LETTER WRITING & END OF A DECADE

Everyone has been publishing the top events of the decade, instead of the past year as usual. I have been thinking of the top good or bad events of the past ten years and think of two major events having good and bad about both.

My two major events are daily reminders through two letters, one was a thank you letter received five years ago and the other a letter congratulating me on a honor that I had received. Several years ago, while attending a conference the key note speaker said to hang on the wall any letters you had received that made you feel good. The plan was to be able to see and allow the letters while dressing in the morning to make you look forward to another day.

My two major events and letters:

1. My mother passed away after a long battle with MS during 2001. Many years before she had written a letter of congratulations to me for an award from our local Board of Realtors, at the time it did not seem very special. I found the letter shortly after the conference and also found that it meant something. She was the person always to impress, so the letter is framed with a photo of us during her last Christmas.

2. Five years ago Christmas Day a tragic event struck the Newark Fire Department, an accident between two fire trucks injuring five firefighters, some seriously and others traumatized from the incident. I was able to step up to the plate and help the "guys" and officers. It met a lot to me, returning so much that has been given to me by the NFD. Shortly after the incident I received a thank you letter, it meant to me more than any I have ever received. It is framed in a cheap frame next to my mother's letter. Everyone goes home.

Kurt of Cultural Offering posted "The Letter" earlier this month, about letter writing and his plans to write more letters. I plan to do so this coming year as a resolution, I doubt any will be worthy of hanging on the wall for reading while one is dressing, but at least some one will have received a letter.

Happy New Year & Decade!

NOT YOUR "WATER COOLER" KIND OF GUYS

Attending last night's Columbus Blue Jackets game against the Red Wings was well worth the time and effort.

The photo of Andrew Guanciale, Mark Evans, EO of the Licking County Board of Realtors and Sean Carpenter the Training Director of Coldwell Banker King Thompson and nationally known real estate key note speaker shows everyone with a smile. All three are highly successful within the real estate industry.

Besides the CBJ's win, once again I pulled into the garage afterwards with more knowledge, motivation and a couple new business skills than when I backed out of the garage for the game. This was a three period plus overtime mini motivation conference.

It is amazing how hanging around with the "non water cooler" people will effect your life and business. This was a great way to spend six hours of the last four days of 2009.

Thanks guys for including me.

COUSINS, CHRISTMAS EVE

Christmas Eve

Andrew Guanciale and his USA cousins.

Christmas Eve

Brunch

NFD Station #3, One Unit

CHRISTMAS MOVIE, NOT REALLY

As we are about to end the 2009 Christmas Season, there have been many movies on television with a Christmas theme.

One of my favorite movies The Glenn Miller Story is usually on sometime during the Holiday Season, I don't know why it is really not a Christmas movie. Perhaps I think of it as a Holiday movie because during the last scene there is a Christmas Tree.

Maybe it is just because I like Glenn Miller's eyeglasses.

Click below to view my two favorite scenes of the movie:

St. Louis Blues, on the military parade grounds.

Little Brown Jug, the last scene of the movie. Mrs. Miller had to be so proud of Glenn for writing this song for her before his death.

BULL RIDING, ONCE IN A LIFETIME ATTEMPT

COMING OUT OF THE CHUTE, MY ARM EXTENDED LIKE A PRO.

NOTICE COWBOY DENIM ON WITH A WOOL NY YANKEES CAP.

AFTER, TWO SECONDS, FALLING OFF WITH ONE LEG IN THE AIR, NOT LIKE A PRO. NOTICE THE RODEO CLOWN IN THE UPPER LEFT CORNER,

HE HAS THE EASY JOB.

UP WALKING AWAY WITH A BROKEN BONE IN MY HAND.
FOLLOWING MY NEW FRIEND THE CLOWN.

LESSON LEARNED: YOU DON'T HAVE TO TRY EVERYTHING AT LEAST ONCE
IN YOUR LIFETIME, SOME THINGS YOU SHOULD JUST DREAM ABOUT.

Photos found by Mrs. Guanciale, who did not witness this event.

Abbott & Costello, Today's "Who's on First"

Thanks to Gary Donovan for sending this along.

If Bud Abbott and Lou Costello were alive today, their famous sketch, 'Who's on First?' might have turned out something like this:

COSTELLO CALLS TO BUY A COMPUTER FROM ABBOTT

ABBOTT: Super Duper computer store. Can I help you?
COSTELLO: Thanks I'm setting up an office in my den and I'm thinking about> buying a computer.
ABBOTT: Mac?
COSTELLO: No, the name's Lou.
ABBOTT: Your computer?
COSTELLO: I don't own a computer. I want to buy one
ABBOTT: Mac?
COSTELLO: I told you, my name's Lou.
ABBOTT: What about Windows?
COSTELLO: Why? Will it get stuffy in here?
ABBOTT: Do you want a computer with Windows?
COSTELLO: I don't know.. What will I see when I look at the windows?
ABBOTT: Wallpaper.
COSTELLO: Never mind the windows. I need a computer and software.
ABBOTT: Software for Windows? COSTELLO: No. On the computer! I need something I can use to write proposals, track expenses and run my business. What do you recommend?ABBOTT: Office.
COSTELLO: Yeah, for my office. Can you recommend anything?
ABBOTT: I just did.
COSTELLO: You just did what?
ABBOTT: Recommend something.
COSTELLO: You recommended something?
ABBOTT: Yes.
COSTELLO: For my office?
ABBOTT: Yes.
COSTELLO: OK, what did you recommend for my office?
ABBOTT: Office.
COSTELLO: Yes, for my office
ABBOTT: I recommend Office with Windows.
COSTELLO: I already have an office with windows! OK, let's just say I'm sitting at my computer and I want to type a proposal. What do I need?
ABBOTT: Word.
COSTELLO: What word?
ABBOTT: Word in Office
COSTELLO: The only word in office is office.
ABBOTT: The Word in Office for Windows.
COSTELLO: Which word in office for windows? > > ABBOTT: The Word you get when you click the blue 'W'.
COSTELLO: I'm going to click your blue 'w' if you don't start with some straight answers. What about financial bookkeeping? You have anything I can track my money with? > > ABBOTT: Money.
COSTELLO: That's right. What do you have?
ABBOTT: Money.
COSTELLO: I need money to track my money?
ABBOTT: It comes bundled with your computer.
COSTELLO: What's bundled with my computer
ABBOTT: Money.
COSTELLO: Money comes with my computer?
ABBOTT: Yes. No extra charge
COSTELLO: I get a bundle of money with my computer? How much?
ABBOTT: One copy.
COSTELLO: Isn't it illegal to copy money?
ABBOTT: Microsoft gave us a license to copy Money.
COSTELLO: They can give you a license to copy money?
ABBOTT: Why not? THEY OWN IT
(A few days later)
ABBOTT: Super Duper computer store. Can I help you?
COSTELLO: How do I turn my computer off?
ABBOTT: Click on 'START'..... ........

