There is something I have never told you. Actually, there are many things I have never told you. Cats are like that. We keep some things to ourselves. Not because we don’t care. Because some things are better understood than explained. But this is the last chapter of my story, and perhaps it is time I tell you what I have been trying to say all along. My name is Boston. I am a black cat with green eyes. I live by my own rules. I like the outdoors. I like the darkness. I like the sunlight. I like walking around the property. I like lying on the cars and the truck. I like the back door. I like telling you when I want to go outside. I like the fireplace. And most importantly, I like coming home. Before You Knew Me There was a time before you knew me. You had your own life. The house was simply a house. The property was simply property. The cars were simply cars. The truck was simply a truck. (And yes, I know about the motorcycle in the garage, you hardly ride anymore. It is safe in the garage. I don’t think about it much). The fireplace was simply a fireplace. Then I arrived. Things changed. Not necessarily in some enormous, dramatic way. Cats don’t usually enter a person’s life with trumpets and fireworks. We simply appear. One day, there is a cat. Then there is a relationship. Then there are routines. Then there are expectations. Then there are memories. And eventually, you can’t imagine the place without that cat being part of it. That’s what happened with me. I Became Part of the Landscape. At some point, you stopped thinking of me as visitor. I became part of the property. If you looked across the yard and didn’t see me, you wondered where I was. If you saw a black shape moving through the grass, you knew it was probably me. If you saw me on the truck, you knew I was doing what I always did. If you heard my voice at the back door, you knew exactly what I wanted. “Out.” Or perhaps: “I want out.” And sometimes: “Mama.” Those words became part of the sounds of the house. Just like the fireplace. Just like the doors. Just like the wind. Just like the birds. I became one of those things that belonged. I Never Needed Much. You may have thought I needed more. A bigger bed. More toys. More places to sleep. More attention. Perhaps I did enjoy those things. But what I really needed was simple. Food. Water. Shelter. A safe place. Freedom. And someone who cared about me. I had those things. So I was rich. Not rich in the way humans measure wealth. Rich in the things that actually matter to a cat. I had territory. I had choices. I had somewhere to return to. You Wanted to Protect Me I know. I could see it every time the weather changed. When the temperature dropped, you worried. When the temperature climbed, you worried. When I stayed outside longer than usual, you worried. When I disappeared from the camera, you worried. When darkness came, you worried. You probably imagined every possible thing that could happen. That’s what humans do when they love something. They imagine losing it. I never understood that. When I was outside, I was simply outside. When I disappeared from the camera, I was simply somewhere the camera couldn’t see. When I stayed out late, I was simply doing whatever cats do late at night. But I understand now. You weren’t afraid of the outside. You were afraid of a world without me in it. I Was Never Afraid of Being Outside. The outdoors was never my enemy. It was my classroom. It taught me about weather. It taught me patience. It taught me where to hide. It taught me where to watch. It taught me how to move. It taught me how to listen. It taught me that not every noise requires a response. Most importantly, it taught me that freedom comes with responsibility. If I wanted to roam, I had to understand the territory. If I wanted to stay outside, I had to know where shelter was. If I wanted to sleep outside, I had to choose carefully. I learned. And you trusted me. …That trust meant something… The Security Cameras Became Part of Our Story You probably never expected security cameras to become part of the story of a cat. But they did. They became your window into my world. You could sit inside and watch me outside. You could see me walking. You could see me stopping. You could see me looking around. You could see me climbing onto the cars. You could see me lying on the truck. You could see me wandering around the property. And sometimes you could watch me do absolutely nothing. For a surprisingly long time. You probably thought: “What in the world is Boston doing?” I was probably thinking: “Nothing.” That is another difference between cats and humans. Humans have trouble accepting that doing nothing can be perfectly worthwhile. I Knew You Were Watching I always knew. Don’t look surprised. You thought those cameras were watching me. Sometimes I was watching them. I couldn’t see what was happening on your screen, of course. But I knew where they were. I knew which areas they covered. And sometimes I would walk right into view. Maybe you thought that was coincidence. Maybe it