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Encouraging Discussion And Discourse

This was supposed to be a big, long essay. However, I find that sometimes, simplicity is the name of the game.

"Anywho..."

...here's a novel concept for you to consider; a new idea is much like a plant. You see, in order for a plant to grow, it must first be rooted in fertile soil. So too must a worthy idea take root in the human mind.

To this, I believe that open and honest discussion is vital to the interests of quality education, not to mention a functioning society.

Nevertheless, and all too often, trying to talk about the important issues in Fairfield's educational system is an exercise in futility. Those in supervisory roles don't want to have frank discussions pertaining to relative concerns; at least, they seem quite unwilling to do so. 

I personally know that any attempt to speak with school officials results in one getting the run-around, or even the silent treatment.

Yet the arrival of new leadership in Town Hall represents a chance for beneficial changes, and a new, open approach to civil discussion (at least on educational issues).

It is my personal hope that this opportunity will not be taken for granted by educational officials at our schools. Let's make it a point to work with each other, not against one another.

Mixed Emotions

For those of you that may have missed it, Fairfield has a new First Selectman. Democrat Bill Gerber was sworn into office last night, having defeated incumbent Republican Brenda Kupchick by just thirty-seven votes (1). 

I suppose the Democrats are hailing this as a major victory, as well they should. To this, I find myself feeling quite conflicted. 

On the one hand, I am very sorry that I couldn't do anything to help the Republicans. I am acutely aware that my volunteer efforts could have swung some votes to their candidates' favor, and made a difference in that respect.

Nevertheless, on that subject, respect is what my inactivity was all about. 

Personally speaking, the climate that top party officials fostered this year was abundant with disrespect, as well as a general "we can't do anything" attitude. This made the donation of my time and efforts impossible; at least, that's the way I see it.

In any event, and at the risk of sounding "holier-than-thou", I think there's a valuable lesson to be learned from what has just occurred. It is this: sometimes, it's wise to consider the possible repercussions of one's actions or inactions.

Experience has taught me that everything you do comes back to you, whether for good or bad. It's karma; "you reap what you sow". If you treat people with disregard and disrespect, don't be surprised if they want nothing to do with you.

Now, I don't claim to be the world's wisest man; I'm not a guru or a sage. And I would've preferred not to be the teacher, so to speak, of this lesson. 

Notwithstanding this, life's nature is that on occasion, we all have to do things that we don't really want to do. I guess this was one of these non-preferable occasions.

That said, let me address another issue, prefacing it by saying that I apologize if my assessment is incorrect.

This is just an observation, but could it be that I'm getting a little behind-the-back trash talk from personal friends within the town Republicans? As of late, they have been giving me the silent treatment, or so it seems. I understand this, but being as respect is the name of the game, perhaps they should reconsider their attitude.

My final thoughts on this year's races are, again, filled with mixed emotions. 

Obviously, a changing of the guard has taken place in Fairfield. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I see this moment as a sort of refresh; a chance to hit the reset button. Perhaps the incoming administration will bring with it a new willingness for dialogue, and a show of mutual respect; that is my hope.

Yet, even with these hopeful feelings, I must quote David Byrne and the Talking Heads:

"...and you may say to yourself, 'my God, what have I done?" (2)

Controversy In College Football: My Opinion

The latest news in the wild world of sports comes out of the state of Michigan, where the University of Michigan's football team has been accused of cheating. 

An official investigation into this matter is now underway, seemingly prompted by the University of Central Michigan. Their own football team claims that earlier this season, a man resembling former Michigan assistant Connor Stalions was on their sidelines (assumedly engaged in scouting operations, and in violation of NCAA rules) (1).

For their part, the Big Ten Conference has come down hard on the Wolverines, suspending coach Jim Harbaugh (due to "ample evidence" against the program). Nevertheless, even with this suspension, some say the NCAA has not gone far enough (2). 

On Monday morning, the crew from the ESPN show "Get Up" tackled the situation, and the question of whether Michigan should be allowed to participate in the College Football Playoff. 

My take on the subject is contrary to the opinion of reporter Stephen A. Smith, who said this:

"This is about the fact that (Michigan) allegedly...according to the Big Ten...acquired an unfair advantage. Why are you being allowed in if it comes down to that?" (3)

First off, let's understand the key word in the phrase, which is "allegedly". It is alleged, perhaps reasonably, that cheating and violations have taken place. 

Nevertheless, these are allegations, not conclusively proven actions. 

Appearances can be deceiving, and just because someone bought tickets to a lot of games, that in itself isn't enough to substantiate certain charges. The presumption of "innocent until proven guilty" applies here, as it indeed should. 

On a second point, Smith makes the point that, if Michigan is allowed to play, other teams will "miss out" on opportunities:

"What about the kids at Texas? What about the kids at Alabama? Somebody is going to miss out, in favor of those kids that play at Michigan".

In case Mr. Smith didn't notice, Michigan is 10-0; the Wolverines are unquestionably one of the top teams in major college football. As such, they should have a chance to play for a championship; this shouldn't be denied on the basis of as of yet unproven claims (4). 

I don't think this idea is too complicated, or difficult to understand. Winners get championship opportunities; others don't.

