The World This Week

2009-11-15T19:17:00.002-05:00

Gerald R Ford (CVN-78)

Keel Laying

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (Nov. 14, 2009) Susan Ford Bales, daughter of former President Gerald R. Ford and ship's sponsor of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), writes her initials onto a metal plate during the keel laying and authentication ceremony. Gerald R. Ford is the newest class of aircraft carrier. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin S. O'Brien/Released)

An artist's conception (2004) of CVN-78, the first of a new generation carrier design, CVN-21, for the US Navy, underway at Northrop Grumman Newport News. Construction is slated to begin in 2007. US Navy Photo courtesy Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipbuilding

2009-11-14T10:01:00.002-05:00

The 25th Annual Putnam County

Spelling Bee

If your schedule has prevented you from attending any performance of "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" by the Youth Actor's Company of Macon, Georgia I would urge you to lay all other obligations aside and do so today, Saturday November 14 or Sunday November 15.

You can visit this website to acquire information about obtaining tickets:

http://www.theatremacon.com/

I had the great fortune to attend this production on Friday the 13th and came away with an appreciation of today's Youth. These talented actors and actresses certainly deserve the respect of everyone in Middle Georgia. Their talent while producing a specific character or even while singing is simply overwhelming.

If you believe the word "bodacious" means unrestrained by convention or propriety you are in for an event that will be entertaining as well as emotional. As the Director, Katy Thompson stated in her notes: "It's not often you find a show which has humor and heart imbedded in every scene."

I would certainly agree with that statement. Please visit the Website indicated above and make your phone call now to acquire the tickets you need to attend this event.

2009-11-13T16:34:00.002-05:00

Counter-Piracy Operations

Somalia

These operations have not generated much media coverage in recent weeks, but please be aware that our U. S. Navy is still engaged in these operations off of the Coast of Africa. Our Heroes continue to be deployed in international waters to perform the missions assigned to our Navy.

I would urge everyone to continue to remember these Heroes in their daily prayers. Not only our U. S. Navy Heroes, but the Heroes in our U. S. Air Force, the Heroes in our U. S. Army, the Heroes in our U. S. Marines and the Heroes in the U. S. Coast Guard also.

Thank You!!!

GULF OF ADEN (Nov. 8, 2009) The guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) maneuvers past a fishing dhow in the Gulf of Aden while conducting counter-piracy operations. Chosin is the flagship for Combined Joint Task Force 151, a multinational task force established to conduct counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Scott Taylor/Released)

GULF OF ADEN (Oct. 14, 2009) The sun sets behind the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) and a rigid hull inflatable boat as they wait for the completion of a boarding by Anzio's visit, board, search and seizure team and U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team (91104) in the Gulf of Aden. Anzio is the flagship for Combined Task Force 151, a multinational task force established to conduct counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Matthew Bash/Released)

GULF OF ADEN (Nov. 9, 2009) The sun sets in the Gulf of Aden as the guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) concludes another day of counter-piracy operations. Chosin is the flagship for Combined Joint Task Force 151, a multinational task force established to conduct counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Scott Taylor/Released)

2009-11-11T17:15:00.002-05:00

Veteran's Day 2009

It is always refreshing to observe the age ranges of the Citizens of this great Country as they observe our National Holidays. I appreciate the fact that all age groups are represented in the 2009 Observance.

GULFPORT, Miss. (Nov. 7, 2009) Stephanie M. Jones, commanding officer of Naval Construction Training Center (NCTC) Gulfport leads Sailors in the 9th annual Mississippi Gulf Coast Veterans Parade in downtown Gulfport. (U.S. Navy photo By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael D. Wright/Released)

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Nov. 7, 2009) Members of the Melbourne Sea Cadet Color Guard retire the colors during the 2009 Veteran's Day Ceremony and Muster XXIV at the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Fla. The annual muster is held at the museum, which is located on the original training grounds of the Scouts and Raiders. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph M. Clark/Released)

ARLINGTON, Va. (Nov. 10, 2009) A Marine plays Taps during a wreath laying ceremony at the Marine Corps Memorial in honor of the 234th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin S. O'Brien/Released)

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Nov. 7, 2009) Members of the World War II era Scouts and Raiders stand to be recognized during the 2009 Veterans Day Ceremony and Muster XXIV at the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Fla. The annual muster is held at the museum, which is located on the original training grounds of the Scouts and Raiders. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph M. Clark/Released)

Of course it is with great pride that I publish this Post today, November 11, 2009. Our Country has certainly displayed the fact that we Honor and Respect our Veterans.

