I spent money in Palmdale

Last night I spent some of my Christmas shopping dollars in Palmdale. Yes, I traversed the Cactus Curtain. I am not proud of it, yet I did it.
Now, I know the dollars spent in Lancaster provide a tax base for services rendered within the city of Lancaster boundaries.
Recently, I had asked about the possibility of a Whole Foods coming to our city. Granted, the thought originally came from a Palmdale Resident, Yvette Emard, and I was being selfish for our fair City. The response I received was that we don't have the demographics. I assume Palmdale can fight for that.

I have a question.

When we package our stats, do we also supply stats for the entire valley? Including unincorporated areas? Truly, buying power does not stop at the city limits. Citizenry of Rosamond have no real place to shop, save for a Taco Bell, McDonalds and Albertsons. Those in Lake LA have a couple of dollars to spend as well. Do the companies only see the City of Lancaster? Are they not treated to the entire valley then shown why Lancaster's the place to do business? With so many empty box stores on Valley Central, surely we can do something to attract medium to larger retailers.
What did we miss when Smart and Final high-tailed to Palmdale? What happened to the piracy agreement in that situation?

A variety of merchandise helps spur competition.

How many Walmarts and Targets do we really need in this Valley anyway?

I encourage a broadening of our ideas and expansion of our sphere of influence in order to attract 'bigger and better'.

Govt to determine who makes what?

I am aghast at the thought our Gov't would begin to dictate to the American Business community how much a CEO can make. I agree with the Wall Street Journal Opiner, those companies who had accepted T.AR.P. funds should be regulated. (Once those funds have been repaid, no further oversight should remain.)
However, I am not in favor of the regulation of those executives compensation packages who never even received these funds. FOMOCO CEO Alan R. Mulally and Chairman William C. (Bill) Ford Jr.
had turned down those funds and should not be penalized for turning their company around and weathering these harsh economic times.
This is a slippery slope our Federal Govt. is approaching and even eyeing as viable. Is the next step telling our medical, dental and optic Drs. how much they can make? Will they then put a cap on how much the waitress and gardener can make?

Teachers are important

I have just read the History section of the AV Press. In this tumultuous time we are living in, do we really need to name the field after some one who 'promised to cut teacher's salaries 20%, eliminate the district's business manager....'. We read further that this same gentleman then installed lights 'for the High School baseball field'.
The message we send to others is that sports is more important than paying people to educate.

I can not throw my support behind this move.

The Lost Symbol

I am not really a reader, yet Dan Brown's book kept me enthralled. From the first phone call to the final climactic end I was kept guessing as to who the 'villain' was. The interweaving of characters and their success and/or demise was at times quite empathizing.
The question in various forms 'What am I doing here' showed the fear and frustration of the characters in a very real fashion.
Descriptions of locations and of ambience were quite sensory.
I enjoyed the author's storytelling of the different symbols and 'myths' behind them. The consipiratorial aspect of the theme was, as well.
No, I did not read the end before the story was finished. Wanted to, yet ...
I am not going to tell the end either, for it is not a secret. As with the 'secrets' of FreeMasonry, I'll not tell you. However, the answer is out there.

What is a Mason

My father is a Mason, My uncle is a Mason, My grandfather was a mason. When asked if I am a Mason, I answer 'I am'.

Information exists out there proffered by well meaning people, and yet much mis-informnation still exists.

When we meet, it is not for the consumption of alcohol. You will not find a bar or even a liquor cabinet in one. We meet for the purpose of service and improvement.
Improvement and learning for our brothers and ourselves. Service to G-d, our neighbor, to each other and ourselves. No less, service to our community.

This was passed on to me by my father before he went through his radiation and chemo.

A Mason

A Mason is a man who professes a faith in G-d. As a man of faith, he uses the tools of moral and ethical truths to serve mankind.

A Mason binds himself to like-minded men in a brotherhood that transcends all religious, ethnic, social, cultural, and educational differences.

In fellowship with his brothers, a Mason, finds ways in which to serve his G-d, his family, his fellow man, and his country.

