Friday, November 07, 2025
Did you go to the polls?
Mamdani is an immigrant with inherited wealth from his Indian parents (one Hindu one Muslim) who was born in Uganda and grew up in Cape Town, South Africa. He's had no employment experience but did begin his career just a few years ago as a volunteer in a senate campaign. Not a school board, but small. Someone knows the funding source, but not me.
Wednesday, November 05, 2025
The importance of education to fight Communism
The under 40 products of the schools don't see one of the major parties of the U.S. going under and drowning in lies because they have never learned the truth about Marxism. They wave their tiny, itsy bitsy American flags and salivate over words like Democracy and Justice, and yet have no understanding, no learning, no wisdom and no experience.
Gracious, did you hear the latest insanity of Nancy Pelosi. Sure, she's old and maybe demented, but I think she's also addled by Trump hatred. They blather on about Nazism and Hitler and don't realize those are socialist roots. That's why it's called National Socialism, aka Nazi. They scream about intifada and Palestine while we (sensible, conservative, wise) were naive enough to believe anti-Semitism in the U.S. had died with the KKK and Jim Crow, other scourges rooted in the Democrat party. The Democrats have gone from Cancel Culture to Assassination Culture, and the ignorant voters went along with it. Marxist playbook all the way. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/pelosi-rants-about-trump-calling-him-vile-creature-calls-republicans-puppets-of-trump/
Tuesday, November 04, 2025
Communists, thugs and radical Muslims have taken over the Democrat Party
Rather than slinking away somewhere upon the revelation of these disqualifying messages, Jones responded with defiant misdirection.
“Like all people,” he said in a statement, “I’ve sent text messages that I regret.” Yes, who among us hasn’t hoped to see people we disagree with get shot or suffer the loss of loved ones via text message? . . ." Virginia: The Jay Jones Misdirection | National Review
No, "all people" don't fanaticize about killing children or pissing on graves. What a ghoul. A disgrace to his party. Virginia Democrats should be ashamed, as should NYC Democrats and Democrats all over the country be ashamed of running a Communist as Mayor of the so-called premier city. Democrats are afraid of their Leftist base (aka foundation) and Muslims. Fear has driven them to cowardness. They can't even kick these guys out, they only know how to gaslight and lie.
Thursday, October 30, 2025
E. T. phone home
A (too) sweet breakfast
His oats had one ingredient--whole oats. Mine had whole oats, sugar, brown rice syrup, rice crisps (made with sugar) and molasses (aka sugar). Mine was 28% sugar (32 grams) and his was 0% (1 gram). Mine had 3 grams of fat and so did his. Mine had 115 mg of sodium and his had 0 mg sodium. Mine had 6 grams of protein and his had 5 grams. Mine had 4 grams of fiber and his had 6. Mine had 240 calories per serving and his had 150 calories. Serving sizes (in grams) were not the same probably because my serving size (larger) included raisins and he added raisins to his, so some of the nutrients were hard to compare.
But still, what part of my cereal was low fat, the most prominent phrase on the box? Compared to what--a candy bar? Who needs that much sugar on/in their cereal? US population consumes more than 300% of the recommended daily amount of added sugar. Since 2000 the rate of consumption of sugar is actually slowing down as is the increase in obesity. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6959843/
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Julia Danison, founding member of UALC
Born and raised in Thornville, Julie was the youngest of three children and the only girl. Julie worked in the local pharmacy and had fond memories of watching an owl that lived outside her bedroom window, leading to a lifelong love of owls.
Julie met Don Danison of Glenford, Ohio, and they were married on June 10, 1951. They moved to Columbus, Ohio, where Julie graduated from Capital University with an Associates Degree in Secretarial Studies. Don’s career took them to Dallas, Texas, and Durham, North Carolina before settling back in Columbus to raise their family.
Don and Julie were charter members of Upper Arlington Lutheran Church. They built deep and lasting, lifelong friendships at church and in the community. Julie loved going to Fort Myers Beach, Florida, where Don and Julie bought a condo. She knew everyone by the pool, and everyone knew Julie.
Julie loved her family. She invested everything she had into being an amazing Wife, Mom, Mom-Mom, Grandma, and Great-Grandma. Even as her memory was failing in her final years, she would regularly say, “I loved being a Mom,” with a bright smile on her face and a glow in her blue eyes.
Julie lost Don in January 1997 and lived for nearly 30 years as a widow. Beneath Julie’s friendliness was an incredibly strong woman who endured despite the loss of her father, a brother, her best friend, and her husband all at young ages.
Julie will be greatly missed by her three children and their spouses, Deb (Bill), Dean (Tracey), and Doug (Joy), along with her eight grandchildren Samantha, Jacob (Jennifer), Zachary (Allie), James, Andy, Naomi, Saideh, and Matthew; and her five great-grandchildren Brooklyn, Ethan, Owen, Hunter, and Brayden.