THE GOOD & BAD OF CHRISTMAS

THE GOOD AND BAD OF CHRISTMAS
GOOD: My trash day is on Wednesday, so our schedule will not be messed up this year. Never choose a company with a Monday pickup day.
BAD: People start to early shopping, then closer to Christmas they are in a terrible mood because they have had time to think about what gifts they really should have purchased.
GOOD: Many people give, they give their time and money to worthy organizations because of Christmas. It is ashamed so many non profits have to wait until December.
BAD: You can not give a gift to the people who you really want to give a gift to.
GOOD: Having the company Christmas party as close to Christmas as possible, I think the office Christmas party is like a signal to stop working because it’s Christmas.
BAD: Poor planning on vacation schedules, too many employees off at the same time bogs down customer service and at the end of the year when it is really needed.
GOOD: Young children, they are what it is all about.
BAD: Parents that feel a good Christmas is a way to their children’s heart.
GOOD: Saying Merry Christmas to someone, most think it is old fashion. Today in such a mixed society, it may be dangerous. But, we do have a national Christmas tree.
BAD: Being a shut-in cannot be too much fun. A local nursing home had Christmas dinner two weeks before Christmas. Should have been the week before Christmas.
GOOD: The people who take into consideration their older neighbor or friend. The glow in their eyes of being thankful when you stop by to see them for fifteen minutes is what it’s all about.
BAD: Don’t buy caramel candy for the person with dentures and don’t buy alcohol for the person who drinks too much. This is like giving a size 2 when it should be a 14.

Sometimes gift giving hurts more than you think.

All holidays are marked on the calendar because of thankful reasons, Veteran’s Day, Memorial Day, Father’s & Mother’s Day etc. Christmas is the only holiday, when most are not working and stores are closed, making it the perfect day to spend with the people you love?

Italian Horn offers protection against Evil Eye

Mike McDonald of Park National Bank chose my wrapped Christmas Tree Ornament for an exchange this week. We did not have time to discuss the reason in Italy for people wearing Horns with a Cross around their neck or making sure there is a horn ornament on the tree. I had purchased the ornament while on a recent trip. So Big Mac, here it is:

ITALIAN HORN (Cornicello, Italian for "little horn"). The ancient magical charm or amulet worn in Italy as protection against "evil eye" has also been linked to Celtic and Druid myths and beliefs. Other superstitions link it to sexual power and good luck. It is often worn with a cross (for double protection or luck?). In pre-Christian Europe, animal horns pointed to the moon goddess and were considered sacred.

SOME OF THE BEST FRIENDS A GUY CAN HAVE

Annual Holiday Dinner and Ornament Exchange

The Licking County Chamber of Commerce Groundhog Committee

Call the Chamber for your January 29, 2010 reservations

740-345-9758

NEWARK, OHIO BLOGGERS MAKES THEIR MARK

Kurt Harden's blog, Cultural Offering and the Licking County Chamber of Commerce's ChatwiththeChamber have made there mark throughout the world.

Known British author and blogger Nicholas Bate has recognized his top Business Blogger for 2009.

Nicholas Bate's "Business of Life + Life of Business" has inspired many readers around the world.

Michael Wade with Execupundit.com was Nicholas's choice.

Cultural Offering made it first on "Who's out there doing awesom work?" Nicholas stated about Kurt's blog: "The incredible magazine blog with politics, music, fashion and family. Forthright, open and generous."

Chat with the Chamber was marked 19th on the list with Nicholas's comment on the Blog driven by LCCC President Cheri Hottinger: "Lots of thoughtful posting from leadership to presenting to books.... Cool."

Nicholas also stated within his post awarding the Top Blog: So, what's the award, I hear you ask? Well, it's already on its way to Michael care of The Royal Mail and The US Postal Service. Of course, I can't reveal what it is at this stage but I can say the award was inspired by something noticed in a snap of Michael's study carried by The Great Cultural Offering.

Congratulation Cheri & Kurt!

Jiminy Christmas!

The other day I heard someone say "Jiminy Christmas", I had not heard the expression in years. I started wondering what it really meant, Google found the origin and meaning: someone perhaps thought an expression chosen to PREVENT swearing was appropriate.)"Jiminy Christmas" is much rarer than, and almost certainly derived FROM "Jiminy Cricket" -- both being "minced oaths" to avoid outright swearing by yelling "Jesus Christ" in what's considered a disrespectful or 'profane' manner. (I'm not sure whether it was originally singular or plural, though "crickets"does SOUND more like "Christ"...At any rate, Disney's use has established the singular.)

