Last week's column in The Freeport Focus is presented here for a "fair and balanced" account of the other national convention.
Watching the RNC
Or Being Embedded with C-SPAN
By
Roland Tolliver
“Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you very much.” --Every speaker at the RNC after their introductions.
Our media maverick, Al Bebach, spent the last week embedded with C-SPAN, otherwise known as Continuous Sarah Palin Action News, this past week during the Republican National Convention. He is a little blurry-eyed after his back-to-back convention attack, but he was willing to share his thoughts with us again this week. (If you missed last week’s convention coverage, it may be viewed at http://pretzelcity.blogspot.com/).
Roland: Tell me, Al, how was this convention compared to the DNC in Denver?
Al Bebach (AB): I didn’t see as many celebrities. There was Pat Boone and Jon Voight, but no Arnold or Clint. Nothing like the DNC with Oprah, P. Diddy, or a host of Hollywood’s biggest stars, who were all clamoring to touch the hem of Barack Obama’s garment.
Roland: How was the mood of this convention?
AB: Much more businesslike for the first couple of days. There was a rush of enthusiasm for Wednesday night, though. Everyone was waiting for the main speech of the convention.
Roland: Do you mean Mike Huckabee’s or Fred Thompson’s?
AB: No, you silly goof. I’m talking about Sarah “Barracuda” Palin.
Roland: What did she have to say to the adoring crowd?
AB: I didn’t follow the words at first, so I had to watch it a second time on You Tube.
Roland: Why didn’t you watch her speech the first time?
AB: Because I spent the entire time just watching her. She’s like Lois Lane, I was just waiting for her to take off her glasses and let down her hair. If Obama should be on GQ, Sarah will end up on Vanity Fair or something like that. McCain looked like a doting grandfather when they were on stage together.
Roland: What about the content of the speeches, though. Any unusual revelations like you noticed last week?
AB: Let’s see. There was Mike Huckabee who told a long story about students not having desks. I guess that was relevant for children’s left behinds.
Roland: I believe that is “No Child Left Behind” and he was talking about our veterans’ earning the right for us to have a free education.
AB: You don’t really know Huckabee’s sense of humor, do you? Then Fred Thompson spoke of alligators and swamps. I think he was referring to King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Probably some off-handed reference to Sarah Palin’s dad, Michael, and his friends from Monty Python. I loved the Knights who say “Ni!” “Bring me a shrubbery!”
Roland: Michael Palin is British and is not Sarah’s dad. That would be funny, though, come to think of it. How did her speech go over?
AB: She was definitely the star of the convention. I don’t know that she laid any new policy information on the line, but she laid into the media and told us she did say no thanks to Simon and Garfunkel.
Roland: Simon and Garfunkel?
AB: Sure, she said, “Thanks, but no thanks for the Bridge Over Troubled Waters.”
Roland: That was the Bridge to Nowhere and she did support it at first when Senator “I’ll Fight My Indictment” Ted Stevens tried to get the appropriations for his state.
AB: Whatever. She was dynamic, eloquent and did I say, good looking?
Roland: Yes, you did, but what does that have to do with anything? If she was a man, you wouldn’t even bring it up, would you?
AB: You obviously missed last week’s column. Barack is the Rock Star and Sarah is now the Rock Goddess, though she wouldn’t like that title. You know? No false gods before me and all that. She made the main speaker seem shaky and unsure of himself by comparison.
Roland: You mean, Sarah Palin.
AB: No, Rudy Giuliani.
Roland: I was surprised that it took him almost to the end of his speech to mention 9/11. I realize that this week mark’s the anniversary of that most tragic day in American history, but surely he must have done something besides that in his life.
AB: You mean besides enjoying finding attractive women to marry?
Roland: Yes, besides that. What about the women who spoke other than Sarah Palin? Cindy McCain and Laura Bush were there, weren’t they?
AB: Yes. Cindy McCain had on an outfit complete with full accoutrements to the cost of over $300,000. Laura Bush ensemble was a mere $4000 or so.
Roland: Does that mean anything?
AB: The differences should tell you something. One comes from money and isn’t afraid to let it be known, no matter how many houses they have. The other one has served her country admirably and would probably like to return to a home on the range.
Roland: That brings us to the final night and the most anticipated event of the night.
AB: Obama being interviewed by Bill O’Reilly?
Roland: Ha! Ha! No, I’m talking about Senator McCain’s acceptance speech. Did he hit a “home run”?
AB: Let’s just say that he has served his country and that age shouldn’t matter as much as the American media makes it out to be of significance. On the other hand, he should probably be like most successful mates in a relationship and let Sarah do the talking from now on.
Roland: Thanks, Al. I can’t wait to hear your input over the next sixty days leading up to the election.
AB: It has felt like sixty months since this year’s election process started. I’m going to bed and hibernate until Christmas. Wake me when it’s all over.
Roland Tolliver is a freelance writer and contributor to The Freeport Focus and Village Voices. You may read additional writings and view photos from the Sesquicentennial celebrations at http://www.pretzelcity.blogspot.com/.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Friday, September 12, 2008
The Quiet Morning Sky
I lay in bed yesterday morning and heard the planes flying overhead. There is a distinct pattern of flight from points west to O'Hare Airport that goes directly over Freeport around 6:00 a.m.. I could set my alarm to the early morning drone of the jets. Yesterday marked the seventh anniversary of the day the jets quit flying for several ominously eerie days. The nation was at a standstill while the impact of the terrorist attacks of the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and United Flight 93 were felt throughout our country and the world. It was the day the skies stood still.
All of the articles about "Where were you?" have been written to commemorate the date. The politicians put away their animosities for a one day truce. The memorials were held and the names of the victims were read and the bells tolled for those who gave their lives that day. Taps were played from the roof of the Pentagon and the sad refrains from the bagpipes echoed through the courtyard.
Local ceremonies were held throughout the country and law enforcement officers and fire department personnel were asked for their views on the tragedy and how it has affected our nation over the past seven years. Schools held moments of silence or stood at attention for "Taps" or the national anthem. Some said prayers for the victims and their families. Others went about their day, as if it were just another day.
I looked at the sky and wondered how something like that could happen and could it or would it happen again? Are there enough safety precautions now at our nation's airports, rail stations, and bus terminals? How much difference does it make if we take our shoes off or are strip-searched? Do we feel safer for ourselves and for our children? How much lip service has been given and how much actual action to ensure our country's protection has been taken?
There are plenty of reasons to question the war in Iraq and how it actually has affected the fact that there have been no more attacks on U.S. soil since September 11, 2001. There were legitimate reasons to go to Afghanistan and yet, Osama Bin Laden has still not been located. We've lost more soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq than died on 9/11 and we wonder to what end.
We are coming to an election and the "change" that is being touted is not really about true change in the way things are done, but in a change of the face of leadership. Will it matter much whether it is McCain/Palin or Obama/Biden if there is no change in the Congress? Once either one gets into office, the first term is about not screwing up too badly in the first two years, so that the next two years can be spent trying to stay in office with the next election.
Whether lipstick on a pig is an issue or who is the real agent of change really matters are left to public opinion, but it is really about having a vision for our country and the ability to convey that message to the citizens who are the ones whose lives are affected. Take away the TelePrompters and you still have human beings with doubts, human faults, and an occasional idea that takes us beyond the rhetoric and into a real sense of desire to accomplish something. Bring it to the level of everyday citizens and they might even find that their message resonates into community action.
We remember. We live. We go on. We move on. And in another year, we'll remember again. We should remember each and every day, though, about the days the skies stood still and our lives were changed. Forever.