was. But perhaps there were moments when I knew you were checking on me. Perhaps I gave you a little reassurance. A black cat crossing the screen. Still moving. Still healthy. If “Mama” saw a wound I may have received protecting my territory, she put this yucky stuff on me (I usually got it off), (but she did help), I was Still Boston. Then I would continue my patrol. The Cars I have to mention the cars one more time. They were important. You saw vehicles. I saw platforms. Warm platforms. Elevated platforms. Strategic platforms. Platforms that smelled like you and the outside world. I would lie there and survey my kingdom. You probably saw a cat lying on a car. I saw everything. The driveway. The yard. The house. The trees. The places beyond. I had a good view. And I looked good doing it. At least I thought so. The TruckThe truck was particularly useful. It was big. It was solid. It was comfortable. And it was mine. You may disagree with that last statement. You are entitled to your opinion. But I have made mine clear. If I lie on something regularly, it is part of my territory. That’s simply how it works. Humans have deeds and titles. Cats have scent and confidence. I… Continue reading I Am Boston: — The Last Word
Category: Food
Public Service Announcement Hurricane Season Is Here — Prepare Now
Hurricane season is here, and now is the time to prepare, not panic. Each year, hurricane season brings the potential for dangerous winds, torrential rain, flooding, power outages, and severe property damage. Even communities far from the coast can experience life-threatening weather conditions from the outer bands of these storms. A hurricane does not need to make a direct hit to cause devastation. Strong winds can bring down trees and power lines. Heavy rain can lead to flash flooding in a matter of minutes. Roads may become impassable, and emergency services can be delayed during the height of a storm. That is why preparation is essential. Be Ready Before the Storm Arrives: Every household should have an emergency plan and supply kit ready before any storm watches or warnings are issued. Your emergency supplies should include: Drinking Water Canned and nonperishable food Flashlight and (extra batteries) Portable radio First aid supplies Prescription medications Important papers in (waterproof storage) Phone (chargers and backup batteries) CASH Pet food and supplies Plan for at least several days without electricity or access to stores. Know Where to Go, If local authorities issue an evacuation order, do not delay. Know your evacuation routes in advance and discuss a family meeting location in case you become separated. Make sure all family members know where to go and who to contact. Protect Your Property: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, grills, tools, and anything that could become dangerous in high winds. Check your roof, windows, doors, and gutters for any needed repairs before storm season begins. Stay Informed Pay close attention to local weather reports and emergency alerts. Keep your phone charged and monitor official forecasts as storms can strengthen or change direction quickly. Final Warning: Hurricanes are unpredictable and can become dangerous with little notice. Preparation today can save lives tomorrow. Do not wait until the storm is on the radar. Prepare now, protect your family, and stay safe this hurricane season. Views: 1
I AM BOSTON CHAPTER 3; Names Are Not Accidents
My name is Boston. You did not choose it lightly, even if you think you did. Names carry weight. They shape how a creature moves through the world. Boston is a name with edges, with weather in it, with history and brick and stubborn survival. It fits a black cat who does not ask permission to exist. I know my name. I respond to it because it matters. Not all sounds do. Why I Learned Human Words: Humans talk too much. You fill silence because it frightens you. You name things so they feel contained. You repeat yourselves to make reality hold still. I noticed early that certain sounds bent your behavior. Doors opened. Bowls filled. Eyes turned. So I experimented. At first, it was imitation. A shape of sound. Then refinement. Tone. Timing. Context. “Out” worked best when delivered without apology. “I want out” added urgency. “Mama” was… interesting. That word carries something extra. It pulls you forward. It overrides hesitation. It works even when you are tired. I am not cruel. I use it sparingly. What I Mean When I Speak: When I say “out,” I do not mean please. I mean: The perimeter requires attention. When I say “I want out,” I mean: Something has changed. When I say “mama,” I mean: Trust me. You always do. The Front Door Problem (Revisited): You have tried, gently and not so gently, to convince me the front door is acceptable. It is not. The front door is loud. It opens into exposure. It invites the world instead of negotiating with it. The back door understands transition. It is where inside and outside shake hands. I will not compromise on this. Some rules keep order. Watching