Chinese Fleet 2008

Project 956EM Sovremenny class. Ship-to-Ship Missiles 3M-80E Moskit (SS-N-22 Sunburn) active/passive radar homing to 160km at Mach 2.5; warhead 300kg; sea-skimmer Air-Defense Missiles. This ship appears to be solid designs and well thought out. The only thing is, those ships would be considered screens in the American Navy. Until they deploy ships capable of true power projection (aircraft carriers) the Chinese Navy will be a regional threat at best. That said the Chinese are believed to be training crews on the carrier Varyag which was purchased from the Ukrainians. Papa Chuck

Werewolves?? Real? Myth??

Do you hear a howl on a full moon night? Have you wondered about werewolves if they are real or not? Some say the federal government has hidden them within their system – maybe underground? Personally I think that the belief in werewolves is a waste of time. This is a creature that is based on stories, probably started in times where people feared everything… Wacky stories creature that was created by mothers in the middle-ages telling their children not to go outside in the evenings because a big hairy werewolf might eat them... Papa Chuck

Sagittarius New Moon: November 27, 2008

“The New Moon in Sagittarius encourages each one of us to present our truths on the world's stage. What is integrity? We've confronted some aspects of our inner darkness, we've observed issues that have been coming to the surface within the collective shadow during the Scorpio lunation cycle, and now it's time to create new realities. This year's Sagittarian emergence is especially exciting for Americans as well as the whole world because the 2008 presidential election was a strong and clear vote for change.”

Welcome from Chuckchuck ComputerLand

Have a nice day!
Upon arriving here in Danao City we owned and operated an Internet Café that we named “Chuckchuck ComputerLand.” Chuckchuck ComputerLand was located near two schools and without fail our business would always pick-up at lunch time, before and after school. It was a gold rush as the kids arrived from school in the late afternoon - soon the place was packed full of kids and the computers hummed as the kids played their favorite computer games. And then the place became filled with loud excited talk. We both were grateful for the heavy business when the kids placed their ten or twenty pesos in our pockets. Papa Chuck

Nicole Richie

Many celebrities are now putting up there own line of clothing, and 'Simple Life' star Nicole Richie is one of them. Because they are famous, mostly this kind of business is becoming a hit. If her ex best friend, Paris Hilton is focusing on her own line of perfumes, hair extensions and her footwear line -- Nicole Richie started her own jewelry collection. Actually she named this new jewelry line after her cute daughter. She's a one proud mama huh!

Thanksgiving Day at our place

Hello guys, yesterday was Thanksgiving Day and we had Thanksgiving dinner here in our home. Of course we didn’t have the traditional turkey dinner but instead there was BQ chicken and rice, since I don’t much care for rice my wife made me mashed potatoes – all top off with a cake and fruit ice cream. Junior was in a middle of badminton play-offs otherwise we had Beng’s parents here and her sister Neng-Neng, Beng, me and Rudy. The only one missing was my son Thomas. We have so much to be thankful for and the holiday spirit was there for us. Papa Chuck (pictured is Beng's parents)

The Badminton Tournament

Hello folks: Junior our 13 year old missed Thanksgiving dinner yesterday since he was in the middle of badminton play-offs here in Danao City. I have to admit he’s a real sportsman, he is more then “just good” in any sports he likes. I have to confess he takes after his Mom since I have never been very good at sports. Last year he represented Danao City at the tournament play-offs in Dumaguete. Arriving home later he made up for the missed dinner – he’s a living termite, eat-eat-eat… chicken, rice and pizza was all polished off in a big hurry. Papa Chuck

Our visit to Hong Kong

Hello guys: A few years ago we visited and to see some old friends of my wife in Hong Kong. I never saw one Hong Kong actor (not even one) that we all see on the silver screen but the trip was a delight for both of us. It’s a city of merchants - Hong Kong seems to be a city that never sleeps. Papa Chuck

Waiting for shift change at local plant

Tricycles drivers waiting for shift change at local manufacturing plant.

If you won the lottery?

Guys, I know most people have a dream of owning new car in their head? If you won the lottery what car would you buy to put in the garage? Papa Chuck

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your love ones

Happy Thanksgiving
The year has turned its circle,

The seasons come and go.

The harvest all is gathered in,

And chilly north winds blow.

Orchards have shared their treasures,

The fields, their yellow grain,

So open wide the doorway ...Thanksgiving comes again!

A picture of someone’s dream home

This picture were emailed to me by my son Thomas. He lives in the San Juan Islands north of Seattle and where he works as a carpenter. Isn’t the home beautiful? Papa Chuck

Russian analyst predicts decline and breakup of U.S

Hello guys, here is something new… MOSCOW, 11/26/2008 - A leading professor at the Diplomatic Academy of the Russian Ministry for Foreign Affairs, and who has authored several books on information warfare. This Russian political analyst has said the economic turmoil in the United States has confirmed his long-held view that the country is heading for collapse, and will divide into separate parts. I say what? Are the Russians are hoping for the demise of the United States? What else is new? Personally I think it’s another phony baloney pipe dream. Papa Chuck

Rain and my first job

Hello guys: Sometimes when a typhoon is in the air it reminds me of my first job after my discharged from the Navy in January 1959. After staying with my folks for a few months in the lower 48 I headed back to Alaska where I had lived before joining the navy. Landing in Ketchikan’s harbor by seaplane I was met by family friends. Fortunately the following day I went to the state employment office which as luck would have it was ran by a retied Navy Chief. Taking pity on me he immediately sent me for an interview with the US Forest Service. Soon I was employed and flying to Craig Alaska. Craig was then a sleepy little town with one hotel, one bar and one café. After settling in for the rest of the day - the next morning I was handed two large bags of surveyor’s stakes, a machete to cut under brush with, an axe to cut down small trees or tree limbs, and then it started to rain... it rained the entire summer without any let up. That night I’d close my eyes thinking back to warm tropical Puerto Rico where I had been stationed only a few months before. Papa Chuck

Winter Time in the States - Warm here in the Philippines

Welcome to my blog

Pictured above is the outrigger ferry from Danao City. I was on Camotes Island waiting to board to return home.