And until the case against Michigan is definitively proven, the Wolverines should get their title shot. 

Israel, War, And "Resistance"

Recently, we have seen the Middle East once again ignite with the fires of war, as the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas launched an unprovoked invasion of Israel (1).    

Let's make one thing abundantly clear; it sickens me to see and hear reports of beheadings, murder, and the outright slaughter of innocent Israelis. War is hell (or so they say), and anyone worth his or her salt should be disgusted by it. 

Even so, the horrific actions of Hamas take evil to another level. 

Hamas' sympathizers, of which there are many, try to justify this hell by calling it "resistance, by any means necessary".  However, they completely miss the mark; what Hamas and their allies have been doing is not "resistance".  Rather, it is genocide.

Allow me to further explain this for those who may not be aware. 

Those supporting Hamas need to understand that their so-called "resistance forces" are brazenly (see definitions) committing war crimes, with no regard for human lives other than that of Arabs. Unfortunately, this is nothing new; it has been going on for over seventy-five years (2). 

Although there have been lulls in this conflict, most notably during the 1990s, it has become evident that Palestinians have no interest in peace. Instead, they seek the total destruction of Israel, and the eventual establishment of a homeland for Arabs and only Arabs (as opposed to a homeland for both Jews and Arabs). 

Most observers have realized that in this regard, the Palestinians would someday launch a decapitation-style attack (see definitions), meant to "wipe (Israel) off the face of the earth". The one thing that remained unpredictable was on what day they would ultimately make their move. 

We now know that day to have been October 7, 2023. 

As for the charge of genocide, the Oxford Language Dictionary defines the term as follows:

"The deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular nation, with the aim of destroying that nation or group" (3). 

The Nazis committed acts of genocide.  Hamas is committing acts of genocide. 

There are some people who, faced with the spectre of unspeakable horror, would rather be silent than speak to condemn it. I have never been one of these people; I believe that silence in such a case is equal to approval of the evil occurring. 

So when it comes to the current conflict, I totally and unequivocally (see definitions) stand with the State of Israel. 

And what of this idea of peace?

We'd all like to see a lasting peace; at least those of us worthy of mention would.  Be that as it may, I must refer to two quotes by Golda Meir, the former Prime Minister of Israel. 

First, "you cannot negotiate peace with someone who has come to kill you". Like most things, peace is a two-way street. If the other side is not interested in pursuing it, peace cannot and will not be had (4). 

Second, "peace will come when the Arabs love their children more than they hate us" (5).

Far be it for me to suggest that the Palestinians do not love their children. However, perhaps they do not love their children quite enough. If they did, they likely would not strap explosives to the bodies of their kids, and frequently use them as suicide bombers, which is an exercise in futility (see definitions) in any case.

And tell me, other than possible religious martyrdom, what is gained by the intentional destruction of a human life? That is a question that both Arabs and Jews must ponder, and answer for themselves. 

I pray that such an answer will someday bring peace.

Primary Questions

Last month, the official results from the Bridgeport Mayoral Primary showed incumbent Democrat Joe Ganim defeating fellow Democrat John Gomes, albeit (see definitions) by a very small margin (1).     

Now, based on allegations of ballot stuffing and other fraud, Gomes is contesting that result in state Superior Court. He asks that the Court either declare himself to be the victor, or order that a new vote be held (2).  

For the purposes of fostering understanding of both sides of a debate, as well as intelligent conversation, let me attempt to break down the arguments of the defense (town clerk Charles Clemons, et al).  

As in other legal analyses, I preface this by saying that I'm not a lawyer, nor do I have any sort of a degree in law.  This interpretation is simply my personal opinion on the matter.

The first argument put forward by defense lawyers is that the plaintiff has not stated "a claim upon which relief may be granted". In layman's terms, they are saying that even if everything claimed by the plaintiff is true, the Court would not be justified to grant the relief sought (3, 4). 

To this, I suspect that the reasoning given will be something having to do with the "will of the voters". For example; "the people have spoken, and the Court cannot overrule them"

The Clemons-Ganim team is partially correct; the voters have indeed had their say. Nevertheless, the issue now turns on what exactly the people said.  If it is proven that they decided contrary to what the administration says they did, the Court should affirm this; it is their duty and responsibility to do so.

A second contention offered has to do with the doctrine of "unclean hands". To summarize, this argument states that because a plaintiff has acted unethically, that plaintiff is not entitled to the remedy that they seek (5). 

In making this claim, the defense cites video footage that apparently shows Gomes supporters casting votes (by dropbox) for persons other than themselves. 

To be clear, the claim of fraud rests on evidence of the Ganim team doing the same, only in much greater numbers. In either case, these are illegal actions, and according to the defense, demonstrative that the Gomes campaign has acted unethically. 

In response, lawyers for Mr. Gomes seem to be questioning the significancy of that argument. The relevant matter, they say, is not whether supporters strictly adhered (see definitions) to all laws, but if the result of the primary "is seriously in doubt" (6).

On this, Gomes' representation makes a good point; the ethics or claimed lack thereof of his supporters is not the main issue of the day. However, this remains as a secondary issue. There is a "pot calling the kettle black" argument to be made here, one that could be decided in favor of the defense.  