A memorial service for Julie will be held at 1 p.m. October 28, followed by a reception, at Upper Arlington Lutheran Church, 2300 Lytham Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220. All who loved Julie are welcome to attend. Private interment will occur at a later time at UALC Columbarium, where Julie will be laid to rest alongside her beloved Don.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Upper Arlington Lutheran Church. Julia Danison Obituary - Columbus, OH
My new church lady dress
Ruffled mandarin collar with picot edge
Keyhole neckline with self-covered button and elastic loop
Long sleeves with shirring at the shoulders
Elastic waistband with self-tie belt
Tiered maxi-length skirt for effortless movement
Pullover style for easy wear
Fried Green Tomatoes redux
It was funny in a sly way. Maybe more relevant in the 80s. In some ways it was a bit off putting because the story telling takes place in Ninny's residence--a nursing home, and Ninny is 83. It reinforces the image of the elderly--need I tell you what that image is? Or the image of blacks being victims, who rise up and destroy the dim witted, nasty white men. And women can't be real women with authentic friendships unless they are lesbians or brow beaten closet feminists with stupid, bumbling husbands (named couch).
I'm not playing the victim here, but the book is almost 40 years old and the movie almost 35. No wonder generations have grown up with this vision of race relations in our country. It's been a theme in their culture.
Friday, October 24, 2025
The White House Ballroom
" . . . But the biggest White House remodel to date started in the 1940s. That's when President Harry S. Truman fully gutted and rebuilt the interior in response to concerns about severe structural damage. When the Trumans moved into the Executive Mansion in 1945, engineers warned them that the building was on the verge of collapse. His family relocated to temporary quarters nearby during construction, which took around three years.
Other presidents have directed smaller projects, like President Barack Obama. He adapted an existing tennis court so it could be used for basketball. In his second term, President Trump has already undertaken several projects — including an entirely remodeled Rose Garden. That feature was first added by First Lady Edith Wilson in 1913 and updated to its most iconic form during the Kennedy administration." (WPTZ)
Let's face it, folks, If President Trump had regrouted the bathroom tile, the Demikratz would have been screeching because this is about hate, not remodeling, not even money, They stomp on the unborn, mutilate children, import sex slaves, allow thousands to be poisoned by drugs, ignore terrorists crossing our borders, and elected an auto-pen to lead us. Do you really think they are bothered by some bricks and mortar?
Market Outlook, October 2025
From our broker's report. "U.S. stocks extended their rally into the third quarter, led by strong recoveries in technology, consumer discretionary, and communication services-sectors previously pressured by tariff concerns. The S&P 500 has surged over 30% since the April 8th low, highlighting the resilience of markets and investor confidence amid ongoing uncertainties like tariffs, Federal Reserve scrutiny, cooling consumer spending, softening job growth, and the recent government shutdown. Despite volatility, our strategy remains anchored in broad diversification, deliberately avoiding overconcentration in any one sector or stock, while hedging against inflation and stagflation risks."
Then says Yahoo. S&P 500 INDEX (^SPX) Historical Data - Yahoo FinanceThen says U.S. Bank: "President Donald Trump has prioritized domestic manufacturing while extending key tax cuts from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, leading investors to question the stock market’s direction. After the inauguration, President Trump announced and implemented numerous tariffs, causing the S&P 500 to drop nearly 20% in just seven weeks. However, the market rebounded strongly; after reaching its lowest point of 2025 on April 7, the S&P 500 has surged more than 34% and remains near all time high." Stock Market Under the Trump Administration | U.S. Bank.
Thursday, October 23, 2025
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
"The makeup used in the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz was elaborate and often hazardous due to the materials available at the time. The Wicked Witch of the West, portrayed by Margaret Hamilton, wore a copper-based green makeup that was poisonous, requiring her to live on a liquid diet during filming and carefully cleaning the makeup off her face each day. This toxic makeup caused her skin to remain green for weeks after filming concluded.
The makeup for the Tin Man, originally intended for Buddy Ebsen, was a white face paint coated with aluminum dust, which caused severe health issues, including lung infections and shortness of breath, leading to Ebsen being replaced by Jack Haley after only nine days of filming. Haley’s makeup was reformulated into a paste, but he still experienced an eye infection that caused him to miss four days of filming.
The Scarecrow, played by Ray Bolger, wore a latex-based "rubber bag" mask that was so tightly adhered to his skin that it left permanent waffle-like burlap patterns on his face, particularly around his mouth and chin, after being peeled off daily.
The Cowardly Lion, portrayed by Bert Lahr, wore a heavy costume that made him drenched in sweat by the end of each shooting day.