Two young divers taking a break from their work, near Bogo, Philippines. Papa Chuck

Dreams of Water

The water could be pleasurable or frightening, romantic or sexy and it could take forms such as tidal waves or rain or snow. You might water ski or swim with dolphins, play with sea otters or look down the throat of a humongous white shark. You could be washing clothes or dishes in fresh soapy water or maybe even cold greasy water. Obviously water can mean an untold number of things depending on the dream and how the dreamer feels about it and of course depending entirely upon whom the dreamer is and how the dreamer chooses to use water as a symbol to express something important to you.

Never fear dogs are man’s best friend

Since living in the Philippines I have found that dogs make the best guards and will keep would be looters and thieves away and are best security for us. Besides being loyal to their family - they’d just good watchman and fun to be around. My wife loves every one of them. Believe it or not we have seven dogs to keep looters and thieves away. I’ve learn the hard way that in these bad economical times that thief's will come out in mass numbers. In past years we’ve hired guards but so far all failed at guarding; some were sleeping in a deep slumber as the thieves hauled away their loot or some guards would tiptoe out the gate as soon as the evening had became dark to visit their girlfriends in town and then the thieves would strike. At times it seemed as if our under construction big house was that a K-Mart blue light special was running as the thieves did their “free shopping” when our two legged guard let us down. But now never fear we have dogs on guard duty 24 hours/seven days a week. Yes, dogs are man’s best friend. Papa Chuck

Deputy takes man's Xbox during traffic stop

The known hazards of "driving while black" may have to be amended to add those of driving while black, dreadlocked, and toting an Xbox. When Kenyatta Hillman and a friend were pulled over by an Orange County traffic cop for speeding outside Orlando, FL, the deputy claimed to smell marijuana and searched the car. No drugs were found, but the deputy did spot an Xbox and eight games and seized them from Hillman, alleging they might have been stolen. When reading this story and it does seem that the officer was way out of line. I do think that cops are pretty unfairly represented in the media. When some mess up, it makes them all look bad. It was a pretty stupid call on the officer’s part, but there may be more to the story. Papa Chuck

US Mint suspends sale of 24-karat gold coins

“WASHINGTON (AP) -- The U.S. Mint is temporarily halting sales of its popular American Buffalo 24-karat gold coins because it can't keep up with soaring demand as investors seek the safety of gold amid economic turbulence.” Time is running out people to buy some gold, silver and perhaps platinum to hedge against future inflation. Guys I can't think of a more 'real' asset than precious metals and of course land. Got seeds? We're going to need them in the near future. Papa Chuck

President Kennedy – the fatal shot

“DALLAS – About 500 people crowded Saturday into the plaza where John F. Kennedy was shot 45 years ago, all agreeing it was right to remember a pivotal moment in American history.” Yes I remember that fatal autumn day went a sniper’s bullet killed our president. So long ago yet the memory remains in my heart. It seemed if the clock stopped throughout America. It was a sad day to witness and to hear on the radio at work, “The president to dead.” A tear still falls from my eye whenever I think of that time. Mr. President wherever you are may you rest in peace. Papa Chuck

Loves to shop

Guys, have you folks ever heard the old saying, “shop until your dead?” Well, I think sometimes that applies to my wife Beng because she really loves to shop. And after almost six years of marriage there is no doubt in my mind. Now I tell you I truly love my wife and I’d anything for her but I avoid going shopping with her at almost any costs. Papa Chuck

Ants…Ants and More Ants

Guys: The other night after dinner I came into the computer room where our computers are located and behold the room had been invaded an army of marching ants. Thousands upon thousands of little ants! I have no idea where they came from and where they were going. Thousands were swamping through our wall air conditioning. When it is hot here in Danao City or we’re having a draught or if it’s just the opposite in which we’re deluge in rain our house is always invaded by the little critters. And always they are in search food, so nothing can be left out that can be devoured by a marching army of ants. Papa Chuck

Girlfriend has a reptile boyfriend – bizarre story

Guys: Believe it or not I recently read this weird question on the Internet and found it to be sort of interesting and wanted to share it with you. Personally I think someone trying to pull the readers leg or they have a full-size imagination…. My $64 question, is it true or a phony baloney story? If true I hope he’s not a snake! Are there REALLY reptile people running around? If so, his girlfriend will only have to feed him flies only and no Big Macs! Papa Chuck

This lady delivers the newspaper to my wife everyday

Every morning she sells a Cebu newspaper at our gate.