Having taken a look at the legal arguments being discussed, allow me to provide a brief update on proceedings. As of 5:34 PM on October 19, the Connecticut Mirror reports that the defense has rested its case, doing so without calling additional witnesses (7). 

The case now moves to consideration of the Honorable William Clark, who is expected to issue a ruling within the next two to three weeks. His decision, whatever it may be, will likely have far-reaching consequences on the future of elections in the State of Connecticut.  

We will see on which side the Court will stand.  

What Was That Again?

In the history of presidential elections, multiple candidates have had "oops" moments. 2004 saw the "scream of the century" (audio link) doom Howard Dean's campaign; Hillary Clinton's 2016 "basket of deplorables" comment didn't work out much better (1, 2). 

Now, enter stage right Florida governor Ron DeSantis, who recently had this to say about supporters of Donald Trump:

"If all we are is listless vessels (that are) just supposed to follow whatever happens to come down the pike on Truth Social every morning, that's not going to be a durable movement" (3).  

I find this to be an ill-advised remark, and one that I must respond to (4).

According to Merriam-Webster, "listless" means someone or something that is "characterized by lack of interest, energy, or spirit". Thus, Mr. Governor, you imply that Trump backers have no heart. 

As far as this comment applies to me personally, you couldn't be more wrong.  

You see, unlike some others, I have the nerve to stand up for my rights, and what I believe to be right. I've never had any problem telling those in charge what I think (as evidenced by this article). 

And when it comes to political issues, I prefer principles over party positions. 

On another note, I think it should be mentioned that I have worked very hard for Republican candidates in my home state of Connecticut. 

Whether it has been phone banks, writing letters to newspaper editors, or simply the general discussion of state-wide politics, I have "been there and done that" (see note). And even through a long string of losses, I have kept the faith, in what is now a deep blue state.  

Mr. Governor, I'm someone who doesn't back down or easily give up, even when the odds are against him.  I guess you could say I have a "fighting spirit" of sorts, which flies in the face of your derogatory (see definition) comments. No, I'm not a "listless vessel"; far from it. 

Now, I can't claim to be an expert on campaign strategy. Yet in closing this article, and with all due respect, I offer you a tip.

The next time you go out on the trail, perhaps it would be wise to give a bit more thought to what you're saying. This way, you'll be less likely to have "Howard Dean moments".

And we all know how that worked out (5).

Clapping Back (Or, "A Word or Two About Howard Stern")

It looks like Mr. "King of All Media" himself, that paragon (see definitions) of paragons known as Howard Stern, is running his mouth again. 

This past Monday, the broadcasting personality bragged about being "woke", saying, 

"I am woke, motherf-----, and I love it. I want to be awake. I’m not for stupidity, you know. I went over (to CVS Pharmacy) at nine AM and got myself that new vaccine for Covid. Fu----- science. This fu---- country is so great" (1).   

I find this to be an interesting comment, seeing as it's coming from a man who's been pushing filth toward the "lowest common denominator" for years. Let's take a brief look at his life and career. 

Howard Stern was born to a family of Jewish immigrants on January 12, 1954. Becoming interested in radio and radio shows from a very young age, he developed his own entertainment at the age of nine, using marionettes to perform "explicit" shows for friends (2). 

After high school, Stern enrolled at Boston University.  While there, he hosted comedy shows on the college's radio station, one of which was suspended for a time due to the airing of a racially-charged skit. 

Upon graduation from BU in 1976, Stern promptly hit the professional media market, landing a job at Hartford's WCCC. About a year later, he left for "greener" pastures, quitting the station after being denied a raise. 

Stern's next stops were in Detroit and Washington, after which he would land on New York's WNBC-AM working afternoons. Within a month of starting in "the Big Apple", Stern would again find himself suspended, this time for airing an off-color skit about the Virgin Mary.

In September of 1985, station management decided they had heard enough, and fired Stern for what they called "conceptual differences" regarding the content of his show (3).

Stern would not be unemployed for long, as in October of that same year, then-rival New York station WXRK picked him up for mornings. 

As at WNBC, his show was filled with indecent material, including the promotion of pornography and prostitution. The broadcast ended in 2005, as Stern moved the show to satellite radio.  

Here are a few choice quotes from "the man who would be king":

(sound effects of gunfire) 

"This music does absolutely nothing for me. Spanish people have the worst taste in music. They have no depth"  - April 3, 1995; three days after the shooting death of Hispanic musician Selena

"Did (the shooters) try to have sex with any of the good looking girls?" - April 20, 1999; a day after the Columbine High School Massacre (4)

"When are we going to stop putting up with the idiots in this country and just say it’s mandatory to get vaccinated? F— them. F— their freedom" - September 6, 2021 (5)

Add to this incidents such as what occurred in October of 2001, when Stern showed up at the 9/11 memorial "The Concert For New York City" dressed in a...shall we say, quite exposing...hazmat outfit. 

Very funny, Howard.  You're a regular riot; "eat any good books lately" ? (6) 

Anywho, on a personal note to Mr. Stern, I say this. 

I've never liked you, except for the brief time when you actually tried to be a decent person (9/11). In that case, perhaps I'm a bit biased. Nevertheless, I find you to be a purveyor (see definitions) of obscenity, profanity, and overall smut that frankly has no place on the airwaves. 