In fact, minced oaths for the names of God and Christ, and other terms connected with the sacred, or with eternal judgment, have been a common thing for centuries. More recent cases are based NOT on religious terms (which many people are less bothered about profaning in modern times), but "vulgar"/objectionable terms (the sort Yahoo!Answers turns into asterisks -- e.g., "shoot" and "freaking") They've been formed in many different ways, but one common method is to take the first part of the original word and substitute some other ending, perhaps very similar to the original. . or not. The final word MAY be a real word (like "cricket"), or complete nonsense. Other minced oaths are formed by rhyming. Jesus Christ - Jeepers Creepers, Judas Priest (in this case the LAST part of "Christ" is matched)Jesus - Gee whiz, Gee, JeeshChrist - Cripes or Cripes sakes (for "Christ's sake") CRIMINY (though in this case it starts with the sound of "cry"). Yes, it appears that"Jiminy" and "Criminy" are related. "Jiminy", it seems, came first (attested 1803)-- and was at first used by itself The Online Etymology Dictionary suggests the expression is based on Latin "Jesu Domine" (domine meaning "Lord")--using the first and last parts. "Jiminy Cricket" is first attested later (1848).

Looking at some other minced oaths. Here's a very partial list, with a few notes --

(by) God - (by) golly [perhaps also influenced by "holy"], Gosh, by Jove, egad (O God),damn - dang, darndamnation - tarnation God damn -dadgum (note that this one is based on exchanging the first part of each word gu- da- ) hell - heck

HEISEY GLASS, NEWARK, OHIO

Long time friend and known local news scoop for radio and television Bill Clifford last year made a comment about the movie White Christmas which was posted on my blog. I asked Bill to make a couple of Heisey Glass and where it appeared on the big screen.

"In the finale of White Christmas (1954), the crowd held up their cocktail glasses while joining in the singing. Most of the glasses were made right here in Newark, Ohio...at the A. H. Heisey plant on Oakwood Avenue.

Heisey was visible in dozens of movies, especially in the 30’s, 40’s, and 50’s. Laurel and Hardy used a Greek Key Punch bowl in one of their films. The old Ma and Pa Kettle shows also used Heisey, in different scenes. And the movie, The Glass Menagerie, many Heisey animals were visible...including posters sent to theatres."

Click here to watch the finale of White Christmas. Always have liked Rosemary's hair style!

Click here to read last years post of different artists singing White Christmas.

White Christmas is one of my favorite Christmas songs to dance, along with Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire.

PRINT & READ, RONALD REAGAN

Thurs. March 25 • Pres. Pertini of Italy arrived—1st visit to U.S. He's 84 and a terrific old gentleman. We had the full ceremony under a warm sun. Good meeting. He loves America—very touching moment on the way into the W.H. He paused by the Marine holding our flag and kissed it. State dinner a huge success—a really fun time and great entertainment by Perry Como and Frank Sinatra. As published: The Ronald Reagan Diaries, by Ronald Reagan

Several weeks ago Cultural Offering posted an article by Vanity Fair title "Reagan, Unscripted". I printed all ten pages, stapled the corner and kept it in my car. When ever I was ten minutes early for an appointment, waiting in a fast food drive through line I would read a couple of his tremendous segments from his diary. Besides finding it very interesting, I also learned a lot.

Click here for the Vanity Fair article, print it and read it. It will make you a smile a little remembering a better time for our country. We had to have Carter first in order to get Reagan.

TWO YEARS AGO TODAY

Two years ago today, Andrew married Jill. The day was tremendous and all the details and planing were wrapped up and over by 2:00am on December 9th.

The photo and information below the photo was given to me by Heath's Mayor Richard Waugh. The rule was no cell phones during the wedding (imagine who is brave enough to tell me this, the only lady in black), but nothing was said about the photo session afterwards.

My phone rang, I answered, it was Mayor Waugh. Early the next day, the photographer emailed this photo to me, in return I sent it to Mayor Waugh to explain why I had asked if it was okay to call him back in twenty minutes. Richard felt terrible. Within twenty four hours, this photo was delivered to me with the caption as shown.

Trying to offer customer service, I made sure to discuss his needs of the day. In return, he made special efforts in a very timely manner to give me this photo explaining his appreciation. The photo has hung in my office now for two years and will be there for many years to come.

RIP DECEMBER 8, 1980

OLD FRIENDS NEVER GROW OLD

I have been lucky to have many friends over the years, Friday night for two hours became a laugh fest with Mike Saporito of Tennessee & Rick Baker of Buckeye Lake (recently elected Village Mayor). Both are in the banking industry, Mike was in town for his father's funeral.

Mike & I shared a townhouse apartment owned by Mrs. Emerson Miller on W. Main Street for a while. When we vacated the townhouse, Mike moved into Rick's home on Mt. Vernon Road. I can not remember the last time the three of us were together. Our discussion was typical guy talk with a head shaking once in a while from Mike's lovely wife Vicki.

At the end of two hours, we had discussed family, careers, cars (Mike lost two park cars to DUI drivers on Mt. Vernon Rd in one year) , health, divorce (Mike & Rick), marriage (Mike & I), parents (felt special with the only surviving parent) , hunting, fishing, boating, golf (Mike), old girlfriends (no names), age (we are within three years), new girlfriends (Rick's), homes, politics (Rick's recent win), children (Rick had photos), seventy is not old, grandchildren (Mike's) and talked about other long time friends.

We initially met because of our membership 30 plus years ago in the Newark Area Jaycees. The Jaycees at that time was an avenue to volunteer to make Licking County a better place, learn skills to advance our careers and to socialize. Friday night's conversation was not any different than 30+ years ago, but at 9:15pm we decided it was time to go home instead of midnight as we would have years ago.