As but one Veteran, myself, I appreciate this fact. Have A Great Day!!!

2009-11-10T16:09:00.003-05:00

Memorial Service November 10th, 2009

Fort Hood Texas

Today, just one day short of Veteran's Day 2009 our Country paused for almost two hours to honor the thirteen Heroes who gave their lives at Fort Hood Texas on November 5, 2009.

There were several statements that captured my heart. One was a message that focused on "Trust" in our Military. They learn teamwork and trust each other. We as the citizens of this great country also "Trust" them to protect our way of life.

During the Memorial Service I also heard one speaker who focused on Holy Scripture, Isaiah Chapter six and he stated that our Nation's Heroes upon joining our Military answer the Call Of Our Country just as Isaiah answered God's Call to go and deliver a message to his people.

The Quoted Verse reads: "Then I heard the voice of the Lord Saying 'Whom shall I send?' And who will go for us? And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!'"

I found this a very appropriate verse and I am confident that the mourners also found comfort in these words. The Men and Women who lost their lives on November 5, 2009 certainly answered the call of our Country.

The reading from Holy Scripture for this Memorial Service was also from the Book of Isaiah, Chapter 40. The heading for this Chapter is entitled "Comfort for God's People."

This Chapter also was the source of several of the musical selections in "The Messiah" by George Frideric Handel. The versus for the Memorial Service were 26 through 31 which I will quote here:

"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Prior to the Memorial Service the U. S. Army Band at Fort Hood played a series of songs that are very comforting. One was "Be Still My Soul," which is often used at funerals. The other that I recognized very quickly was "Beautiful Savior."

I am confident that these musical selections were also very comforting to those who had suffered such great loss last November 5, 2009.

Our President delivered a power speech which include a brief summary of each of these Heroes. As the Memorial Service concluded he also presented each Hero with a "Presidential Coin." I am confident that these coins will be of great treasure to the survivors of each of these Heroes.

This Memorial Service was certainly a great tribute to these Heroes. After I viewed this event on Television I took the opportunity to review my E-Mail messages. Among them was this fine message from a young Michael Alan Thiese. I will quote it here:

"As I sit here pondering the upcoming holiday.......sorry, sounding like my dad now. Anyway as I begin to think about the upcoming holiday I would like to encourage all of you to remember our veterans of the past, present and future. They make the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and we owe them greatly for that. As many of you know I ride with the Patriot Guard Riders and this veterans day will be a bit tougher for alot of pople in the St.Louis area as we are participating in a full Military honors Funeral and Escort ride at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetary for a 23 year old soldier killed in Iraq last week. In closing I personally want to say thanks to all veterans for their services and sacrifices and I ask that the rest of you do that as well in the upcoming day. At 11:11 on Nov. 11 I ask all of you to take a moment of silence for those lost in battle or currently fighting for our freedoms that we all enjoy.

Mike "munk" Thiese
proud member of the Patriot Guard Riders"

As the Dad of Mike I could not be more proud of what he is doing. I certainly appreciate this message. I even obtained his permission to quote it here.

Have a Blessed Veteran's Day and always remember our Nation's heroes. As our President pointed out today, these are our Father's, our Mothers, Our Sons, our Daughters, our Sisters and our Brothers. I also add, these our our Neighbors and our Friends in every community in our great Nation.

Yes, every member of our Military currently serving and those who will serve are certainly our Heroes.

Thank You!!!

