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October 2019 FREE TAKE ONE
1180 AM KCKQ TuneIn App: America Matters
Kerry Pollock
Magician Comedian Consultant Page 3 In Politics: Book Banning? Page 13
What’s Inside? :LeRue Press Services and Social Media Contact Info . .. …... ................2
LeRue Press Services and Social Media Contact Info
COVER STORY: Kerry Pollock: Magician, Comedian, Consultant
Calling All Writers-What’s the Story? Is Looking for Quality Articles
Brian T. Shirley …………......………......3 Rare Earth by Peter D. Ward and Donal Brownlee-Book Review
I
John Loranger …………………………....4 Bound by an Infinite Love Mike Aloia ……. ………………..……..…..5 Take the Quiz ....…………..……...……..7 5 Killer Ways to Spread the Word About Your Book Release Janice Hermsen ………………………….8 TOPIC: Book Banning Guest Political Contributors ............11
f you are someone who loves to write short pieces whether they are articles or short stories, LeRue Press is looking for new writers. As they expand their network, they are interested in quality writing for many different topics and genres. Go to the website. Hit the contact us button. www.lrpnv.com
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Military Matters RG Cruise ……………………………..…...12
Business Services
What’s Cookin;? Ruth VanDyke ……………………..…….17 Take the Quiz Answers …….Back Page
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What’s the Story? News, Articles, Entertainment, Business, Arts and Culture Managing Editor: Janice Hermsen Layout & Design Lenore Halfide Proof & Print Kathy Szudajski Contributors Brian T. Shirley, John Loranger, Mike Aloia, RG Cruise,, Ruth VanDyke Guest Political Contributors: Democrat: D.L. Whitehead Independent: GD Fenderson Republican: R G Cruise Republican: Doug Ashby Delivered by Doug, The Jerkyman
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Brian T. Shirley
I
Kerry Pollock Magician, Comedian & Consultant
want to welcome Magician/Comedian and owner of the Hilton Head Magic Comedy Cabaret to the BTS Entertainment Corner. I've had the pleasure of working both of Kerry's clubs and the new one located on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina is amazing!! Here's a quick bio on Kerry before we get started. Kerry Pollock has been headlining casinos and cabarets for nearly three decades. He is a favorite at the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, appearing in the Palace of Mystery on a regular basis and has enjoyed numerous television appearances over the years. Described as “Funny Not Filthy”, Kerry’s clean original approach to the art has contributed to a refreshing and very entertaining full evening show. A former engineer and founder of Creative Entertainment Solutions Inc., Kerry has acted as creative consultant for top names in the magic industry such as… David Copperfield, Penn & Teller, Lance Burton, David Blaine, and Criss Angel, to name a few. See below for Teller’s review of Kerry Pollock. BTS: Well, let's start from the beginning. What got you started in Magic and inventing, while we're at it?
BTS Entertainment Corner
During this period (age 25 or so) I had some clients out on my boat for a day and then dinner at a popular dinnernight club in the Cleveland Flats. This, you might say, was my "break" into show business. While waiting for our food to arrive on a very crowded outside deck, I had unintentionally gathered a crowd around our table of 20 to 25 people within a few minutes. Upon being tapped on my shoulder from behind I was greeted by the owner who I actually thought was going to ask me to leave for creating this minor mayhem. However, he offered me a job instead... performing in their lounge once a week. Well, of course, one thing led to another and I started working comedy clubs, casinos, ships, corporate gigs, the usual stuff paying my dues. Actually, I never really perceived it as paying my dues. I was making a living doing what I loved. While on the road with days, weeks and years in hotel rooms, I taught myself computer electronics and software coding to develop a remote controlled sound system because I got tired of bouncers and bartenders missing my queues. In those days you handed them a cassette and hoped for the best. Since the first system I built, I have been through about 5 iterations. Cassette - CD - DAT - Mp3 - PC all remote controlled and programmable. I also developed my own brand of DMX software and hardware for lighting. This was the genesis of Creative Entertainment (Continued on page 6)
KP: I was always fascinated with magic ever since I was a kid. In my teens I got heavily into close -up sleight of hand with cards, coins etc. and became rather proficient at it. When it came time to have to earn a living however, I kind of fell away from magic for a while and wound up taking a job as a design engineer: mostly tool and die work as well as machine design. This while obtaining my captain's license for boat chartering and parasailing.