All of the articles about "Where were you?" have been written to commemorate the date. The politicians put away their animosities for a one day truce. The memorials were held and the names of the victims were read and the bells tolled for those who gave their lives that day. Taps were played from the roof of the Pentagon and the sad refrains from the bagpipes echoed through the courtyard.
Local ceremonies were held throughout the country and law enforcement officers and fire department personnel were asked for their views on the tragedy and how it has affected our nation over the past seven years. Schools held moments of silence or stood at attention for "Taps" or the national anthem. Some said prayers for the victims and their families. Others went about their day, as if it were just another day.
I looked at the sky and wondered how something like that could happen and could it or would it happen again? Are there enough safety precautions now at our nation's airports, rail stations, and bus terminals? How much difference does it make if we take our shoes off or are strip-searched? Do we feel safer for ourselves and for our children? How much lip service has been given and how much actual action to ensure our country's protection has been taken?
There are plenty of reasons to question the war in Iraq and how it actually has affected the fact that there have been no more attacks on U.S. soil since September 11, 2001. There were legitimate reasons to go to Afghanistan and yet, Osama Bin Laden has still not been located. We've lost more soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq than died on 9/11 and we wonder to what end.
We are coming to an election and the "change" that is being touted is not really about true change in the way things are done, but in a change of the face of leadership. Will it matter much whether it is McCain/Palin or Obama/Biden if there is no change in the Congress? Once either one gets into office, the first term is about not screwing up too badly in the first two years, so that the next two years can be spent trying to stay in office with the next election.
Whether lipstick on a pig is an issue or who is the real agent of change really matters are left to public opinion, but it is really about having a vision for our country and the ability to convey that message to the citizens who are the ones whose lives are affected. Take away the TelePrompters and you still have human beings with doubts, human faults, and an occasional idea that takes us beyond the rhetoric and into a real sense of desire to accomplish something. Bring it to the level of everyday citizens and they might even find that their message resonates into community action.
We remember. We live. We go on. We move on. And in another year, we'll remember again. We should remember each and every day, though, about the days the skies stood still and our lives were changed. Forever.
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Watching the DNC
Watching the DNC
Or How to OD on the Democratic National Commercial
By
Roland Tolliver
“Thank you. Thank you all. Thank you all very, very much.” --Every Speaker featured on Primetime Television’s version of the long infomercial known as the DNC.
We put our friend and pundit in front of C-Span for four straight days to get his interpretation of the Democratic National Convention this past week. Our man of the hour, the pugnacious prognosticator of the press, Al Bebach, spent considerable time not only deciphering the double-speak and diatribe (don’t worry, in all fairness, he’ll report on the Republican National Commercial, er, Convention, if it is held next week), but reading “between the lines” or tells you what was not said, or at least omitted from the highlight reels.
AB: Should I start with the big speech?
Me: You mean, Senator Obama’s?
AB: No, you silly man. I meant the one by the woman in the tangerine travelling pant suit.
Me: Sure. Go ahead. What did she say?
AB: It wasn’t what she said. It was what she left out. “I’m here tonight as a proud mother, a proud Democrat … as a proud senator from New York … a proud American … and a proud supporter of Barack Obama.”
Me: So. What’s the problem?
AB: Don’t you think it was a little, well, rude of her not to mention being a proud wife? Bill is sitting there mouthing his little, “I love yous” and she doesn’t even acknowledge him.
Me: Maybe she was getting back at him for that Monica Lewinsky thing in the White House?
AB: Perhaps, but that had to be embarrassing for the former President. Then she brings up her support of Senator John McCain when she said, “Know the way. Know the how. Know McCain!” and then the whole crowd started shouting, “Know McCain!” I mean, wasn’t she at the DNC?
Me: I think she said, “No way. No how. No McCain.”
AB: That’s what you think. I had a chance to see a draft of the speech and I think she was subliminally trying to support McCain. She plans on taking her 18 million voters with her and going home to … now where did she say she’s from? New York, Illinois, Arkansas, Washington, D.C.?
Me: What else do you have?
AB: My favorite line was about the most important job being taking care of our families and to “help every child live up to his or her God-given potential … ”
Me: That sounds like a good idea to me.
AB: The most important line must have been cut from the telecast, though.
Me: And that was …?
AB: … except the ones that we never want to give the chance to be born … Every human life deserves a chance to reach his or her potential, but there is no chance if there is no birth. What is God-given about that?
Me: I see your point. How about any of the others? What about Joe Biden?
AB: Let’s see. “Barack and I took very different journeys to this very destination, but we share a common story …” What he left out was that he’s shared a common story with others before.
Me: What do you mean?
AB: Don’t you recall how he used the story of British Labor Party Leader, Neil Kinnock, even plagiarizing his words as his own during a speech at the Iowa State Fair during the 1988 presidential campaign? He did the same thing when he was in college, but it was only “stressless scholarship” then, whatever that means?!
Me: So, he’s told a few lies. That shouldn’t disqualify him as a politician.
AB: Touché, sir. Touché! Then there was his line “My parents taught us to live our faith, and to treasure our families.” He, like Hillary, keeps leaving out the caveat, except the family members that don’t get a chance to live in the first place.
Me: I’m getting the impression that you are pro-life, Mr. Bebach.
AB: Well, Mr. Biden and the rest of the speakers are definitely on the opposite side of the fence on that subject.
Me: That is a major part of the Democratic platform. It does seem to go against the grain of the faith that Mr. Biden was alluding to, doesn’t it? How about Bill Clinton’s speech? Any insights?
AB: I think he said it all pretty much in his second sentence, “Now, in the end, my candidate didn’t win.”
Me: I didn’t think it was the end, but isn’t it the beginning of the final stage of this race?
AB: Yeah, of course. What was in his mind’s teleprompter went something like, ‘Now I don’t get to go back to the White House. Man, I had some fun there, but if Obama doesn’t win the general election, then McCain will be really old, and Hillary can run again and … why did I get the primary process changed … why did we let Barack Obama speak at the DNC four years ago? Why? Why? Why? … and …’
Me: And, what?
AB: I don’t know. He went on so long that I fell asleep and when I woke up there was a sustained applause when I think he said something about concluding his speech.
Me: And then there was the spectacle of the final night and the historic nomination of this country’s first African-American for a major party candidate for President.
AB: Yes, there was. And it was a truly momentous occasion in our country’s history. But then he, like Hillary, managed to commend a variety of occupations, but with a plan for national health care, both failed to mention the people who will be providing this health care.
Me: The clinics at Wal Marts and Walgreens?
AB: No, though it may come to that. I’m talking about doctors. I guess they don’t fall into the category of “ordinary men and women” who “found the courage to keep it (the American dream) alive.”
Me: I suppose it is just reward enough to keep people alive.
AB: Yeah, I’m sure that’ll fit nicely on a placard. I have to admit that Senator Obama has a way with words, but he sure uses the words “I will” a lot. He seems to forget about a Congress that has to be dealt with, though he’s only actually spent about 150 days there since he was elected as an Illinois state senator, and there is the issue of actually winning the election first. Then he keeps referring to shows like “Eight is Enough.” I wonder if Dick Van Patten will have a place in Obama’s cabinet?
Me: I’m exhausted just listening to you. How did you stay awake to see all of those speeches?
AB: It was the politicians and speakers abilities to keep offering everyone in America so much hype!
Me: I think they were saying, “hope.”
AB: You don’t know much about politics, do you?
Dr. Roland Tolliver is a contributing writer for the Freeport Focus.
Or How to OD on the Democratic National Commercial
By
Roland Tolliver
“Thank you. Thank you all. Thank you all very, very much.” --Every Speaker featured on Primetime Television’s version of the long infomercial known as the DNC.