XMAS GIFT THAT COULD SAVE A LIFE OR TWO

Yesterday while in my car waiting for the light to change, I looked over and saw an amazing woman holding a tray of nachos, holding a cell phone to her ear and controlling the steering wheel with her knees. I immediately thought of the CAR SWIVEL TRAY by Harriet Carter.

Click here for a short gift giving video I saw on Cultural Offering this morning. I am not suggesting the video's actions for Holiday gift giving, but I am sure this fellow had his reasons as would many women.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY OZZY

"The idea of a band nowadays is five pretty boys, one with a tattoo, one with a shaved head, and on and on. I mean, I like Britney Spears, I think she's pretty, but I'm not from the Mickey Mouse Club - I'm from the Godzilla Club!"

Ozzy Osbourne

Sean Carpenter on Facebook mentioned today was Ozzy's Birthday, born in 1948.

I am not an Ozzy music fan, but The Osbournes was one of the few reality shows I liked to watch. Some times I feel like him sitting on my couch and trying to figure out "what is going on here". I think Ozzy and I have one characteristic in common, we try to keep everyone happy and try to make the day as entertaining as possible to keep us going.

Ozzy has been a tremendous business person outside of the music world, one of the wealthier persons with a value of approximately $183 million. I imagine Sharon has chased Ozzy around with a three iron several times, but it has never rattled Katie Couric chain to make the evening news.

PROBLEM CHILD, EVERYONE HAS ONE

No matter if it is your child or an employee, everyone has a Problem Child:

A Philadelphia (PA) Firefighter is now on administrative leave after allegedly setting fire to a ladder truck earlier this week. Yeah, a Firefighter, on duty, set a fire that caused their ladder truck to catch on fire, exposing him to potential career ending actions and possible criminal charges.

The incident occurred the morning of Dec. 1 when Firefighter Paul Prendergas (a $46,708-a-year firefighter with almost 3 years on the job) was "engaged in horseplay" as he lit paper and let it burn out inside a firehouse that houses Ladder 2. His boss, Lt. Alfonso Mesete told the Firefighter to stop playing with fire, but FF Prendergas again lit another piece of paper and threw it into the truck's engine compartment, setting fire to the motor compartment, ignoring his bosses orders.

The Philly Fire Commissioner, Lloyd Ayers, stated: "I can guarantee the proper discipline will be handed out. This is a very serious infraction," he added. "We don't take this lightly".
The Lt filed a report about the incident, which prompted the PFD Photo Unit to photograph the damage and a Fire Marshal to interview witnesses. FF Prendergas, who, according to the media, is known by PFD officials as a "problem child," and has faced other discipline in the past year prompting his transfer.

Take Care-BE CAREFUL.
BillyG
The Secret List 12-4-09 / 2252 Hours
https://webmail.cboki.com/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102868355820%26s=45410%26e=001OiGa0KMYZ1VzsBGNlGDzElSv-yDrbrIAggRQc0Tckib44u2CiuVGfPBH8zi9PeWKD9JvFD3mxtMBHCzG90Omg2PyeV88yP_rI8n3ahh9GTmOxUqoFP16DwFjKF_tc3AX_pAtfMkFZVo=

BLOGGING

I feel very lucky that people do not just read my blog postings, but do make comments to me personally when I see them.

Many ask wondering where I find the time. It has turned out to be an easy thing to do, sometimes I can postdate a new post when I have a certain thought and perhaps want to publish the post closer to Christmas etc. I do send my new blog post to Twitter, Twitter in turns sends a link to my new post to Facebook. Last month, I had 279 people view my blog via Facebook alone.

I have followed several other's blogs, reading and watching other's style, themes and how they really express themselves to many unknown viewers. I don't like to post Youtube videos, if you see one it generally means I could not figure out what to post.

There are so many things I would like to post: personal emotions, business problems or just
complain about someone's actions. This would be boring and get me no where, perhaps loose readership.

When it is all said and done, I just want to make it interesting. Click here for an attractive blog.

Tiger Woods-Just Do It

Met with a fellow today that knew Tiger Wood's father, Earl. He said two things Earl never interrupted Tiger with, his selection of a caddy and a wife. No matter what happened, I wish the media would drop it. Why?

CHEESEBURGER SOUP

If your family is tired of Thanksgiving turkey left overs, this may be the quick recipe to try for today or tomorrow.

I had a cup of Cheeseburger Soup this week, I just hope this recipe turns out to be as good for you.

Click here for the Original recipe.

Click here for different options.

Click here for Cheeseburger Soup making music.

I imagine Bubba Burgers would work.

EVERY ONE HAS A COUSIN EDDIE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Time's Fifty Best Inventions of 2009

THE FIFTY BEST INVENTIONS OF 2009

To your right you will find Invention #3, the ten million dollar light bulb. Read more here.

Review Time Magazine's top Fifty Invention list by clicking here.

Time's Five Worst Inventions of 2009, click here.

Make sure to check out the gas mask.

Very few of the items will be found in Harriet Carter's Christmas Catalog.

JUST A GIFT, NO HOLIDAY INVOLVED

The little things are what count, one "little thing" is giving a gift to someone when they are not expecting it. Almost everyone receives Christmas and Birthday gifts, but the unexpected is the best. This past week, Kurt Harden author of Cultural Offering sped into my office, gave me a Molskine Notebook and took off as quickly as he entered. Moleskine Notebooks have a legend of there own, Kurt has written about the notebooks several times.

I tried to pick up some tips on journal writing before I started my journal, click here for the tips I picked up. The journal started this past Friday after attending a rededication of a monument in honor of Dr. Burton, the first dark skinned physician to practice in Licking County, Ohio and at LMH.