The intense heat from the Technicolor filming process, combined with the heavy makeup and costumes, made working conditions extremely difficult, with reports of people fainting on set.
The makeup for the Munchkins was also unusual and required specialized application. Despite the risks, these techniques contributed to the film’s iconic visual style."
I've been told that this is my son-in-law's favorite movie, and they have a special Christmas tree with only Wizard of Oz ornaments.
Our trip to Rock Mill
Yesterday about 12 hardy residents (it was cold and windy) went to Fairfield County, Ohio, to see Rock Mill, part of the county park system. Our "docent" on the bus was one of the residents of The Estates (formerly The Forum) Joe, a soil scientist, who had worked in that county (then very rural) for 14 years. The mill had been an 18th century marvel of technology and entrepreneurship, first built by Joseph Loveland and Hezekiah Smith. There were several owners in the 19th century, but when things like canals and railroads made it outdated it and the fields were all drained for agriculture, it fell into disuse. It was partially restored by a local residents of some wealth, Rita and Bob Stebelton. Then came community support to make it part of the park system. And of course, there were a few miracles along the way. This is a PBS documentary about the restoration. And our friend Joe is even in the film.
https://youtu.be/Q1QXvh1zI94?si=9HgNjOpV5OaHhJd2
On the way we drove past the Lockville Canal Park and could see the remains of Ohio & Erie Canal Locks South 11, 12 and 13. Since we live close to the Riverside / Ohio Health complex we saw a wide range of technology on that trip. To get there we also drove the outskirts of Canal Winchester and saw many of the places we used to see when Phil lived there.
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
IVF and ART
We're living in a society that discards imperfect or inconvenient humans, particularly the unborn and the elderly. This will not end well. What's next? Create multiple embryos through IVF to develop and implant one embryo that will have no cavities, no dysphonia, no diabetes, no blonde hair or blue eyes and discard the others? IVF and ART (assisted reproductive technology) have provided a murky and muddled mix of political and medical policies in a culture that can't even define "what is a woman?"
Monday, October 20, 2025
Thomas Sowell, American thinker and hero
I watch Sowell videos whenever I can. At 94 he makes far more sense than most American "thinkers", academics and former Marxists. I think I was still a Democrat when I first read one of his columns back in the 80s. Maybe a seed was planted.
https://youtu.be/KMTWDEYsRVE?si=g1HFOIIaVZxfchSg
Saturday, October 18, 2025
Brunch with the Bible study group
Yes, we have no bananas
"Yes, we have no bananas
We have-a no bananas today
We've string beans, and onions
Cabashes, and scallions,
And all sorts of fruit and say
We have an old fashioned tomato
A Long Island potato But yes, we have no bananas
We have no bananas today
This was a #1 hit for 5 weeks in 1923, a bit before my time, but I remember Louis Prima's version.
Friday, October 17, 2025
Fear of Covid is alive and well, except among politicians
What stays with me is my bewilderment of how that pandemic and its results seem to have been forgotten by both political parties and all the institutions that were affected--particularly education and religion.
Donald Trump pushed too hard for a vaccine so he could be a hero, in my opinion, and he was at the starting gate of the closings and flinging money at us with CARES ( Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act), which corrupted and compromised every aspect of our culture. Fear of Covid put Biden in the White House (in my opinion) after he had previously castigated Trump's vaccine effort and promised he had a plan to stop the spread (he didn't; no one did). The people fell for that after being terrorized by the media which hated Trump with constant fake rates and numbers.
Then CARES + Biden turned out to extend the closing of our economy with a crippling mandate which hardly touched the rich and powerful Democrats and got Republicans fired or cancelled. Covid cases soared so that by the end of 2021 the rate was higher than under Trump even with the vaccine. Biden buddies destroyed the economic gains made under Trump in his first term, but I think Trump moved too quickly with a science he didn't understand, then his advisors were blacklisted under Biden.
Both presidents fell for Dr. Fauci and his gain of function lies allowed him celebrity status. Both presidents ignored years of research on the mental health effects of locking people up and fell for the masking and distancing lies. IMO, the old folks should have stayed home and the kids should have been in school.
We're still paying for this, particularly the children who lost about 2 years of learning. Something like it but different could happen again. Where are the lessons learned?