We put our friend and pundit in front of C-Span for four straight days to get his interpretation of the Democratic National Convention this past week. Our man of the hour, the pugnacious prognosticator of the press, Al Bebach, spent considerable time not only deciphering the double-speak and diatribe (don’t worry, in all fairness, he’ll report on the Republican National Commercial, er, Convention, if it is held next week), but reading “between the lines” or tells you what was not said, or at least omitted from the highlight reels.
AB: Should I start with the big speech?
Me: You mean, Senator Obama’s?
AB: No, you silly man. I meant the one by the woman in the tangerine travelling pant suit.
Me: Sure. Go ahead. What did she say?
AB: It wasn’t what she said. It was what she left out. “I’m here tonight as a proud mother, a proud Democrat … as a proud senator from New York … a proud American … and a proud supporter of Barack Obama.”
Me: So. What’s the problem?
AB: Don’t you think it was a little, well, rude of her not to mention being a proud wife? Bill is sitting there mouthing his little, “I love yous” and she doesn’t even acknowledge him.
Me: Maybe she was getting back at him for that Monica Lewinsky thing in the White House?
AB: Perhaps, but that had to be embarrassing for the former President. Then she brings up her support of Senator John McCain when she said, “Know the way. Know the how. Know McCain!” and then the whole crowd started shouting, “Know McCain!” I mean, wasn’t she at the DNC?
Me: I think she said, “No way. No how. No McCain.”
AB: That’s what you think. I had a chance to see a draft of the speech and I think she was subliminally trying to support McCain. She plans on taking her 18 million voters with her and going home to … now where did she say she’s from? New York, Illinois, Arkansas, Washington, D.C.?
Me: What else do you have?
AB: My favorite line was about the most important job being taking care of our families and to “help every child live up to his or her God-given potential … ”
Me: That sounds like a good idea to me.
AB: The most important line must have been cut from the telecast, though.
Me: And that was …?
AB: … except the ones that we never want to give the chance to be born … Every human life deserves a chance to reach his or her potential, but there is no chance if there is no birth. What is God-given about that?
Me: I see your point. How about any of the others? What about Joe Biden?
AB: Let’s see. “Barack and I took very different journeys to this very destination, but we share a common story …” What he left out was that he’s shared a common story with others before.
Me: What do you mean?
AB: Don’t you recall how he used the story of British Labor Party Leader, Neil Kinnock, even plagiarizing his words as his own during a speech at the Iowa State Fair during the 1988 presidential campaign? He did the same thing when he was in college, but it was only “stressless scholarship” then, whatever that means?!
Me: So, he’s told a few lies. That shouldn’t disqualify him as a politician.
AB: Touché, sir. Touché! Then there was his line “My parents taught us to live our faith, and to treasure our families.” He, like Hillary, keeps leaving out the caveat, except the family members that don’t get a chance to live in the first place.
Me: I’m getting the impression that you are pro-life, Mr. Bebach.
AB: Well, Mr. Biden and the rest of the speakers are definitely on the opposite side of the fence on that subject.
Me: That is a major part of the Democratic platform. It does seem to go against the grain of the faith that Mr. Biden was alluding to, doesn’t it? How about Bill Clinton’s speech? Any insights?
AB: I think he said it all pretty much in his second sentence, “Now, in the end, my candidate didn’t win.”
Me: I didn’t think it was the end, but isn’t it the beginning of the final stage of this race?
AB: Yeah, of course. What was in his mind’s teleprompter went something like, ‘Now I don’t get to go back to the White House. Man, I had some fun there, but if Obama doesn’t win the general election, then McCain will be really old, and Hillary can run again and … why did I get the primary process changed … why did we let Barack Obama speak at the DNC four years ago? Why? Why? Why? … and …’
Me: And, what?
AB: I don’t know. He went on so long that I fell asleep and when I woke up there was a sustained applause when I think he said something about concluding his speech.
Me: And then there was the spectacle of the final night and the historic nomination of this country’s first African-American for a major party candidate for President.
AB: Yes, there was. And it was a truly momentous occasion in our country’s history. But then he, like Hillary, managed to commend a variety of occupations, but with a plan for national health care, both failed to mention the people who will be providing this health care.
Me: The clinics at Wal Marts and Walgreens?
AB: No, though it may come to that. I’m talking about doctors. I guess they don’t fall into the category of “ordinary men and women” who “found the courage to keep it (the American dream) alive.”
Me: I suppose it is just reward enough to keep people alive.
AB: Yeah, I’m sure that’ll fit nicely on a placard. I have to admit that Senator Obama has a way with words, but he sure uses the words “I will” a lot. He seems to forget about a Congress that has to be dealt with, though he’s only actually spent about 150 days there since he was elected as an Illinois state senator, and there is the issue of actually winning the election first. Then he keeps referring to shows like “Eight is Enough.” I wonder if Dick Van Patten will have a place in Obama’s cabinet?
Me: I’m exhausted just listening to you. How did you stay awake to see all of those speeches?
AB: It was the politicians and speakers abilities to keep offering everyone in America so much hype!
Me: I think they were saying, “hope.”
AB: You don’t know much about politics, do you?
Dr. Roland Tolliver is a contributing writer for the Freeport Focus.
Saturday, September 06, 2008
Lincoln Douglas Sesquicentennial: Part 2
Additional photos from the Lincoln-Douglas Sesquicentennial Debate re-enactment from Freeport, Illinois on Saturday, August 30, 2008 in Freeport's Debate Square. Click on the photos to enlarge the picture.
Lincoln Douglas Sesquicentennial: Part 1
The following photos were taken from the Lincoln Douglas Sesquicentennial that took place in Freeport, Illinois on Saturday, August 30, 2008. George Buss portrayed Abraham Lincoln and Tim Connors is Stephen Douglas. Click on the photos to enlarge the pictures.
Friday, September 05, 2008
Guitar Hero or Rock Star: The Candidates' Version
The great debate is on. I was no where near being in the money in my GOP vice-presidential nominees. I, along with millions of other Americans, said, "Who?" when her name was being bantered about prior to the official announcement. Then I heard her speak at the nomination announcement and along with millions more, said, "Wow!" I really don't know much about her policies besides what has been written by the medial or has been presented by some of the "talking heads" but I couldn't help but be impressed by the strength of her speech. I know that a speech does not make a candidate, but no one can deny that eloquence of speech has not helped Obama. There is always more to a candidate than their comfort behind a microphone or in front of an audience. Of course, there is often less than meet's the eye as well once the teleprompter is no longer on.
There are those that can make a book come alive with the spoken word, but who cannot utter an intelligent thought on their own. There are others that are better when thinking on their feet or persuading people to believe in them or their ideals. Much in this way the two party's tickets are much alike, though in reverse order. Senator Obama's speaking ability is a given, when he is reading from a prepared text, so far, Governor Palin has proven just as adept in this format. If you've ever had the chance to see John McCain in an informal setting, he can be charming and disarmingly humorous and a quick thinker. Joe Biden, while long-winded and often evasive with his rhetoric, nonetheless, does better in a debate-style setting, than in front of a group of people. Witness the dryness of McCain's and Biden's speeches at the RNC and DNC respectively. Palin and Obama each drew around 40 million viewers for their speeches and clearly stirred up their respective audiences and core constituents.
How will all of this play out on the national stage? What will the debates prove? None of the candidates have been specific about policies. None of them have done much more than tout promises that will be all but impossible to implement or to pay for. None of them have the ability to circumvent a congress that is hellbent on maintaining their levels of power at whatever cost to the American public and Jill or John Q. Taxpayer.