The tips worked, it was a meaningful event to me and now I have it recorded. Don't know who will read it someday, but I know one thing for sure: the reader will know I am a terrible speller. Thank you, Kurt.

SUNDAY NIGHT MUSIC

TWO OPTIONS TO LISTEN

Patsy Cline

LeAnn Rimes

CHRISTMAS GIFT SUGGESTIONS

This gift suggestion is an item I use more than any other item in

kitchen. Several years ago while visiting my sister-in-law in Swainsboro, Georgia, I was introduced to the Microwave Plate Cover. Very simple to use, cover your plate with the plate cover and microwave away! No more blaming some one else in your household for spaghetti sauce splatter being all over the microwave's inside and it does heat all items at a faster pace.

Special use: take one large chocolate chip cookie, place in the bottom of a bowl, cover with the plate cover and heat for 1 minute, scoop ice cream on top of the cooking with melted chips.

More information for this product here.

Also: Microwave S'Mores maker.

OSU 1954 THROWBACK UNIFORM

The great combination of Nike and OSU Football are joining together for the big game of the year honoring the 1954 OSU National Championship Team.

Nike has developed a new cloth to manufacture a uniforms that is lighter, tighter, to wick moisture away, thus making everyone faster and wearing less clothing to grab hold while being tackled.

Read the article and watch the video here.

Go Bucks!!!!

DOPPIO ESPRESSO

#23. Italian coffee simply doesn’t need so much milk. Ditch the coffee-flavoured hot milkshake and try a doppio espresso. Wow. Told you Life would be better. And think of the calories and cash saved.

#27. Real Italian cafés are meant to have flickering fluorescent tubes


Click here to read more of Nicholas Bate's Breakthrough 52.

TWEETS FROM ATLANTIS

I just read an article about the launch of NASA's Atlantis traveling to the Space Station with supplies and extra bulky equipment.

Two of the Mission Specialist will be sending Tweets through the end of next week. If you have not, this may be the time to start your Twitter account.

Become a follower of: Astro_Flow also known as Leland Melvin (photo to left) and Dr. Robert Stacher a surgeon on Twitter as Astro_Bones.

Bartending at Firefighter's Ball-Newark, Ohio

Last night I spent almost six hours tending bar at the Firefighter's Ball sponsored by Firefighters Local 109. The dance was held at the Newark Elks in downtown Newark, Ohio

The photo shows my maternal Grandfather McCann's name on the wall of deceased Newark Elk members. One of my earliest childhood memories is sitting on the end of the bar while my grandfather stopped to have a drink with his pals. I think there was a slot machine also at the end of the bar next to my seat, something to lean against and take a nap.

The only other time I ever tend bar is along with Dave Hardy for the Licking County Chamber's Business After Hours which is mostly serving beer, wine coolers and soft drinks. When I arrived at the Elks last night, I find a full bar, I kind of thought this was weird since firefighters are beer drinkers. I did not think about the ladies. All of a sudden I am into making girly drinks, my mind spun when a lady would face the bar and ask "what do you have girly". I always responded with a suggestion of the raspberry vodka and sprite. A lot of blue tongues by the end of the evening.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: When ever a fellow purchased a beer, I would hand it to him and let him twist the cap off himself. When a lady ordered the beer, I would twist it off for her. The biggest compliment of the evening came from a young firefighter's (they are all young) wife serving her a beer with the cap removed,"thank you, my husband never does this for me".

XMAS GIFT TO USE AFTER THE HOLIDAYS

The perfect gift for your friends and family who do not make it a practice of wearing sweat paints all the time for comfort after eating too much during the Holidays.

Waist Extender (E4594)
Adds up to 5" to waist bands of jeans, pants, skirts. Here is a quick way to loosen clothing if you have added a few inches around the middle. Moisten your garment's waistband, insert the extender and adjust to desired size. When garment dries, it remains stretched until the next washing. No more costly tailoring. Can be repeated without harming clothing. Extends to fit garments with waist sizes 26" to 56".

For the couples who do not like to share you can purchase two for $18.50 at www.harrietcarter.com .

DISCLOSURE: This post does not mean to decrease the income of sweat pant manufacturers who over past years have clothed an entirely different market than joggers.

If size matters............

VETERANS DAY-DESERVING

HOME BUYER'S TAX INCENTIVE

BUBBA BURGERS FROM KROGER

Kurt Harden this past September wrote about his brother-in-law's recommendation of Bubba Burgers.

Last week Mrs. Guanciale purchased a box of Bubba Burgers at Kroger, usually she buys fresh meats etc. This surprised me because she was shopping on Kurt's recommedation.

This became one of the better hamburgers I have had outside of Lefty O'Douls in San Francisco. Just as the box states: place on the grill, do not turn over until the flame side is completely crisp, then flip. Everyone should run to Kroger and purchase a box for your grilling next weekend.

HEATH FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS

I was happy to wake up this morning to read the Heath Football Team won their first playoff game and look forward to seeing their progress over the next couple of weeks.

It is always great to see no matter what sport a Licking County team in OHSAA playoffs.

Of course as most know, I am a Newark Catholic fan and have been since high school. Heath has always been a competitive program. Heath has a strong following within the Heath community, they are gracious fans for their wins and courteous after their losses. Between the two schools they have been on the top and bottom often during the past years.

This past week, I had a Granville supporter which is not typical of the Granville Football program's fans, make some comments that were rude and elementary about the previous week's win. I was sorry to see Granville loose their first playoff game on Friday night.

I have been to many OHSAA semi-final and championship football games over the years. One thing you notice in the crowd are the Newark Catholic, Heath, Granville, Licking Valley Schools etc. represented throughout the crowd cheering for the local team. They are people like me: "wish my team was in the game", but there to support Licking County schools and their success.

