As I write this, I'm enjoying the first of two homemade tuna fish sandwiches (lots of onions!) with a cold bottle of Coors beer. The second sandwich will be accompanied by a second Coors. (one sandwich, one beer; two sandwiches, two beers). Laura Scudder's Potato Chips round out the simple but highly satisfying menu.
I'm sure there are readers out there who remember Hopalong Cassidy, at least from seeing him on TV. However, the character, developed by writer Clarence E. Mulford in 1912, and as portrayed by William Boyd, took root in 1935. "Hop-Along Cassidy" was the first of a long running movie series. Six films were initially planned but the series was so popular that by the end of its run in 1948, 66 episodes had been produced, all with Boyd as Hoppy. That is still the record for one actor playing the same role in a film series.
The 1960's didn't witness only the invasion of the Beatles along with other British groups. Americans are notorious for their love of fads. So, with the arrival of British rock 'n' roll, food seemed to be the logical next arrival from England. And it was. Fish and chips. Names like Carnaby Street (near us in La Puente; it's still there!) started popping up and became popular. The food was good, the menu simple (then); white fish, battered and deep-fried, French fries, tartar sauce and malt vinegar. Good eats at a fair price.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame was established in 1958. As of Jan. 1, 2016, there are 2,570 stars in place. Each star is made of pink coral terrazzo and brass, inlaid in black terrazzo. The Walk is so popular that an estimated 10 millions visitors view it yearly. Names like Joanne Woodward, Bob Hope, Mickey Rooney, Dinah Shore, Gale Storm, John Wayne, will forever be immortalized along the Walk of Fame. However, one will stand out. Clayton Moore's name is the only one to have a film character along side it: The Lone Ranger.
School bullying is a national concern. In my day, we had our own way of dealing with it. In grade school, up into junior high, we occasionally had slower students who were sometimes picked on or teased by students from other classrooms. But not for long; a few of the boys in my class (including yours truly) took care of the issue before the teachers got involved. Some choice words (and a threatened knuckle-sandwich) worked wonders. In fact, a knuckle-sandwich actually worked on one occasion..We took care of our own.
After WWII, the need for new homes was critical. Levittown, New York became the prototype for the familiar tract home. With great prices, a family,with one paycheck, could afford a new home.The one we bought in 1955, was $9250. With $395 down, $66/mo was a cinch. It had 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, a double car garage on a spacious lot. A big reason for low prices...1200 homes were in the development, including new schools and a new shopping center, ALL within walking distance. America could use this idea today.
Friday, July 22, 2016
Thursday, July 14, 2016
Black Lives Matter...And Here's Why
Many believe that Black Lives Matter is too narrow a concept; that being White, Latino, young ,old, LGBT, disabled, etc., is just as deserving of recognition as Black lives. While that's true without question, Black Lives Matter is about equality, not only in the eyes of society but in the eyes of the law. Black Lives Matter is what gives impetus to All Lives Matter. Black Lives Matter is the hub of the wheel; the individual groups its spokes. If Black lives don't matter, then millions of other American lives don't matter either.
It's not just about life and death. It's about equality where you live, where you work, where you eat, where you shop, where you attend school. And when that equality is challenged on a daily basis by a society that treats its member citizens at levels far from equal, it's inevitable that it will be challenged by a minority of men and women wearing a uniform, a badge...and carrying a gun.
Minority communities in general experience discrimination but members of the Black neighborhoods and "integrated" communities have an additional burden, one that has never really gone away...not since the days of the Civil Rights movement. Black citizens of this country see themselves leaving their homes each and every day wearing a target...a bull's eye, not always sure they will get through each day without being harassed, searched, manhandled, insulted. Returning home is not seen as a guarantee.
I can't imagine living that kind of life. I can't imagine raising children in such a way that involves teaching them self-preservation...life or death...where law enforcement in concerned; where survival techniques are crucial when there's a confrontation with a person wearing a badge and carrying a lethal weapon.
And I use the term "confrontation" because if paths are crossed, it's almost certain the situation will be a confrontation; where one party will most assuredly be at a disadvantage...because of skin color.
Black citizens, and other minorities, are still living in a nation where they must continually prove they have a right to be here; to prove beyond any doubt that they are entitled to all the rights, privileges, dignity and respect in their efforts for "...life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.", concepts guaranteed to every member of American society. But in that God-given pursuit, these citizens often run risks to life and limb.
Therefore, the Black community, along with Latinos, Asians, Native Americans and other non-Whites, must no longer be viewed as alien life forms; not when their ancestors helped develop this great nation. Contrary to what many would like to believe, the White man didn't do it alone.