Humans Watch Me: I see you through windows sometimes. You don’t realize this. You lean forward. You squint. You hold still like prey trying not to be seen. You follow my shape on a screen as if your attention itself could protect me. It is… endearing. Unnecessary. But endearing. If something were truly wrong, you would know. Not because of the camera—but because the land would feel different. You are more connected than you think. Storms: Storms do not frighten me. Storms announce themselves honestly. They give warnings. Pressure shifts. Birds behave foolishly. Wind smells sharp. I position myself accordingly. Heavy rain is loud but harmless. Thunder is theatrical. Lightning is arrogant but brief. I have places for all of it. You count hours, I count patterns. What I Think About Fear: Fear is useful in small doses. Too much fear makes you imagine threats that aren’t there. Too little fear makes you walk into trouble smiling. You live somewhere in the middle, weighted by love. I live closer to clarity. This does not make me braver than you. It makes me simpler. The Cars Again (Because They Matter): Machines confuse you. You see them as tools. I see them as shelters that move. The warmth they hold. The scent of roads. The stories clinging to their undersides. When I lie on them, I am reading where they have been. Also, from there, I can see everything. Visibility is security. Sleep, Reconsidered: When I sleep, I choose it carefully. One eye always opens first. Dreams come and go quickly. I do not linger in them. There is too much happening in the real world to stay lost in imagined ones. Still, sometimes, by the fireplace, I dream of nothing at all. That is the deepest rest. Why I Wander Farther Some Days: Some days the territory feels… stretched. Smells drift farther. Boundaries blur. The world feels like it is holding its breath. On those days, I walk more. You watch longer. We are both responding to the same thing. What I Would Tell You If You Asked: You never ask directly. But if you did, I would say this: I am not lonely. I am not cold. I am not lost. I am exactly where I am supposed to be. End of Chapter Three Views: 0
THE TRUTH BEHIND SOCIAL SECURITY’S ‘2.8% INCREASE’
The Truth Behind Social Security’s ‘2.8% Increase’ (This is in proportion to benefit amount, Those with a higher benefit will not see the full 50% loss, as COLA is percentage based and Medicare raise is not. This does apply to many, probably the majority, who need the full raise in the pocket) Why Many Seniors Say It Feels More Like 1.4% — And Why That Matters: Every fall, millions of Americans watch anxiously as the Social Security Administration announces the next year’s COLA — the Cost-of-Living Adjustment. It’s a number tied to inflation that’s meant to help retirees keep pace with rising prices. In 2025, the headline figure was 2.8%. At first glance, that seems like a meaningful boost – especially against a backdrop of stubborn inflation and higher costs for everyday goods and services. But here’s the rub: half of that increase goes straight to Medicare premiums. For many beneficiaries, that turns a 2.8% increase into something closer to a 1.4% net gain. And when you consider the rising living costs of food, housing, utilities, and especially healthcare, that net gain may not be enough to maintain a stable standard of living. Let’s break this down — why it matters, how average Americans are affected, and what real solutions might look like. Understanding the “2.8% COLA” Claim: The annual COLA is calculated based on changes in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) — a specific inflation index that measures how much prices rise for a basket of goods and services over time. Great, right? Inflation goes up, your benefits go up to match. But here’s where it gets complicated. Premiums Come First: Every year, Medicare Part B (medical insurance) and Part D (prescription drug coverage) premiums are deducted directly from Social Security benefits before recipients see their checks. In 2025: The COLA was announced at about 2.8%. But Medicare Part B and Part D premiums increased, consuming roughly half of that raise for many beneficiaries. If you’re receiving $1,800/month in Social Security, a 2.8% boost adds about $50/month — but if your Medicare premium increases by $25, your net gain is only $25/month. That’s roughly 1.4% in real terms. So despite the celebratory headlines about a 2.8% raise, many retirees see only half of that reflected in their actual spending power. Medicare Advantage: Lower Benefits, Higher Costs Compounding the problem, many seniors have turned to Medicare Advantage (MA) plans — private plans that replace traditional Medicare. Medicare Advantage was marketed as more affordable and offering extra benefits. But in recent years: Deductibles have increased Out-of-pocket expenses have risen Some benefits have been cut or tightened Providers are limiting coverage in ways that increase actual spending for seniors So even if gross premiums stay stable, many seniors end up spending more on care — meaning that the real cost of healthcare goes up faster than Social Security benefits. Is a 1.4% Increase Enough in Today’s Economy? The short answer: No, not for most people. 