is something that this university has done numerous times in it's history, most recently, having Presidents Carter, Reagan, AND George W. Bush address their graduating class. None of these gentlemen, by the way, including the incumbent, are of the Roman Catholic faith.
Now, however, an outcry has arisen from many bishops and alumni of the school about the invitation to President Obama. They feel his invite should be rescinded because he is not firmly entrenched against abortion in ALL cases. Students, of course, feel much differently.
What really bothers me is the continual hypocrisy - not only by the Catholic Church - but by Christians in general in "selecting" which issues they want to support, or deny the existence of. For example, having George W. Bush speak seemed to be okay for Notre Dame, It's alumni, and the Catholic Bishops - even though Bush started the first ever preemptive war waged by the United States; approved torture of our enemies; and waged an assault on the civil liberties of the people of our country. Killing is okay IF the killed are adults and the President says it's a "War on Terror". If women and children happen to be killed, or injured due to an errant bomb or two - well, that's unfortunate. Yet, Obama allowing Roe v. Wade and a woman's choice to be the law of the land is somehow viewed as much, much worse.
For anyone reading this who doesn't already know, I am Catholic. I am also - like President Obama - generally against abortion. However, as with most things, there need to be exceptions to the rules. Certainly, abortion SHOULD NOT be about someone just casting aside an unwanted baby. But, what it should enable woman to do is to vacate a pregnancy that: (a)could cause her bodily harm, or (b) was as a result of rape or incest.
The other thing that rankles me is, for ANY University, it is prestigious to have a President of the United States speak at commencement. One of my children had a former President speak at her graduation, and I was thrilled, as was she. I viewed it as an honor, though I never agreed with the man's political stances.
There is more than one reason that we have a "Separation of Church and State". One is to separate us from fools - on both sides of that fence.
2. METH LABS. So far this year, Tulsa police have found 57 Meth labs within our city boundaries. That is more than the 43 they were able to bust in all of 2008. Apparently, there is a new, cheaper and faster way to produce this drug, which has caused the spur in production of the homemade labs.
Just a couple nights ago, two innocent people died as a result of an uncontrolled fire that sprouted up in these labs. The fires quickly spread from the apartment where this deadly stuff was being "cooked" to the one next door, and two residents were burned over much of their bodies, ending in their untimely death. They just happened to be in the wrong place.
The idiots who were manufacturing the Meth are also in critical condition at a local hospital.
I have to confess that I feel so lucky that I, and my family, have escaped the scourge of drugs. Aside from smoking a few doobies when I was a young man, I didn't experiment with anything else. While I'm pretty sure that my kids have also had their own "experiments", I have taken the "Don't ask, Don't tell" approach.
How we're ever going to stop this attraction to drugs is a mystery to me. Hillary Clinton was right when she acknowledged that part of the problem at the Mexican border was the U.S. and our insatiable need for drugs. Unfortunately, no one knows what to do to put an end to it.
Meth seems to be one of the worst drugs ever. From what I've read and heard, it is addictive quickly, and it is relatively cheap. From the pictures I've seen of it's addicts, the damage it does is awful.
The makers and users are, without a doubt, April Fools.
Old Fart Mike
1. NOTRE DAME UNIVERSITY. In keeping with the tradition of Universities all across the United States, The country's most renowned Catholic university invited the new President of the United States, Barrack Obama, to speak at their commencement. This is something that this university has done numerous times in it's history, most recently, having Presidents Carter, Reagan, AND George W. Bush address their graduating class. None of these gentlemen, by the way, including the incumbent, are of the Roman Catholic faith.
Now, however, an outcry has arisen from many bishops and alumni of the school about the invitation to President Obama. They feel his invite should be rescinded because he is not firmly entrenched against abortion in ALL cases. Students, of course, feel much differently.
What really bothers me is the continual hypocrisy - not only by the Catholic Church - but by Christians in general in "selecting" which issues they want to support, or deny the existence of. For example, having George W. Bush speak seemed to be okay for Notre Dame, It's alumni, and the Catholic Bishops - even though Bush started the first ever preemptive war waged by the United States; approved torture of our enemies; and waged an assault on the civil liberties of the people of our country. Killing is okay IF the killed are adults and the President says it's a "War on Terror". If women and children happen to be killed, or injured due to an errant bomb or two - well, that's unfortunate. Yet, Obama allowing Roe v. Wade and a woman's choice to be the law of the land is somehow viewed as much, much worse.
For anyone reading this who doesn't already know, I am Catholic. I am also - like President Obama - generally against abortion. However, as with most things, there need to be exceptions to the rules. Certainly, abortion SHOULD NOT be about someone just casting aside an unwanted baby. But, what it should enable woman to do is to vacate a pregnancy that: (a)could cause her bodily harm, or (b) was as a result of rape or incest.
The other thing that rankles me is, for ANY University, it is prestigious to have a President of the United States speak at commencement. One of my children had a former President speak at her graduation, and I was thrilled, as was she. I viewed it as an honor, though I never agreed with the man's political stances.
There is more than one reason that we have a "Separation of Church and State". One is to separate us from fools - on both sides of that fence.
2. METH LABS. So far this year, Tulsa police have found 57 Meth labs within our city boundaries. That is more than the 43 they were able to bust in all of 2008. Apparently, there is a new, cheaper and faster way to produce this drug, which has caused the spur in production of the homemade labs.
Just a couple nights ago, two innocent people died as a result of an uncontrolled fire that sprouted up in these labs. The fires quickly spread from the apartment where this deadly stuff was being "cooked" to the one next door, and two residents were burned over much of their bodies, ending in their untimely death. They just happened to be in the wrong place.
The idiots who were manufacturing the Meth are also in critical condition at a local hospital.
I have to confess that I feel so lucky that I, and my family, have escaped the scourge of drugs. Aside from smoking a few doobies when I was a young man, I didn't experiment with anything else. While I'm pretty sure that my kids have also had their own "experiments", I have taken the "Don't ask, Don't tell" approach.
How we're ever going to stop this attraction to drugs is a mystery to me. Hillary Clinton was right when she acknowledged that part of the problem at the Mexican border was the U.S. and our insatiable need for drugs. Unfortunately, no one knows what to do to put an end to it.
Meth seems to be one of the worst drugs ever. From what I've read and heard, it is addictive quickly, and it is relatively cheap. From the pictures I've seen of it's addicts, the damage it does is awful.
The makers and users are, without a doubt, April Fools.
Old Fart Mike
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