Miami Gardens, Cleveland, North Charleston, Ferguson, Baton Rouge and Falcon Heights, are sadly, helping to create future battlefields in American streets. Daily headlines are showing where more and more Black and White citizens and certain members of law enforcement (and by extension the justice system) are increasingly estranged and mistrustful of one another. There's ample proof that both sides live in mortal fear of one another...and that fear isn't lessening. A Long Hot Summer is but a very short fuse away. Growing tension is being fueled by hatred, bitterness, fear...and bigotry. At this very moment, countless communities in America have the potential of going off like a cluster bomb...with equally disastrous results.
America can heal itself...it can bring itself together through all of the pain and suffering that engulfs it today. But in this writer's humble opinion, the bulk, if not all of the effort, must be made by law enforcement.
And I don't say this lightly. Over the years, I've had friends and acquaintances in law enforcement. Nonetheless, all agencies of law enforcement must accept the fact that Black citizens of this nation are not the enemy; they are not to be scrutinized in the hopes of catching them breaking the law or proving that they can't be trusted, thus unworthy of the respect and dignity due everybody regardless of skin color. They are not to be maligned or marginalized because of a stereotypical perspective that has persisted far too long in this nation. Once these things and many others are addressed by ALL law enforcement agencies, then and only then can progress be made in winning back the trust and respect of the Black community.
But here's the kicker. The White public cannot remain blase' or indifferent. Whites must play a significant role in this; they must take an active part. As long as law enforcement feels it has the blessing of White America in its often capricious, unprofessional and heavy-handed methods regarding minorities: as long as White America continues to believe the fairy tale that all citizens are actually "equal under the law;" that all citizens are equally protected by the banner, "To Serve and To Protect," nothing will change.
Black Lives Matter is important simply because it establishes All Lives Matter; it represents respect, dignity, growth, maturity, prosperity, caring for the other guy...regardless of who he is...or the color of of his skin.
It's not just about life and death. It's about equality where you live, where you work, where you eat, where you shop, where you attend school. And when that equality is challenged on a daily basis by a society that treats its member citizens at levels far from equal, it's inevitable that it will be challenged by a minority of men and women wearing a uniform, a badge...and carrying a gun.
Minority communities in general experience discrimination but members of the Black neighborhoods and "integrated" communities have an additional burden, one that has never really gone away...not since the days of the Civil Rights movement. Black citizens of this country see themselves leaving their homes each and every day wearing a target...a bull's eye, not always sure they will get through each day without being harassed, searched, manhandled, insulted. Returning home is not seen as a guarantee.
I can't imagine living that kind of life. I can't imagine raising children in such a way that involves teaching them self-preservation...life or death...where law enforcement in concerned; where survival techniques are crucial when there's a confrontation with a person wearing a badge and carrying a lethal weapon.
And I use the term "confrontation" because if paths are crossed, it's almost certain the situation will be a confrontation; where one party will most assuredly be at a disadvantage...because of skin color.
Black citizens, and other minorities, are still living in a nation where they must continually prove they have a right to be here; to prove beyond any doubt that they are entitled to all the rights, privileges, dignity and respect in their efforts for "...life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.", concepts guaranteed to every member of American society. But in that God-given pursuit, these citizens often run risks to life and limb.
Therefore, the Black community, along with Latinos, Asians, Native Americans and other non-Whites, must no longer be viewed as alien life forms; not when their ancestors helped develop this great nation. Contrary to what many would like to believe, the White man didn't do it alone.
Miami Gardens, Cleveland, North Charleston, Ferguson, Baton Rouge and Falcon Heights, are sadly, helping to create future battlefields in American streets. Daily headlines are showing where more and more Black and White citizens and certain members of law enforcement (and by extension the justice system) are increasingly estranged and mistrustful of one another. There's ample proof that both sides live in mortal fear of one another...and that fear isn't lessening. A Long Hot Summer is but a very short fuse away. Growing tension is being fueled by hatred, bitterness, fear...and bigotry. At this very moment, countless communities in America have the potential of going off like a cluster bomb...with equally disastrous results.
America can heal itself...it can bring itself together through all of the pain and suffering that engulfs it today. But in this writer's humble opinion, the bulk, if not all of the effort, must be made by law enforcement.