2009-11-09T15:34:00.002-05:00

Security Watch

U. S. Navy

" ATLANTIC OCEAN (Nov. 7, 2009) Yeoman 3rd Class Edgar Ruffin stands a force protection security watch aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Harry S. Truman is underway conducting carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jessica Ellington/Released)"

Time have certainly changed since I was on Aircraft Carrier Duty in 1963. Now we have Force Protection Security Watches watching for potential enemies.

Admittedly things have changed a lot. I am extremely thankful for these young heroes who answered the call to defend our way of life in the United States of America.

2009-11-09T08:43:00.002-05:00

Veteran's Day

Ellaville, Georgia

Schley County

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Yesterday, November 8th I was able to attend the Veteran's Day Events in Ellaville, Georgia. The Rainbow Garden Club and the Auxilary of American Legion Post 191 in Ellaville observed the Day with a Lunch at the American Legion Post.

After a delightful lunch the Auxiliary conducted a Memorial Service where a candle was lite for each Veteran who had passed away since November 11, 2008. They also draped the POW Flag over a chair which allowed everyone in attendance to also remember these Heroes.

After the Lunch everyone proceeded to the City Square for the ground breaking of the Blue Star Memorial Marker which will be erected to also honor our Nation's Heroes, past, present and future. The Schley County High School Band performed the "Star Spangled Banner" as part of the celebration.

The Flag Corps also performed. This event certainly allowed everyone to focus on why it is such a pleasure to reside in any town in our great Country. The fellowship and the respect displayed by everyone in attendance was very emotional for me.

The events of the day were concluded by the ground breaking for the Blue Star Memorial Marker by the Mayor of Ellaville, Georgia.

A day filled with events that certainly honored The Veterans of the area. To learn more about the Blue Star Memorial Marker program please visit:

http://www.gardenclub.org/specialprojects/BlueStarMemorial.aspx

Thank You to all who have served, to all who are serving and also to all who will serve in defense of our United States of America.

In conclusion, the Flower Child would like to also state that the Town of Ellaville, Georgia and Schley County, Georgia certainly honored their Heroes on Sunday, November 8, 2009. The citizens of this area can certainly be proud of their Veteran's Day Celebration.

2009-11-08T17:34:00.003-05:00

Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery

Georgia Highway 26

Southwest of Oglethorpe, Georgia

Today I traveled to Ellaville, Georgia in Schley County to attend a Veteran's Day Ceremony and also the ground breaking for a Blue Star Memorial Marker in the City Square. On our way as we traveled Georgia Highway 26 we noted the Zion Lutheran Church Marker. After the events in Ellaville were complete we reversed our trip and I took the opportunity to visit this historic cemetery.
After I read the larger marker along the highway I entered the Cemetery and I viewed this marker. This was the site of a Lutheran Church that was established in 1838.

As I walked around this Cemetery I found this restored grave site. The name immediately caught my eye and I had to take a picture.

This is an historic grave site with a steel fence around the marker. I noted that Sarah Jane Ellis was born Jun 14, 1839 and died on Dec 14, 1888. I suspect that her parents may have been Charter Members of Zion Lutheran Church when it was established in 1838.

As I was walking back to the highway I decided to take this image of the whole Cemetery. I just had to post this Blog Entry today. As a Lutheran who is also a transplanted Yankee to Georgia some years ago I am often told that this part of the Country is committed to other denominations. Based on this information I will now be able to state that the Lutherans also have a fairly long history in Georgia.

Just a reminder, by clicking on any image in my Blog Post you will be able to see a much larger photograph.

Thank You!!!

2009-11-07T19:13:00.002-05:00

USS New York (LPD-21) Commissioning

NEW YORK (Nov. 7, 2009) Sailors man the ship and bring her to life during the commissioning ceremony of the of the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) in New York City. New York Has 7.5 tons of steel from the World Trade Center in her bow. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tiffini Jones Vanderwyst/Released)

NEW YORK (Nov. 7, 2009) Marines and Sailors bring the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) during a commissioning ceremony in New York. The ship has 7.5 tons of steel salvaged from the World Trade Center towers forged into her bow, and will be used to support humanitarian, amphibious assault, special operations and expeditionary warfare missions around the world. New York is the sixth U.S. Navy ship named for the state and will be homeported in Norfolk, Va. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Keith L. Darby/Released)

My heart is troubled today, even as our Great Country Commissioned this great Ship, the USS New York (LPD 21) in New York City today, November the 7th.