You can go ahead and celebrate "wokeness" all you want; I don't have too much of a problem with that. 

Just keep in mind that your crowd consists mostly of assholes.  Apparently, that includes you. 

High School Survival Guide

"And now for something completely different"; namely, a post from Yours Truly that doesn't have to do with politics or wrestling! (1) 

Cue Joey Styles (2):

With the end of summer comes the renewal of a time-honored tradition; the resumption of classes at Fairfield Warde High School.  

The Warde campus can be a confusing place for newcomers. I know this first-hand, as I was a student there from 1997 to 2000 (at the time, the building was called Fairfield High School).  

As such, and for the benefit of the latest herd of Mustangs, I'd like to share a few tips from my experiences at the school. If you will, you may call this a "survival guide" of sorts.  

First, know the lay of the land, and where things are in the building.  

Trust me when I tell you that nobody likes it when someone shows up late for class, students included. You can avoid this "pain in the neck" scenario by knowing where key classrooms are, as well as the library and lecture hall.  

Also, seeing that the campus is quite large, allow yourself time to get from one side of it to the other.

Second, know what is and is not considered acceptable, clothing-wise. 

For example, wearing a shirt that depicts the usage of drugs or alcohol will meet with a stern reprimand (and likely, an order to "turn it inside out"). This also goes for product endorsements of the like, such as apparel which features the Budweiser logo.  

Third, be on time for class. 

As I previously mentioned, teachers hate it when you show up after the bell rings. If there was ever a good way to earn a trip to the house office and/or detention, this is it!

Next, don't wander around in the halls, even if you don't have a class at the present time. When I was a student, juniors and seniors could leave campus after their last class. I am uncertain whether this privilege is still granted. 

In any case, during the school day, you need to be somewhere and doing something at all times. Not doing so will get you asked "where are you supposed to be?", along with a decent tongue-lashing.

Fourth, know about the "five-minute rule". 

 

This is an unwritten rule that stipulates the following; in the event that a teacher is at least five minutes late for class, and there is no substitute teacher available, students in such class may take the period off.

 

Note that again, I refer to my own high school experience; this guideline may no longer apply.  

Now, some advice for incoming freshmen; watch your back, especially on Fridays!

Often, you'll run into people who do things like intentionally cause you to drop your books, or try to bully you in various ways. That's not to say that all students are like this; some of them can be very kind and helpful. 

Nevertheless, until you get your footing, you'll find that somebody always wants to start something. The trick is to stand up for yourself; that way, you'll find it less likely that others will mess with you.

As for Fridays, "if you know, you know"!  

Finally, enjoy this time to the fullest. 

They say that time waits for no one; indeed, all good things must someday come to an end. So it is with youth; before you know it, you'll be forty-something, and wondering where all that time went.  

Accordingly, take in the entire experience; the football games, the pep rallies, the homecoming dances, everything. Soon enough, it will be nothing but a memory.

And in a closing note, remember these words:

"And this above all, to thine own self be true" (3).

A Familiar Pattern (Or, "Method To The Madness")

For those that haven't kept up with recent sports events, allow me to explain the latest news out of Major League Baseball. 

On June 21, the Oakland Athletics officially announced their intent to move to Las Vegas, and begin play at a new stadium no sooner than 2025. If the club's application for relocation is approved, this will end a rich history of baseball in Oakland, one that dates back to at least 1968 (1).

Frankly speaking, this franchise relocation game has been played before. We saw it happen in 2004, as the Montreal Expos became the Washington Nationals. The original Cleveland Browns of the NFL high-tailed it to Baltimore in 1996. And in the NHL, the Hartford Whalers moved to North Carolina just a year after Art Modell left Cleveland without a pro football team (2, 3, 4). 

That being said, there seems to be somewhat of a method to the madness, so to speak. What we're seeing with the A's follows the same pattern as the other three cited cases. 

First, the franchise is totally gutted of star players and assets. The Expos, for example, traded players such as John Wetteland and Marquis Grissom for practically nothing in return. In Oakland's case, key talents like Starling Marte and Mike Fiers have been allowed to depart via free agency or trades. 

Second, the owner of the team talks negatively about the club, saying that it cannot operate under present circumstances. The narrative usually goes something like this: "a new stadium is necessary for us to be able to compete on a championship level". For the A's, the line delivered by owner John Fisher has been "future success...depends on a new ballpark" (5).   

The third step in the process is to reject all reasonable offers for a new stadium in the current market, and subsequently announce that negotiations have failed. 

In the case of the Whalers, owner Peter Karmanos was offered a brand new arena (to the tune of one hundred forty-seven point five million dollars) by the State of Connecticut. This proposal was turned down, with Karmanos demanding an additional forty-five million dollars "to cover losses". We have seen the same thing happen in Oakland; multiple different stadium options have been offered to the A's, ownership rejecting each one. 

Step four involves the formal announcement of the team's departure. The front office will profess to have done everything possible to remain in the current market; in reality, nothing is further from the truth. 

For Cleveland, this took the form of Art Modell ruling out any reconsideration of a move. Modell publicly stated that there was no way to keep the Browns from relocating;

"The bridge is down, burned, disappeared; there's not even a canoe there". 

