Body Image

While abroad, one of those old-timey elevators closed on my thumb. While I take full responsibility for this mishap, I'm pretty sure that building codes are more relaxed in Europe, or they think those old steel cage elevators in the spine of the building are quaint, or something. ANYWAY, that son of a bitch gate swung closed with my thumb in its path.

So I'm calling this one "mechanic thumb."

Fortunately, my thumbnail hasn't decided to flake off, but the prognosis is guarded for the future shape and form of the surviving nail.

Check back soon for "what's that wierd red dot?"

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor,
Please include my thoughts on the following topic in your next edition.

I have a back to school quiz for members of the U.S. Congress.
1. Which scenario has the best long-term benefit?
a) Raising taxes
b) Growing the tax base

2. Which energy policy has the best long-term benefit?
a) Domestic off-shore drilling and refinery investment
b) Renewable energy research, development and deployment

Mssr./Mdme. Congressperson: If you answered a) to either of the above - you fail.

Inaction on the part of our government is exacerbating the energy crisis in our country. I believe that all U.S. Congressmen should take a new oath of office. They must defy special interest, eschew partisanship, and embrace a new approach to energy independence.

As all of our elected officials are on recess, it is our duty as citizens to contact them and instruct them as to how we need them to act (and vote!) in order to keep the United States at the forefront of innovation.

Just as at the outset of the Industrial Revolution in the last century, and the Information Revolution at the beginning of this one, we stand now at the gateway of a vital opportunity once again. We must act in order to create solutions for the problems caused by the energy/climate challenge.

Inaction, such as taking a recess without finishing your homework, is not an acceptable measure in these difficult times, and not a stellar example to the children of this country who will inherit the consequences.

Well, that settles it....

Brilliant body copy: "Helps relieve stress and headaches. Promotes healthy hair and helps reduce premature aging of the skin. Creates a subtle energizing feeling when your body's oxygen levels are depleted. Eliminates toxins. Increases libido and enhances sexual performance. Relieves the side effects of alchohol. Reduces shortness of breath at high altitudes.

Talk among yourselves.

A memory from my youth

Kentucky

On the outskirts of Louisville, Kentucky
Brownsboro Road slices to the north,
opening a rift between arid farmland
and housing subdivisions.

The asphalt branches of Barbara Manor
blossom sidewalk and mailbox,
from the fertile dirt of
Old Man Brown’s farm.

Our nation’s bicentennial year
brought a fitting gift.
Emancipation from confining streets;
the manifest destiny of distant neighborhoods.

My 3-speed Sears & Roebuck
Free Spirit bicycle had a
stick shift and a banana seat,
and its clear naugahyde saddle
held a universe
of red, white and blue stars.

The Free Spirit and I challenged the toughest trails,
the dirtiest lots, and the rockiest creek beds.

Limited only by the dusk,
and its Crayola orange sky
I would race for home,
arriving breathless
in the failing light.

In that time of national pride,
freedom was made real, and life more clear.
Corn in the field.
River upon rock.
I aboard my bike.

Next Hiking trip?

YIKES

Great inspiration

These vintage LP covers are guarantee to titilate.

Going out on a limb

I usually don't get too flustered about Op-Ed columns, but this one made me throw up in my mouth.

I guess there is still a gap of Grand Canyon proportions between reality and political spin.

Say it ain't so, Joe.