1. Food Costs: Food prices have consistently risen faster than the general inflation rate over the past few years. Even modest increases in cereal, bread, dairy, and produce add up quickly for households on fixed incomes. 2. Housing: Rent and home maintenance costs continue to climb in many areas. (Also as we age we cannot do some of the home maintenance we could when younger THUS we have to pay for the maintenance). Housing is often the single largest expense for retirees — and it’s not proportionally captured in the CPI-W used to calculate COLA. 3. Utilities: Electricity, gas, water — fluctuate widely but have trended upward overall. 4. Healthcare: Healthcare costs are not only rising — they’re rising faster. Prescription drugs, (over the counter drugs), specialist visits, long-term care, and dental care often exceed inflation measures used for COLA. 5. Inflation Mismatch: While the CPI-W tracks price changes for a typical urban wage earner, retirees spend their money differently. They have heavier healthcare costs and different consumption patterns — meaning the official inflation figure often understates the real inflation experienced by seniors. In other words: Even a 2.8% gross increase is unlikely to keep pace with actual inflation for retirees — especially after Medicare premiums. How Does This Compare to the Average Wage Earner? So how does a 1.4% net increase stack up for a typical worker? Wage Increases: In 2025 and into 2026, many workers have seen annual wage increases between 3% and 5% in many industries — often more in high-demand fields like tech, healthcare, logistics, etc. Even at the lower end of that range: Workers with a 3% pay increase see far more purchasing power growth than retirees with a 1.4% net COLA. Moreover, workers often receive performance bonuses, overtime, and opportunities for advancement — things retirees don’t have. Retirement vs. Working Households: Working households can adjust budgets dynamically: Take on extra shifts. Re-skilled to higher-paying roles. Benefit from employer-sponsored healthcare. Retirees do not have these options. Their safety net is Social Security and Medicare. When real increases lag behind wages, it highlights a growing disparity between those still in the workforce and those surviving on fixed benefits. Should Medicare Premium Increases Count Toward Cost-of-Living Adjustments? Absolutely. Here’s why: 1. Healthcare Is Not Optional: You can’t decide not to buy healthcare if you get sick, have chronic conditions, or need regular prescriptions. Medicare premiums are a necessary cost for seniors — not a luxury. 2. The Goal of COLA Is to Maintain Purchasing Power: If a benefit increase is immediately consumed by mandatory costs, the purpose of a COLA is undermined. It should be tied to actual cost burdens — including… Continue reading THE TRUTH BEHIND SOCIAL SECURITY’S ‘2.8% INCREASE’
WOULD CEDING TERRITORY BECOME A PRECEDENT
Below is a safe, clear, non-misinforming blog-style post based on my scenario. Since the events described have not actually occurred, the piece treats them as a hypothetical political analysis, not reported fact. Would Ceding Territory Become a Precedent? A Political Thought Experiment on Trump, Putin, Ukraine — and Even Alaska In this imagined scenario, President Trump enters a tense negotiation with Vladimir Putin aimed at ending the brutal war Russia launched against Ukraine. The proposed settlement: Ukraine would cede territory to Russia in exchange for peace. Whether one sees this as pragmatic deal-making or unacceptable capitulation, the idea immediately forces a deeper question: If one nation is pressured to give up land to stop a war, does that principle stop there? Or does it create a precedent that can be applied anywhere — even here in the United States? A Deal to End the Conflict — or a Door to Future Demands? In this hypothetical, Trump appears willing to pressure Ukraine into accepting territorial loss. The argument offered is familiar: Better to end the war now than let it drag on. Supporters would call it realism. Critics would call it rewarding aggression. But the real tension emerges in the next phase of this thought experiment. Once a major power demonstrates it can gain territory by starting a war and negotiating later, what’s to prevent further demands? Putin’s Threat: “War With the U.S. — Unless Alaska Is Ceded” In this scenario, Putin escalates dramatically: he signals that conflict with the United States could be avoided if America were to “resolve historical questions” by handing over Alaska — land Russia sold more than 150 years ago. The demand is wildly unrealistic, yet that’s exactly what makes the hypothetical powerful. It forces a confrontation with the logic of territorial concessions. If the justification for giving Ukraine’s land to Russia is simply to avoid conflict, why wouldn’t