All of the "I wills" in the world do not translate into effective action. None of the "crossing the aisles" will amount to anything if the other party is not willing to sacrifice or commit themselves to a global vision of a nation in need of healing. The infomecials known as the conventions are good show, but lacking in substance. Gentlemen and lady, state your positions!
There are those that can make a book come alive with the spoken word, but who cannot utter an intelligent thought on their own. There are others that are better when thinking on their feet or persuading people to believe in them or their ideals. Much in this way the two party's tickets are much alike, though in reverse order. Senator Obama's speaking ability is a given, when he is reading from a prepared text, so far, Governor Palin has proven just as adept in this format. If you've ever had the chance to see John McCain in an informal setting, he can be charming and disarmingly humorous and a quick thinker. Joe Biden, while long-winded and often evasive with his rhetoric, nonetheless, does better in a debate-style setting, than in front of a group of people. Witness the dryness of McCain's and Biden's speeches at the RNC and DNC respectively. Palin and Obama each drew around 40 million viewers for their speeches and clearly stirred up their respective audiences and core constituents.
How will all of this play out on the national stage? What will the debates prove? None of the candidates have been specific about policies. None of them have done much more than tout promises that will be all but impossible to implement or to pay for. None of them have the ability to circumvent a congress that is hellbent on maintaining their levels of power at whatever cost to the American public and Jill or John Q. Taxpayer.
All of the "I wills" in the world do not translate into effective action. None of the "crossing the aisles" will amount to anything if the other party is not willing to sacrifice or commit themselves to a global vision of a nation in need of healing. The infomecials known as the conventions are good show, but lacking in substance. Gentlemen and lady, state your positions!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Who Can it Be Now?
The DNC is at the end of the festivities. The coronation of the emperor is about to take place and everyone is wondering ... who is McCain going to choose as his running mate? He'll apparently take the high road tonight and congratulate Barack on his historical achievement, especially given that this is the 45th anniversary of the "I Have a Dream" speech of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. That is bound to be a major tie-in tonight as he is outlined by the columns on the stage in a 21st Century re-enactment of the speech given on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. But, like most Hollywood movies (or Oprah-produced events) the setting is all style and of questionable substance. Can he sell himself to middle-America? Will the cowboys of Texas or Montana or Wyoming say, "Now that is someone I can get behind and support." Or will the great event ring hollow like a motivational speaker who revs up the crowd, counts his cash, and never has any follow-through? So far, I have only seen the latter in the rhetoric. There is a division that still exists between the Barackians and the Clintonians and no words of Bill or Hillary will be enough to satisfy the disaffected, the disgruntled and the disengaged.
Back to McCain. I look at three possible choices and know that I will most likely be wrong. McCain will want someone with broad appeal, who doesn't vary greatly from his stance on the abortion issue, and who has the chutzpa to put the long-winded, plagiarizing senator from Delaware in his place. So, look for someone who is respected and known well-enough to Americans that they don't need a phonetic dictionary in order to pronounce the name or a Who's Who book to recognize. Most likely it will be someone like Minnnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty (though Minnesotans have failed to do well in national elections, see Mondale, Humphrey, albeit they were Democrats), Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison ( could have wide appeal among discouraged Hillary backers), Mitt Romney (though he comes across as too much like Dan Quayle and that may not fly), or my personal favorite choice, Secretary of State,Condoleeza Rice. She is not a politician. She has vast international affairs experience. She would be able to appeal to all races and while she carries the baggage of President Bush and the boisterous media's incessant chattering about all-things negative for America, she can hold her own in any situation.
We'll find out tomorrow when the GOP and Senator McCain meet in Dayton, Ohio. And I'd be willing to bet against 3:00 a.m. text messages to alert the party's faithful. McCain probably doesn't text message, anyways.
Back to McCain. I look at three possible choices and know that I will most likely be wrong. McCain will want someone with broad appeal, who doesn't vary greatly from his stance on the abortion issue, and who has the chutzpa to put the long-winded, plagiarizing senator from Delaware in his place. So, look for someone who is respected and known well-enough to Americans that they don't need a phonetic dictionary in order to pronounce the name or a Who's Who book to recognize. Most likely it will be someone like Minnnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty (though Minnesotans have failed to do well in national elections, see Mondale, Humphrey, albeit they were Democrats), Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison ( could have wide appeal among discouraged Hillary backers), Mitt Romney (though he comes across as too much like Dan Quayle and that may not fly), or my personal favorite choice, Secretary of State,Condoleeza Rice. She is not a politician. She has vast international affairs experience. She would be able to appeal to all races and while she carries the baggage of President Bush and the boisterous media's incessant chattering about all-things negative for America, she can hold her own in any situation.
We'll find out tomorrow when the GOP and Senator McCain meet in Dayton, Ohio. And I'd be willing to bet against 3:00 a.m. text messages to alert the party's faithful. McCain probably doesn't text message, anyways.
The Democratic National Commercial
If it is possible to get diabetes through the extra syrup coming through the t.v. screen, I think I may have to stock up on a supply of insulin. Illinois political "hugfests" and fawning over the foe that vanquished you to the extent that it was like a 60's "lovefest" have just about made me sick to my stomach. There is no animosity for Barack Obama, the man, but there is no Barack-envy for his far-left stances on partial-birth abortions and protecting Americans in these troubled times.
Did anybody else find it rather ironic (or is that sardonic?) that Hillary failed to mention her husband, Bill, during her glowing introduction of herself? She came before us as a "proud mother," a "proud Democrat," a member of the "sisterhood of the traveling pantsuits," among other definitions of who Hillary is, but with Bill mouthing his "I love you's" visible to every person watching television, she did not wish to be or chose not to be, a proud wife. Is Bill that big of a liability now, or is it that she is no longer a wife, but a senator, a public servant, a mother, and Bill is, well, it looks like Bill is now on his own.
Did anybody else find it rather ironic (or is that sardonic?) that Hillary failed to mention her husband, Bill, during her glowing introduction of herself? She came before us as a "proud mother," a "proud Democrat," a member of the "sisterhood of the traveling pantsuits," among other definitions of who Hillary is, but with Bill mouthing his "I love you's" visible to every person watching television, she did not wish to be or chose not to be, a proud wife. Is Bill that big of a liability now, or is it that she is no longer a wife, but a senator, a public servant, a mother, and Bill is, well, it looks like Bill is now on his own.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Where Does One Draw the Line?
The yellow lines are painted, quickly, along the south side of Empire Street. Three blocks of No Parking should solve any sight line issues along the street, until someone else is hit, like the accident on Friday or worse. No Parking for 12 months of the year and 24 hours a day, seven days a week in order to allow people to cross over to the baseball diamonds seems a bit excessive, me thinks. Could there have been some dialogue before putting this up for a vote and implementing the No Parking zone to such an extent? Sure, it was presented to the Council, but if you are like me, I don't read The J-S cover to cover and much of the agenda is not even included in the paper. I also don't regularly attend City Council meetings, but perhaps I should start.
I was speaking with a civil servant the other day, also known as a mail carrier, and this person informed me about the same type of situation along Harlem, south of Cannova's and the surrounding businesses. The mail carriers now have to park half-way up the street in order to deliver to the businesses and most often have to transport mail from these establishments back to the truck. The carrier thought that it was to discourage street parking for Cannova's, but it also affected those serving the area throughout the entire day, even when the restaurant was closed.
I'm not sure that I understand this need to overcompensate for these types of situations. Why can't there be compromise as to the times that these ordinances are in affect, much like what happens in Chicago. Is it that difficult to put the times on the signs when an parking ordinance is in effect in order to allow for greater productivity? It doesn't appear to work that way, apparently.