An embarrassing moment at the check out line

Guys I remember when my 36 year old son Thomas was around three years old, he and I were at the grocery store in the check out line when he tugged on my shirt and had an awful look on his face. I asked him what was wrong and he very loudly said, "Dad I think the lady in front of us farted, because her butt stinks!" Everyone around us heard and I wanted to crawl away. Red in the face I just apologized to everyone and then pretended that I had forgotten my check book so we could just get out of there fast! Papa Chuck

Those behind the Obama Birth Certificate conspiracy

Here we go again…. He's damned if he does, and damned if he doesn't, because the people that are making an issue of this aren't going to be satisfied one way or the other. I can guarantee you that if President Elect Obama stood live on national TV with his birth certificate in hand; this would not go away - why? Because people actively want to see this man not make the grade and will do and say anything they can to try and make that happen. Its sad, but its true. He was born IN HAWAII and is therefore eligible for his new job. I know... but that's not good enough for some… its good enough for me. Papa Chuck

The Seal of King Solomon

Guys have you heard the legend that has it that King Solomon possessed a magic ring. A seal ring given to him by God made of brass and iron with the name of God on it. It is also said that he was given four jewels by four angles and he set these jewels into the ring and this gave him power over the four elements. This ring allowed him to control demons and gave him the ability to speak to animals or beasts. It is said that Solomon used the power of this ring to make demons build the temple. There is also a story that Asmodeus or the demon Sakhr obtained the ring from Solomon and held it for forty years. Solomon was penniless during this time and for some reason the ring was tossed into the sea where it was swallowed by a fish and was caught by a fisherman and was rediscovered by Solomon. Me, I think legends like this are pretty interesting. King Solomon has been said to be a wizard or a sorcerer. Just imagine the power one can wield with a ring with the name of God on it. Just to know the name of God is huge. Ah yes, just maybe the ‘Lord of the Rings’ was inspired from this legend. Papa Chuck
What do you think of this legend? Is this a true story or a mix of stories from antiquity?

Virgin Mary Shine - Near Bogo City, Philippines

A daughter's swollen abdomen

A mother took her daughter to the doctor and asked him to give her an examination to determine the cause of her daughter's swollen abdomen. It only took the doctor about 2 seconds to say "Your daughter is pregnant." The mother turned red with fury and she argued with the doctor that her daughter was a good girl and would never compromise her reputation by having sex with a boy. The doctor faced the window and silently watched the horizon. The mother became enraged and screamed, "Quit looking out the window! Aren't you paying attention to me?" Yes, of course I am paying attention ma'am. It's just that the last time this happened, a star appeared in the East, and three wise men came. And I was hoping that they would show up again.

Our Electric Bills

Whenever the electric bill arrives at our house my wife Beng checks it out thoroughly as if a government auditor was going over your tax returns. Nothing misses her eye. Once an error is found in their favor she immediately gets out her calculator and then goes through the statement line item by line item. After she is satisfied with her discovery she circles the error or errors before she pays the billing. Before making the monthly payment the electric company will revise our account before they get one red cent. Papa Chuck

In our neigborhood

A neighbor’s flower in our subdivision.

HELP - I need buried treasure

Hello folks: Yesterday morning my wife and left here in a cloud of exhaust fumes for Cebu. After she left I went to the Big House to see how the construction working was doing –I to have to report everything is right on schedule. Around 8 P.M. Beng arrived back home with a truck full of things needed at the Big House... Air Cons, electrical wiring, plumbing fixtures, paint and more paint – you name it. Does anyone know where I can find buried treasure? Papa Chuck

The unforgettable George

Recently my friend passed-away from a stroke. When I first met George I couldn’t pronoun his name “Etchoy” so I started calling him George. Not satisfied with George his nickname became “George Bush.” He sort liked his new nickname and whenever anyone would him if he was related to US president, he’d shake his head no… and he’d point at me and say something like this, “That old crazy Kano…” and then he’d continued, “pay him no pay attention.” But deep down he was proud of his name as people started calling him George Bush – even his wife. When not driving for us as our family driver he was tricycle driver and always our friend. George we miss you and may your family have an Irish blessing. Papa Chuck

Fiesta time in Esperanza, Camotes Island – Papa Vedasto’s hometown.

A stroll

Some folks say it’s dangerous to walk by yourself here in the Philippines. Since living here I’ve never experienced any problems. Whenever I walk there are two things I have to watch out for; watch where I step since there is a lot of dog poop on the sidewalks and the heavy traffic whenever I decide to cross the street. Cars, buses, motorcycles and trucks drive at break neck speeds as they dodge traffic and top it off many never seem to look at their rear view mirrors. Papa Chuck

Spam sales boom thanks to Economic Downturn

Guys: I remember back in 1982 when for a few months I lived off government peanut butter, cheese and spam. Talk about being clogged up! The real advantage of spam is its shelf life. Some have joked that when our civilization blows its self back to the Stone Age. Future archaeologists will be digging up cans of spam and they still edible. I wonder whatever happened to government cheese. Papa Chuck

Old man and the sea

Papa Vedasto Looking Towards The Camotes Sea.