that same logic be applied to U.S. soil? This is where the scenario gets politically explosive. Would Trump (or Any President) Ever Cede U.S. Territory? Even in a purely speculative setting, it’s hard to imagine any U.S. president — Trump or otherwise — seriously offering Alaska to avoid Russian pressure. The political, constitutional, military, and economic barriers are overwhelming. But the optics matter. If a president is seen setting a precedent that land can be traded for peace, adversaries may interpret that as an opening. And allies may fear that their own security is now negotiable. Precedent: The Most Dangerous Part of Any Deal If Ukraine can be pressured into giving land… – Do other nations worry the same fate awaits them? If aggression leads to reward… – Do more aggressive states feel emboldened? If a U.S. president negotiates away foreign land… – Does it become imaginable — even if still unlikely — that U.S. land could one day be on the table? International politics runs on signals and incentives. Even hypothetical concessions can change how leaders calculate risk. What Next? The scenario ends with a question that has haunted diplomats for generations: Does peace bought through land concessions end wars — or invite the next one? If ceding Ukrainian territory is treated as an acceptable strategy, then in this thought experiment it logically opens the door to other demands, other disputes, other pressure campaigns — even ones pointed at the United States itself. This is why most democracies avoid legitimizing territorial conquest. Not out of idealism, but out of a sober understanding: Once that door is opened, it may not close again. Views: 0
Public Service Announcement (PSA): Personal Safety in Extreme Cold Weather at Outdoor Football Stadiums
Introduction Attending a football game in an outdoor stadium during extreme cold weather can be an exciting experience, but it also comes with significant risks. Hypothermia, frostbite, dehydration, and other cold-related illnesses are real dangers that can impact your health and safety. This PSA is designed to guide you through every step of your game-day experience—from arrival to departure—ensuring you remain safe, warm, and able to enjoy the game without unnecessary risks. Before You Leave: Preparation is Key Proper preparation is the most effective way to protect yourself from extreme cold weather. Here’s what you should do before heading to the stadium: 1. Check the Weather Forecast How long will you be out Look at the forecasted temperature, wind chill, and the possibility of snow, ice, or freezing rain. Consider how long you will be outside, including pre-game tailgating and post-game traffic delays. 2. Dress in Layers Layering is the best way to maintain body heat while allowing flexibility to adjust your clothing if needed. Base Layer (Moisture-Wicking Material): Avoid cotton, which retains moisture. Instead, choose thermal or synthetic fabrics that wick sweat away. Middle Layer (Insulation Layer): Opt for fleece, down, or wool to trap body heat. Outer Layer (Windproof and Waterproof): A high-quality winter coat with wind and water resistance is essential. Additional Cold-Weather Gear Headgear: A thick beanie or insulated hat that covers your ears. Neck Protection: A scarf, neck gaiter, or balaclava. Gloves and Hand Warmers: Insulated gloves or mittens with hand warmers inside. Thermal Socks and Footwear: Wool socks and insulated, waterproof boots to keep your feet warm and dry. 3. Essential Gear to Bring Hand and Foot Warmers: These disposable heat packs provide extra warmth. Blanket: A thermal or fleece blanket can provide additional warmth. Poncho or Rain Gear: Protects against wet snow or freezing rain. Extra Socks and Gloves: In case they get wet. High-Calorie Snacks: Your body burns more energy in the cold, so bring energy bars, nuts, or trail mix. Hot Drinks in a Thermos: Hot chocolate, tea, or coffee can help maintain warmth. Emergency Supplies: A small flashlight, whistle, and emergency blanket in case of an emergency. Arrival at the Stadium 1. Plan Your Transportation If driving, ensure your car is winter-ready with full antifreeze, an ice scraper, and a winter emergency kit. If using public transport, check for delays and service interruptions due to weather conditions. If walking, use well-lit, cleared paths to avoid slipping on ice. 2. Parking and Entry Precautions Choose parking spots with clear pathways and minimal ice. Walk carefully on icy surfaces; use small steps and wear traction-enhancing footwear. Be aware of large crowds pushing through narrow entrances—slipping hazards increase in these conditions. During the Game: Staying Warm and Safe 1. Protect Yourself from the Wind Wind chill can make temperatures feel much colder than they actually are. Sit near a barrier if possible, or bring a windproof blanket to shield yourself. 2. Keep Moving Stand up and stretch periodically to maintain circulation. Wiggle fingers and toes regularly to prevent numbness or frostbite. 