BTW, do you know that Peter Daszak (who got the grant money from Fauci for the gain of function research in Wuhan) has a new gig on global health and is seeking donations? https://naturehealthglobal.org/nhg-signs-5-year-contract.../
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Carol J. Steele, a long time neighbor and friend
A woman of deep faith and community spirit, Carol was an active and lively member of Mentor Plains United Methodist Church for over 40 years. She embodied scripture passages like Ephesians 4, exemplifying her call of humility, gentleness, patience, and love, to all who crossed her path. She dedicated her vibrant energy to many passions, including Sew for Service, her many Bible study groups, and her book club. She also found joy participating in her Parkinson's support group, and loved her work with Mary Kay Cosmetics, empowering others to feel appreciated. Carol adored sweets, knitting, reading, film photography, hosting for the holidays, and sightseeing during her many travels. She was an avid crafter, lifelong learner, dear friend, Lakesider, and lover of life. Her servant's heart affected so many, and will be missed for years to come. Above all, Carol was profoundly dedicated to her family and the Lord, creating a sense of "home" whenever in her presence.
Carol is survived by her devoted, steadfast husband of 57 years, Scott Steele, and their four children: Julie Steele, Eric Steele, Jennifer Eberly, and Brian Steele. She was a cherished grandmother to Alexander, Hunter (McKenzie), Taylor, Isobel, Ian, and Isaac, and a proud great-grandmother to Silas. She is also survived by her siblings: Mary (Creighton), Charles (Sandy), and David (Anya), as well as a host of loving nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Monreal Srnick Funeral Home, 35400 Curtis Blvd, Eastlake, OH 44095. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM, also at the funeral home. Carol will be laid to rest at Whitehaven Memorial Park."
Monday, October 13, 2025
The Associated Press and the President
So, I checked to see what its beef is about Trump--and among others it is suing for its First Amendment rights because the Trump Administration blocked 2 reporters on reporting on a White House event. Oh goodie. It gets to ignore important history and pouts that there are consequences for bias, middle school nastiness and disinformation. Wikipedia (not always a good source, but it's handy) says it is a not for profit association made up of members who report news.
"As a cooperative, the Associated Press is owned and governed by its members. There are approximately 1,300 U.S. newspaper members and thousands of television and radio broadcast members.
These organizations are the collective owners. They elect the board, contribute to the cooperative's news report, and in return, gain access to the vast amount of content produced by AP journalists worldwide.
This structure is designed to support journalism, not generate profit for investors. Revenue generated by the AP, including from licensing its content to non-members, is reinvested back into its news-gathering operations." (SEOAves)
Saturday, October 11, 2025
Happy birthdays, anniversaries 2025
After being delayed by colds, we finally got to celebrate two birthdays and two anniversaries at Hyde Park Restaurant. Upper Arlington | Hours + Location | Hyde Park Restaurants | Steakhouse in the US
Thursday, October 09, 2025
A day with the horses
Wednesday, October 08, 2025
Rate of falls in elderly increases
"The surge in deaths from falls in the US reflects a new phenomenon. There is no reason to think that older adults today are much more likely to be physically frail, have dementia, have cluttered homes, or drink alcohol and use drugs than age-matched adults 30 years ago, and the percentage living alone has not changed much since 2000. On the other hand, there is plenty of reason to believe that the surge in fall deaths may be tied to the soaring use of certain prescription drugs,3 which is a risk factor that, unlike most other factors, clinicians can readily modify."
Sunday, October 05, 2025
Dick Durbin, pro-choice Catholic Senator
Pro-choice politicians, Catholic teaching and the lessons we still can’t learn - America Magazine
I also dislike the so-called moral equivalency of comparing the failings of Communist/socialist ideals with failings of free market/patriotic ideals. Illegal immigration also involves drugs, rape and trafficking. That straw man is also rampant in non-Catholic Christian groups who then equate violence against someone with words they don't like.
"Senator Durbin’s track record of supporting the human dignity of immigrants is worth celebrating, but it cannot erase the moral failure of his support for abortion. We also ought to be equally concerned about the many Catholic elected officials on the right who may accept church teaching on abortion but are even now cheering on, to use the Holy Father’s language, “the inhuman treatment of immigrants.” " (the article)
Saturday, October 04, 2025
Another change of address story
The reason I went to that branch in person was another branch had not allowed my husband to make the changes for me, only himself.
Saturday, September 27, 2025
Changing addresses and emails
One interesting quirk is I think it was one of my doctors' offices did notify the board of elections, something I didn't do. I'm now properly registered. If I'm not mistaken (will research) my husband worked in the firm that designed/built the school (Winterset in Columbus) where we'll now be voting.
DesMoines school superintendent to be deported
Thursday, September 25, 2025
My elevator AP news feed
U.S. gross domestic product — the nation’s output of goods and services — rebounded in the spring from a 0.6% first-quarter drop caused by fallout from President Donald Trump’s trade wars, the Commerce Department said Thursday. The department had previously estimated second-quarter growth at 3.3%, and forecasters had expected a repeat of that figure."