Fifth, parties not involved in direct ownership of the franchise look for relief. They ask the sports league in question to block relocation efforts, but their pleas fall on deaf ears, as they did with the Expos. 

In the A's case, fans have been chanting "sell the team" for months on end. This chorus has moved beyond Oakland, and is now beginning to surface in other MLB cities. Yet to this point, the Fisher-Dave Kaval partnership that runs the team has maintained radio silence in response. 

Now we arrive at the endgame; the ninth inning; the final step in the relocation saga. All efforts to save the franchise having failed, the team opens its new (and frequently taxpayer funded) stadium to much fanfare and hoopla. 

The Nationals win the World Series; the Carolina Hurricanes win the Stanley Cup, and the Baltimore Ravens win the Super Bowl. Yet in the wake of success, communities are abandoned, dreams destroyed, and legacies made to be nothing but memories. This is the road that the Athletics are traveling. 

There are those that say the A's move to Vegas is inevitable, and simply should be accepted by Oakland's fans. These critics likely have never had to experience actually losing a major professional team. I have first-hand knowledge of the feelings involved; the end of the Whalers saddened me, as Peter Karmanos broke my heart. Try as I might, I can never forgive him for that.

And now, talk of relocation is spreading, as the Milwaukee Brewers are rumored to be exploring options for a move. There should be no doubt; if this can happen in Oakland and Milwaukee, it can happen in any other MLB market as well. 

Your team may be next; that's as good of a reason as any to say...

...SELL THE TEAM!!!

Travelogue: Lake George, Part 3

Waking up this morning in Lake George was a bit of an adventure.  Apparently, I had a nightmare during my sleep.  That'll teach me not to eat pizza as a midnight snack before bed!

After freshening up a bit, my brother and I headed down Canada Street to find some breakfast.  We pulled into an interesting looking place called "Biscotti Brothers"; a coffeehouse that also served traditional morning fare.  I couldn't get enough of their blueberry pancakes, which I washed down with two glasses of orange juice.  For his part, my brother quickly disassembled a cheese omelet.  

The weather in the area this week has been rather warm, but perfect for a dip into Lake George proper.  So of course, myself and my brother had to hit the beach.  It wasn't long before both of us were in the water.  

Speaking of the waters of Lake George, they are the cleanest, purest, and most crystal clear waters that I have ever been in.  I found myself saying a silent prayer of thanksgiving; "may these waters be clean and pure for generations to come".  

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end.  So too must this vacation; tonight is my final night in Lake George.  The trip did not disappoint in any way; I must say that I have thoroughly enjoyed myself.  

They are wondrous and beautiful things to behold, these shores.  As expected, the Adirondacks have been a little bit of heaven on earth.  The mountain air and the cool temperature of the lake refreshed not only my body, but my mind and spirit.  

And that's really what making this trip was all about. 

Travelogue: Lake George, Part 2

A little before three this afternoon, my brother and I pulled up to a small motel called "The Heritage".  It is here that we will be staying for the next two days.  The establishment is right on the main strip, a long road named Canada Street.  

As we got situated and settled, I promptly tried out the bed in my section of our cabin.  I found it to be comfortable; not too soft, but not too firm either.  A bed such as this is more than suitable for reading, listening to music, or simply "crashing".  

It's been a hot day in Lake George; a quick glance at area weather shows that the temperature reached upwards of ninety degrees Fahrenheit (nearby Canada uses the Celsius scale and metric system; we don't).  

Nevertheless, the street outside of the motel beckoned me.  I had to go see what it could offer.  

For the hungry adventurer, there are many places on Canada Street where they may satisfy their appetite.  One of these happens to be a restaurant called "Giuseppe's".  Knowing from past experiences that it is a go-to spot for Italian cuisine, my brother and myself decided to have an early dinner there.  

The indoor patio of Giuseppe's proved a welcome respite from the summer heat.  Years ago, the restaurant had a second deck upstairs, overlooking the lake.  Apparently, this is no longer the case, likely due in part to the presence of a large hotel that had been built next door. 

As for the food, it was delicious; just as I had remembered it.  My brother dined on a Southwestern Burger, along with - broccoli?! - on the side.  I chose to order - well, what else? - a Sicilian pizza, which I happily munched on forthwith.  

After paying the tab at Giuseppe's, we walked a short distance to another of my favorite attractions; Playland Arcade. The place is packed with fun and games, including a photo booth, various ticket-based machines, and a shooting gallery (you heard that right; actual guns, or at least reasonable imitations).  

I must've been doing something right, because I managed to win over seven hundred tickets through numerous games.  Even so, that wasn't quite enough to land me one of the big prizes exhibited behind the redemption counter.  I'll save my tickets, and head back to the arcade tomorrow.  

Exiting the arcade, my brother and I chose to make our last stop at a place aptly named "Scoop's Ice Cream Parlor".  

(I say "aptly named" because my brother frequently answers to the nickname of "Scoop") 

The eatery has a long history in Lake George.  It began as a soda fountain in the early 1970s, under a different name (at the moment, I cannot recall what that name was).  The last time that I was in the area, the shop featured its own candy for sale, which you could watch being made by hand before your eyes.  It no longer appears that this part of the parlor exists, but you can still sit at the counter, and enjoy an ice cream or refreshing milkshake.  