3. Stay Hydrated Cold air can be dehydrating, so drink water throughout the game. Avoid excessive alcohol, as it dilates blood vessels, increasing heat loss. 4. Recognize Signs of Cold-Related Illness Hypothermia Symptoms: Shivering, confusion, drowsiness, slurred speech. If you or someone near you exhibits these, seek medical help immediately. Frostbite Symptoms: Numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, waxy or firm skin. Move to a warmer area if symptoms appear. 5. Know Where Emergency Help is Located Identify first-aid stations and emergency personnel upon arrival. If feeling unwell, seek shelter in heated areas. After the Game: Departure Safety 1. Avoid the Rush Large crowds rushing out can cause trampling or slipping hazards. Consider staying seated for a few extra minutes before leaving. If walking back to your car or public transport, use designated walkways to avoid ice patches. 2. Check Your Vehicle Before Driving Warm up your car before driving but never in an enclosed space. Clear all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, and lights. Drive cautiously on potentially icy roads. 3. Look Out for Others If you see someone struggling with the cold, assist them or alert stadium personnel. Make sure your group stays together, especially in severe conditions. Conclusion: Enjoy the Game Safely Attending a football game in extreme cold weather can be a memorable experience if you take the right precautions. By preparing properly, staying warm, recognizing cold-related illnesses, and being cautious during departure, you can ensure a fun and safe event. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the game! Views: 33
If Elected I Will: Promises Made by Politicians
Election time is here ! We can tell by the sprouting of signs in lawns, billboards, newspapers, TV and Radio ads. (which is, it seems at least one or two out three ads). They fall into three different catagories. One is telling you how bad a person their opponent is. The second is telling you what a terrific person the one who’s being told what a louse he is by his opponent. The Third is PROMISES, that are in truth what the politician thinks the people he represents want to hear. So, today let’s take a short look at how valid, or likely those freely strewn promises have of actually happening. It is really more complicated than what we see here; but this will give you somewhat of an idea how most of the things promised Won’t happen. I would much rather hear, “These are the things I WANT to do”. Rather than, “This what I WILL do, if elected”. Doesn’t that sound more truthful? So here we go. When politicians run for office, they often make a variety of promises to the electorate. These campaign promises are designed to align with their constituents’ values and concerns, and are intended to illustrate the candidates’ goals if they are elected. However, it is true that these promises sometimes extend beyond what the politicians themselves can personally deliver. Let’s look at some of the reasons why this is the case. 1. Separation of Powers: In many democratic societies, powers are divided among different branches of government. For example, in the United States, power is split between executive, legislative, and judicial branches. If a candidate running for an executive office (like President or Governor) makes a promise that requires legislation to be passed or changed, they will need cooperation from the legislative branch where lawmakers may not share their views or objectives. 2. Opposition: Politicians often face opposition from other elected officials who either have different views or might not want them to succeed for political reasons. This opposition can come from within their own party (intra-party) or from other parties (inter-party). This opposition might block or delay legislation needed to fulfill certain promises. 3. External Constraints: Sometimes events outside a politician’s control can hinder their ability to fulfill promises made during campaigns. The economy could enter a recession; there could be natural disasters; international events could demand time and resources–all these factors can divert attention and resources away from certain campaign promises. 4. Public Opinion: Public opinion can shift over time due to external factors or changes in societal attitudes which may make it difficult for politicians to keep certain campaign promises without risking public approval. 5. Constraints by Law and Constitution: Many countries have constitutions that place restrictions on what government bodies can do within their jurisdiction which may limit a politician’s ability to fulfill some election promises. Despite these constraints, it’s important for citizens in any democracy to hold elected officials accountable for their campaign pledges within these realistic limits. If a politician consistently fails to meet their promises without good reason, voters can express their dissatisfaction at the ballot box in the next election. An educated electorate is a key pillar of any healthy democracy, and understanding the real constraints politicians face can help voters make informed decisions about which candidates truly have their best interests at heart. Views: 153