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
PBS--who should judge information for children
Monday, September 22, 2025
Charlie Kirk's last interview
The aftermath of the Kirk memorial
Joe Biden closed down our churches and schools (technically it was governors) and most haven't recovered. Did Lemon complain? Nearly all churches have returned to in-person worship since the lockdowns ended in addition to their online services. Yet most churches still have not returned to their pre-pandemic attendance rates. Maybe we'll see an uptick, maybe not. But it wouldn't be a bad thing for people to return to regular church attendance. Interestingly, 23% of pastors of small churches (fewer than 50 in attendance pre-pandemic) report being up to 90%-100% of pre-pandemic attendance rates! This is much higher than for larger churches. (Lifeway Research)
Sunday, September 21, 2025
Why history matters
Interview with Doris Kearns Goodwin for Echoes Magazine, July and August 2025, p. 34. "Lincoln was worried as the Revolutionary generation was dying off, and it was a very tumultuous time. It was in the 1830s when there were abolitionists being killed and lynchings being done in the South. And Lincoln was afraid that when those people died, we would forget the ideals of the Revolution. He recommended that mothers read history to their children, that pastors talk about it from their pulpits, that we had to teach history in the schools--the history of the Revolution--so those ideals would remain strong in our countrymen's minds and hearts."
Saturday, September 20, 2025
Sunday at Central at the Forum
Friday, September 19, 2025
AOC slimes Charlie Kirk
AOC slimed Kirk: “...His rhetoric and beliefs were ignorant, uneducated, and sought to disenfranchise millions of Americans, far from the 'working tirelessly to promote unity' asserted by the majority in this resolution.” AOC and other Kirk detractors love to call him "uneducated" because he didn't go to college. She did, and worked as a bartender.
How did Charlie Kirk keep millions of Americans from voting, or citizenship? He encouraged the highest values of citizenship--and that was definitely voting. Does AOC realize that Congress controls those laws? Not a preacher? What AOC means is that Charlie didn't suggest anyone vote for her. Perhaps she means Charlie said illegals shouldn't vote. But that wouldn't be disenfranchisement--that would simply be following the law.
Just to remind her. Before 1830 white men had to be property owners to vote. Black men got the franchise (to vote) in 1870. Democrats did all they could to stop that with Jim Crow local laws and the KKK terrorist groups. Women didn't get the franchise until 1920 and based on AOC's political acumen and support for a Communist for NYC mayor, that was perhaps a mistake.
Time to renew the DL?
On a happier note, while I was waiting for my number to come up, I had a nice chat with a woman returning to the Philippines to build a home in her family compound. She's a US citizen so will need to return annually to keep her citizenship. We had a lovely chat.
Thursday, September 18, 2025
On Golden Pond again
Bye, bye Jimmy
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
The Nation magazine lied about Charlie Kirk
JD Vance On Democrats & George Soros Paying Political Violence in America Full Speech #shownewtrend
The left continues to lie about the assassination and reputation of Charlie Kirk, and insult conservatives and put their lives in danger. There are not two sides to this issue because in this era, the violence is on the left. That is, Democrats, shame on you, for allowing these violent people to take control of your party.
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Democrats are besmirching their reputation and history
What the Left calls divisive, polarizing and hateful is saying that men can't be women and that no one needs to play the victim to be worthwhile. What the Left believes is hateful is proclaiming Jesus is Lord. There is no record of Kirk being a racist, saying racist things or being nasty to people. That's a myth passed along by the media or people who hate free speech they don't like. It's secondhand Trump hate.
Saturday, September 13, 2025
It's not easy being the judge of the whole universe or the mind of God
"I’m a theological ethicist currently teaching at Villanova University. I am also an award-winning journalist and essayist whose work has appeared in a wide range of publications, including POLITICO, The Atlantic, The New York Times, Globe & Mail, BBC, Playboy, The Economist, Commonweal, and the Boston Globe. I am also a columnist for Christian Century. My first book — Is It God’s Will? Making Sense of Tragedy, Luck and Hope in a World Gone Wrong — will be published in September by Morehouse Academic."
Kirk means church
Words actually are violence, even with the guarantees of our First Amendment. "For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery," Mark 7:21. The week before Kirk was killed, there was the murder of the Ukrainian woman, the murder of a retired veterinary professor at Auburn walking her dog, and the murder of an elderly couple in Queens who were tortured, killed and set on fire. Maniac who killed elderly NYC couple inside their home makes chilling admission And shortly before that children were murdered in a Catholic church during Mass. Three of the men were black with criminal records, and prior charges, released into the public to commit more crimes by liberal judges. Two of the men were white and had their minds twisted by leftist lies about sexuality, supported by the Democrat party. Christians should be speaking out about why half the nation votes for the people who allow this.
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Be Charlie. Make a difference
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Democrats in Congress couldn't even pray!