Two Fishermen and the mermaid

There were two brothers from Camotes Island named Pepe and Hermie; Pepe had really large eyes and his brother huge ears. They went for a job on a fishing boat here in Danao City. The captain asked Pepe, “What can you do?” Pepe replied, “I can look for the fish.” Then the captain said, “What about him?” Pepe in all seriousness answered, “Well Sir he’s my brother, so he’s got to come with me.” The captain replied, “Okay he can listen for the fish – just keep him out of my way.” They had been at sea for a week when the captain heard a yell of alarm from Hermie followed by splash and a loud noise. A beautiful mermaid had jumped on the boat’s deck right next to where Pepe was standing. The beautiful mermaid realized she was in the wrong place she then jumped back into the sea. Now I know my wife’s Uncle Pepe is known to take a nap or two of coconut wine and a teller of tall tales but to this experience of a life time he swears this did happen on one clear day near Camotes. Papa Chuck

Family Ties

Hello Guys, besides my wife and Junior one of the things I love about the Philippines is family ties. My wife’s family and so many of her friends have close family ties. It is something I never experienced until I moved here. First is always the family… Magic happens when Beng’s Papa tell his oldest stories. Everyone listens as weaves his story and he enjoys what he’s best at. Now Mama Vera is legendary in our little city. Mama at times is as tough a drill sergeant but she always has the heart of an angel. Papa Chuck

What now Obama is the Anti-Christ?

Some say that President Elect Obama is the Anti-Christ… First he was a Muslim racial and now he is the Anti-Christ. Does he have the ability to control our minds, the media and our electronics by projecting some sort of blue beam of light? I don’t think so! Anyone who believes this nonsense should seriously, I mean seriously educate themselves a bit more or go back to school. Papa Chuck

Experts say humans can live to 1000… would you want to?

Guys what an interesting philosophical question, isn’t it? And to think they call aging a disease! Here's my thinking it was part of the cycle of life not something that you can catch or be infected with. If I lived for 1000 years and I’d be paranoid and afraid to leave my house for 900 of it. If I was going to try and live that long, I'd definitely be cracking up altogether. And besides wouldn’t that put puberty at about 150 years old? NO WAY! Papa Chuck

Disco Time in Cebu

Guys: Last month my thirty six year son Thomas who is from the states was here for a 21 day visit. One day he became bored and decided to check out the disco clubs in Cebu. He had to be “good time Charlie” since the very next day all I could get from him was a grunt or two or a groan. How do I know he had fun? Just look at the picture... Now tell me if he isn’t having fun. Papa Chuck

Is There Anything Worth Watching On TV Tonight?

You can only watch so much CSI, Star Trek and Soaps before you start to have an aneurysm. There's too many scripted reality shows, and I really don't need to renovate or decorate like so many shows seem to think I do. Anybody watching something new that you think the rest of us might like? I haven't seen much of the newest shows this season, yet I still haven’t found anything that really grabs me. In the meantime I just “monkey around” on the Internet. Papa Chuck

Now I’ve heard of everything!

Well kick my behind…The latest conspiracy theory – The soon to be White House Chief of Staff Emanuel the conspiracy crowd says, he will act as an effective spy in the White House for the Mossad, Israel's intelligence agency. With Emanuel running the White House, Mossad HQ will enjoy an unprecedented direct flow of America's highest level national security information. What a phony baloney theory – its all nonsense. Can’t they come up with a better story? Papa Chuck

Dumber then dumb

In a recent interview with Maria Menounos for “Access Hollywood,” the 22-year-old Lohan said in an interview that she was excited to have Obama as the future president of the United States. “It’s an amazing feeling,” she said. “It’s our first colored president.” What did she just say? “Colored.” Bad choice of words Lindsay! Duh!

She doesn't fly off the handle

As some of you guys may know, I am an American and have lived in the Philippines for six years. A mad Pinoy can really get hot at times, at least my wife Beng can. But she doesn't fly off the handle at the drop of the hat. Maybe it's her Spanish blood, tempered by the native and Chinese ancestry. The women here are probably like women everywhere. Loveable but goofy at times. One thing Filipinas, and especially my wife is beautiful and she knows how to take care of me. Lucky old Irishman! Papa Chuck

Georgia congressman warns of Obama dictatorship – what next?

WASHINGTON (AP) — A Republican congressman from Georgia said Monday he fears that President-elect Obama will establish a Gestapo-like security force to impose a Marxist or fascist dictatorship. "It may sound a bit crazy and off base, but the thing is, he's the one who proposed this national security force," Rep. Paul Broun said of Obama in an interview Monday with The Associated Press. There's no threat to be warning and fear-mongering about, they need to stop such nonsense. The majority of Americans were more realistic and mature in their conduct. I wonder what this dim-witted congressman is smoking. Papa Chuck

Scraping off the bumper sticker

Guys: There is a lot that goes into deciding when to scrape off a bumper sticker. Not only do you need time and the right tools, but there is a psychological aspect. You are finally admitting defeat, or deciding that you do not want "credit" for the last victory. Papa Chuck

Bizarre Question - Is it possible to turn into a werewolf?

$64 QUESTION: I was wondering if anyone has any thoughts as to whether or not it’s actually possible to turn into a werewolf. I know it's pretty far fetched but hey who knows. I'm afraid this is highly unlikely to be possible. You'd have to consider the fact that Humans and Canines are two totally different species. So if this was possible which it is not, you'd have a very odd Human being, which would probably be lost in both the realm of humanity and the canine world. However on the other hand, I once had girlfriend once who stopped shaving for a week before she got her period. Trust me, people can turn into werewolves. LOL! Papa Chuck

Welcome to my blog

Does Hollywood and Politics mix? Naw – but look at my blog because I try. Papa Chuck

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A Fancy and Colorful Umbrella