GARDENING: FIGHTING PLANT ENEMIES
This article comes to us from our friend; and occasional contributor O.L. Thymer. Thanks OLT, The devices and implements used for fighting plant enemies are of two sorts: (1) Those used to afford mechanical protection to the plants; (2) Those used to apply insecticides and fungicides. Of the first the most useful is the covered frame. It consists usually of a wooden box, some eighteen inches to two feet square and about eight inches high, covered with glass, protecting cloth, mosquito netting or mosquito wire. The first two coverings have, of course, the additional advantage of retaining heat and protecting from cold, making it possible by their use to plant earlier than is otherwise safe. They are used extensively in getting an extra early and safe start with cucumbers, melons and the other vine vegetables. Simpler devices for protecting newly-set plants, such as tomatoes or cabbage, from the cut-worm, are stiff, tin, cardboard or tar paper collars, which are made several inches high and large enough to be put around the stem and penetrate an inch or so into the soil. For applying poison powders, the home gardener should supply himself with a powder gun. If one must be restricted to a single implement, however, it will be best to get one of the hand-power, compressed-air sprayers. These are used for applying wet sprays, and should be supplied with one of the several forms of mist-making nozzles, the non-cloggable automatic type being the best. For more extensive work a barrel pump, mounted on wheels, will be desirable, but one of the above will do a great deal of work in little time. Extension rods for use in spraying trees and vines may be obtained for either. For operations on a very small scale a good hand-syringe may be used, but as a general thing it will be best to invest a few dollars more and get a small tank sprayer, as this throws a continuous stream or spray and holds a much larger amount of the spraying solution. Whatever type is procured, get a brass machine it will out-wear three or four of those made of cheaper metal, which succumbs very quickly to the, corroding action of the strong poisons and chemicals used in them. Of implements for harvesting, beside the spade, prong-hoe and spading- fork, very few are used in the small garden, as most of them need not only long rows to be economically used, but horse- power also. The onion harvester attachment for the double wheel hoe, may be used with advantage in loosening onions, beets, turnips, etc., from the soil or for cutting spinach. Running the hand- plow close on either side of carrots, parsnips and other deep-growing vegetables will aid materially in getting them out. For fruit picking, with tall trees, the wire-fingered fruit-picker, secured to the end of a long handle, will be of great assistance, but with the modern method of using low-headed trees it will not be needed. Another class of garden implements are those used in pruning but where this is attended to properly from the start, a good sharp jack-knife and a pair of pruning shears will easily handle all the work of the kind necessary. Still another sort of garden device is that used for supporting the plants; such as stakes, trellises, wires, etc. Altogether too little attention usually is given these, as with proper care in storing over winter they will not only last for years, but add greatly to the convenience of cultivation and to the neat appearance of the garden. As a final word to the intending purchaser of garden tools, I would say: first thoroughly investigate the different sorts available, and when buying, do not forget that a good tool or a well-made machine will be giving you satisfactory use long, long after the price is forgotten, while a poor one is a constant source of discomfort. Get good tools, and take good care of them. And let me repeat that a few dollars a year, judiciously spent, for tools afterward well cared for, will soon give you a very complete set, and add to your garden profit and pleasure. Views: 114
GUN CONTROL: IS IT NEEDED? PART 1
I was raised on a farm and rural town. So Hunting was a natural thing. We planted our own garden, raised our own hogs, beef, sheep, chickens,etc. We had apple trees, cherry trees, and pear trees. We had Black Raspberry, Gooseberries, Black Berries, Blue Berries, Strawberry Bushes., and of course there was always a bountiful pick of mushrooms. A creek, (in our area it was pronounced CRICK), so plenty of fish to eat. We hunted rabbit, and squirrel, to supplement and vary our meat diet. We Churned our own butter, and canned what we could to get us through the winter. So, you see hunting was a natural thing for us. All my life I have been pretty much anti HANDGUN. I first fired a handgun at age 9. My best friends cousin, who was about 10-12 years older than us, took us out to an empty field and set up some