PET CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

Alone on a Saturday night at home with your dog again? Head for the kitchen, then enjoy watching your dog eating a few home made treats.

Once again found at Harriet Carter.

Dog Treats Cookbook

The good treats cookbook for dogs is filled with recipes that will have your pooch howling with delight. Now you can make all-natural dog treats such as peanut butter “barkfast” bars, canine crudités with herbal dip or sweet “paw-tato” pie. There’s also a section on parties for dogs and their loving friends. Tails are sure to wag! Hardcover. 136 pages. $9.98

PRIDE, POWER & PINSTRIPES

I am a happy camper today, I woke up this morning and started off with a smile on my face because of the Yankees winning the World Series. During the grade school time of my life, the one sport everyone connected with was baseball and everyone wanted to be a Berra, Mantel or Maris. Everyone tried hard, I wanted to be Yogi Berra, #8 is still my lucky number.

I don't watch a lot of baseball on TV, but when I do see the Yankees on I am not watching the game, but makes me think back about the Little League days, the rear yard with out grass in the worn out base paths and all the other associated memories.

Being from Ohio, it was nice though to hear the Cleveland Indians mentioned so often during the six game World Series. Click here: Derek Jeter comments on Yogi Berra.

Health Care Reform

Daschle says: "health-care reform will not be pain free. Seniors should be more accepting of the conditions that come with age instead of treating them."

ANDREW'S NEW GARAGE UNDERWAY

A PLUG FOR FORD

During the past 12 years I have owned three Ford Explorers, all white, one with blue interior and two with tan interior. Tan is a great color for a car's interior. Does not show dust and shines up pretty well. The next set of floor mattes I purchase will be black, I think they will show less dirt and grime.

Yesterday I hit the magic 100,000 mile mark on my 2004 Explorer and I wondered why. I think it is because I have really liked this vehicle and that I try to take care of it with 3,000 mile oil changes etc.

By the way, the "E" stands for East, not empty. The 48 is my age, for those of you who can not see the little "f".

CHRISTMAS GIFT SUGGESTIONS

With Christmas less than 60 days away, it is time for suggestion on gifts for friends and family. If I was to win the big lottery, I would buy one of everything from Harriett Carter's catalog then just hand out all the items. All the catalog's items are pretty useful. Last year my recommendations came from "As Seen on TV", this year their new items are little disappointing and pretty far fetched.

My first item of this season "Handicap Placard Protectors". May seem really stupid, but not to grandparents and elderly neighbors.

The next time you are in parking lot, walk by and take a good look at how bent up most placards are hanging from the mirror. While you are walking by the handicap parking spots checking out placards and don't see one hanging, call the police.

WELL-EARNED WRINKLES, ROD STEWART

Rod Stewart: "It's always been a thorn in my side when they try to make you look 16. I'm very proud of my well-earned wrinkles, so show 'em."
CNN: You're 64.
Stewart: "Yes, it's great, isn't it! (Cracks up) Yes, 64 now."
CNN: You don't look 64 at all, and you don't act a day over 17.
Stewart: "Oh, behave yourself."

Click her to watch interview.

o

CHICAGO STYLE POLITICS???

LAST WEEK FOX NEWS, THIS WEEK U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. WHO IS NEXT?

IF YOU CAN NOT WORK WITH THEM, BAD MOUTH THEM.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH A VIDEO.

I COULD HAVE BEEN A PILOT

I am the first person to admit that I am a terrible driver. Very few accidents, cutting people off and traffic violations have come my way, but I know I am not a good driver so I try to pay more attention.

This past Tuesday, I was driving three passengers to The Fawcett Center at OSU. Traveling across Rt. 670 through Columbus to Rt. 315 I was in the wrong lane and ended up driving around the block in downtown Columbus to get back on 670. I knew where I was going, but conversation in the car made me forget one more time, I dropped off on 315 North bound when I should have been traveling south. Made some quick maneuvering around the the city streets and was back on the right direction and arrived at our destination no more than five minutes late.

My passengers did get to see the location of the Central Ohio Fire Museum on the first mistake and on the second see the corporate headquarter of Pilot Dog, Inc.

So, I can not see why the FAA is making such a big deal out of two pilots overshooting a metropolitan airport by 188 miles. I can not remember what the discussion was in my car when I over shot the exits on Tuesday, so I can believe it if the pilots say they can not remember.

By the way, my driving skills count up to at least one home sale a year. Clients will just buy a home so they don't have to ride around with me anymore.

SOUPY SALES DEAD AT 83

From his obituary: "Sales, who was typically clad in a black sweater and oversize bow-tie, was once suspended for a week after telling his legion of tiny listeners to empty their mothers' purse and mail him all the pieces of green paper bearing pictures of the presidents."

Thanks to Robin F. for the heads up on this piece of history to be remembered.

21 DAYS INTO THE GAME

Yesterday was an unusual October day, late this afternoon I was able to break the rule. The temperature reached 70 degrees and the socks came off. This may not happen again until April 1 of next year.



Within the first hour a friend noticed and commented on the temperature. It is unbelievable how people know you and you really do not know how well.



Read the attached post from one year and four days ago by clicking here and last month here.



Click here for a great posting about sorting socks.



Check the ad to your right, if this was the only sock available for men, we would be better off for the no sock option all year around.

Rep. Flake's Survivalist Vacation

This past week has been full of weird news, balloon boy & his family, Anna Smith drinking drugs from a baby bottle before her death, OSU loosing a game etc.

Congressman Flake's survival trip was a highlight of my on line reading this past weekend. Farm boy turned Congressman who had a retreat goal and accomplished his goal.

