I’ve often wondered how many cars Ford, GM, Chrysler, etc., build and destroy before they get to a showroom. We didn’t hear of crash testing when Henry Ford and Walter Chrysler were getting started, but we didn’t hear ‘Call Sam? commercials much, either. Today crash testing is a must. One such company that does a […]
We always loved our new-car smell. I’ve owned a lot of new cars of various models over the years. Loved the smell. However, the approval was not unanimous. Of course, few things are. But, nowadays car makers are engineering out that new car smell. And, for good reason. A good friend realized a year or […]
The flashlight was invented about 1898, according to my encyclopedia. Notice I didn’t have to go to the internet to find that fact. Also, notice I still refuse to capitalize the word internet. If there was an outernet would it have a capital O? My attention this week on the flashlight comes from the exposure […]
Occasionally, ideas for columns are abundant, and sometimes there are only mental blanks. At those times (like now) I often refer back to my early life. Back to the days of backhouses, miles of up-hill walking through several feet of snow to 1-room schools and Mother’s treatments for maladies Some of the following would be […]
The same day the news media was filled with snowfall warnings, our government issued warnings on ‘changes we should make right now!? I guarantee the snow warnings were heeded quicker and with more action than the ‘changes.? We were promised a foot of snow in one breath, and a promise of a shorter life if […]
President Obama and his czars decided Freddie Mac and Fanny Mac were failing and needed bailing out. I don’t know how much that cost we taxpayers, but defending that decision cost $410,000,000. Freddie Mac, established in 1970, went broke in 39 years. Just couldn’t get it right. ? Manufacturers are so scared of being sued […]
Brain’s dry; Have to rely; On stories past; Everlast (This is a repeat of a Jottings from 1956 – You may have missed it.) During my tour of duty in the Navy we were in an amphibian group. Specifically, we were in a 4-man crew (all 19-year-olds) on a LCVP, Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel. It […]
Wonder if any sports writer ever asks a referee or umpire who they favor? Sometimes it sure feels like favorites are getting calls. Speaking of referees, the next time you see one giving the sign for loss of down, pay particular attention to the refs mouth. See if you detect a smile. The signal is […]
1. His mother was frightened by an owl at birth. 2. A psychic told him his colors. 3. He just learned the hand really is quicker than the eye. 4. Does your face hurt — cuz it’s killing me. 5. This guy will do anything for a little sympathy. ?0? I won’t go so far […]
Let’s get rid of 2010, and welcome twenty eleven Perhaps the most disturbing thing I read last year was the message retired Air Force Major Rick Briggs delivered at the Veterans Memorial in Lake Orion on Memorial Day. He said, ‘When more men and women (of the military) have committed suicide than have been killed […]