Just a few days ago we all witnessed the news reports of a U. S. Army Doctor at Fort Hood Texas and how he killed thirteen people and wounded many more during his shooting spree at Fort Hood.

Just a few days ago I received an update on how our Department of Homeland Security is appointing individuals to leadership positions who are Muslims. The U. S. Army Doctor at Fort Hood is reported to also be a Muslim.

I simply can not understand how our Government can appoint these individuals to positions of leadership in our Defense Establishment and our Homeland Security Department. It is my understanding that U. S. Military Officers are promoted with the advise and consent of the U. S. Senate so it is my concern that our Senators are now a party as a group and as individuals to the promotion of an alledged killer who is a Muslim.

Additionally, appointing civilians in the Department of Homeland Security who are Muslims just seems to be totally incorrect.

Then I am also aware that our U. S. House of Representatives are in the process of passing a Bill that would require the U. S. Government to fund abortions. I can not comprehend this sad fact as being in the best interest of the U. S. Citizens.

Or, are are duly elected leaders so bent on being politically correct in their quest for votes that they ignore common sense and allow these things to happen? Certainly a troubling situation that I for one feel must be corrected if we are to continue to enjoy America as the Land of the Free.

I am extremely proud of our U. S. Military Heroes and I appreciate the efforts of our Defense Department in the construction of new ships, but it just does not seem correct that while we on one hand construct a superior weapons system that we allow enemies of our way of life to receive promotions or be given appointments to situations/positions where they could cause great harm to all of us.

I think that it is certainly time to respect life and to also communicate our beliefs to our duly elected officials at all levels.

The USS New York (LPD 21) should be a reminder of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Can we as a Country allow our leaders to continue to be politically correct? The male and female Sailors of the U. S. Navy and the male and female Marines who serve in the USS New York already know the answer. They are possibly a minority in our Society, but it is my Prayer that there are many more like me who have troubled hearts tonight as we remember 9-11-2001. It is also my prayer that there are many more like me who have troubled hearts tonight as we remember the tragic event at Fort Hood Texas this past week.

It is my prayer tonight that God will guide our U. S. Congress to consider the consequences of Government funded abortions.

My dear Friends, it is not too late. We must consider our options and relate our concerns to our elected leaders at all levels. The time for being politically correct is over. We must all bond and also band together to execute what is good and proper for the future of our United States of America. Like the Sailors and Marines assigned to the USS New York (LPD-21), we as citizens must be dedicated to the Welfare of all of us, each of us as fellow Citizens of the United States of America.

For information about this great ship please visit:

http://www.ussny.org/ship.php

"Never Forget"

2009-11-06T22:23:00.001-05:00

Lord of the Dance

Macon, Georgia 2010

Remember, You Saw It Here First!!!

2009-11-06T11:00:00.003-05:00

Otis Redding

An Evening of RESPECT

Last evening it was my great fortune to spend the evening at the Atlanta Symphony Hall for the All-Star Musical Tribute to the Immortal Otis Redding. The event was a fund raiser for the Otis Redding Foundation which supports Youth and Education.

The Musical Tribute was terrific. Those of us who attended from Macon, Georgia also had the option of riding a Motor Coach to the event which was the option I selected. A delightful evening which was also enjoyed by three others from the Bibb County School System Mentor's Project.

A long evening to be certain, but one which will remain in my heart. Certainly a gala event!!!! I appreciate the efforts of FM 100.9 which promoted this event and also provided the four tickets which allowed us to attend.

Thank You!!!