And I don't say this lightly. Over the years, I've had friends and acquaintances in law enforcement. Nonetheless, all agencies of law enforcement must accept the fact that Black citizens of this nation are not the enemy; they are not to be scrutinized in the hopes of catching them breaking the law or proving that they can't be trusted, thus unworthy of the respect and dignity due everybody regardless of skin color. They are not to be maligned or marginalized because of a stereotypical perspective that has persisted far too long in this nation. Once these things and many others are addressed by ALL law enforcement agencies, then and only then can progress be made in winning back the trust and respect of the Black community.
But here's the kicker. The White public cannot remain blase' or indifferent. Whites must play a significant role in this; they must take an active part. As long as law enforcement feels it has the blessing of White America in its often capricious, unprofessional and heavy-handed methods regarding minorities: as long as White America continues to believe the fairy tale that all citizens are actually "equal under the law;" that all citizens are equally protected by the banner, "To Serve and To Protect," nothing will change.
Black Lives Matter is important simply because it establishes All Lives Matter; it represents respect, dignity, growth, maturity, prosperity, caring for the other guy...regardless of who he is...or the color of of his skin.
Sunday, July 10, 2016
Reflections Through a Glass of Beer
It's been a while but here I am. I just stopped at In 'N' Out Burger for two healthy cheeseburgers (with the works, including grilled onions) and a mouthwatering order of fries. However, I first detoured to the Cap and Cork Liquor store for a quart of really cold Coors beer! I'm feasting here in the park as I write this. The beer's still in the brown paper bag for security reasons. A plastic cup isn't a frosted beer glass, but...
Growing up in the LA television viewing area was special, especially in the 1960's. With seven stations, three network affiliates and four independents, there was a fantastic assortment of local programs. This was notably true for the indies, KHJ (Ch.9), KTTV (Ch.11), KCOP (Ch.13) and KTLA (Ch.5).
Each of the indies had their own local, well-known personalities. The network affiliates (KNXT 2, KNBC 4 and KABC 7),too, had show hosts that the LA people were quite familiar with.
The affiliates had a mix of network and local programming that lasted until prime time took over in the evening when it switched to network shows. The indies, though, were local programming throughout the day.
Out of this abundance of quality, locally produced viewing, Ben Hunter's Matinee Movie stands out for me. It aired on KTTV.
Monday through Friday, 12:30-3:30, Ben, with his big, ingratiating smile, easy going style and cup of coffee, hosted movies and a vast assortment of guests. The set was far from elegant or fancy but it was comfortable in its simplicity.And his show, like others in the area, also had live commercials. Those for Pfaff sewing machines, with demonstrations of what they could do, stand out in particular.
The show was unpretentious. It was simple for simpler times. The easy-going banter between Ben and his guests made life seem even more at ease, especially with the Civil Rights movement gaining traction.
Guests discussed a myriad of topics, from upcoming local events, places of interest and the various activities of local and civic organizations. I remember one guest in particular, a young female soldier, who modeled a proposed dress uniform for the US Army in the mid 1960's. She said it was patterned after the cavalry dress uniforms worn by US soldiers during middle part of the 19th century...a close-fitting jacket in dark blue for men and women; sky blue pants for both men and women. A skirt, in the same dark blue of the jacket, was optional. As far as I know, this uniform combination wasn't accepted by the Army.
At some point during the first movie, Ben would make himself comfortable and have his lunch, right there on the set! It originated fresh from Norm's Restaurant on La Cienega. With the camera up close, Ben would describe what he was having that day; a toasted Reuben sandwich with potato salad; or a cheese burger and fries; or a hot roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes and gravy. A small steak with a baked potato and a salad was not uncommon. And I assume his guest enjoyed the same excellent lunch. Once Ben started to enjoy his meal, the movie resumed.
It was the lunch from Norm's, fresh and tantalizing, that really set Ben's show apart from other local programs. By sharing with viewers what he was having that day, it almost seemed like Ben was family. Teamed with the live ads, it added immensely to a small town-like ambiance even though the whole affair was encircled by metropolitan Los Angeles.
Ben Hunter's Matinee Movie is long gone but the fond memories will always survive.
Growing up in the LA television viewing area was special, especially in the 1960's. With seven stations, three network affiliates and four independents, there was a fantastic assortment of local programs. This was notably true for the indies, KHJ (Ch.9), KTTV (Ch.11), KCOP (Ch.13) and KTLA (Ch.5).
Each of the indies had their own local, well-known personalities. The network affiliates (KNXT 2, KNBC 4 and KABC 7),too, had show hosts that the LA people were quite familiar with.
The affiliates had a mix of network and local programming that lasted until prime time took over in the evening when it switched to network shows. The indies, though, were local programming throughout the day.
Out of this abundance of quality, locally produced viewing, Ben Hunter's Matinee Movie stands out for me. It aired on KTTV.