We want a beautiful city, but some only want to do it one way, their way. There has to be an attempt at compromise when trying to establish new entities without infringing on the rights of local business owners or homeowners. So far, we're still waiting for that to happen.
I was speaking with a civil servant the other day, also known as a mail carrier, and this person informed me about the same type of situation along Harlem, south of Cannova's and the surrounding businesses. The mail carriers now have to park half-way up the street in order to deliver to the businesses and most often have to transport mail from these establishments back to the truck. The carrier thought that it was to discourage street parking for Cannova's, but it also affected those serving the area throughout the entire day, even when the restaurant was closed.
I'm not sure that I understand this need to overcompensate for these types of situations. Why can't there be compromise as to the times that these ordinances are in affect, much like what happens in Chicago. Is it that difficult to put the times on the signs when an parking ordinance is in effect in order to allow for greater productivity? It doesn't appear to work that way, apparently.
We want a beautiful city, but some only want to do it one way, their way. There has to be an attempt at compromise when trying to establish new entities without infringing on the rights of local business owners or homeowners. So far, we're still waiting for that to happen.
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Like a Good Neighbor
There are certain days that one feels like the windshield and other days that one feels like the bug. At least that's how it has been said. This was the week to be the bug. First, the basement floods with a back up of the septic system. Then I'm informed that the septic and sewer rider that could have been had for $40 per year and was never offered, is not in my homeowner's policy. Talk about food for flies!
If there was a bright spot to the entire fiasco, it was the service that we received from RestoreX in Freeport. Not only were they professional and efficient, they were courteous and respectful of my family and the situation. The sound of the fans and dehumidifiers was like living in the engine of a 747, but the family room level dried out and they were able to minimize the odor. I have the utmost appreciation for Rob and his co-workers for a job well-done, well almost done... there are still a few things to be finished, but it could have been a great deal worse without their expertise.
Back to the bug's life... our building has been here for 23 years and we've occupied it for the past seven years. A love-hate relationship has developed with Little Cubs Field, which was built across the street from our office. Our parking lot has become a de facto parking spot for those that find it more convenient to walk to the field than using the lot north of the field. When little consideration is given to the property (not to mention the signs posted that vehicles will be towed if parked in the lot) then it was time to take action. This was done much to the chagrin of a certain city official, who may think it is easier to appease the attendees than be concerned for a business owner and explain that said business owner is protecting his business, which he is fully in his rights to do. Liability issues being what they are, we don't need the extra risk.
As the Little Cubs take on the Little Cardinals this afternoon, I am looking forward to a fair and equitable resolution for these issues for the safety of the people who live in the neighborhood and those who are patrons of the parks.
If there was a bright spot to the entire fiasco, it was the service that we received from RestoreX in Freeport. Not only were they professional and efficient, they were courteous and respectful of my family and the situation. The sound of the fans and dehumidifiers was like living in the engine of a 747, but the family room level dried out and they were able to minimize the odor. I have the utmost appreciation for Rob and his co-workers for a job well-done, well almost done... there are still a few things to be finished, but it could have been a great deal worse without their expertise.
Back to the bug's life... our building has been here for 23 years and we've occupied it for the past seven years. A love-hate relationship has developed with Little Cubs Field, which was built across the street from our office. Our parking lot has become a de facto parking spot for those that find it more convenient to walk to the field than using the lot north of the field. When little consideration is given to the property (not to mention the signs posted that vehicles will be towed if parked in the lot) then it was time to take action. This was done much to the chagrin of a certain city official, who may think it is easier to appease the attendees than be concerned for a business owner and explain that said business owner is protecting his business, which he is fully in his rights to do. Liability issues being what they are, we don't need the extra risk.
As the Little Cubs take on the Little Cardinals this afternoon, I am looking forward to a fair and equitable resolution for these issues for the safety of the people who live in the neighborhood and those who are patrons of the parks.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Focus is Going to Need A Bigger Cap
Well, now we know where Olga is! She'll be appearing in the pages of the new daily newspaper in Freeport and the surrounding areas. Yes, Olga Gize-Carlile, award-winning journalist and former 40 year contributor to The Journal-Standard, is joining the new team. This news, coupled with the hiring of Alan Jones as the editor, adds another feather in the cap for this transition from a weekly paper to a daily paper. There are probably not too many "new" newspapers that are being launched in the United States currently. Many newspapers are folding or merging with other papers, or are drastically cutting their costs via layoffs, and reduced expenditures. Major newspapers are hurting for advertising revenue and subscriptions are dropping with the widespread dissemination of news on the internet, television and various forms of radio.
This isn't stopping AdPix, Inc. and their investors from venturing into charted waters and facing the old guard in a good old-fashioned showdown. The publisher for the "other" paper even commented in the story that announced that The Freeport Focus was going to a daily format that they were "ready to rumble." They started off their rumbling by "terminating" the best-loved and most widely read of their contributors, Olga Carlile. Her picture and the constant reminder of her "Journalist of the Year" award were plastered on the front page of the paper for almost a year after she her accolade was announced. Then when she was walked to the door and unceremoniously released from her writing endeavors at the "home" she has known for 40 some years, there was nary a word in the paper about it.
Rumble, I guess, has multiple meanings. That could signify the sound heard when someone is thrown under the bus, or perhaps the "rumbling" sound one hears from a nervous stomach when one is under great duress and about to face the unknown. Of course, the "rumble" referred to was referring to the announcement at the start of a "professional" wrestling match, and if that is the case, I think I'll place my bet on the heavyweight division... and stay Focused.
Stay tuned, because this town is about to get interesting.
This isn't stopping AdPix, Inc. and their investors from venturing into charted waters and facing the old guard in a good old-fashioned showdown. The publisher for the "other" paper even commented in the story that announced that The Freeport Focus was going to a daily format that they were "ready to rumble." They started off their rumbling by "terminating" the best-loved and most widely read of their contributors, Olga Carlile. Her picture and the constant reminder of her "Journalist of the Year" award were plastered on the front page of the paper for almost a year after she her accolade was announced. Then when she was walked to the door and unceremoniously released from her writing endeavors at the "home" she has known for 40 some years, there was nary a word in the paper about it.
Rumble, I guess, has multiple meanings. That could signify the sound heard when someone is thrown under the bus, or perhaps the "rumbling" sound one hears from a nervous stomach when one is under great duress and about to face the unknown. Of course, the "rumble" referred to was referring to the announcement at the start of a "professional" wrestling match, and if that is the case, I think I'll place my bet on the heavyweight division... and stay Focused.
Stay tuned, because this town is about to get interesting.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Another Feather in the Cap
A little over a year ago, the following story appeared on the WTVO website:
Where's Alan?
Reported by: WTVO Newsroom
Wednesday, Aug 8, 2007 @07:00am CST
UPDATE 8/8/07: There have been requests for an update on the condition of Fox 39 News anchor Alan Jones.
"There's been some improvement", says Jones. "Since my last posting a few months ago, I've undergone eyelid surgery to take care of some of the blepharospasm effects of apraxia. That's allowing me to keep my eyelids open a lot easier. And a regimen of Botox will help as well."
"I'm more than ready to get back to work on the air, and believe that will happen soon. Thanks for thinking of me."
Fox39 News Anchor Alan Jones hasn't left the station as many have asked. No, he's just not in a position to be on the air right now.
"I've been dealing with a severe case of dry eye and what's called benign essential blepharospasms. Those are involuntary eye spasms that are closely aligned with dry eye", says Jones.
"That and the symptoms of dry eye; the irritation and light sensitivity; make it impossible to be on the air. But I've been getting extensive treatment, so hopefully I'll be back at 9 soon."