Last night it rained here once again. It rained hard and in waves, for awhile I thought perhaps a typhoon had hit our fair city Danao. No it wasn’t a typhoon. A few years ago we were on Camotes Island for a short visit when a typhoon did hit. Since the outrigger ferry from Danao City had stopped running because of rough seas our short visit lasted for about one week. I now recall everything at the San Francisco public market and the local sari-sari stores quickly became short of food – the shelves soon became empty. On one miserable rainy day my wife determined we were running on food especially rice. I along with my wife’s Uncle Pee Pee and her cousin Jesus - we all three hopped on and rode her cousin’s habal-habal motorcycle to public market. No he didn’t drive his motorcycle at unfaltering break neck speeds. Once we arrived in San Francisco I found the market full of people looking at almost empty stalls. And then I spied Beng’s aunt walking bare foot ankle deep in water in the rain. She was soaked and she was even not carrying an umbrella to keep the rain off her head. To me it was an unbelievable sight and a bit funny to me. Once we recognized each other, I asked her laughingly, “Where are your shoes?” And she replied with a smile, “There on my fishing boat.” On the spot I decided to do something nice for my wife’s in high spirits aunt. I knew I couldn’t anything about the street rain water being ankle deep but I could do something to keep the rain off her head. Immediately I take her by the arm and headed to the nearest little stall and to her delight I bought a fancy and colorful umbrella to give her. As I handed her new fancy and colorful umbrella a big smile broke out on her face. Shortly we parted and turn each to go on their errands, and later from a distance I watched her still bare foot walking in the rain while holding her new umbrella to keep the rain off her. Mr. Chuckchuck

Compaq didn't do it!

Here is another story about laptop computers to share with you all… Late last year my Compaq Presario 2100 laptop computer went totally dead without spark of life to its name. My poor abused Compaq limped along throughout the entire year while in the meantime I made monthly trips from my home in Danao City to Cebu and then back home. After a few days being at home I discovered my faithful computer had another hiccup that had magically and suddenly appeared from no where. Not knowing what else to do and with my anger I directed it towards to the Chinese or Compaq or whoever had manufactured an inferior product. One more time I gathered up my laptop to head off to Cebu once again. With my poor battered computer held firmly once more time I visited the computer repairs shops lining the top floor of the SM Mall to seek out another expert. Hoping, praying, and sweating that this time someone could fix the problem only to find within days the same old problems would reappear. Out of desperation and once again not knowing what else to do I decided to used another expert who had been referred to me. Thinking here is probably another expert who knew only how to point and click. Was I ever surprised! This young computer technician knew his stuff, immediately he recognized the computer’s problems. I watched as his hands worked with magic fingers on the insides and pointed out one my previous experts had switched the original hard drive to a cheaper and infector one. To my dismay cheaper hard drive was not compatible to my laptop's operating system and had caused its death. In addition he pointed out and to my shock the seals had been broken by the person who had made the switch. Finally I was informed by him this is a common practice here…switching hard drives. Conjuring he brought my old friend came back to life. Since then my Compaq has worked like Swiss clock; it keeps on ticking. Mr. Chuckchuck

"Pancho" Villa and me (kind of) and Mexican food

Hello guys; My Dad who was an oil field rough neck back in 1930s and he moved our family wherever Shell Oil Company told him to go. When I was very young say around three or four years old I lived in Brownsville, Texas and since all my playmates were Mexican I learn to speak Tex-Mex as fast as I learn to speak English. Seeing as the year was either 1939 or 1940 I can still remember some my boyhood experiences then; one thing that sticks out in my mind was a story told to my folks and retold to me about the Mexican Revolution. The memory of this story is still embedded in my old brain. A major armed struggle that started with an uprising led by Francisco Madero and the notoriety "Pancho" Villa, the Mexican Revolutionary general. Please remember this struggle happened about twenty years before 1939. I thought I’d share a story I heard a long time ago. “When the Mexican Revolution around 1919 or so - on most weekends the Anglo Americans citizens from their side of the Rio Grande River watched the battles rage between the rebellious forces and the federal troops; while men sipped on their ice cold beer – at the same time as their wives set-up the family’s picnic as the atmosphere on the American side took on festival mood. As the Americans watched the battle rage on, all the time cheering on "Pancho" Villa and then suddenly the battle stopped around three in the afternoon – it was siesta time! After their siesta was over both sides would begin their battle where they left off.” We should remember in 1919 there wasn’t TV soaps or Monday Night Football broadcasts to watch… not even a radio to listen to. Going on with my post - for the reason that time in my life was so many years ago I can’t remember how long we lived in Brownsville but it was a place where I learn to love Mexican people, culture and food. On Sunday afternoons my Dad along with my Mom and me in tow would drive us all in his shiny black 1939 Dodge coup over to Mexico for a quiet Sunday afternoon dinner. I can remember even to this very day the small white cantina where we enjoyed our Sunday afternoon meal. It was just right across from USA near the shore of the Rio Grande River, you could probably throw a rock where we ate and hit the American side of the river. The cantina was a quiet place serving spicy full of flavor Mexican food and a gent in the old corner playing soft Latino music on his guitar as his fingers danced gracefully over the strings. Ah yes, those were the days. Papa Chuck