Charlie was very dangerous in the demented minds of the Leftist media, the Democrats, the agitators and uglies who won't even allow us to say, "all lives matter." He loved Jesus, his family, his country and American values of political, religious and economic freedom. For that the leftist media called him divisive on the day of his murder. Communists can't tolerate it--we should rejoice in what Charlies did in his short life. The Illinois governor, the California governor, the Squad, the candidate for mayor of New York, the Maxines and Hillarys and Nancys and millions of Americans who are slouching toward socialism are morally bankrupt.
Tuesday, September 09, 2025
My second trombone gone to auction
The yoga bandit
Saturday, September 06, 2025
Google's loss my gain?
"In a ruling aimed at restoring competition in the search engine market, U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta refrained from ordering Google to sell off Chrome, the world's most popular browser, but ordered the tech company to end exclusive deals that make Google the default search engine on phones and other devices." (Sept. 2, NPR)
Communism has never been successful
Another tenet of Communism in addition to victimhood, is destruction of the family. This is one they work hard on through social media, entertainment industry, school system. Loyalty must be to the government, not God.
Communists like Mamdani and his colleagues called Democrats, Socialists and Progressives lie, cheat, steal the wealth of others, maim and enslave, as seen with our border crises, for their own gain. Those of you old enough to remember Stalin, it's the same lie with some definition changes. Their attraction is to the uneducated and the over educated at our universities.
Friday, September 05, 2025
More changes--we've been transitioned!
Cemetery monument at French Broad Church of the Brethren Tennessee
NB: On Facebook I found the current name of the church, "Established in 1875, French Broad Community Church (formerly French Broad Church of the Brethren) is about continuing the work of Jesus. Peacefully. Simply. Together."In sorting files, I found this in my genealogy file, source unknown, but the handwriting looks like my father's and I know he visited cemeteries in Tennessee while visiting relatives, but there is no signature on it. We also talked a lot about genealogy and family stories which makes sense of the final sentence.
"There is a monument in the cemetery at French Broad Church of the Brethren which reads (near Oak Grove, Tenn.) "French Broad Church of the Brethren
Charter Members Side 1
Jacob Wine, Minister
Elizabeth Wine
Geo. W. Hepner
Martha Hepner
William Finck
Americus E. Finck
Thomas Finck
Sabrina Hepner
Maggie Satterfield
William Silvis
Betsy Forder
JNO. A. Collins
Mary A. B. Sloat
Mary Steadman
J. McClure
---------
Ministers Elder Side 2
Jacob Wine
Sterling W. Noe
JNO. A. Collins
Emanuel Newcomer Elder
JNO. Satterfield
W. R. Williford [our family name] Rev William R. Williford (1873-1938) - Find a Grave Memorial
Revel B. Pritchett Elder
Side 3
In memory of Alexander Mack 1679-1735 Founder of the Church of the Brethren (Dunkers) in Schwarzenau Province of Wittgenstein in Hesse-Cassel on River Eder, Holy Roman Empire 1708
"Dunkers were pioneers of religious education and Sunday School on this continent. Printed first religious magazine in North America and the first Bible in a European language in the new world, 1743, 1763, 1776.
Emigrated to America in 1719-1724-1729
Tennessee in 1783
Jefferson County in 1870"
Thought this might be of interest to you after our conversation the other evening."
Tuesday, September 02, 2025
Group singing with YouTube
"Results: Key benefits of singing include improvements in verbal fluency, executive function, and episodic memory. Structural changes such as increased white matter integrity and enhanced auditory–motor integration highlight the potential of singing to stimulate neuroplasticity. Among individuals with dementia, singing fosters episodic memory, mood enhancement, and social connection, while healthy older adults demonstrate improved verbal flexibility and cognitive resilience. However, methodological limitations, such as small sample sizes and cross-sectional designs, preclude definitive conclusions about long-term benefits. Conclusions: Future research should explore the specific neural mechanisms underlying these effects, with an emphasis on longitudinal studies and diverse populations. Tailored, inclusive singing programs could address individual cognitive and physical abilities while fostering sustained engagement and social connection. As a low-cost, scalable intervention, singing holds promise for addressing cognitive and emotional challenges associated with aging, offering an accessible avenue to support healthy aging and enhance quality of life across diverse populations." Brain Sci. 2025 Feb 21;15(3):227.There is also a choir here as well as three different church services and a Bible study. So, I'll work on that white matter. Another article I looked at suggested that amateur musicians may benefit even more than professional musicians in lowering the brain age (pros have more stress). Well, I sure qualify in the amateur department.
Monday, September 01, 2025
Jon Martin, class of 1957, obituary
Jon was a member of the Wesley United Methodist Church, Marco Island, Florida. He was the former owner and president of Martin Funeral Home in Roselle, Illinois for over 29 years.