A Mason is dedicated. He recognizes his responsibility for justice, truth, charity, enlightenment, freedom, liberty, honesty, and integrity in all aspects of human endeavor.

A Mason is all this and more.

Distributed by Rough Ashlar Lodge, Kingman AZ.

There are four Lodges within the Valley of the Antelope. Palmdale, Lancaster, Rosamond and Prince Hall (in Lancaster)

Unpaid debt

Whilst I was riding my bicycle to school, I had a flat. I walked it into a local station that stood on the corner of Glenoaks and Polk in Sylmar.
Noticing the nail in the tire, the service attendant asked if he could repair it. All I had was my lunch money, he would not take it. Instead he asked me to remember him and repay the kindness to someone else.

When I owned and managed tire repair shops, I always gave away the first flat of the day.

I often tell this story when someone offers to pay. That debt for that one act of kindness is not paid off yet. You see, I have not been released from the obligation, as I have never seen the gentlemen again.

However, the interest on that debt keeps spreading around the communities where I live and work. Yes, they also hear the story and I include them in the repayment.
I ask them to do a kindness for some one else with out expectation of re-payment, other than to tell the story over in their own words and actions.
My kids know this story well.

Thots on the Great State Of California

I am not in favor of higher taxes. Regulatory fees, administrative fees, and other types of 'fees' are just another way for taxes to be levied with out being called a 'tax'.

Public schools are not private entities owned by a select group of residents or parents. They are PUBLIC. As such they are administered by the Govt. There is no way for the Gov't. to 'butt out'.
Public education is the responsibility of the Govt.
What teacher/pupil ratio does the populace think there should be? Twenty to one? Twenty Five to one? As many as can be fit into a classroom? How about breaks and lunches? Are you aware that when ‘inclement weather’ is called, students stay in the class room? Does the populace get excited when they are not allowed to take ‘their lunch break’?
I will agree with some, teachers exist who should no longer be teaching. However, just like the death penalty, flaws exist.

Many 'Baby boomers' received the foundation for their adult lives because their parents were in unions. These unions provided Moms and Dads the security of a job when some manager woke up on the wrong side of the bed and tried to terminate their employment. Even beyond, have we forgot that Unions helped write legislation that protected women in the work place. 'Tis true, there were people that believed women should not be in the work place but 'Happy in the Kitchen, raising the children until her man got home'. Even if he came home drunk and he beat the ...t out of her.
Think of these benefits the next time your parents are in the hospital and you don’t have to help them pay for it because they have their ‘Union retirement benefits’.

I am not pleased with Garamendi. A few months ago he took a celebratory tone when he announced that drilling for oil in California had been cut off. Yet, we are able to import oil from other nations to satisfy our thirst.
As Bill O'Reilly said. The State has all the natural resources to support it, yet can't even touch it.

Now I ask, what have you done to help out? Have you gone into a classroom to sort or grade papers? Attended school board meetings or volunteered to help in district offices? How about volunteering in any public venue? After all, they are not privately owned. The entities are owned by the public. Yes you!!

Ted Kennedy's passing

I am amazed. With the death of Sen. Ted Kennedy, we watch the end of an era! The political life of not only the U.S., but also the world has been largely affected by what one Irish immigrant wanted for his family early in the 20th century! Joseph Kennedy should have been proud to see his and Rose's influence on the world so large. I had a respect for Ted Kennedy. May he rest in peace now.
Dion wrote:

'Anybody here seen my old friend Bobby?
Can you tell me where he's gone?
I thought I saw him walk up over the hill,
With Abraham, Martin and John.'

Truly we could add Teddy to that song.

'I just looked around and he's gone.'

vestigial organ adn Random evolution

I am amazed that science is always learning more things! So, the world bought the idea that science was end all to end all!

Well now they discover that the lowly 'left over vestigial organ' may be needed after all!
What? You may ask. How about for creating and training white blood cells.

'What use are white blood cells' you may ask? How about fighting allergies, the flu, and possibly cancer?