I wasn’t sure who or what Obama was

When I first heard his name Barack Obama there is no denying it I thought he was sort of a terrorist. Or maybe he was from Muskogee, Oklahoma. Or maybe he was from Africa. I wasn’t sure who or what he was. I was in for a shock when I found he was a United States Senator from the great state of Illinois. A guy who was a unknown state legislator four years earlier, a lawyer with no fame, wealth or family connections. With his bright smile and inspiring oratory he reminds me so much of President John F. Kennedy who in 1961 swept into office with a reputation for youthful charm, impatience, wit, vigor and with a vision. As an amateur genealogist Obama’s biography has fascinated me, too. The son of a black African father who he barely knew, and a white Kansan mother who took him from Hawaii to Indonesia, he was largely raised by his white maternal grandparents. He finished near the top of his Harvard law class, and then rejected big firms' salaries to work as a community organizer in Southside Chicago, where he found a place that felt like home. Obama and his small core of longtime advisers have ‘played a quarterback sneak’ around the Clinton team by concentrating early on small caucus states, where he racked up important wins. He has used inspirational oratory to create excitement, and force party activists to reorganize that a black man with a strange sounding African name is seriously seeking to become the next American President. It’s amazing to me for him to stand today on the verge of being the first black man to ever be the President of USA. Papa Chuck

Doomsday – a short story

All night the lone man walked through the rain, feeling the steady drips of it on his head and shoulders while his weary eyes searched for darken dangers on the old highway leading from no where to nowhere in particular. The darken night had closed around him; he was wet and tired, his entire body felt pretty much like drawing within itself. Worn out he felt if the remaining human race and unimaginable things of the night all band had against him. The ancient highway losing itself in the darken night; he was dripping wet and sensed unfriendly eyes watching from the pitch-black shadows of ancient forest. Behind him he heard in the distance an outburst of pain and then a gut wrenching growl. On his exhausted face suddenly appeared a serious frown.
Now, chilling fingers of wind invaded his rain soaked traveling robe of tightly warped bear skins and madding droplets of raindrops fell upon his head.

The man was over three hundred years old, he looked younger; his hair untouched by gray however his one year old beard had turned gray. His anxious youthful face was dark from years of exposure to the sun and wind. It was a thoughtful face, long and serious, dominated by firmness. He was over six feet tall in height and carried no excess weight.

His harden body carried both old and new scares of battles won and lost.

He recognized his fascination of this once great land, now overcast with disease created by the hand of man.

The stranger was no scoundrel or villain but a wanderer searching through the ruins of a place once called America. He had learned over the past years of his long life to be unflinching and resolute. For the few moments he reflected, he had been born in “The City of Angels,” and raised in the great ever sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles. A crafted quilt blanket patched together and is successful that only a native can understand. People loved or hated LA but it is their city. Now all that was, was gone only to be a distance memory. The memory caused anguish. Not wanting to dwell on the past he shakes his head to clear his mind as if he was in some sort of hypnosis trance. He murmurs to himself, “Those sons of bitches.”

And yet, through the long years he retained his youthful concern for its struggling people. Only the seriousness of his expression suggested of the edge of his consciousness; but then, he had always been a serious man.

Once he in his remote past had been afraid of heights, snakes, normalcy, mediocrity, the initial silence of an empty house, poorly lit streets, professional failure, artificial intelligence, letting his father down, being paralyzed, hospitals, doctors, the cancer killed his mother, dying for a stupid reason…. Now he was afraid of being eaten alive.

Just then as those very thoughts crossed his mind the walking man felt deep within him a peaceful restless stir. It was still there, smoldering within him, he was not afraid at that particular moment knowing if needed his friend would strike out. Realizing and aware he wouldn’t be some nightmare creature’s dinner that day or any other day. Yet he must be always on his guard. Smiling to himself he continued walking on the broken blacktop of the ancient highway. With determination, one foot step followed by another he pushed ahead into the unknown that lay ahead. The moon came out to shine a moon glow ever so briefly. Momentary he stopped in his foot steps and then looked above into moon glow; immediately he saw large black birds were circling in the sky as if they were following him. Beyond he spied in the distance an ancient building beside the roadside. And as the man grew closer he noticed someone had built an inviting fire inside.

In the hushed night as the man became closer he smelled the aroma of roasted wild chicken and the odor of brewing coffee. Dismayed crossed his face while he looked around the surroundings to search for any hidden dangers. Spying none he entered the ruined building cautiously not letting his guard down. The aroma of cooking food made his mouth water and was overwhelming. Plus it had been years since he last had a cup sizzling coffee. There setting on the concrete floor next the warm fire while roasting chicken appeared to be an old man with his legs crossed Indian style. The old gent seemed to be asleep or in deep meditation.

The stranger did not want to disturb the meditating old man setting next to a warm camp fire. Several minutes passed, and then more time went by, yet the old gent continued his trance never once looking up or to make an effort to give notice to his recent visitor. As time continued to pass the stranger became unsettled and knew he must leave the warm quarters and mouth watering food untouched. It seemed he was unwelcome. Above everything else he had became nervous and suddenly he became aware of being drained and a sensation of being worn-down from hushed silence of the warm still room. Although tired, wet and hungry he started to rise and leave the warm building to face the darkness of night once again. Stretching he was ready to move his seemly lead-filled legs slowly.

Blinking his eyes the man became aware the old gent was watching him. The gent was a rather tall man setting motionless while situated next the warm fire as if he was waiting for someone. He looked out of place by his looks, demure and dress. By far, he didn’t meet the new world’s customs and behavior standards. His clothing is rather simple yet clean. The stranger became aware of his face which gives the impression of being ageless however at the same time strong and serene and undisturbed. His eyes were cheerfully but firm. He appeared familiar and somehow unfamiliar at the same time. It was hard to tell the man’s true age. The skin on the back of the stranger’s neck tingled with goose bumps. The saintly old man finally spoke.

“Hello Jack.” The old gent says as his hand touches the stranger’s chest.