As you can see by the Mr. Flake's photo: "Rep. Aaron Schock (Ill.) currently holds the very unofficial title of "biggest hunk" in Congress. But Schock’s title could be in jeopardy after Americans view Flake's tanned and sculpted torso" as published by The Hill.

Read the short article here published by the The Hill.

If you want to read his diary click here published by the Washington Post. His diary is included in the The Hill article in a 33 page .pdf format.

Print the diary and keep it in the car to start reading when you are having lunch alone and want to pretend you are eating sand crabs.

BUBLE

Keeping Busy Unemployed

"When you're unemployed, days can stretch long and your talents can languish unless you find something worthwhile and engaging to fill some hours -- as well as those gaps in your résumé or holes in your skillset."

Vickie Elmer of the Washington Post

Excellent article from the Washington Post about what to do while you are unemployed and how to exercised your creative muscles and skills. This is great encouragement for many non-profit organizations needing help with certain professionals that often can not volunteer when they are gainfully employed.

Click here to read the article and to pass on to unemployed friends or family members. It may boast their attitude and help them find a new position soon.

Google Analytics, My Blog's stats

My blog's history for the past 30 days

779 visitors

1,042 pages viewed

Average 25.9 hits per day

Day high: 41

Returning Visitors: 522

New Visitors: 257

Languages: 17

Sources of visits

Direct 28.5%, Facebook 22.46%, Google 16.94%, Twitter 6.42%, Blogger 4.36%

I find this information very interesting from Google Analytics, I do not look at it very often and have a hard time understanding what I am reading. But it does indicate to me, there are some loyal followers, some new followers and a lot of people who do not know about my blog yet.

MARTHA J. WAGER'S AGE 39x2+1

Yesterday I brought up in a conversation with a good friend who mentions age once in a while about an obituary in the Newark Advocate.

Martha J. Wagers passed away earlier this week, initially I thought her age was a typo: 39x2+1. Immediately I felt sorry for the family of Martha, one of the most terrible things in the world for children is to read a typo or mistake in their parent's obituary. After further investigation on my part, she was born in 1930, making her 79 years old. (My father would say from Heaven "they could not even get that right")

Martha must have been a good person to have as a mother and friend. She worked at C-TEC as a G.E.D. assistant and was on the board for LEADS. I have no idea what a wall pocket is, but she had a large collection. But the most interesting thing about Martha is that evidently she had a great sense of humor, making sure people knew she was 39x2+1 years old.

I also imagine many of her past students could relate after her teaching math skills.

LMH URGENT CARE, PATASKALA

Over the weekend, I had a friend with a problem. Not serious enough to visit the Emergency Room of Licking Memorial Hospital, but in need of a physician's attention or guidance.

I am not a believer of one's doctor's office is the emergency department or the fire station. The saying at the fire station goes "I have a cold and need to see a doctor, I will call him. His telephone number is 911".

Since it was Saturday afternoon and the person's physician's office was not open, we visited the Pataskala's LMH's Urgent Care. I have heard so many good things about the facility and now a believer.

We waited about three minutes then was lead to an examination room, then interviewed by a nurse and the doctor came shortly next. The facility is staffed with ER doctors, their inventory of knowledge is amazing to me due to their "have seen it all" come through the door. There is a radiology department, so no trips to other facilities taking more time. The doctor was able to pull up on the computer a cat scan from two months ago for review of a prior problem, could read the prognosis from the previous physician and compare the details with Saturday's problem.

The only thing missing is the fine coffee served at LMH's cafeteria, but there is a Starbucks across the street. Starbucks was kind of an award afterwards.

No one should hesitate with a sniffle to a broken bone to visit the Pataskala Urgent Care of Licking Memorial Hospital.

THIS IS NOT TRICK OR TREAT

Every one has a hobby of some sort. Today a visit to Infirmary Park, one of Licking County's great parks, I toured a pre-1840 camp site full of
Re-enactors, shooting their long rifles, buck skinners, craftmens all in their period dress.

Target shooting included not just their black powder long rifles, but with bows & arrows and knife & hatchet throwing, I was amazed. Their costumes were great, there were a couple of peaceful Indians amongst the sutlers. Once in a while you would see a child running around in their leather trimmed outfits wearing tennis shoes.

Most arrived on Thursday night, staying in canvas tents of all sizes, some with indoor wood stoves. The past two days of rain it did not bother anyone. One of the ladies told me, the heater inside their tent dries the tent quickly and she hangs wet clothing high to dry faster. Most of the tents and diner flies to the front were fully furnished, very comfortable with period camp furniture.

Last night they served a community bean supper, tonight is the competition of Dutch Oven cooking. I wish I could visit during the evening, to see the campfires glowing as the women in their long dresses and bonnets compete. I am not one for roughing it, but if I had to, this is the way to go. I did not see any sad faces behind the long beards.

Click her for more about this weekend's event.

IF YOU ARE IN THE BUSINESS OF SELLING...

Sorry to have another Youtube video, this is a must to watch if you are in the business of selling.

CHANGE IS GOOD FOR SOME THINGS

As I have mentioned in previous blogs, when you become my age sometimes you should buy two of what you like. As an example my favorite navy blue sweater age ten, I should have bought three, one for my 50s, one for my 60s and the final one for my 70s &80s combined.

I can easily become upset about items I like becoming discontinued or becoming a newer and better model. I can never figure out when something works well, why it has to be improved to something that does not work as well. My Gillette Trac II razor is a fine example, lasted for a long time and the cartridges were easy to find. When you start searching for cartridges on Ebay, you know it is time for a change. The new razor's cartridge does not do half the job as the Trac II, but it looks sleek and young the way I want to look.