I have had not only my appendix removed but my gaul bladder as well. Western medicine is now realizing the important functions of these organs. Some scientist are now searching for ways to incite the function of this vital part of our immune system. Maybe the alternative medicines that are not part of the Industrial healthcare system was the way to go a century ago! They certainly wouldn't be polluting out bodies and our eco systems!! (Do I sound like an wacko now).

Another reason to buy American

I stay with American labeled vehicles because of reliability.
Here's a thot, in the recent ASE Newsletter to automotive repair professional's, we are advised to replace the PCM on the 2002 -2004 Honda Odyssey. When a 'remanufactured transmission is ordered, a new pcm may be provided.... and must be used... and (we) have to use the Honda Diagnostic System software to download the immobilizer transponder codes..'
This is going to result in higher maintenance costs.

Well, isn't this nice.

City of Lancaster 'Christian'?

I am a firm believer in "Your religious beliefs are your own." Not that I will be quiet about my own. However, I will not condemn you for yours. Personally, I might think you are wrong, yet, they are yours.

I grew up in a neighborhood where we had the usual door knockers (Amway), no not the JW's they gave up on us, Mormons, Catholics, and a variety of denominations. Why, we even had Garner Ted on the radio. Each had their own brand.

In Jr. High and High School, we were introduced to Krishna (thank you Beatles) and a whole lot of speculations re: Bridge over Troubled Waters (J. Taylor), Morning has Broken (C. Stevens), and Mother Mary (Beatles) as to how these fit into a Christian world view.

Not everything fits into a Christian world view, nor should it. I almost think the Jehovah's Witness stand on politics is a correct view. (I do like their stand on Christmas, I threaten conversion usually the day after Thanksgiving).

We do have a variety of religious beliefs in the City of Lancaster. Muslims, Christians, Jews, Bahai, Metaphysical, New age, Wiccans (worshippers of the goddess and her chalice), and others.

I do not believe we have the right to practice our belief, whilst we deny them theirs. The city council meetings are a function of the elected gov't. By the way, 'The Mayor's Prayer Breakfast' is a non-gov't function. As such, the Mayor is able to profess his belief in this, a gathering of 'people of faith' as Bishop Hearns first envisioned it.

As I have stated, I truly believe your religious beliefs are your own.

AV Press letter to editor

Original letter to AV Press chastising writer of articles for leaving out vital info.

Dear editor,

Had the AV Press reporter done a little more digging, he/she might have found the injunction against the Monguls. Our Mayor Parris might not have had such a bad row. Had the Mayor stated the injunction he might not have looked so anti-business. I trust the Editor did their hoimework in the verification of this injunction before printing the Letters to editor 7/28, 2009.

After I read the Letter to the Editor, I Googled 'Monguls'. There it is, an injunction barring this 'mostly' latino gang from wearing, selling or distributing thieir logo by themselves, their family members and associates. There is more under Google and Wikipedia. They appareantly are a rival gang to the Mexican Mafia, as the 'incarcerated' ones were seperated form the other prisoners after an arrest in October 2008.

I do want to thank the AV Press for bringing this situation to our attention though. Like a fine appetizer, it peaked the interest, Adam Chant's letter was like dessert. Ashame we couldn't have gotten the whole meal when first delivered.

Denny's Rest. and Customer Service

Geeez, just went to Denny's Restaurant on 20th west in Lancaster. I have been there maybe 7 times in three years. What a lousy place to get service!!! My hot tea was cold before the Grand Slam was delivered. The toast was room temp and no jelly packs. Water was delivered after the meal was brought also at room temp.
While we were eating a large gentlemen came in, met with a family with children who were of primary grade age, and started dropping the 'f' bomb as an expressive descriptive to the term 'niggah'. He actually continued in this theme until he exited to the parking lot.
When I discussed my final bill with the management, my answer to his inquiry was as described above. I, as well, commented on the lack of management response to provide a comfortable atmosphere while the a fore mentioned gentleman was exercising his freedom of speech. I made comment that on previous occasions mgt. has always failed at approaching disruptive patrons.