He is survived by his companion of 13 years Nadine Thornton; two beloved children, Kip Martin and his wife Gwen of Fort Myers, Florida and Mitzi Sanders and her husband Todd Biddison of Cape Coral, Florida; one brother, Roger Martin of Mt. Morris, Illinois; eight grandchildren, Brittani and huband Ben, Sydney, Elysia and husband Stephen, Clarissa and husband Austin, Alexis and husband Jaen, Cassandra, Blake and Samantha; three great grandchildren, Kasen, Briella and Braxton; as well as a niece, Shawn and a nephew, Chad.
In addition to his parents, Jon was preceded in death by his wife Dixie Martin in 2012.
Memorial visitation Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 11:00am until time of service 1:00pm at his former funeral home, now Countryside Funeral Home and Crematory 333 S. Roselle Rd. (1/2 mile south of Irving Park Rd.), Roselle, Illinois.
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Sad news for Honey Dip Customers
My husband and his Romeo (retired old men eating out) friends have been meeting here for years. It's sad to see small businesses chased out for what I presume will be yet another ugly, multistory, prison architecture building. Story was on Facebook.
"It is with heavy hearts that we share difficult news. For over 50 years, we’ve proudly served the Columbus community at 4480 Kenny Road. But now, we—along with our small business neighbors—are at risk of losing our home to redevelopment.
Unfortunately, our landlord’s property went into receivership due to internal disputes, and a court-appointed receiver has quietly arranged to sell these buildings as part of a package deal to developers—without giving us notice or a fair chance to purchase the spaces we’ve occupied for decades.
We are heartbroken, feel blindsided, and have been left without a voice in this process. If this sale and redevelopment move forward, our businesses—and a piece of Columbus history—face permanent displacement.
We need your support now more than ever.
* Sign and share our petition. https://chng.it/CVR6hdjdfg
* Post your favorite photos and memories at Honey Dip over the years. (We'd love to see them!)
Together, we can fight to preserve our legacy and support the small businesses on Kenny Road that have been part of this community for generations.
With gratitude,
Honey Dip & The Kenny Road Tenants
Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Ask a Librarian redux
I was looking for something else, but found this article in my blog about a carpet cleaner I'd written about in 2008. Turns out the moving service we used for our move to The Forum this month used him in 2025. Collecting My Thoughts
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Memories from 1957--Grandma's fall
Repacking my genealogy files today, I found a 1957 letter from Leslie, my mother's brother, describing an incident I'd heard about from Mom--my grandmother's fall after I'd left for college. The envelop has a 3 cent stamp, no zip code, and no street address for Mrs. Elbert Trent.
Franklin Grove, Ill Sept. 14, 1957
Dear Cousin:
Your letter was much appreciated informing us of the passing of Martha Klein, which we received on Tuesday before the funeral. Mother & Father were planning to drive out to the funeral Wednesday morning. In the excitement of making plans, Mother fell down the porch steps on to the cement sidewalk. She suffered a broken nose, which necessitated a cast, and various other sprains & bruises. Of course, she spent a few days in the hospital and could not attend the funeral. She has recovered almost entirely now except for a general overall weakness which the doctor describes as "after effects."
Martha Klein's partner Addie was in sick bed when Mother last visited them some months back. She wishes to send her sympathy to relatives & friends who cared for illness & final arrangements for Martha & Addie.
Martha seemed to be quite well at that time of their last visit, so it was of considerable shock to hear of her death.
She had hoped to see Marian (Marianne Michael?) while she was in this country but it did not seem to work out. We are glad to hear of your son Norman, and his being set up in practice so near by in Mason City. We are sorry to hear of your son Dee, having a painful accident.
As for me, I can remember rather faintly of stopping at your place about 1919 or 1920. I have spent the last 31 years with the Bell Telephone Co--in, and also near Chicago at present.
Sincerely
Leslie . . .
Written for Mary & Charles . . .
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As for me, Norma Bruce, the Trent name didn't come to mind as a relative, but it is addressed to "Dear Cousin." All my other genealogy resources are not unpacked, so I can't check the relationships. I know that Marianne Michael's mother who was widowed later married a Trent, and my mother called Helen Trent a cousin so possibly that will connect somewhere. Marianne, Norman and Dee were siblings. Marianne was a missionary in Nigeria which would account for being "in this country." It was from Helen Trent my mother learned a lot of "lost" family stories.
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
A new exercise class
Thursday, August 14, 2025
It's moving day
I haven't been wild about my "page a day" table calendar this year. I went from birds to horses. Hmm. Love horses, but birds are certainly a more colorful wake me up greeting for the day. Also, the quotes were sort of boring. But today's horse was back lit with a hazy sky and a showy canter in a corral (or so it seemed). Not a fabulous photo, but the quote for August 14 seemed appropriate. "Simply enjoy life and the great pleasures that come with it." Karolina Kurkovd
It's moving day for the Bruces.