Comedy Magic Cabaret Photo Courtesy Kerry Pollock
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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John Loranger
S
ince childhood, I have been attracted to astronomy. The night sky with the moon and the crowds of stars filled me with a deep sense of wonder. I wanted to learn about these things, but the sources of knowledge—books, television programs, movies—tended to stress certain biases that repelled me: namely, the ignorance of thinkers from the past, humankind’s cosmic insignificance and the absence of a deity. On the other hand, I did not wish to be taught by those who had a tendentiously proreligious agenda. What I sought from scientists generally, astronomers in particular, was rigorous objectivity, lucid thought and theological neutrality. I finally encountered these qualities in “Rare Earth”, written by Peter D. Ward and Donald Brownlee. Their non-fiction book challenges the common assumption that the universe teems with complex life-forms (intelligent and otherwise). They argue that simple microbial life is probably common; but that complex life is rare—so rare that it might exist nowhere but on this planet. The attainment and the continuation of
Book
Review Rare Earth by Peter D. Ward and Donald Brownlee
complex life on Earth required a large number of critical factors that might be unrepeatable. For example, our sun (a less typical star than is often supposed) needed to have the right mass and a long enough lifetime, and our planet could not be too close or too far from it; we needed a large planet like Jupiter to minimize the impacts of comets and asteroids; our planet needed an ocean, but not too much or too little, plus a moon to stabilize its tilt; even our position in the galaxy is crucial, as is the type of galaxy we are in. These and many other factors were necessary for the successful start and prolongation of complex life on Earth. The theme is summed up by the authors: ‘Perhaps in spite of all the unnumbered stars, we are the only animals, or at least we number among a select few. What has been called the Principle of Mediocrity—the idea that Earth is but one of a myriad of like worlds harboring advanced life—deserves a counterpoint.’ The counterpoint thus provided is conveyed with an admirable combination of modesty and (Continued on page 10)
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Mike Aloia Bound by An Infinite Love
B
“Walk the Turtle”
eautiful colors of the rainbow melted within the walls of chaos that hold together the calm inside the storm.
The perfect sphere with the depths of destruction seen inside the savage eye, moving across the sea of life taking souls along its course. We pray for protection as we are a witness to God’s Almighty power. We are sometimes left behind to face the new days ahead, standing along the shores of yesterday’s memory and looking into the horizons of tomorrow’s challenges; to have our trials written and etched into the lines upon our skin as we become yet another year older. Wisdom has set into the concrete foundation built by becoming a living testimony to the love and grace given by uniting two hearts, becoming one under our Father’s eyes and the Son. Release the tears of happiness in faith. Changes inside our minds occur during these terms of our survival. Those who are lost are found by depths of
Photo by Simon Matzinger on Unsplash
love given to us by Christ, as we bow our heads and give thanks to God.
Walk the turtle feeling the connections we share, whispers heard inside the hurricane-force winds, the kindred spirits we meet, and the melting of souls bound by an infinite love. I love you Brittany. I thank God for you and Justine.
Mike Aloia is a father of two daughters and a proud grandfather. He lives in Jacksonville, Florida. Mike is multitalented: a cartoonist, comedian, musician, songwriter, actor, columnist, and the CEO of American Hearts Radio, LLC Entertainment Network. He has experience in web V, radio entertainment production, artist management, and other aspects of entertainment. His column “Walk the Turtle” are his thoughts on slowing down, taking it easy, and enjoying life. Mike's work can be found in the following places: www.americanheartsradio.com www.facebook.com/americanheartsradio www.harmonybooking.com
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
What’s the Story?™ Share it! Page 5
Enjoy yourself. BTS: You've built an incredible club that I really believe is part of "the show" and your wife, Kelly, is a talented lady who also plays a big role. How did the design of the club come about? KP: Over thirty years of performing on the road in all types of venues from small comedy clubs to large casino showrooms and everything in between, I have always enjoyed the more intimate and upscale cabaret style showroom. I want the audience to feel that they are somewhere special before the show even begins. So Kelly and I put a lot of thought into the decor, seating design, lighting etc. as well as our choice of pre-show music. My goal was to have comfort and continuity throughout the entire evening. Another important factor in the design is sight lines due to the magic and variety that we provide. There is not a bad seat in the house. Kerry Pollock
Solutions, most of which is custom effects and controls for professional magicians and variety acts. BTS: It was great to work your club and spend some time with you discussing life and entertainment. You are an "idea man" and really see things through. Can you expound a little on your philosophy of entertaining? What really makes you tick as a performer?