So far, my brother and I have enjoyed this welcome trip.  Our first day in Lake George featured great food, fun games, and even a short jaunt to a most memorable ice cream parlor.  Not too bad for the first time in twenty years, I'd say.  

Tomorrow, we will venture off to the lake proper, as well as get in a game or two of mini-golf.  

But first, sleep.  

Travelogue: Lake George, Part 1

From southern Connecticut, there are two main routes up to the Adirondacks region.  One is to take the Taconic State Parkway starting in White Plains, and follow it to the Interstate 87 Northway.  The other method is to use Connecticut's Route 8, eventually merging onto the interstate around Albany.  

Earlier today, my brother and I took the latter route to the Lake George NY area, passing through various towns in northwestern Connecticut and western Massachusetts as we did.  I must tell you that the journey north was smooth, and quite uneventful for the majority of the drive.  There is something about traversing secondary roads that gives you a quaint, down-home feeling.  

Presently, our car approached the Albany area, which forced us to get off the back roads and onto interstate highways.  We came upon towns with names such as Watervilet, Cohoes, Malta, and Gansevoort.  A little further up the road, a sign notified us that the Village of Lake George was just three miles away.  

Then, I saw it; a sight that I had been waiting twenty years to see, ever since my last trip to the region.  This, of course, was the beautiful body of water known as Lake George; the "Queen of American Lakes".  

Seldom have I felt as fulfilled as I did at the moment that I entered Lake George Village.  The community has a special meaning with me, for it is a place where I spent many summers with my late father.  It is like a flashback to childhood, and to simpler times far from the worries of the world.  

I feel as if the Adirondacks are welcoming me back to a place I have always loved, and where my soul feels the most free.  

Thank you for that, Lake George.  It's been too long.

The Problem with AEW

Let's turn back the clock a bit, and examine last year's version of All Elite Wrestling's "All Out".  

  

The post-event "Press Conference From Hell" clearly proved that the show had been well named, as wrestler CM Punk made various off-color remarks concerning the creative direction of the promotion.  These comments resulted in a backstage fight, the fallout from which threatened the long-term stability of AEW (1).  

For instigating this melee, Punk was taken off all company programming for almost eight months.  He also found himself stripped of the AEW World Championship, a title that he had claimed in the main event of the "All Out" show.  

Not long ago, the wrestler came back to AEW television, making his return appearance on the June seventeenth debut edition of "AEW Collision".  

However, it has become obvious that since Punk's return, devoted fans of the promotion haven't been too happy with the AEW product.  Although the scheduled "All In" event in London has been selling like hot cakes, US-based sales have been sagging as of late.  I point to CM Punk's personality and attitude as the primary reason for this (2).

A recent AEW-ROH show in Las Vegas (3).

Yes, the embattled Punk was once a revolutionary figure, and a man who changed "the game" in more ways than one.  Nevertheless, somewhere along the line, the wrestler developed an ego.  He started to not only hype himself up, but believe his own hype.  

We have seen what happens when someone begins to think that they are bigger than the company which they work for.  We have seen this in the fall of WCW (World Championship Wrestling), and the irrelevancy of Impact Wrestling.  

In both cases, one or more wrestlers saw themselves as God's gift to the entire industry.  That frame of mind is great for promos, but not so much in the public eye; fans don't necessarily appreciate it. 

Yet this seems to be the attitude that Punk now espouses (see definition).   

  

Speaking frankly, I have recently realized the meaning behind previous comments made about CM Punk by Kevin Nash and Eddie Kingston.  

During an in-ring speech made in 2011, Nash referred to Punk as a "cancer".  And as part of the run-up to 2021's "Full Gear", Kingston said this to his adversary (4, 5, 6):

"Nobody wants you here...do me a favor, quit again and leave for seven years, and don't come back".

Both comments were on the money.  It's readily apparent to this observer that Punk has become a problem.  His actions jeopardized not only the jobs and careers of other wrestlers, but the very existence of All Elite Wrestling.  The fans obviously don't like this, but for a company that claims to listen to its fans, AEW has been quite tone-deaf.    

That said, I think that CM Punk needs to put his ego aside for just a moment.  He must look into the camera, and offer an in-ring public apology for his careless actions.     

If the wrestler will not do this, then he clearly is a liability to the promotion.  Accordingly, it would be wise for AEW management to fire Punk, telling him never to return.  

On a final note to the staff of All Elite Wrestling, I say this; you have provided the best and most welcome competition to WWE in some time.  Don't throw it away, or screw it up!

"Fish, Or Cut Bait"

It seems to me that a lot of my fellow Nutmeggers have lost the will to work against the "machine", so to speak.  

You hear them talk all the time about the principles of liberty and freedom.  Yet when "it hits the fan", they run away, preferring to remain silent.  In my neck of the woods, we have a name for these sort of people; cowards.  

For a moment, I will quote Jay-Z: "you know the type; loud as a motorbike, but wouldn't bust a grape in a fruit fight" (1).  