The station has been receiving numerous phone calls and e-mails wanting to know Alan's whereabouts.
"Thanks for everyone's concerns and questions. I'm still here, producing the Fox39 News at Nine, while my colleagues do a great job filling in for me."
Well, now we know where Alan Jones is. He was just announced as the new Editor of The Freeport Focus, the soon to be daily newspaper in Freeport and surrounding communities. Dan Stevens, current reporter, columnist, editor and publisher was able to keep this under wraps until today's big headline story in Village Voices. It will be the lead story in tomorrow's Focus, also.
How does this bode for our "News Wars" that has been brewing for the past month or so (obviously, much longer than that, but most was behind the scenes). There have been a few major changes at the long-standing newspaper in our area, but the upstart Focus is going ahead with great ambition and great promise. While I know there is a certain amount of ill-will since my inauspicious dismissal from the other paper, and a definite feeling of bias in favor of AdPix, Inc. since I am now a contributing columnist, the overarching feeling in the community is that they are ready for a "local" paper with "local" writers and "local" stories.
People are starting to send in their subscriptions for "Faith in the Focus", the new office is about to be functional, and it will be within a stone's throw of the building at State and Main. This, as it is often said, is about to get interesting.
Where's Alan?
Reported by: WTVO Newsroom
Wednesday, Aug 8, 2007 @07:00am CST
UPDATE 8/8/07: There have been requests for an update on the condition of Fox 39 News anchor Alan Jones.
"There's been some improvement", says Jones. "Since my last posting a few months ago, I've undergone eyelid surgery to take care of some of the blepharospasm effects of apraxia. That's allowing me to keep my eyelids open a lot easier. And a regimen of Botox will help as well."
"I'm more than ready to get back to work on the air, and believe that will happen soon. Thanks for thinking of me."
Fox39 News Anchor Alan Jones hasn't left the station as many have asked. No, he's just not in a position to be on the air right now.
"I've been dealing with a severe case of dry eye and what's called benign essential blepharospasms. Those are involuntary eye spasms that are closely aligned with dry eye", says Jones.
"That and the symptoms of dry eye; the irritation and light sensitivity; make it impossible to be on the air. But I've been getting extensive treatment, so hopefully I'll be back at 9 soon."
The station has been receiving numerous phone calls and e-mails wanting to know Alan's whereabouts.
"Thanks for everyone's concerns and questions. I'm still here, producing the Fox39 News at Nine, while my colleagues do a great job filling in for me."
Well, now we know where Alan Jones is. He was just announced as the new Editor of The Freeport Focus, the soon to be daily newspaper in Freeport and surrounding communities. Dan Stevens, current reporter, columnist, editor and publisher was able to keep this under wraps until today's big headline story in Village Voices. It will be the lead story in tomorrow's Focus, also.
How does this bode for our "News Wars" that has been brewing for the past month or so (obviously, much longer than that, but most was behind the scenes). There have been a few major changes at the long-standing newspaper in our area, but the upstart Focus is going ahead with great ambition and great promise. While I know there is a certain amount of ill-will since my inauspicious dismissal from the other paper, and a definite feeling of bias in favor of AdPix, Inc. since I am now a contributing columnist, the overarching feeling in the community is that they are ready for a "local" paper with "local" writers and "local" stories.
People are starting to send in their subscriptions for "Faith in the Focus", the new office is about to be functional, and it will be within a stone's throw of the building at State and Main. This, as it is often said, is about to get interesting.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Would You Like to Rethink That Plan?
Click the title above to read about the design plan for The Journal-Standard that was written by the most recently departed editor, Andrew Analore, whom upon my dismissal from The J-S, informed me that he had moved half-way across the country for this job. He also made it clear that he had as much at stake in this community as I did. I did remind him of the track record for editors at our local daily (though there will soon be a second daily in town) and that I wondered if he could comment on Freeport after living here for more than 18 years. I guess we'll never find out now.
Why is any of this of any importance? I think it goes to the heart of the lack of communication between The J-S and the community. There is still no word forthcoming on Olga Gize Carlile's status, while the publisher may now call Lena home, he has still only been here for less than two years, and as for the finding out the pulse of the town in coffee shops (as Mr. Analore alluded to in his column about the design change of the paper)...just which coffee shops is he referring to?
I haven't heard the positive comments coming from anyone about the design changes in any of the ones that I frequent, namely all three... Cafe Mondo, Nine East Coffee, and Higher Grounds.
I understand that The J-S is "ready to rumble", and I admit to being disillusioned with their current status (and to being slightly biased as a contributing columnist for the Village Voices and Freeport Focus papers), but I am contacted almost daily about The J-S by people who were disappointed by their decision to cancel my "For the Love of Community" column. They didn't want "personal" columns included in their new format, but now that is exactly what they are going back to, including those by the publisher and new columnists (most of whom are GateHouse syndicates, or local ones who do not live in Freeport or our immediate circulation area).
So, what is it going to be? A nameless distributor of day-old news and sports scores or one that engages the community with thoughtful, current topics by local contributors? I guess we will soon see, won't we?
Why is any of this of any importance? I think it goes to the heart of the lack of communication between The J-S and the community. There is still no word forthcoming on Olga Gize Carlile's status, while the publisher may now call Lena home, he has still only been here for less than two years, and as for the finding out the pulse of the town in coffee shops (as Mr. Analore alluded to in his column about the design change of the paper)...just which coffee shops is he referring to?
I haven't heard the positive comments coming from anyone about the design changes in any of the ones that I frequent, namely all three... Cafe Mondo, Nine East Coffee, and Higher Grounds.
I understand that The J-S is "ready to rumble", and I admit to being disillusioned with their current status (and to being slightly biased as a contributing columnist for the Village Voices and Freeport Focus papers), but I am contacted almost daily about The J-S by people who were disappointed by their decision to cancel my "For the Love of Community" column. They didn't want "personal" columns included in their new format, but now that is exactly what they are going back to, including those by the publisher and new columnists (most of whom are GateHouse syndicates, or local ones who do not live in Freeport or our immediate circulation area).
So, what is it going to be? A nameless distributor of day-old news and sports scores or one that engages the community with thoughtful, current topics by local contributors? I guess we will soon see, won't we?
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Shown the Door, Where's the Gate(House)?
Word on the street is that our 2007 Illinois Journalist of the Year is now out of a job. If recent reports like this one from the Wall Street Journal (The Train Wreck at Gatehouse Media) are any indication of things to come, then it looks like Mrs. Carlile will not be the last of the employees at The Journal-Standard to be lead out to the curb. If the reports from friends of Olga are true (and I would like to speak with her myself to get her side of the story), then this was an ignominious end to a long-term relationship between Mrs. Carlile and The Journal-Standard.
Gatehouse Media is looking at a massive debt load and decreased revenue stream. How long will it be before The Journal-Standard becomes incorporated into the Rockford Register-Star that is also owned by Gatehouse? Consolidation, while not a forgone conclusion, seems to be even more likely given the less than stellar numbers put up by Gatehouse.
In indirectly related news (as far as the fate of print-edition newspapers) The Chicago Tribune announced that they will have another mass lay off by the end of August due to declining ad revenues and increased operating costs. The number of printed pages will again be decreased and a design change is due in September.
Newspapers are struggling. Years of loyal advertising accounts are now looking to spend their money elsewhere. The top-down hierarchy of most newspapers is fast changing with the continued expansion of internet news services, online editions of the papers, and independent bloggers (many of whom have entered the mainstream media by way of their blogging insights). Publishers have, in many cases, downplayed the significance of bloggers as being "guys in pajamas with too much time on their hands", but now that the writing is on the wall for many publishers and major and mid-major newspapers, perhaps it is too late to save the traditional paper as we have known it for most of our lives.