2009-11-05T13:43:00.002-05:00

Veteran's Day

Every year we take the time to Honor our Veterans on November 11th. As I reflected on the heritage that I enjoy and also the legacy of these Heroes I thought that it would be very appropriate to learn of the sacrifices these Men and Women made to keep our great Country safe.

This Blue Star Marker is located at Rest Stop 19 on I-475 in Bibb County, Georgia. This marker was erected by the Meadowbrook Garden Club of Macon to honor Colonel Benjamin H. Purcell of the United States Army. To learn more about this Hero please visit:

http://www.veterantributes.org/TributeDetail.asp?ID=105

Did you know that every Rest Stop/Area located on the Interstate Highway System within the State of Georgia has one of these plaques? Each of these plaques has a headline of:

The State of Georgia Salutes

Most of the time we are too busy attempting to reach our distinations to take the time to pause and actually read what is on these plaques.

I added up the numbers of Georgia Citizens who served us all during the last century. Here is what I learned:

Georgia Citizens Who Served: 732,373

Georgia Citizens Who Were Killed In Action (KIA): 10,655

Georgia Citizens Who Were Wounded in Action (WIA): 24,557

Georgia Citizens Who Were Former Prisioners of War (POW): 839

Georgia Citizens Who Were Missing In Action (MIA): 630

During the time frame of the Cold War the State of Georgia provided over 1,000,000 Citizens who served our United States of America. As of July 1, 1999 there were 660,900 Veterans living in Georgia.

If you checked the link provided above you discovered that Colonel Benjamine H. Purcell was a Prisoner of War during the Vietnam War. During the course of the History of the United States our Country has had 661,455 citizens were were taken prisoners during combat.

We honor these heroes by flying the POW Flag.

I appreciated the fact that the wind was strong enough today to allow me to capture the flags during my visit to this Rest Stop to obtain the pictures for this post. Did you know that by clinking on the pictures that you will obtain a larger image for you to view and to also read the detail on the plaques much easier?

As You Reflect on the importance of Veterans Day and also participate in Veterans Day activities on November 11th, please remember that we in the United States of America are most fortunate to have had these Heroes in our History so that we can enjoy life today.

Then, let us also pause and extend our Thanks and our Gratitude to those who are currently serving. Additionally, keep these Heroes and their respective families in your daily prayers.

Thank You, Veterans of the Past, Veterans of the Present, and yes the Veterans of the Future!!!

May God Continue to Bless America!!!!

2009-11-02T22:08:00.001-05:00

USS New York

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Nov. 1, 2009) The amphibious transport dock ship Pre-commissioning Unit (PCU) New York (LPD 21) navigates off the coast of Long Island prior to her arrival in New York City. At approximately 8:00 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 2, the yet-to-be commissioned ship will come to a halt in the Hudson River. There, opposite the former World Trade Center site, the future USS NEW YORK (LPD 21) will dip her colors, fire a 21-gun salute to the people of her namesake city and state, and proceed to Pier 88 to be formally inducted into the Fleet at a shipboard ceremony on Nov. 7.The New York Has 7.5 tons of World Trade Center Steel in the bow. The ship's motto is "Strength Forged through Sacrifice. Never Forget." (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st class Corey Lewis/Released)

2009-11-02T14:35:00.004-05:00

Health Care in the U. S. A.

H.R. 3962

As I was conducting my weekly errands today it was my good fortune to listen to Talk Radio and hear a commentary about how Trial Lawyers are protected by H.R. 3962. I did look up the Health Care bill now under consideration and opened page 1432 to see for my self.

As I understood the Talk Radio Program, any State that limits the fees for attorneys will not be eligible for the "Special Incentives" of reimbursement in the proposed Health Care Bill.