Startled by the sound of his own name he shuddered. “How did he know my name?” Thought Jack to himself.

Licking his dry lips the only word to come out of his mouth is, “Yes.” His lungs drew in much needed oxygen. He said nothing seeing that he had became bewilder and tongue-tied as he faced the old man. Jack gave a glance and in the reflection of the camp fire his host didn’t seem old. Pausing for a second or two he gave fleeting look over to where the host was setting and noticed he was watching him, as if he could read his thoughts, all too clearly. Exasperated Jack stood up and undecided for a moment and gathered his thoughts. Rattled and thinking to himself, “as if I didn’t have enough on my plate already. What does he want from me?”
Decidedly not wanting to meet his host’s eyes finally Jack asks quietly and respectfully “Who are you?”

He was met by silent; instead, his host seems to deliberately move closer to him.

After a few had moments had passed with some hesitation Jack asks, “Do I know you?”

His host finally spoke. Smiling a gentle smile the old gent draws nearer to Jack and responds, “Why Jack I’m a messenger.”

Confusion and doubt crossed Jack’s face. Gazing into his host’s face at close range, he asks with some doubt, “What kind of messenger?”

Again he draws even closer to Jack, “A messenger from God.”

Unsure what to say he whispered. “Mm-mmm and I am Saint Peter.”

His voice was quiet, “No you’re a man in trouble who lives in a world of hurt and distress.” Gazing at Jack he added, “Mind you Jack this not a world that He had in mind.” And then messenger said with all seriousness, “You live in the times of tribulation and suffering.”

Irritated Jack replied with a sharp tongue more then he intended to, “Yeah I know it’s not been my day for a long time.” Then jokily he added, “Why aren’t you wearing black clothes like Nichols Cage wore in the old twenty century movie, City of Angels?” After he had mouthed his mouth he realized his questions were not too bright and not very clever.

The messenger flinched. Jack had said the wrong thing. It was the messenger turn to become irritated.
He started to apologize but before he could his host waved his hand and then put his finger to his mouth telling Jack to be silence.

Briefly his host scowled staring Jack in the eye and then he said “It’s not my style.” Seemly his good humor had return and then he grinned. Still grinning he added by saying giving out a chuckle, “Nor do I have wings.”
Concern crossed the face of the messenger instantaneously he became serious and with care said, “Please listen to me.” With a long pause he went on, “Jack you’re in serious trouble and your friend that you carry you will not be able to help you if you don’t pay attention to my message.”

Anxiety filled Jack’s body. Nodding his head that he understood Jack kept his silence and listen. Awkward silence filled the room momentary.

Frowning and with another long pause to make sure Jack was listening to his message his host continued, “Whatever you think or do, don’t leave this sanctuary until tomorrow evening at this very same time. Don’t even go out even for a breath of fresh air. Stay put or you and your friend will never see the daylight of a new day. And I mean never!” Seriousness showed on the messenger’s face and then he went on, “Jack you will meet only misfortune and suffering beyond anyone’s imagination if you leave before the appointed time He has given you.”

He went on as if he’s the teacher and Jack was the child, “God knows you’re angry about the destruction of the world nevertheless I want you to know God has laid His hands on you.” The he shook his head in sort of disbelieve as he looked at Jack squarely in the eye. Suddenly sadness appeared in Jack’s host eyes and then one tear flowed down his face. Briefly the messenger wiped away his one tear. Jack glanced at the messenger and noticed immediately that compassion and concern shown on his face.

His host can see by the look on Jack’s face that he feels only rejected and discarded how his life had turned out. He lays his right hand Jack’s shoulder above his heart feeling the warmth and tenderness of his touch. Gently by his touch he reconfirms he’s is indeed a messenger from God.

Frowning Jack had suppressed his true thoughts and emotions since that horrible day when civilization had collapsed and crumpled into obscene failure. Now the world was full of misery and an extremely dangerous place to live. Whenever he remembered that day he realized he hadn’t grown old while others died as if it was yesterday. Jack had sworn profanities and shook his fist towards to the heavens above and become conscious when the years had passed Jack recognized he couldn’t change what was. All those long years he carried some much resentfulness and anger until it had became unbearable. Like a jab in his stomach he become conscious the world now was bizarre and full of the unexplained. And then there was the mark that he carried. Especially the mark, was he blessed or cursed? As hard as it was, since that day he realized the world had changed he accepted what he was; he accepted what had been unbearable to be bearable. The world was a place of nasty surprises.

Smiling a relaxed easy going smile the messenger goes on to say, “Now Jack please eat the dinner I prepared for you,” then almost magical he handed him a plate, cup and fork. Then he lifts his hand in sort of a half wave as he smiles at Jack.

Jack begins eating and after two or three mouth full of the warm delicious food he turned to thank his host for his kindness but his host is gone. It seemed he vanished into thin air. A quizzical look appeared Jack’s face. Jack glances around the warm room to make sure his eyes weren’t playing tricks on him. He could only speculate of the unexplained. Reluctantly with nothing else to do he continued his warm meal his host had prepared. Besides he was famished.

Abruptly a swift storm hit in full force. The wind drove the rain in sheets towards outside the protection of the covered long forgotten building. Jack knew from long years of experience the full force of the outside wind would do its best knock him off his feet. Every step would be a struggle. Instantly the lighting lit up the night skies and skipped from point to point with the roar of the thunder almost breaking his ear drums. Feeling the force of the thunderous storm surrounding him as it is unleashed by nature he was thankful for his safe refuge.