Let's be honest with the citizens, local paper, give us the news of "Where's Olga?" and what is really happening at The Journal-Standard. In the meantime, while it may seem counterintuitive to initiate a new daily paper in the area, it also makes sense, because people are clamoring to hear local voices about local happenings, politics, and business, instead of wire service feeds and syndicated claptrap that doesn't involve us. So, bring on the daily edition of the Freeport Focus. The timing seems right.
Gatehouse Media is looking at a massive debt load and decreased revenue stream. How long will it be before The Journal-Standard becomes incorporated into the Rockford Register-Star that is also owned by Gatehouse? Consolidation, while not a forgone conclusion, seems to be even more likely given the less than stellar numbers put up by Gatehouse.
In indirectly related news (as far as the fate of print-edition newspapers) The Chicago Tribune announced that they will have another mass lay off by the end of August due to declining ad revenues and increased operating costs. The number of printed pages will again be decreased and a design change is due in September.
Newspapers are struggling. Years of loyal advertising accounts are now looking to spend their money elsewhere. The top-down hierarchy of most newspapers is fast changing with the continued expansion of internet news services, online editions of the papers, and independent bloggers (many of whom have entered the mainstream media by way of their blogging insights). Publishers have, in many cases, downplayed the significance of bloggers as being "guys in pajamas with too much time on their hands", but now that the writing is on the wall for many publishers and major and mid-major newspapers, perhaps it is too late to save the traditional paper as we have known it for most of our lives.
Let's be honest with the citizens, local paper, give us the news of "Where's Olga?" and what is really happening at The Journal-Standard. In the meantime, while it may seem counterintuitive to initiate a new daily paper in the area, it also makes sense, because people are clamoring to hear local voices about local happenings, politics, and business, instead of wire service feeds and syndicated claptrap that doesn't involve us. So, bring on the daily edition of the Freeport Focus. The timing seems right.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Where, Oh, Where Has Olga Gone?
The following appeared in the National Federation of Press Women about Freeport's Olga Gize Carlile:
Olga Gize Carlile started her 50-year career in journalism at a time when few married women were in the workforce, becoming one of the first women managing editors at the newspaper. A dedicated print journalist, book author and columnist, she broke ground for women journalists in finding ways to balance career, family, and community commitments. She has held many offices in IWPA, served eight years on the NFPW Education Fund board, and was the 1992 NFPW Communicator of Achievement.
Now, there is no word from her longstanding employer, The Journal-Standard, about her status at the newspaper. Various "rumors" are flying about the town, but to date,there has been no official word from the publisher or editor at The J-S.
Last year when she was being honored by Northern Illinois University as the 2007 Illinois Journalist of the Year, there couldn't be enough "face time" for Mrs. Carlile on the front page of the paper and now... well, only the rumors of her being escorted to the door, being asked to work limited hours with no benefits, or to take a buyout and quit writing for the paper to which she gave most of her adult life her time, talents and treasures.
It is time that some notice be forthcoming. There are many readers of the local daily who have only kept their subscription because Olga was still writing. If she is no longer on the staff, well, it is my guess that there will be an onslaught of letters, phone calls, emails, and canceled subscriptions in the very near future.
Whether intended or not, this will only help to further entrench the support for the new upcoming daily paper, The Freeport Focus. I realize that there is a certain bias on my behalf, having felt the indignity of minimal forewarning before being told that my services were no longer needed at The J-S, but as I was reminded that I was "only" a freelance writer (albeit for 8 1/2 years), Olga has been with The J-S for what 50 years or so? I'd expect a greater degree of dignity than what the rumors are implying, but we'll have to wait and see what the "rest of the story" is or at least the edited version will be.
Olga Gize Carlile started her 50-year career in journalism at a time when few married women were in the workforce, becoming one of the first women managing editors at the newspaper. A dedicated print journalist, book author and columnist, she broke ground for women journalists in finding ways to balance career, family, and community commitments. She has held many offices in IWPA, served eight years on the NFPW Education Fund board, and was the 1992 NFPW Communicator of Achievement.
Now, there is no word from her longstanding employer, The Journal-Standard, about her status at the newspaper. Various "rumors" are flying about the town, but to date,there has been no official word from the publisher or editor at The J-S.
Last year when she was being honored by Northern Illinois University as the 2007 Illinois Journalist of the Year, there couldn't be enough "face time" for Mrs. Carlile on the front page of the paper and now... well, only the rumors of her being escorted to the door, being asked to work limited hours with no benefits, or to take a buyout and quit writing for the paper to which she gave most of her adult life her time, talents and treasures.
It is time that some notice be forthcoming. There are many readers of the local daily who have only kept their subscription because Olga was still writing. If she is no longer on the staff, well, it is my guess that there will be an onslaught of letters, phone calls, emails, and canceled subscriptions in the very near future.
Whether intended or not, this will only help to further entrench the support for the new upcoming daily paper, The Freeport Focus. I realize that there is a certain bias on my behalf, having felt the indignity of minimal forewarning before being told that my services were no longer needed at The J-S, but as I was reminded that I was "only" a freelance writer (albeit for 8 1/2 years), Olga has been with The J-S for what 50 years or so? I'd expect a greater degree of dignity than what the rumors are implying, but we'll have to wait and see what the "rest of the story" is or at least the edited version will be.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
The Tao of Steve
The following column first appeared last month (May 14, 2008) in the Freeport Focus and Village Voices newspapers. It is reprinted here in follow up to numerous requests. Thanks for reading.
The Tao of Steve
by
Roland Tolliver
“To give anything less than
your best is to sacrifice the
gift.” - Steve Prefontaine
I haven’t found that
there are too many heroes in
life. There are a number of
people that have worthy
traits that are worth emulating.
There are those people
that have qualities that make
them stand out in the world,
whether it be in politics,
education, sports, the performing
arts, religion, and in
that all important field of
parenting. There is one person,
though, that I have not
been able to get out of my
head since I was a teen. Over
the years, I have found some
bizarre connection with this
man, who will have been
gone from this live for the
past 33 years this month.
Steve Prefontaine,
known simply as “Pre”
among those familiar with
the man and his life, has
generated untold stories of
his running acumen, guts,
and dedication. He was born
Steve Roland Prefontaine on
January 25, 1951, exactly
seven years to the date of my
own birth. Of course, there
is the strange coincidence
that his middle name and
my first name are the same,
as well. So, perhaps there
was some pre-ordained reason
that I was drawn into the
near mystical fascination
with this Olympic runner
and his short, but productive
life.
It was the summer before
my freshman year in high
school when Pre ran the
infamous 5,000 meters race
in the Olympics in Munich.
These were supposed to be
the “Happy” Olympics with
a return to peace in the
world. These Olympic
Games will always be
remembered for the 13
Israeli athletes and coaches
that were killed by
Palestinian terrorists after
the Israelis had been taken
hostage. A number of the
athletes managed to escape
and hide in the American
dorms. Any innocence of the
Olympics was lost that year
and as recent history has
proven too many times, the
innocence of a terror-free
world is but a dream. Besides
Mark Spitz winning seven
gold medals in swimming,
Frank Shorter winning the
marathon, and Dave Wottle
with his white gold cap coming
from last to first to win
the 800 meter race, there is
only one event that sticks
out in my mind. That was
the gutsy race that Steve
Prefontaine ran in the 5000
meter final, only to finish
spent and in fourth place.