I viewed the document at:

http://docs.house.gov/rules/health/111_ahcaa.pdf

Pages 1431 and 1432 contain these words:

1431
•HR 3962 IH
1 SEC. 2531. MEDICAL LIABILITY ALTERNATIVES.
2 (a) INCENTIVE PAYMENTS FOR MEDICAL LIABILITY
3 REFORM.—
4 (1) IN GENERAL.—To the extent and in the
5 amounts made available in advance in appropriations
6 Acts, the Secretary shall make an incentive payment,
7 in an amount determined by the Secretary, to each
8 State that has an alternative medical liability law in
9 compliance with this section.
10 (2) DETERMINATION BY SECRETARY.—The
11 Secretary shall determine that a State has an alter12
native medical liability law in compliance with this
13 section if the Secretary is satisfied that—
14 (A) the State enacted the law after the
15 date of the enactment of this Act and is imple16
menting the law;
17 (B) the law is effective; and
18 (C) the contents of the law are in accord

19
ance with paragraph (4).
20 (3) CONSIDERATIONS FOR DETERMINING EF21
FECTIVENESS.—In determining whether an alter22
native medical liability law is effective under para23
graph (2)(B), the Secretary shall consider whether
24 the law—
VerDate Nov 24 2008 12:56 Oct 30, 2009 Jkt 089200 PO 00000 Frm 01431 Fmt 6652 Sfmt 6201 E:\BILLS\H3962.IH H3962 rmajette on DSK29S0YB1PROD with BILLS
1432
•HR 3962 IH
1 (A) makes the medical liability system
2 more reliable through prevention of, or prompt
3 and fair resolution of, disputes;
4 (B) encourages the disclosure of health
5 care errors; and
6 (C) maintains access to affordable liability
7 insurance.
8 (4) CONTENTS OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICAL LI9
ABILITY LAW.—The contents of an alternative liabil10
ity law are in accordance with this paragraph if—
11 (A) the litigation alternatives contained in
12 the law consist of certificate of merit, early
13 offer, or both; and
14 (B) the law does not limit attorneys’ fees
15 or impose caps on damages.
16 (b) USE OF INCENTIVE PAYMENTS.—Amounts re17
ceived by a State as an incentive payment under this sec18
tion shall be used to improve health care in that State.

You may be better off visiting the site I referenced above to view these two pages. From what I heard and read States that enact "Tort Reform Limits" will not be able to receive "incentitives from the Federal Government.

Sounds like a punishment to me. I continue to be amazed by what I hear and also read about this proposal.

America, The Land of the Free!!!!! Oh, Really.

2009-11-02T13:34:00.002-05:00

Middle Georgia Challenge

Once again the Flower Child will post a challenge. Of course anyone who reads this Blog is elgible to participate. If you are the first person to post the correct answer as to where this Marker is located in the Comments Section below you will be the winner of one lunch at a Middle Georgia Dining Establishment for a Lunch. The Flower Child will be the host. The deadline for participation in this challenge is 2400 on Sunday, 8 November 2009.

The first and only clue is: This marker is located within the city limits of Macon, Georgia. I post these challenges because they are fun. I also believe that far too many citizens of this area have not taken the time to learn about our great city. This is an unfortunate situation which I hope to resolve in my own small way be posting these challenges from time to time.

Any Macon citizen who was born and raised in Macon has most likely passed by this marker so many times that they can not count them.

2009-11-02T12:55:00.002-05:00

Yuletide Camellia

During the visit of the Flower Child's newest Grandson yesterday we conducted a Garden Walk. Even though he is only ten months old he appreciated the lovely flowers. Please view the Yuletide Camellia below. This plant and one other Yuletide Camellia were first planted in planters and adorned the front steps until last Spring. One of the plants died during the past Summer and I transplanted the survivor in the soil so that it would not die.

It is thriving and my Grandson and I observed the first bloom on Sunday, November 1, 2009.

2009-11-01T21:42:00.002-05:00

Underway Replenishment (UNREP)

U. S. Navy

Have you ever wondered how the U. S. Navy ships can remain at sea for long periods. While it is true that nuclear powered aircraft carriers can steam for years without refueling even they must go alongside supply ships to receive food stuffs for the crew and fuel for the airplanes. Other nuclear powered ships also need food supplies for their crews. In fact all the Navy Ships of all countries participate in Underway Replenishment Operations as a fact of life. Today, I the Flower Child will provide information about this special to the Navies of the World Fact of Life.