BTS: You're known all over the country, if not the world for your designs and inventions. Tell us about your favorites or the ones that standout to you. KP: Wow, there have been so many over the years. Not sure I really have any favorites. The majority of my work in that area has been custom props and controls for other magicians around the world that I should probably not discuss too much due to the nature of the work and confidentiality. I would say though that the product that stands out most I believe is my remote controlled sound system mentioned earlier. This is the only product/ (Continued on page 7)
KP: When I first started performing I really had no philosophy or direction for that matter. As I mentioned earlier, it was mere happenstance that I even got into this business as I already had two unrelated small businesses keeping me busy. That being said, there was never any significant pressure on me to succeed creating the "nothing to lose" mentality that allowed me to relax and treat performing as more of a fun side job. And that's exactly what is was to me. Not by design, but after my performing career picked up and I started to analyze what was working for me, I realized the three most important factors for an entertaining show. Be relaxed, Be yourself,
Kelly & Kerry Pollock
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invention that I have that improves the performer's entire show. Not just one trick or routine. BTS: We spoke about your plans to buy a yacht, not only to live on, but to offer some very unique entertainment opportunities. Let the readers know what you're up to on that front. KP: I have always loved the water and boating. I had acquired my captain's license in my early twenties and have always entertained the thought of living on a yacht later in life. As I now find myself "later in life", Kelly and I are enjoying shopping around for a nice motor yacht. Our plan is to perform intimate close up magic shows on the boat maybe on a weekly basis. Guests would enjoy cocktails and appetizers hosted by Kelly and I and then a private close up show limited to only 10-15 guests. We may even work in a brief dolphin cruise before the show. BTS: Any suggestions for the magicians and comedians out there? KP: Be in the moment! Auto-pilot is for airplanes and boats. You cannot expect an audience to be involved in your show if you are not yourself involved. Believe me, the audience will know! This seems like it should be obvious to performers but not always so. Also, be aware of the the audience, their response and adjust accordingly. You are essentially employed by them. And finally... Be thankful. If you are truly thankful, you are in the right business. Thanks Brian! Review from Teller (Penn & Teller) "Kerry is a world class magical designer and illusion inventor, specializing in wireless electronics which incidentally work faultlessly. Kerry is ingenious,
trustworthy, and a true gentleman - and one of the most powerful and charming performers I know" -Teller, (Penn & Teller) https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g54273d1808564-Reviews-Comedy_Magic_CabaretHilton_Head_South_Carolina.html ComedyMagicCabaret.com KerryPollock.com
CESwebsite.com (Photos provided courtesy Kerry Pollock) Brian T. Shirley has the look of a Don Rickles, the comedy of a George Carlin with a touch of Robin Williams but when you roll it all together, it is pure and unique and something only Brian T. Shirley can deliver. Brian has toured the USA, Canada, The Bahamas and Japan for 25 years. He combines menology, character driven material, story telling and has worked well known comedy clubs, country clubs, resorts, cruise ships, special events, military installations and private events! Check out some of his upcoming shows, promo videos, videos from his webs series and other projects at www.briantshirley.com.
Take the Quiz: You May Know More Than You Think! 1. What is the name of the winged horse in Greek mythology? 2. Who wrote Oliver Twist? 3. On which island did Ernest Hemingway stay to be able to write much? 4. In which country did Shakespeare’s Hamlet live? 5. Who was the wife of Othello? 6. What is the name of the first complete novel written by Charles Dickens? 7. In which part of Shakespeare do you find the character Ophelia? 8. Who is the hero in the book Da Vinci Code? 9. Who wrote Moby Dick? 10. Who solves the crime in Death on the Nile? 11. Who wrote Jungle Book? 12.Whose box did Epimethius open? A variety of questions this month. Thanks to https://www.quiz-questions.net (Answers on back page)
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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Janice Hermsen Publishing a book can be a powerful way to build your personal brand. At the same time, you still have the challenge of promoting your book so the right readers can find you. Many self-published authors don't realize that they are 100% responsible for marketing their work. Even if you're fortunate enough to have been published by a mainstream publisher, you still have to do plenty of your own marketing. Here are some of the best strategies for promoting your books.
1. Promote Your Books With Videos Videos are getting more and more popular online. Cisco predicts that by 2020, more than 80% of consumer traffic will be video. While most authors have blogs and websites, only a small number promote their books with videos. One reason for this is that writers are often introverts. However, you don't need to be outgoing or extroverted to make effective videos. In fact, you don't even have to appear in your own videos. If you prefer, you can make PowerPoint, animated, or whiteboard videos that describe your book. Another option is to hire a spokesperson in a site such as Fiverr to talk about your book. However, it's also good to get in front of the camera and let your audience get to know you.