Yesterday was our final day at Kenbook Hills, the prettiest place in Upper Arlington, Ohio, in our opinion. We first saw it during a rain storm in July 2001 with a decor that shocked and energized us--splashy faux everywhere--including the ceilings--brown/gold living room, orange dining room, red family room, some wild fuchsia trim wall paper in one of the bathrooms and black carpet in one bedroom. But it was the landscape that grabbed us. Turkey Run Creek, huge trees of many varieties, wild life (we're not gardeners so that didn't bother us) and a fabulous layout for the 30 condos in 5 styles, unlike other boring developments we'd seen. And windows. Oh my. So many condos have windows front and back and borrow the rest of the light. This unit had windows in every room, a deck in the trees, and as we were to find out later, wonderful, helpful neighbors.
Bob still had his own architectural firm in 2001 and the lower level famiily room became his office, studio and client space with north light and an outside entrance. The former owner had her OSU student living there with private bath and entrance. It was perfect. In the last 15 years it evolved into an art studio for his watercolor hobby with massive storage for bulky frames, mat board and finished paintings.
But time marches on and we're not as frisky as we once were for 3 floor living, so we're moving to a much smaller space in The Forum, just up the road a mile or two in our familiar neighborhood. It feels a bit like moving into my first college dorm, Oakwood, at Manchester College in Indiana. Close to my Illinois home, but not too close. My sister Carol was near-by at Goshen College where they locked up the Coke machine on Sunday (a joke, but true). I could hang out with old friends from childhood like Sylvia and JoElla, my roommate, but could enjoy new adventures and community meals. We'll have three meals a day at The Forum, and I hope I don't gain the weight I did my freshman year in college!
The Forum sits on 14 acres and we'll see the treetops from the 3d floor, just like we do in Kenbrook. Packing and sorting has made me too tired to prepare meals, so we've been stopping by and being served in the lovely dining room. We've met many new people but also some from our past, including the first neighbor we met in 1967 in our first apartment on Farleigh Rd. and one of the engineers Bob worked with.
And so we hope to meet the expectations of the calendar page, "Simply enjoy life and the great pleasures that come with it."
Sunday, August 10, 2025
Getting ready for the move
We are moving to a retirement community, and frankly my dear, I'm pooped. And so is my husband. On Friday we had a quick trip by ambulance to the ER because he was wrestling a painting off the wall which got tangled in the wire and he became short of breath. He has 4 stents so rather than self diagnose, I called the squad. I had been at the bank depositing cash I'd found around the house (over $3,000) and had gone downstairs to enter the deposit. Then I noticed he was on the floor "resting his eyes." We were discussing the seriousness of his symptoms and just decided to call rather than be sorry. So our daughter, son-in-law and I spent the day in the ER admittance with him, and got home about 4 p.m. Today he feels fine and went to church, but I'm still a bit frazzled so I stayed home.
We had 34 paintings on the first floor and 260 total. That's a lot of wrapping after deciding the locations for safe keeping (our apartment, our daughter's home, or put up for sale). We have not found 3 floor living a problem until this move prep. We were always careful and limited our ups and downs to about 3 or 4 trips during the day. But the move has put that at more than 30 trips a day. This is definitely not good for either of us. Today I was moving our emergency food to the kitchen to be disposed of. I'd carry up a can of tuna, a can of soup, and a can of vegetables. Then I'd sit down and do something else, or talk to a neighbor. Then I'd make another trip. I've been emptying them and running the disposal before getting rid of the cans in the recycle bin.
Our wonderful neighbor Barbie brought us dinner last night--a scrumptious Salmon salad and wedding soup with warm bread. The salads are so large we'll have two meals from that, and we had the soup for lunch after church. She may even help us with some things to take to Indianapolis because she goes there every week to babysit her grandbabies! I've got some genealogy to share with our niece who has shown some interest in that area. For years people--Aunt Roberta, Aunt Babe, Cousin Jim--have been sending me stuff, now it's time to pass it along.
Today some of our neighbors have been coming by to see if they want to purchase the paintings we don't have plans to use. My parents 1947 maple twin bed suite with a chest and a dressing table with all the bedding have been given to friends of ours who have lots of grandchildren who come to visit. They were so kind and helpful when Phil died 5 years ago, we know it is going to a loving family. That set started out in Forreston, IL, then moved to Mt. Morris, IL, then to Franklin Grove, IL, then to Columbus, OH, then to Lakeside, OH, then back to Columbus. A well-travelled bedroom suite. They were also able to use the quilt rack that held Phil's quilt for 5 years that cousin Jeanette made for him shone in the lower photo on the futon.