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 30, 2009) Sailors and Marines gather on the port side of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) before an underway replenishment with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Ericsson (T-AO 194). Harpers Ferry is part of the Denver Amphibious Ready Group conducting a fall patrol in the western Pacific Ocean with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Casey H. Kyhl/Released)

In addition to alongside replenishments from fuel and supply ships the Navies of the World also receive supplies and mail via Vertical Replenishments using helicopters from the supply/fuel supply ships.

To learn more about the operational aspect of underway replenishments please visit:

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/aoe-7-rainier-2.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/unrep.htm&h=480&w=640&sz=50&tbnid=oD9e0CQw9wMs3M:&tbnh=103&tbnw=137&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dunderway%2Breplenishment&hl=en&usg=__VZJ0h6UwjRZ1jZUhb7lYCObp4Sw=&ei=nEbuSsvKKo2qMI2grYQM&sa=X&oi=image_result&resnum=3&ct=image&ved=0CA4Q9QEwAg

2009-10-31T22:21:00.002-04:00

The Gator's

The 2009 Georgia versus Florida Football game is now history. Several of my peers have taken me to task because I am a Gator Fan. I became a Gator Fan when I observed Tim Tebow's acceptance speech at the 2007 Heisman Trophy Presentation. He stated his priorities as:

Faith
Family
Education
Football

I can not think of a better set of priorities for our Young Citizens to emulate.

2009-10-31T16:32:00.002-04:00

Iowa Hawkeyes Play a Dynamic Fourth Quarter

I am taking a break from the Florida-Georgia Game. I have just finished watching the Iowa versus Indiana Game from the Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

This is the only Stadium named for a Heisman Trophy Winner and there is a statue of Nile Kinnick in the plaza of the stadium.

Nile Kinnick's life was shortened by a tragic crash in the water during his training during World War II to become a U. S. Navy Pilot.

Nile Kennick's statue at the stadium which bears his name displays him as a scholar with a book bag. Those who knew him felt that this would be the most appropriate way to honor this Hero.

To read Nile's Heisman Trophy Award speech please visit:

http://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Nile_Kinnick%27s_Heisman_Speech

To learn more about this stadium in Iowa City, Iowa please visit:

http://www.hawkeyesports.com/facilities/iowa-kinnick-stadium.html

Of course you may like to know why I am so interested in the Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. My cousin was the foreman for the construction company which completed the 89 million dollar renovation in August 2006.

Now You Know.

Now I must get on with the Tim Tebow Show.

2009-10-30T09:07:00.002-04:00

Veteran's Day 2009

As we prepare for Veteran's Day 2009 and participate in various programs to Honor our Past Heroes and also our Current Heroes I post this entry today to simply remind everyone that it is essential that we appreciate what the millions of enlisted personel have accomplished in the defense of this Country and what they have accomplished so that we may continue to enjoy our way of life.

Following is the story that relates to this image:

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 29, 2009) Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Carigo A. Rula, directs a Marine Corps CH-53E Sea Stallion helicopter from the flight deck of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) during landing qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua J. Wahl/Released)

Please be aware that I, the Flower Child, am very aware of the enlisted personnel of all services who are truely our Nation's Heroes. Thank You!!!

2009-10-30T08:11:00.002-04:00

School Spirit Abounds in Middle Georgia

Stratford Academy's Final Home Football Game

2009

This morning as I gathered my thoughts and consumed my Coffee, I looked out the window to witness a gathering of many cars on the street near my West Bibb County, Georgia Home.

Considering that it was a Friday Morning and the Football season is reaching the peak of interest I suspected that it was a gathering of Scholars from a nearby Academy.

As I gathered my morning issue of "The Telegraph" from the driveway I ascertained that it was a Breakfast for the Scholars at the home of one of the Academy's Football players. Once the daylight lighted the area I took a series of photographs for this Post.