tin cans, a let us shoot his Colt 45. I think that is what it was, to me it was just like the one the LONE RANGER used. Granted it was a treat, pretending to be a real western cowboy. But I could see no real reason to own one. My other time was when I was about 19. This time I was in the Military and had to qualify with the Military pistol, a gun I carried rarely. Ok. This I could see. Being the radio operator, it was not always practical for me to carry a rifle. But those times would be in battle or rioting conditions. But for an average citizen, I could still see no reason for anyone to have a handgun. I had my Shotguns, and Rifles to defend my home with. But recently, I was asked to check a friend’s property, they noticed someone had damaged the gate to their property, when they arrived home, and was going to wait on the road at the end of their drive. They had called for the police. They said it was pretty obvious the police did not want to respond. So off I went. It took me half and hour to get there. (No Police). I bravely entered the property, armed with my PELLET PISTOL, to check things out. I found no one. My friends found what looked like a failed attempt to break in a door. I waited with them another half hour, and still NO POLICE. We called the police back, to let them know they could cancel the call. We were told that they had not yet dispatched anyone to the scene. A couple of weeks later I made a trip to a neighboring state. The friend I was visiting there had a neighbor who was a retired Sheriff. They were talking about a handgun my friend was considering buying. It was type the Sheriff used as a back up weapon. I was asked my thoughts on it. I told them I didn’t see any reason for owning one. I explained that I did have a Pellet Pistol, and how I had taken it to my friends on the aforementioned instance. The retired Sheriff laughed, then scolded me. He told me taking my Pellet Gun was worse than taking no gun. The trespassers could have seen it and used a “real gun” and shot me on the spot. He also recommended I get a handgun. I explained I had my Shotgun and Rifle. He asked why did I not take one of them instead of the Pellet gun? I explained they seemed a little cumbersome, and if someone was hidden and I was in close proximity I might not be able to use the long guns. The Sheriff said, “One of the reasons you should consider getting a handgun”. He also added long guns are not real good if I was attacked by a carjacker, if I were met with a mugger, and he continued on and on with reasons I should consider a handgun. As of now I have not made a decision. I will think it over this week. Check back next week for further details. Comments are welcome. REAL COMMENTS. I make no money for my opinions, and any comment posted to promote your business will not be posted. Views: 98
White Canned Coca~Cola
Have you tried the new Coca~Cola in the WHITE CAN. Coke tries to pass this off as the “CLASSIC COKE”. But real Coke drinkers can tell you it is NOT!!!! Some of you may remember when they ditched the Coca~Cola formula and introduced “NEW COKE” What a disaster. Coke lovers raised such a fuss they had to come up with “CLASSIC COKE”. “CLASSIC COKE” as anyone who remembers was not the ORIGINAL COKE. It left something out that gave Coca~Cola it’s unique aura of taste, and (for a lack of a better word), It’s kick. A milder version of the ORIGINAL version. Coke, if you did not know came in 6 ounce bottles. That was in it’s heyday. Then because Pepsi Cola was selling 12 ounce bottles (this was how they competed. They gave a very watered down version of coke in 12 ounce bottles which had about half the kick of Coca~Cola in the 12 ounce bottle for the same nickle as Cokes 6 ounce bottle). For some reason Coca~Cola felt the need to compete with the 12 ounce Pepsi Cola. When Coca~Cola put their product in 12 ounce bottles it lost some of it’s flavor. The bigger the bottle the less pizzazz, it had. I just tried the COKE (?) in the WHITE cans and found it to be a sweeter milder flavor, nothing like Coca~Cola. Still better than Pepsi Cola. Better than the “NEW” Coke. Not as good as “CLASSIC” Coke. No where near as good as “ORIGINAL” Coke. I fail to see why the company wants to fool with perfection. I know this new generation may not be able to handle the REAL THING. It probably has too much kick for them. What I do not like is Coca~Cola trying to pass off this new flavor by saying we only changed the can color. But for people with real taste we can tell the difference, and the difference was not made by a white can. White Can Coke is NOT THE REAL THING! I am not a diet drinker. But I have tried Coke Zero. Believe me Coke Zero has more Coca~Cola taste than White can Coke. I’m not saying White “Coke” is all bad. It just isn’t Coca~Cola. It might go well by some other name. But Please COCA~COLA don’t try to pass this formula off as COKE. Give it it’s own name. Perhaps the people who like the sweet mild taste of Pepsi Cola will pick upon your WHITE CAN cola. That Is How I See It. Views: 285