At times it almost felt as if the earth shook from the all elements of an unforgiving and vindictive Mother Nature.

He allowed himself a happy shake of his head knowing he was safe and dry in the warm shelter provided by his host, the messenger. He let his words out slowly, as he watched the raging storm. Jack could have been experiencing physical in saying them as he said the “Lord’s Prayer.” Followed by a long silent moment and then he laughed from relief.

Jack eyes became heavy from a full stomach and the warmth from the camp fire. Stretching and extending his arms above his head he gave out a big yawn. His stomach was comfortable and peaceful.

Jack awoke with a start. The wind had died down for a moment, and something was moving outside his shelter. He was a man who kept watch for dangers; he was met by silent. Tense with foreboding Jack wondered, had he only imagined the sound? He could not be sure. Jack pulled his heavy bearskin traveling robe over his head and huddled within it. The storm raged; he was certain of that. The unmistakable taint of ice was in the air. He breathed it in and recognized the presence that had roused him from an untroubled peaceful sleep.

He tried to comfort himself, but his thoughts were burdensome. He remembered his chance encounter with the messenger of God earlier that night. Or was it by chance he wondered? He continued to ponder the meaning of message he was given. He knew he couldn’t make a snap decision. He caught his breath once again and sought sleep.

The cloud cover briefly thinned and parted. This was place where peace dwelled and had no sorrow. Standing next to promising creek bed, in the distance he gazed upon a man walking towards him. Doing his best to think, he walked to meet the approaching man. He was not afraid! He craned his neck so he might see all around him. The bright sunlight made the distance hills seem to be made of gold and the blue sky above was crystal clear. He readjusted his stride to meet the oncoming man. Drawing closer Jack gave notice to the approaching man; he was a man of peace who was dress in a well dog-eared robe with leather sandals covering his feet. He was not a vain man. The approaching man held firmly in his left hand a shepherd staff and his foot steps was firm with a strong stride; sweat covered his face and his eyes were warm and pleasant. Following behind the approaching man was a collection of sheep. Some stopped to graze on dry grass but somehow kept up the flock. There was calmness in the air and Jack felt overjoyed as the shepherd approached even closer.

Tranquility seemed to follow this man. Jack knew this man was made of peace and love. Suddenly a flash of bright sunlight blinded Jack and with a jolt he awoke to reality of his world.

Dazed Jack lay on his make shift bed on the bare concrete floor. Shivering not from the cold of the wet morning or the damp floor but from what he had dreamt, he was driven by unquestionable curiously. “How can this be?” he wondered. Jack quivered not from the morning chill but from his meeting God’s messenger and then his dream. The unspoken words and the experience of his dream came to him. His heart was beating hard and fast. A terrible dread was building in him, but he could not completely say why.

“Where’s God’s plan? How can God allow this? How can these ungodly creatures that dwelled upon the land possibly be the work of the same God who created the whispering beauty of the lofty redwoods, the intricacies of the honeybee or inspiring labors of the common ants?” He asks himself. “How can I serve God’s plan if I
cannot understand it?”

“No, these are not God’s creatures. And if they are not God’s creatures, then the true author of them must be the terrible dark lord of flies.” Jack reasoned to himself. He stopped then, seemly exhausted by the impact of his own revelation. Slowly, slowly, he raised his eyes to the heavens above. His answer was simple Jack simply did not understand.

Rising from the cracked concrete floor and he stirred the coals in the camp fire. He becomes aware that somehow he had missed some potatoes and corn from last night’s meal. Or had he? His reached for the still warm food and without pause he ate right away. For a short time Jack looked outside to the argumentative sounds of ravens making startled cries. Turning his gaze back; moving suspiciously and cautiously he began to search his shelter. His search began in a room what had been once a snack bar for hungry travelers he caught his breath to find fresh remains of a half-eaten man. The room stank of urine and death. Now left was flesh and blood, hair and bone. He moved forward, knelt, and then reached a tentatively questing hand toward the half-eaten corpse of a man. Knowing it was unpleasant task he decided he’d bury the remains before he moved out in the evening.

Consciously he continued his search of the once up on a time was a modern shiny up-to-date Shell gasoline station. But now the luster was gone. Finding nothing of value he returned to his place near the cold camp fire and like any worn-out traveler Jack was fast asleep.

After a much needed rest he was itching to go however Jack knew deep within that only trouble and sorrow lay ahead should he leave before the appointed time he had been given.

Head high, he moved past of the remains of the camp fire. Soon it’d be time to leave and resume his travels. His jaw clenched it was time to bury the remains of a half-eaten man. He dug a hollow hole the best he could near where the body lay. After the shallow grave was dug Jack pushed the body into open hole and then covered it with his hands pushing broken bits of concrete and dirt. Jack lowers his head and said a small prayer for the man. A terrible wave of inadequacy washed through him. He remembered all the people who had died still he lived.

From long years of awareness he knew the creature whose home he stayed would pick up his scent and probably follow him. And more in likely the beast was a predator and Jack would be his next prey. Jack mouth tightens as he forced himself to think about that particular situation. It was predictable. Then, mindful of the time he began ready for his leaving his shelter. He scooped up his backpack cleared his throat, stood as straight as he could and then stepped outside in the darkness. He started back on his track.
Primeval animals and human illiteracy owned the world.

It was dark. Even the stars above barely shone, faint as diamonds in blackness of night. A great darkness lay in the distant horizon. By: Mr. Chuckchuck