The managers only comment? He didn't hear it.

Billie Mays

Most popular searches header bar today included Michael Jackson. We truly do live in an 'entertainment age' as Tony Robbins says.
Personally, I believe the best entertainment is watching a 'Pitchman' deliver his/her line with such perfection that you know the 'script' is part of his/her life.

Dedication is admired and respected. However, 'Passion' is what people buy.
Pour your passion into what you believe in.

'Hi, I'm Billie Mays' should be up there with 'Thriller'.

RIP

Value Perceived

I learned a long time ago that people 'buy' when they see value. Jackie Cooper, not the actor, proffered the idea that when people buy they like the product, the price or the people dealing with them. Conversely, when people do not buy, the true objection is the product, the price or the person/people they are dealing with.

I need to define the product a little more. The 'Product' does not necessarily relate to a material good. An idea or a service provided may be the product. The simple greeting of 'have a nice day' may actually be a 'product'. While given freely, some one accepted it and their day was brightened. They actually might have bought into the greeting so much, they might have passed (sold) it on to some one else. The same is true for the question 'Are you feeling ok?' When presented enough times, one begins to believe they are not well. They have 'bought' (price is free) 'the product' (idea of not feeling well). The 'person or persons' who delivered (sold) the product was liked, trusted or both.

When I am running an Automotive Service Center, I do not 'discount'. I may have given a 'price break'. However, I do not discount. Why? Because I believe in the product I sell and the service I provide. I also believe in the technicians providing the service.
Am I overpriced? No, not at all.

When I provide the service or product, I truly believe in it.

Arrogance has no place in the sales theatre. Arrogance is the guy with the plaid suit and gold tooth sparkling in the afternoon sun, thinking he is the ultimate gift to the buying public. Confidence is the calm assurance that tells the prospect you know what you are doing, how to get it done and you'll be there for them.

Confidence? Absolutely, Yes.

People see 'value' when they find a 'benefit' for what you have to provide. They will support you with approval, time or money.

In Praise of my Daughter

My daughter is, well, fantastic. Graduating from High School with her I.B. diploma she has the world to conquer.
Her spirit is one of caring and giving. G-d has kept her from the selfish cynicism I have seen in other young adults. Her participation in her church youth group settles within me great satisfaction.
Her compassion for others in the community, both local and world, far exceeds mine and I am grateful for her.

I am truly blessed by G-d's gift.

Black Professor Arrested and Obama's Response

President Obama is WRONG! He has no right to say, as President of the United States, that the officers are 'stupid' This smacks of Pres. Bush stating that the verdict handed down is a travesty of justice.
I was not there when the officer questioned Professor Gates. I am quite sure that our President was not there either. No, he doesn't have the chance to take it back. He said it and showed his thoughts. He does however, have the right to look at the police report and state what the facts are.

Vice President Joe Biden didn't speak on this. We already know the affable VP can stick his foot in his mouth. Usually what he says is right on any way. However, this sitting President, a constitutional Law professor, should have known better!
Hmmm, was he exercising his first amendment right? Did he slander the officers? Maybe he oughta be dragged into court and answer for his statement. The officer will.

My boyz

This is a picture of my two sons on the day my oldest graduated from UC Berkeley!

Tim, named after his Great Grandfather, earned his BS in Electrical Engineering now works for a defense firm. To the people who thought he would achieve these goals, supported and encouraged him, I give my heartfelt thanks.To those who gave up, or left him without knowing him..... You lost out big time.

Charles, named after his grandfather, is a new home consultant for Beazer Homes in Rosamond. representing a quality home builder, he has helped hundreds of people over the last few years in their decision of home ownership. He has also helped develop a designer clothing line, produce a short film, and is working on a motivational website.

I write these thots because I am proud of them. Parents are always concerned about their children! Who will they be? How will they succeed, what will become of their futures?

We may not say them out loud, however these concerns always exist. The question I have is how committed are we to their future and how committed are we to ourselves in relation to guiding and them.