Monday through Friday, 12:30-3:30, Ben, with his big, ingratiating smile, easy going style and cup of coffee, hosted movies and a vast assortment of guests. The set was far from elegant or fancy but it was comfortable in its simplicity.And his show, like others in the area, also had live commercials. Those for Pfaff sewing machines, with demonstrations of what they could do, stand out in particular.
The show was unpretentious. It was simple for simpler times. The easy-going banter between Ben and his guests made life seem even more at ease, especially with the Civil Rights movement gaining traction.
Guests discussed a myriad of topics, from upcoming local events, places of interest and the various activities of local and civic organizations. I remember one guest in particular, a young female soldier, who modeled a proposed dress uniform for the US Army in the mid 1960's. She said it was patterned after the cavalry dress uniforms worn by US soldiers during middle part of the 19th century...a close-fitting jacket in dark blue for men and women; sky blue pants for both men and women. A skirt, in the same dark blue of the jacket, was optional. As far as I know, this uniform combination wasn't accepted by the Army.
At some point during the first movie, Ben would make himself comfortable and have his lunch, right there on the set! It originated fresh from Norm's Restaurant on La Cienega. With the camera up close, Ben would describe what he was having that day; a toasted Reuben sandwich with potato salad; or a cheese burger and fries; or a hot roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes and gravy. A small steak with a baked potato and a salad was not uncommon. And I assume his guest enjoyed the same excellent lunch. Once Ben started to enjoy his meal, the movie resumed.
It was the lunch from Norm's, fresh and tantalizing, that really set Ben's show apart from other local programs. By sharing with viewers what he was having that day, it almost seemed like Ben was family. Teamed with the live ads, it added immensely to a small town-like ambiance even though the whole affair was encircled by metropolitan Los Angeles.
Ben Hunter's Matinee Movie is long gone but the fond memories will always survive.
Tuesday, July 5, 2016
Politicians Unequaled at Wasting $$$$$
The House Select Committee on Benghazi recently released its findings surrounding the Benghazi disaster. While the 800 page document shed no new light on what happened or who was responsible for the deaths of four Americans that tragic day, it does shed a critical light on an increasingly pathetic portrayal of the nation's Congressional membership...a portrayal of unchecked stupidity on a daily basis. And since this "report" was a bipartisan, twelve member effort, that stupidity is to be shared by Pachyderms and Jackasses alike.
It took two years for the Republican-controlled House to amass more than one and a half reams of paper. However, it's the price tag for that heap of tree pulp that really begs for the term STUPIDITY. For you see, a mere $7 million was expended to tell the American public virtually nothing more than it already knew...two years ago.
Admittedly, $7 million is but a pittance, a lowly drop in the bucket, when it comes to a federal budget in the neighborhood of $4 trillion dollars. But when broken down, the price comes to an embarrassing $8,750 per page...$8,750 hard-earned taxpayer dollars. And let it be noted, using basic arithmetic, that price works out to be $52,500 per ounce of paper. That's about 40 times the going rate for a bright, shiny one ounce gold coin like a Krugerrand. Honestly, to protect our "investment," Congress should have engaged, at the very least, an armed guard of U.S. Marshals when it came time to distribute that "golden" report. Hey, nothing's too good for the American public, right?
Now, you're probably wondering who got the $7 million? Those astute among you guessed it right off; high-priced mouthpieces, not unlike those employed by racketeers and global corporations.That's what makes the price tag even more ludicrous. In essence, what are we paying members of a Congressional committee to do? Well, in this case, it would appear just to read a worthless report commissioned by them...at our expense...as always.
This monetary absurdity must fall within the realm (fantasy land?!) of what Congress obviously considers getting the biggest bang for the buck; spending tons of money on a project but getting no results. There's apparently no money back guarantee either. Makes you feel proud that Congress shops bargain basement for us, now doesn't it?
But make no mistake; if the shoe was on the other foot, if the Democrats were in control of such a committee, they would have done nothing different. To politicians, $7 million is only money...our money. That's pocket change, walking around money for the federal government. But, just the same, isn't it nice to see your tax dollars hard at work?
So, for those who have children or grandchildren who are wondering what line of work to choose, have them pick law. Afterwards, they should seek out employment with a prestigious Washington, D.C., law firm. Being associated with the Beltway's "upper crust" would be ideal in advancing one's career in jurisprudence. Then, once established, they could could work on another "important" Congressional project or report at taxpayers' expense. Wouldn't you feel so proud? Wouldn't that just make your day?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)