2. Connect With the Media Many contemporary authors are so focused on social media that they overlook more traditional media. Yet you can still get some powerful leverage from newspapers, magazines, radio stations, and other media. Send out press releases to all media outlets in your area. You can market yourself as a local author. Contact daily newspapers, free entertainment weeklies, local radio stations, and local TV networks. You may be able to arrange an interview or appearance on a radio or TV station. You can also look for opportunities to connect with new media publishers such as podcasters and people who run popular YouTube channels. Find broadcasters who like to talk about books (or the topic your book is about). Some might be interested in reviewing your book. Others might like to interview you for a podcast, video, or live broadcast.
5 Killer Ways to Spread the Word About Your Book Release 3. Write Articles and Guest Posts One of the best ways to promote nonfiction books is to write informational articles aimed at your audience. For example, if you've written a diet book you could write an article providing weight loss tips. Your byline will direct people to your book. You could pitch the article to blogs that deal with this type of subject matter. For fiction, this is a little trickier but it can still be done. One variation is to publish excerpts from your novel on your blog or on a third-party site such as Medium. Another possibility is to publish a short story that has some of the same characters as your novel. If readers want more, they'll have to buy your book.
4. Connect With Influential Reviewers Research some of the top reviewers on sites such as Amazon and Goodreads. Focus on people who have written lots of reviews for books in your niche. Before contacting a reviewer, get a sense of his or her preferences. You want to send your book to someone who's likely to appreciate it. Simply send a brief and polite message offering to send the reviewer a free copy of your book for a possible review. You can also contact reviewers for local newspapers and niche magazines.
5. Build an Author Community It's natural to see other writers in your niche as the (Continued on page 9)
Grab a Steamin’ Wienie and a copy of What’s the Story® at Sinbad’s
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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(Continued from page 8)
competition. While in one sense, they are, you can also cooperate with them for mutual benefit. After all, readers who like a certain topic or genre don't only read one book. They're always searching for new material. So a community of writers who cross-promote each other's work can be a powerful force. Start a Facebook group dedicated to your niche. Invite other authors who've written books comparable to yours. Cross-promote with other authors on your email list, videos, blog, social media pages, and any other platforms you might be using. Start a podcast. Podcasts are getting more and more popular. If you only talk about your own books, it will get tedious. Diversify your podcast by interviewing other authors about their books. Some will return the favor and give you a
shoutout in return (not necessarily on a podcast but on whatever platforms they might be using). As an author, you need to look for as many ways as possible to promote your books. A good general rule is to look for people with whom you can establish mutually beneficial relationships. This may include other authors, fans, media publishers, or anyone who's looking for news or interesting content. Lerue Press offers a wide range of publishing and printing resources for authors. We love to have authors and entrepreneurs on What's the Story? Plus Book Hound Radio Show. To learn more about our services, contact us. Janice Hermsen is the co-founder of LeRue Press, the editor of What’s the Story print publication and host of What’s the Story Plus the Book Hound. You can reach her at janice@lrpnv.com or by calling 775.849.3814, extension 701.
When You Believe by Floyd Sneed with Janice Hermsen
Published by LeRue Press
WHEN YOU BELIEVE: FLOYD SNEED, ORIGINAL DRUMMER FOR THREE DOG NIGHT From drumsticks to paintbrushes Creative and inspired
Classic Drummer Hall of Fame and Pop Music Hall of Fame inductee (Three Dog Night), Floyd Sneed tells his story in his book When You Believe. It is a witty, entertaining and insightful book full of stories told by original Three Dog Night drummer, Floyd Sneed, with perspectives from people who know him. A look at life in the 60s and 70s from one of the first black drummers in an all white band. How he took his creativity to another level with his own personal imagery that is joyful and inspired by his sense of humor. Published by LeRue Press, LLC. Follow Floyd on Twitter @FloydSneedDrums
Follow Floyd on his Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/FloydSneedDrums/
What Deepest Remains
Published by LeRue Press
By Joseph Holsworth
An autobiographical narrative that follows a young but seasoned veteran from his last mission in Iraq to his return and readjustment to life outside of combat. It explores the inner psyche of the modern veteran from the perspective of a jaded young man caught between his pride of service and the moral dilemma of fighting an unjust war. He battles PTSD and alcoholism until he finds peace in the company of a young progressive local poet. Marketing campaign: Release: 2019
National Online Campaign Reading Group Promotion
Author Speaking Tour Book Signings
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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(Continued from page 4)
force. Ward’s and Brownlee’s book has helped me to see more clearly the greatness, the beauty and the mystery of creation. I purchased “Rare Earth” when it came out in 2000. Twelve years later, I contacted one of the authors, Professor Peter D. Ward, and asked if he still stood by the arguments presented in his book. He assured me that his and his co-author’s minds had not been changed by any recent discoveries. Whether or not that will hold up in the future is an unknown. But for now, Ward and Brownlee seem to me much more convincing than Carl Sagan (of “Cosmos” and “Contact” fame) ever did. John Loranger was born in Butte, Montana in 1961 but has spent most of his life in Nevada. He served in the United States Navy from 1983 to 1987, then worked for the telephone company before retiring in 2011. He has always enjoyed reading fiction and has published two novels of his own: "The Odyssey of Art O'Hara" and "Lions and Souls: the Story of St. Mary of Egypt", available at LeRue Press and Amazon. His approach to fiction is best summed up by a quote from Walker Percy: "The first rule of thumb, of course, is pleasure. A good book gives the reader pleasure, the sort of deep, abiding pleasure he likes to come back to."