Regarding the other side of this argument, some say that "we need to pick and choose our battles", thus implying that protesting makes no difference.  Let me address this for a second.  

Personally, I've always believed that in any confrontation, you should fight until one of two things happen; either you win the battle, or you are no longer capable of fighting.     

Also, in every life, there will come a point where someone must "fish, or cut bait".  That is, one must stand up for what they believe in, or abandon it altogether.  

That time is unquestionably now.  Indeed, "the line must be drawn here! This far and no further!" 

Begging your pardon of my Star Trek fandom (2):

We can't just silently watch as our rights are continually usurped, and everything is taken away from us.  We have to be willing to stand, draw a line, and defend it at all costs.  

If we're not, then we might as well pack up, and move south.  

(Sooner or later, "they" will get there, too)

An Open Letter To Mr. Roland Martin (Political Commentator)

Sir,

I just watched one of your commentary videos (specifically, the episode recorded on April 13, 2021) in which you discuss Colonel Allen West, and your debate with him on the issue of voter ID (1).

Obviously, I can't claim to speak for Col. West. Nevertheless, I feel the need to comment on some of your remarks (yes, I'm aware they were recorded a while ago).

First, by implication, you seem to be stating that all Republicans are racists and segregationists.  This stereotyping could not be further from the truth.  I know of many Republicans that judge African-Americans “not on the color of their skin, but by the content of their character”(2).

To imply that all who vote Republican are somehow racist is wrong, and in itself racism.

Second, to support your view, you trot out the name of Lee Atwater. I am aware that man had a...let's say rather colorful...history on race.

Even so, you fail to mention several other interesting names. George Wallace, once governor of Alabama, was an unabashed segregationist. So too was Robert Byrd, the long-time Democratic senator from West Virginia.

In fact, here's a noteworthy tidbit about Byrd; in the 1940s, he organized and led a chapter of the Ku Klux Klan. But I digress (3).

Do you deny that these two men were Democrats? If you admit to this, then what makes the Democratic Party any better on matters of race?

Third, you claim to be “a real Texan”.  On this, let me say that I did some digging.  It seems that, although you were born in Texas, your family origin is in Louisiana.  And I see that you once were a newspaper editor in Chicago (4).

Those being facts, why are you lying about being "a real Texan"? I could say that I'm "a real Floridian" because I once lived in the state; that doesn't make it true (I'm actually from Connecticut).

Finally, you go on to insult and disrespect Col. West’s military record.  I must ask; have you ever been part of the military? Have you ever picked up a weapon, or stood a post?

I have good friends who were badly injured in overseas combat. Can you say that you stood alongside them, or someone like them? If you can't, then please spare me the self-righteousness.

Mr. Martin; I have no doubt that you're committed to your cause. And you're obviously fond of the sound of your own voice.

That said, I think that before you paint Republicans like me "with a broad brush" again, you should study your history a bit more, and perhaps not exaggerate your own qualifications.

After all, "those who do not study history are doomed to repeat it".

Eulogy For A Legend

For those of you that missed Monday’s news, Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot has died at the age of eighty-four (1).

As far as his music is concerned, Mr. Lightfoot was a rare breed; an introspective songwriter who penned hits that discussed life and living.  Some of his legendary hits include “Sundown” and “If You Could Read My Mind”.

Then there is “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”, a song that hit number two on the Billboard charts (and number one in Canada) in 1976 (2).

In the lyrics of this ballad, Lightfoot tells the story of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, an American iron freighter that sank in Lake Superior on November 10, 1975. Typical of the style of other Lightfoot hits, it has all the elements of a great Shakespearean tragedy:

"Does anyone know where the love of God goes
when the waves turn the minutes to hours?
The searchers all say they'd have made Whitefish Bay
if they'd put fifteen more miles behind 'er.

They might have split up or they might have capsized;
they may have broke deep and took water.
And all that remains is the faces and the names
of the wives and the sons and the daughters" (3, 4).

“Wreck” is one of those songs that simply screams AM radio.  To someone of my age, that is a very appealing and comforting factor. Lightfoot had many songs like this; their popularity made him a legendary figure in the world of music, and one of my favorite artists of all time.

There aren't too many singers who can make you feel a certain way, and perhaps remind you of days gone by. Mr. Lightfoot was one of these; a unique artist whose ilk (see definition) is rapidly disappearing. He will be sorely missed.

(5)

RIP, legend.

WCW Night (And A Review, Of Sorts)

When I learned that promoter, legend, and WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff was going to be in town, I naturally jumped at the chance to see him.  

Mr. Bischoff was acting as the guest judge for "WCW Trivia Night", which was held on Wednesday at "The Blind Rhino" bar in Norwalk.  Sam Roberts of Sirius XM and WWE was also in attendance, serving as emcee for the night (1).  

Wrestling trivia, good food, AND an opportunity to see one of the greatest ever? For a long-time fan such as myself, this was a "can't-miss" event!

Arriving at the venue just after six PM (for a seven thirty start time), I found that the bar was already packed to the gills.  For a few moments, I worried about whether or not I would find a seat.  Finally, a spot opened up at the main bar, which I took without hesitation.