Above you find a photo of the new Olympus Tough 6000 digital camera. I walked into Best Buy to discuss my confusing camera needs the other day. "Need to take interior room photos, exterior home photos and in the rain photos of fires", the Best Buy Associate just stared at me. He pointed out quickly the Tough 6000, can be dropped ten feet without injury, has a built in shake regulator for slower shutter speeds or just in case you have the shakes from a good drunk the night before. Eight different ISO settings, twelve different scene settings and can be used ten feet under water without an additional accessory to make it water proof. Great camera and I look forward to using it for several years.

My point: Cameras are not like sweaters, trousers, car floor mats, shoes, eyeglasses (yes eye glasses) etc. where you should be purchasing a life time supply if you like the item. Cameras and cell phones will always be improving and will always be a better product than the last one owned.

Nine cameras from now when I am in my eighties , I will only want the "shake regulator", it will be tough with a cane in one hand shooting a photo with the other. You always should have a clear picture and a good navy blue sweater.

TEAM WORK & PRACTICE

SAMMY DAVIS WOULD HAVE LIKED THIS

Stolen from chatwiththechamber.blogspot.com

A STICH IN TIME, SAVES.................

As you can see tonight was the night to do some "mending" to the cuff of my favorite sweatshirt.

After a long winter of people making fun of my favorite sweater's elbow holes, I purchased suede patches. I am turning the job over to a pro, an industrial strength thimble is not sold at Meijers.

While mending the cuff tonight, I thought of my mother and her great seamstress skills. She would not agree with my surgical clamps and curved needle (with a larger than normal eye for threading) and doubled up thread. My wife can not sew and I always say, my next wife will, but I am sure she will not sew like my mother. Very seldom do you see a sewing machine in some one's home, but when I do I always make a comment on memories. I think often about the hours sitting in Jerry's Fabrics in downtown Newark and how we had to take the bus because she did not drive.

As you can tell in the photo, I will not be taking over LMH's Dr. Jeffries' reconstructive and cosmetic surgery responsibilities (please note my surgical clamp & needle).

Instead of people whispering "she had cosmetic surgery", the whisper would be "Guanciale must have done the surgery, see the ugly scar".

For more information on basic sewing skills, check out Bob Vila's directions here. Yes, Bob Vila can sew.

RIP 4/1/09--10/1/09

Time to open up the sock drawer except for an odd Winter holiday here and there. A couple of strong points to remember this past Spring, Summer and beginning of Fall"

“It’s the new male cleavage,” said Thom Browne, the men’s wear designer

and a professed ankle exhibitionist.

“You can’t believe the snickers and comments I get because

I’m not wearing socks. It sends people into a tailspin.”

"I am wearing no socks and matching underwear"

From the Phoenix Real Estate Insider's

"Top Ten Reasons Why Guys Don't Wear Socks"

10. My dog chewed them up

9. The washer shredded them to pieces

8. They make my feet sweat.

7. My shoes are too small to wear socks.

6. I am just too cool to wear socks.

5. My fiance likes me au natureal

4. It's casual Friday, every day.

3. Socks just get wet in the rain.

2. I can't run fast with socks

1. I left them at her house last night

YOU ALWAYS HAVE TO ASK FOR THE SALE

OFF THE CUFF

One of the few blogs I follow on a regular basis is Chris Hogan's Off the Cuff .

One of Chris's post was just featured in the Washingtonian Magazine, check it out by clicking here.

NOT MY TWITTER

WOKE UP THIS MORNING AND CHECKED MY BLOG. TWITTER IS SET UP TO SEND THE MOST TWO RECENT TWITTER MESSAGES TO MY BLOG.

THIS MORNING THERE WAS A WHOLE LIST OF MESSAGES NOT FROM ME, WITH LANGUAGE THAT WAS UNDESIRABLE FOR A FAMILY BASED BLOG (?).

SORRY

ITALIAN PLASTICHIC WATCHES

While on a recent trip, I found this light weight, no sparkling jewelled watch. Purchased in a glass tube, it has been a lot of fun to wear and a great conversation piece.

Plastichic, the ultra stylish Italian lightweight silicon watch is now available in the United States through exclusive retailers. Tubular and ergonomically shaped with a flat back and anti-perspiration slits on the sides, Plastichic (The Original) has presented an unconventional use of Tourmaline® that can be worn comfortably to emphasize any personal style. Fashionable, colorful, practical and functional, the anti-sweat and water resistant Plastichic watch is the “timepiece cult of the moment”, as seen on celebrities David Beckham, Lindsay Lohan and Kristin Dunst. The aquamarine, turquoise, coral, green and orange, plus the 2009 shades of purple, pink, army green, acid green and fuchsia are just some of the colors that join the basic white and black. The timepiece is available in 19 different colors.

Urine or You're Out

I received the following comment from a friend, I believe this is a frustration for everyone paying taxes.

THE JOB - URINE TEST (Whoever wrote this one deserves a HUGE pat on the back!)

Like most folks in this country, I have a job. I work, they pay me. I pay my taxes and the government distributes my taxes as it sees fit. In order to get that paycheck in my case, I am required to pass a random urine test (with which I have no problem). What I do have a problem with is the distribution of my taxes to people who don't have to pass a urine test. So, here is my Question: Shouldn't one have to pass a urine test to get a welfare check because I have to pass one to earn it for them? Please understand, I have no problem with helping people get back on their feet. I do, on the other hand, have a problem with helping someone sitting on their ______- doing drugs, while I work. . . Can you imagine how much money each state would save if people had to pass a urine test to get a public assistance check?

I guess we could title that program, 'Urine or You're Out'.
Pass this along if you agree or simply delete if you don't. Hope you all will pass it along, though. Something has to change in this country -- and soon!!!!!!!

Thank you to Dave L.