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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Perspectives from many sides
TOPIC: Book Banning
It has been a volatile period in history with dramatic splits between people and parties. Rather than maintaining silence, What’s the Story™ would like to contribute some down to earth, people-focused OPINIONS. These do not reflect our view necessarily; they reflect the views of people who identify as one of the parties listed. If you belong to one of these parties, your view might be different than what is expressed. That is to be expected. Writers share their perspective independently and without discussion between them.
WHAT WE ASKED: Are there any times when banning a book is acceptable? If so, who should do the banning? If not, how do you manage the unacceptable materials that might reach a vulnerable audience? Is banning books a violation of any of our rights?
For reference, here is a link to the top 3 pros and cons from procon.org. https://www.procon.org/headline.php?headlineID=005365
Democrat View
Independent View
Is there ever a time when banning a book is acceptable?
Books: Banning, Burning and Burying
B
A
Republican View To ban or not to ban books…that is the question
W
anning books of any kind is a violation of first amendment rights. That is simple. One can make the argument that libraries where children get books should have the ability to limit access, but that is different to banning the books. It gives one person, or a committee of people the power to ban a book they find objectionable. It also takes the decision from the parent’s hands and places it in the hands of strangers. This is a slippery slope the reached a screaming crescendo during the nineteen eighties, but the controversy continues to this day. There is never a good reason to ban books. It is the objective of booksellers to create an age range for books, but these ratings can leave a great deal of latitude where others can interject their own religious or political litmus tests to decide what books or opinions are heard. Recently, the Texas School Board has been
s a child, I had a very high I.Q. and a very low grasp of colloquialisms. (To this day I take everything literally, figuratively speaking.) The summer between kindergarten and first grade, I read the entire Bible with no one to explain to me about its use of allegory. I knew what an allegory was in theory (That summer, I also read the unabridged dictionary.) I just didn’t know one when I read one. I came across a verse that said, “…you shall do these things and greater.” and so my journey of miracles began. I attempted them all. I am not sure had I drowned trying to part our “red sea” (We still had red dye number 2.) that my parent’s would have tried to get the Bible banned from all basement book shelves or if they would have divviedup my share of the food among the less curious children. Instead, my father rescued me and questioned my
ell, as a writer, I wouldn’t want the books that I write to be banned. But as a Conservative with traditional values, I strive to stay within some common sense guidelines for the genre that I’m writing. I do believe in the Constitution, so that means that I support the First and Second Amendments. The Second Amendment gives Americans the right to bear arms, (nowadays, with a satisfactory background check) however, felons, the mentally ill, illegals and children should not be able to purchase them. Concerning children, parents are tasked with the purchase and safe keeping of guns at home and they should be held accountable for any mismanagement that occurs. The banning of books would fall under the First Amendment…free speech. But there must be some
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Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP). *https://usafacts.org/reports/facts-in-focus/census-citizenship-question-2020-since-1820-acs-decennial What’s the Story?™ Share it! Page 11
Another Republican Opinion
B
Book Banning
ook banning is just a civil way of saying censorship. It’s nothing new. As long as man has been writing, there has been someone with an opposing view that has tried to restrict or control the voice of another. The founding fathers were so concerned regarding the personal freedoms of those in the newly established country, the first 10 Amendments to the United States Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights, were written. They were added officially by the Congress to the Constitution on March 4th, 1789. The First Amendment contains five basic freedoms. Freedom of the press, and freedom of speech are the two most germane to censorship. When the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4,1776, the population of the country was approximately 2.5 million and they were mostly of English heritage. Today