Then, I saw the man himself; clad in a black leather jacket, Eric Bischoff was signing autographs in meet and greet.  Seeing him just a few feet in front of me proved quite surreal; I had to pinch myself to make sure I was awake.  

Moments later, who else should make an appearance but Bruce Prichard.  Prichard, a legendary commentator, manager, and all-around wrestling guru in his own right, is tough to miss.  He's a big, jovial-looking guy who some fans might recognize as "Brother Love" (of mid-90s WWE).  I was somewhat surprised to see Mr. Prichard, as he showed up completely unannounced (2).  

At this point, there was still some time before the night's festivities would get underway.  I passed the time by enjoying a burger, and watching the first few minutes of a New York Knicks game.  

Eventually, seven thirty rolled around; it was time for the main event.  

Five rounds of trivia questions were asked; they dealt with "Monday Nitro", tag teams, the "New World Order", and other occasions in the history of World Championship Wrestling (WCW).  Mr. Bischoff, in his guest judge capacity, provided insight and commentary about some of the events that were mentioned.  

For the first two rounds of the game, I was able to make a decent showing on the scoreboard.  Nevertheless, the stumpers of the last round ended any chance I had of winning.  In the end, there was a two-team tie for first place.  This was resolved by means of a dance-off.  I'm not sure who the first dancer was, but he "busted a move", and thus was the big winner.  

Of course, the purpose of the night didn't entirely involve fun and games.  You see, I've been looking to promote my wrestling podcast (entitled "Totally Wrestling") and hoping to schedule interviews with one or more of the distinguished guests (3).  

With this goal in mind, I gave out business cards to Bischoff, Roberts, and Prichard.  Mr. Prichard came off as uninterested, but Bischoff and Roberts both cheerfully accepted my presentation.  Could they, in the near future, be appearing on "Totally Wrestling"? We will see! 

The entire experience on Wednesday night was a very enjoyable one.  I chatted, ate, drank, had dessert, and rubbed elbows with legends, all in just one night.  If there's something more you could want from a social outing, I don't know what it is!

The Blind Rhino 

15 N Main Street

Norwalk, CT 06854

203-956-7243 

(4)

"Them's Fightin' Words!" (Or, "You're Fired!")

You may have heard that during the past week, Fox News fired popular conservative commentator Tucker Carlson. At the moment, the reason for his dismissal is not crystal clear.

That said, I think it could have something to do with a recent speech that Mr. Carlson made on air.

On the April 19th edition of "Tucker Carlson Tonight", the pundit opened with this monologue:

“Sometimes you wonder just how filthy and dishonest our news media are. You'll be in the shower, and you'll think they're bad. But how bad are they? Ask yourself, is any news organization you know of so corrupt that it's willing to hurt you on behalf of its biggest advertisers? What would that look like? That level of corruption?

If Fox News did that, what would you think of Fox News? Would you trust us? Of course, you wouldn't. Thank heaven, Fox News never did anything like that; but the other channels did. The other channels took hundreds of millions of dollars from big pharma companies, and then they shilled for their sketchy products on the air. 

And as they did that, they maligned anyone who was skeptical of those products.  At the very least, this was a moral crime.  It was disgusting, but it was universal.  It happened across the American news media; they all did it.  So at this point, the question isn’t ‘who in public life is corrupt’? The question is, ‘who is telling the truth?” (1)

In the news media, “them’s fightin’ words”.  You see, the “powers that be” don’t like it when you say certain things; that hurts their image, and their bottom line.

For comparison, let’s look at what the Honorable Judge Andrew Napolitano said in his last broadcast on Fox Business:

“What if you needed a license from the government to speak, to assemble, or to protest against the government? What if the government didn't like what you planned to say, and so it didn't give you the license?

What if you were not secure in your papers, in your person, and in your property? What if federal agents could write their own search warrants, in defiance of the Constitution? What if the government could take your property whenever it wanted?

What if the government could continue prosecuting you until it got the verdict it wanted? What if the government could force you to testify against yourself, simply by labeling you a 'domestic terrorist'?

What if the government could torture you, until you said what the government wanted to hear? What if the government tortured your children to get to you?

What if government judges and government lawyers intimidated juries into convicting the innocent? What if the government could send you to your death, and your innocence meant nothing, so long as the government's procedures were followed?

What if the people had no rights, except those the government chose to let them have? What if the states had no rights, except to do as the federal government commanded? What if the government could write any law, regulate any behavior, and tax any event; the Constitution be damned?

What if you could love your country, but hate what the government has done to it? What if (Thomas) Jefferson was right? What if I'm right? What if it is dangerous to be right when the government is wrong? What if it is better to perish fighting for freedom than to live as a slave?

What if freedom's greatest hour of danger is now?” (2)

The two speeches are similar to an extent. 

In the former, Carlson implies that the news media is massively corrupt, being bought and paid for by major companies.  In the latter speech, Judge Napolitano suggests that the federal government is not only corrupt, but “wrong”, and antithetical (see definition) to the cause of individual rights. 

In Napolitano's case, he was summarily fired by Fox News/Fox Business just after the airing of this episode.  It seems he ran afoul of that unwritten rule: “never criticize those in charge”.

Could the same have happened to Mr. Carlson? Something appears to be a bit “sketchy” at the “fair and balanced” network.