He was young, 21, competing
against much more
seasoned runners, and he
almost won an Olympic
medal. It was then that I
realized that we can’t win all
the time, but that we can
always give a full effort in
whatever we do in life. There
have been a number of times
in life that I thought it
would be easier to just pack
it in and give up, but then I
think back to that summer
and how many obstacle I’ve
overcome in life since then.
One of my life’s highlights
was living in Munich
for a year while I was an
undergraduate student and
one of the highlights of that
year was running a race that
concluded on that same
track that Steve and Frank
and Dave and the U.S.
Olympic team and athletes
from around the world had
competed on. I often go
back to that day in my mind,
knowing that so many people
that have had great
influence on my life are no
longer here, but carry me
through many days as spiritlike
inspirations.
“Run fast. Run strong,”
they say. “Keep going. You
can do it,” they remind me.
“We’re watching over you.
You are not alone,” they
remind me.
Whether it be my uncle,
Wayne, who died in a one
car accident almost exactly a
year after Pre, or my mother,
Mary, who died almost
exactly five years after
Wayne, or Pre, whom I never
had the chance to meet,
there words carry me
through trying times. Their
memories strengthen the
loving and fulfilling
thoughts and words of my
bride and family today. I
have found that while it isn’t
healthy to dwell in the past,
we can meld our history with
our present to sustain us
today and brighten our
tomorrows.
Steve Prefontaine was
not only the greatest runner
in America during his career,
but one who worked equally
hard for equality and justice
among competitive runners
in our country. Many of the
changes he fought for against
the Amateur Athletic Union
eventually came to fruition
after his death. The entire
Olympic process in our
country eventually changed
based on the rights he fought
do diligently for. It is the
essence of making a difference
in one’s life that has
stuck with me as much as his
running prowess has over the
years. It is one impetus for
trying to make a difference
in my community, my
church, in my profession and
within my family.
“Go, Pre!” his fans
would shout at each of his
meets. He wouldn’t be
around to see the books written
about him or the movies
made about his short life. He
would see the minions of followers
that would be
influenced by his accomplishments.
Steve Prefontaine died in a one-car
accident in Eugene, Oregon,
the city of his greatest feats,
early on the morning of May
30, 1975. There are many
theories about the crash, but
the only one who knows for
sure is gone.
No one should be held
up as an idol, but there are
people that influence who
and what we become. We are
all influenced by the people
we meet in life or by the lives
of the people we read or
learn about. For me, I’ve
found myself following the
Tao of Steve for much of my
life and with God’s help
hope to follow it for many
years to come. One day
maybe my children or others
will be inclined to follow the
“Tao of Roland”. Well, anything’s
possible, right?!
Dr. Roland Tolliver is a
freelance writer from Freeport.
He often wonders what it
would have been like to be an
Olympian. He may be reached
at rtolliver@kastlepublishing.
com. You may view more
photos at http://www.pretzelcity.
blogspot.com/
The Tao of Steve
by
Roland Tolliver
“To give anything less than
your best is to sacrifice the
gift.” - Steve Prefontaine
I haven’t found that
there are too many heroes in
life. There are a number of
people that have worthy
traits that are worth emulating.
There are those people
that have qualities that make
them stand out in the world,
whether it be in politics,
education, sports, the performing
arts, religion, and in
that all important field of
parenting. There is one person,
though, that I have not
been able to get out of my
head since I was a teen. Over
the years, I have found some
bizarre connection with this
man, who will have been
gone from this live for the
past 33 years this month.
Steve Prefontaine,
known simply as “Pre”
among those familiar with
the man and his life, has
generated untold stories of
his running acumen, guts,
and dedication. He was born
Steve Roland Prefontaine on
January 25, 1951, exactly
seven years to the date of my
own birth. Of course, there
is the strange coincidence
that his middle name and
my first name are the same,
as well. So, perhaps there
was some pre-ordained reason
that I was drawn into the
near mystical fascination
with this Olympic runner
and his short, but productive
life.
It was the summer before
my freshman year in high
school when Pre ran the
infamous 5,000 meters race
in the Olympics in Munich.
These were supposed to be
the “Happy” Olympics with
a return to peace in the
world. These Olympic
Games will always be
remembered for the 13
Israeli athletes and coaches
that were killed by
Palestinian terrorists after
the Israelis had been taken
hostage. A number of the
athletes managed to escape
and hide in the American
dorms. Any innocence of the
Olympics was lost that year
and as recent history has
proven too many times, the
innocence of a terror-free
world is but a dream. Besides
Mark Spitz winning seven
gold medals in swimming,
Frank Shorter winning the
marathon, and Dave Wottle
with his white gold cap coming
from last to first to win
the 800 meter race, there is
only one event that sticks
out in my mind. That was
the gutsy race that Steve
Prefontaine ran in the 5000
meter final, only to finish
spent and in fourth place.
He was young, 21, competing
against much more
seasoned runners, and he
almost won an Olympic
medal. It was then that I
realized that we can’t win all
the time, but that we can
always give a full effort in
whatever we do in life. There
have been a number of times
in life that I thought it
would be easier to just pack
it in and give up, but then I
think back to that summer
and how many obstacle I’ve
overcome in life since then.
One of my life’s highlights
was living in Munich
for a year while I was an
undergraduate student and
one of the highlights of that
year was running a race that
concluded on that same
track that Steve and Frank
and Dave and the U.S.
Olympic team and athletes
from around the world had
competed on. I often go
back to that day in my mind,
knowing that so many people
that have had great
influence on my life are no
longer here, but carry me
through many days as spiritlike
inspirations.
“Run fast. Run strong,”
they say. “Keep going. You
can do it,” they remind me.
“We’re watching over you.
You are not alone,” they
remind me.
Whether it be my uncle,
Wayne, who died in a one
car accident almost exactly a
year after Pre, or my mother,
Mary, who died almost
exactly five years after
Wayne, or Pre, whom I never
had the chance to meet,
there words carry me
through trying times. Their
memories strengthen the
loving and fulfilling
thoughts and words of my
bride and family today. I
have found that while it isn’t
healthy to dwell in the past,
we can meld our history with
our present to sustain us
today and brighten our
tomorrows.
Steve Prefontaine was
not only the greatest runner
in America during his career,
but one who worked equally
hard for equality and justice
among competitive runners
in our country. Many of the
changes he fought for against
the Amateur Athletic Union
eventually came to fruition
after his death. The entire
Olympic process in our
country eventually changed
based on the rights he fought
do diligently for. It is the
essence of making a difference
in one’s life that has
stuck with me as much as his
running prowess has over the
years. It is one impetus for
trying to make a difference
in my community, my
church, in my profession and
within my family.
“Go, Pre!” his fans
would shout at each of his
meets. He wouldn’t be
around to see the books written
about him or the movies
made about his short life. He
would see the minions of followers
that would be
influenced by his accomplishments.
Steve Prefontaine died in a one-car
accident in Eugene, Oregon,
the city of his greatest feats,
early on the morning of May
30, 1975. There are many
theories about the crash, but
the only one who knows for
sure is gone.
No one should be held
up as an idol, but there are
people that influence who
and what we become. We are
all influenced by the people
we meet in life or by the lives
of the people we read or
learn about. For me, I’ve
found myself following the
Tao of Steve for much of my
life and with God’s help
hope to follow it for many
years to come. One day
maybe my children or others
will be inclined to follow the
“Tao of Roland”. Well, anything’s
possible, right?!
Dr. Roland Tolliver is a
freelance writer from Freeport.
He often wonders what it
would have been like to be an
Olympian. He may be reached
at rtolliver@kastlepublishing.
com. You may view more
photos at http://www.pretzelcity.
blogspot.com/
Friday, May 09, 2008
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