the population of the United States is roughly 328 million from all ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The rudimentary freedoms of the first amendment, that one size will fit all, is almost impossible to apply to the complex topics of today. For the past 230 years these two simple freedoms have stood as an illuminating beacon standing watch over basic literary rights; however, times and values have changed. Now a wide range of issues plague society which the founding colonists could never have imagined. The two pillars of which we speak are the all-encompassing declaration that now seem to be simplistic and out of date. There are times in a civilized society that censorship does become necessary. Pornography is everywhere: on news racks, in some libraries and on the internet. Most parents and school officials prohibit this type of material from school. But, make no excuse regarding it; it is censorship and is a violation of our rights. To what degree do we take this prohibition? If I read a book that has offensive or sexually explicit language, can I keep someone else from reading it? Can I have a book taken from a high school library because it doesn’t show the diversity that I deem appropriate for our culture? The country today is divided and political correctness has run amuck. The hatred toward partisan issues is palpable; neither side is wanting or able to see a contrary view. Not only do they want to ban books, they prohibit speakers with
I
Military Matters
f you have viewed my last two articles, then you would know that I have covered: “What is Space A Travel”, who is eligible and why would you want to fly this way. One thing that I want to inject here, Space A is NOT for the faint of heart, but if you crave adventure, have no time constraints and no issues with funds, Space A may be for you…notwithstanding the hard seats and noise and effort it takes to fly! With the information that I have presented to you so far, if you are still interested, then let’s move on with a bit of “good” news. Assuming that you are eligible for Space A and you have a destination in mind, you now need to sign up (register) for priority. You are “competing” for seats with other travelers in your “Cat” (category) that are also on the priority list. Note: You do NOT need to be on the priority list to fly. However, you will increase your chances greatly of being selected if you are! You will need to register for all military installations that you may depart from. This was my first mistake when I planned to fly to Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickman my first time. I was listed at Travis AFB but not on the return list to for JBPHH. I didn’t want to get stuck over there and have to fly commercial. My second mistake was planning to fly during the busy travel season which is late May to early September. In the last article, I mentioned that, “You can search the internet for passenger terminal information for each base and contact the terminal directly.” That is true if you need more info, but you CAN NOT sign up on the priority list by phone. You will need to do that in person or by email. So you would have to visit each base’s website for their (Continued on page 14)
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(Continued from page 11) (Democratic)
(Continued from page 11) (Independent)
(Continued from page 11) (Republican)
publicly decried for its efforts to alter the perception of historical events related in history texts because most textbooks are published and printed in Texas. They have control of the content because of the location of those publishers. Rewriting history to make one side or another more palatable should be considered criminal. Banning books because of anti -government views, anti-religious views, or because the books themselves have content that makes people wince, should remain taboo. In the past, books by authors such as Arthur C. Clark, Stephen King, Judy Blume, Flaubert, D.H. Lawrence, Toni Morrison, J.K. Rowling and many others have been banned. Many of the books by authors in this list are considered classics which makes the idea they would be banned that much more disturbing. Who makes these decisions? Librarians, pressured by parents, religious and political leaders are often the scapegoats in this subject. Many say they didn’t want to ban and remove these books from their libraries, but felt pressured to do so. Here are some typically banned books: To Kill A Mockingbird, Diary of a young girl by Anne Frank, Huckleberry Finn, The Grapes Of Wrath by John Steinbeck, Fahrenheit 451 and Harry Potter. These books (one actually about banning and burning books) are all considered classics of modern fiction. They are taught in literature classes across the country and around the world. Writers fight this constantly.