After I had completed the street scene, four Scholars approached their transportation and I asked them for permission to take a picture. I even encouraged them to turn their faces sideways, but they had no problem with me capturing this image.

I appreciate this display of "School Spirit" by these Scholars and their cheerful attitude at an early hour. I share this story simply to let everyone know that there are plenty of good people in our Community.

Of course I wished them well at tonight's Football game. Go Eagles!!!

2009-10-28T22:19:00.002-04:00

Jack-o'-Lanterns

Halloween 2009

The Sunday, October 25, 2009 post on The World This Week related the fun that was had at the "Down by the River Party" that I attended with my Bride. After everyone had their fill of the delightful Smores the Jack Lanterns were lit as the sky grew dark. Everyone enjoyed these carved pumpkins. Can you determine the carved out images?

Please post your answers in the comments section of this Post.

In conclusion, I wish everyone a safe and Happy Halloween. Enjoy the evening. I am ready for the Trick or Treaters, but please be aware that I might be slow in getting to the door as I will be watching the Florida-Georgia Game.

Thank You!!!!

2009-10-28T22:06:00.002-04:00

William Segal's Art

Macon Museum of Arts and Sciences

My post on October 3, 2009 was about the opening of the William Segal Gallery at the Macon Museum of Arts and Sciences on Forsyth Road, Macon, Georgia. I promised that I would feature more work by this artist who was born in Macon, Georgia. Mr. Segal's friend, Ken Burns was at the Gallery Opening. Enjoy the five pictures I have included here. We were allowed to take pictures of the paintings as long as we did not use flash photography. Additionally, I did not feel that it was appropriate to use a tripod because that would interfere with the other guest at the opening. Thus these images were taken by simply holding the camera.

Should you desire to learn more about Mr. William Segal or see the entire Gallery I would encourage you to visit this site:

http://www.masmacon.com/

The William Segal Gallery will remain at the Museum through January 3, 2010.

2009-10-26T15:27:00.002-04:00

Alan's Story

The Genesis of The Flower Child

Alan was born in a Farm House on Clayton Ridge between Guttenberg and Clayton, Iowa. Both of these towns are on the Mississippi River in Clayton County. Alan was the first child born which would later become a family with six children - three boys and three girls.

The young family moved in the Winter of 1941 to another Farm near the Ceres Church off of U. S. Highway 52 which runs between Guttenberg and Garnavillo, Iowa. The date of this photo is unknown but it appears that I was standing in field of oats.

Because I was a February Baby I usually celebrated my Birthdays with snow on the ground. This picture was taken on my Third Birthday. It would appear that I was camera shy at this age. At least I was not looking at the camera when my Mom snapped this picture. I have fond memories of my Mom taking the family pictures with a Kodak Box Camera. Considering the time frame of our young family with four of us being born in 1940, 1941, 1942 and 1944 we are all well documented. My Mom kept "Birthday Books" on all of us.

I attended this one room country school which was on the corner of My parents 80 acre farm. Although it was not up hill both ways to and from school we did walk to school. We carried our lunch and because our home was so close to the school we had to also carry the pail of water that we all consumed during each school day. Thus we always knew that our drinking water was safe because a sample had to be sent into the State of Iowa Water Testing Lab each school year.

I attended this school for the first seven years of my formal public education.

I graduated from Garnavillo Community School in May of 1958. I scored at the 98th precentile on the Iowa State Test each of my high school years. I understand that these test now have a new name - "The Iowa Test of Basic Skills."

This summary is provided for your reading pleasure just in case you ever wondered how the Flower Child was educated.

Now you know!!

2009-10-25T17:20:00.002-04:00

Let's Go Down To The River!!

One of my Bride's Uncles owns some property along the River South of Macon, Georgia. Each Fall a group gathers there to relax and enjoy the scene. Of course we also enjoy the fellowship and the opportunity to eat "Smores!!"

The Flower Child and His Bride!!

A Gathering of Cousins!!

Time to Reflect!!!

This Was Good. Can I Have Another?

Of course there is always action for the Younger Ones!!!