sanity. (There was no “autism scale” back then, but I was a ten on my father’s “aw-sh_ _ism” scale. That would be 3 “W.T.F’s” in todays market.) Upon becoming a “parental unit”, I did not ban any knowledge from any of the kids, but you better believe I took the time to explain everything (figuratively speaking) to them. I did my best to keep my moral judgement separate from information. (Judging behavior was a different story.) However, many people want to hide the “offensive” narratives by banning, burning and burying all records of them. The truth is, it is not that it is “offensive” but because it is challenging. To have books like And Tango Makes Three about “gay parents” (albeit, penguins) challenges the notion that they (gay parents, not penguins) are just like “heterosexual parents” and worry about the same things for their children. Huckleberry Finn challenges our inability to deal with racism and
common sense guidelines here just like with the purchase of guns. For example, “Bomb Building and Hostage Taking” or “Starting a Drug Lab in Your Home” would NOT be appropriate books for schools or libraries. They could still be published for retail sales, but I don’t suspect that many would sell. I would be highly concerned though if those type of books made the NY Times Bestseller list! Publishers have a due diligence to act responsibly for the books that they decide to publish. Irresponsible and dangerous publishing should come under the scrutiny of the FBI. If you don’t want this kind of attention, do the right thing and DON’T publish these types of books! Our country depends a lot on self-regulation for many things, like social media. But when abuse occurs, then the federal government steps in to regulate, through laws, to protect the public. Responsible publishing should be the norm here. In summary, banning of
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What’s the Story?™ Share it! Page 13
(Continued from page 12)
(Continued from page 12)
opposing views from town hall meetings and college campuses. In the divided political environment of today, who should be the impartial arbiter of banned books or obscene material? I would not trust either side of the aisle to come up with an equitable solution for the issues that we are facing. The founding fathers were prophetic and created a document that has survived the test of time. They devised a system of government that consisted of checks and balances. The U.S. Constitution and Amendments are the supreme law of the land. No other law can alter its provisions. The Constitution’s first three articles created three co-equal branches of government: the legislative, Congress; executive, headed by the President; and judicial, Supreme Court and lower federal courts. By placing an impartial body to decide issues of our closely guarded freedoms, we escaped the bonds of political correctness and mitigated arbitrary book banning. Over the years the Supreme Court has handed down many decisions regarding censorship, but this one seemed to stand out. In 1982, Supreme Court Justice Brennan noted that students do not "shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate”. The Supreme Court held that "the First Amendment limits the power of local school boards to remove library books from junior high schools and high schools. Censorship and book banning will continue as long as man speaks, writes and has free will. In this country we have all been blessed that the framers of the Constitution were intelligent beyond their years and understood human nature. There are vast cultural differences between states and yet we ask one simple document to arbitrate these complex issues. The turmoil in this country today is not unique; it has happened over the years many times. We have not only survived but have grown stronger.
email address and send an email…no more! An USAF veteran designed an app to “streamline” the process…thank you! That app is: www.takeahop.com/app. You enter your personal info into the, “Register for Travel” page (most of which will be preserved by the app). Choose Departure Airfields, follow the instructions to choose what POSSIBLE airfields you might want to depart from. You can choose several but are NOT obligated to fly out from any of them. I would ensure to sign up four weeks before your actual travel time. You may or may not receive a reply from the passenger terminal. Do not panic if you don’t, just be sure to print an sent copy of your email and bring with you when checking in or save on your iPad or iPhone to show the terminal person. If you are not in the system for whatever reason, they will usually accept this as proof and place your name on the priority list in the proper place based on your sign up date.
Guest Political Contributor, Doug Ashby Doug Ashby is the author of Heroes and Giants Retired Los Angeles County Fire Department Battalion Chief
By R G Cruise, U.S. Navy Vet RG Cruise is the author of Operation: Omega www.RGCruise.com
Editor’s Note: RG Cruise has made every effort to provide accurate information. Please check the appropriate website for verification of details if you plan to use Space A travel.
Distribution
Reno issue $15 for business card size ad (B&W) for a limited time only. 2500 distributed in print plus online In full color.
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(Continued from page 13) (Democratic)
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They raise their voices in protest and are often ignored. The act of banning books removes the choice from the hands of potential readers and puts it in the hands of library police. This is a mistake that infringes upon the very rights that these same people profess to hold dear. We cannot pick and choose rights we stand for. The framers of the constitution put Freedom of Speech as the first Amendment, because they felt it so important. Not just freedom of the press, but freedom of religion as well. Books should not be banned for lies, nor for the truths they tell. If one book is banned successfully, it creates a precedent that will allow for all books and other purveyors of knowledge to be banned as well. It is a place where free societies must never go. Period.
(Continued from page 13) (Republican)
our racist history in America. Contrary to popular claims, it was not the excessive use of the word “nigger” that led to the book being banned multiple times, but the use of the word “nigger” in print. (After all, Presidents had been recorded saying it for years.) Words in print are almost universally sacred. They challenge our beliefs more than anything else, (Emoji’s are a close second.) People do not like having their beliefs challenged. It is too scary to take a deep dive into our sacred places. So “we” prefer to ban, burn and bury rather than evolve. The Bible is full of rape, hideous notions of inequality, murder and, worst of all, contradictions. It was and is used to oppress millions of people. Yet, it is the most stolen book in history for a reason; because under the right light, we can learn some good things from it. I learned as a child that there are “no bad words, just bad word usage”. So, let’s not sink to ban any books, but rise to the challenges offered by them to make this world a better, more honest place (by my standards, of course).
inappropriate books in schools and libraries is alright by me. I don’t consider The Holy Bible as one that should be banned! We need MORE books like that in our schools these days along with school prayers! The American Library Association (ALA) is a nonprofit organization that was established on October 6, 1876 and promotes libraries and library education internationally. As long as they act responsibly, I’m fine with their leadership in the control of information that goes to our libraries and schools. I trust them to be the deciding factor in which books are appropriate and inappropriate for a vulnerable audience. Banning dangerous or inappropriate books for libraries or schools, is no more of a violation of our rights than having to go through a background check that’s conducted before purchasing a gun.
Guest Political Contributor, GD Fenderson GD Fenderson is a Certified Forensic Humourist out of Maryland.
To see a second Republican opinion, go to page 12.
Guest Political Contributor, D.L. Whitehead D.L. Whitehead is the author of Darwin’s Sword, https:// dlwhitehead.wordpress.com/
Go to www.SoGDFunny.com Editor’s Note: We ask our three guest contributors to provide opinion. Sometimes, those opinions contain information that may have been contradicted or additional information added at a later date. Please keep that in mind as you read their columns.
Guest Political Contributor, R.G. Cruise RG Cruise is the author of Operation: Omega www.RGCruise.com
inspiration “Do one thing every day that scares you.” -Eleanor Roosevelt
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LeRue Press 280 Greg Street, Suite 10, Reno, Nevada 775.849.3814 www.lrpnv.com lrp@lrpnv.com Hunter is only 3-1/2 years old, but he has a wisdom beyond his years and loves to talk to the animals. And sometimes, (he says) they talk back. Grandpa and Grandma love Hunter so much, they humor him. As it often happens on a ranch, outside forces and wild animals prey on the ranch animals. Leon and Hootch, two of the dogs, face a difficult challenge. With Hunter’s unusual talent of being able to “talk” to the animals, the story unfolds. It may bring you to tears, but Floyd’s homespun style is an easy and enjoyable read for all ages. Release: 2019 Select non-profits supporting wild horses Reading group promotion Social media campaign
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LeRue Press 280 Greg Street, Suite 10, Reno, Nevada 775.849.3814 www.lrpnv.com lrp@lrpnv.com
Ruth VanDyke
F
all is in the air and zucchini is everywhere! Our son, Ruth VanDyke Alan, refused to eat any squash until one day he happened to be hanging out in the kitchen while I was frying up some fresh from the garden zucchini. Dipped in flour, then egg-wash, cracker crumbs (or panko), fried to a golden brown in olive oil and sprinkled, while hot, with fresh grated Parmesan cheese, it is delicious! Alan was eating it as fast as I could get it out of the pan. I didn’t have the heart to tell him he was eating (and obviously enjoying) squash. If you don’t like the idea of fried food, you can also slice it thin, toss it in olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt, pepper and paprika and bake at 450 degrees for 25-30 minutes. The paprika not only adds flavor, but boosts your metabolism, reduces the appetite and lowers blood pressure. I like to call zucchini “the delightful dessert in disguise”. There are so many mouth-watering recipes utilizing this prolific autumn veggy. What could be more inviting than warm zucchini bread right out of the oven with a cup of hot chocolate on a cool fall evening? How about chocolate zucchini cake, pineapple zucchini bread or orange zucchini squares. All Published by LeRue Press
2019 Release
What’s Cookin’? Zesty Zucchini Bread of these recipes are in my book, “Memories with Recipes”. My favorite of all is this zesty zucchini bread.
ZESTY ZUCCHINI BREAD 1 cup sugar ½ cup oil 2 eggs 1 ½ cups flour ½ teaspoon grated lemon peel ½ teaspoon grated orange peel 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon allspice 1 cup shredded zucchini ½ cup chopped nuts Beat together sugar, oil, eggs, and lemon and orange peels. Add sifted dry ingredients alternately with shredded zucchini. Beat well. Add nuts. Pour into a greased nine-by-five inch loaf pan. Bake in preheated 350 degree oven for fifty-five minutes. Cool in pan for fifteen minutes. ENJOY!
Ruth VanDyke is the mother of seven, grandmother of 16, and boasts of 10 great-grandsons. The heart warming true stories of her life are seasoned with humor and tantalizing recipes from her travels over six decades. She is a published poet and has been writing short stories for a number of years, as well as editing newsletters for various organizations. Her style of writing and wit have been compared to the late Erma Bombeck. You can join her daily as she posts recipes, short stories and poetry on her popular BLOG, 'Ruth's Food for Thought' and pick up a copy of her book, Memories with Recipes online and at LeRue Press, 280 Greg Street #10, Reno, NV.
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