My favorite TV Sidekicks

If my life was a sitcom, it would have already been canceled, and I’d need a new neighbor. There’s nothing wrong with my neighbors, but I don’t even know their names. They have never stepped foot in my house, but in a sitcom they would always be over, often at the most inopportune times, and they would be crazy. I My life not only lacks a wacky neighbor, bur nor do I have a best friend, co-worker, or live-in maid who routinely gets me involved in hilarious situations. Hence why a sitcom of my life would last about as long as ‘Surviving Jack.’

Most of the best televisions shows (or at least my favorites) include a sidekick character, who usually steals the spotlight. In the early days of television, (black and white) there was Fred & Ethel on ‘I Love Lucy’ and now there’s Penny on ‘The Big Bang Theory.’ I’d like to remember some of my favorites through the years.

It would be a crime to go any further on this topic without mentioning the one and only Barney Fife of ‘The Andy Griffith Show.’ There might not be any greater example of a show stealer than Barney, for proof try to watch an episode of the famed series he left. Barney might not have only had one bullet, but he was fully loaded to shoot out comedy. He didn’t even have to speak, just his physical movements and facial expressions were enough to unleash fits of laughter. There are countless episodes in which Barney shines, but a favorite of mine is from season two ‘The Pickle Story.’ Don Knotts as Barney is at his best in the scene when he tries to sneak a bag full of aunt Bea’s jar’s of pickles past her. He tries to explain the rattling, by saying it’s shaving cream. “I shave a lot when I travel,” he nervously bumbles….While on the subjects of Knotts, credit must also be given to his role as Mr. Furley in ‘Three’s Company.’ Furley vs. Roper, that’s a debate for another day.

While not considered much of a classic, ‘Coach’ featured Jerry Van Dyke as Luther, who is one of my personal favorites. What Luther lacked in intelligence, he made up for with heart. He loved Elvis, food, and his dog. Luther is the type who meant well, but trouble always followed him, leading to hilarious consequences. For example, my favorite episode is when Luther comes over to Christine’s apartment to keep Hayden company and ends up staining the white carpet with grape juice and starts a fire in the kitchen. Thanks to Netflix I’ve been getting reacquainted with ‘Coach’ but I’ve only been watching the episodes in which Luther is in the description.

I use the same method with ‘Frazier,’ on Netflix, seeking out his brother Niles. Whether with a one liner or through physical comedy, Niles always delivers. On ‘Cheers’ the character of ‘Frazier’ was one of my least favorite, but the supporting of Niles, Martin and Daphne make him shone on his own show.

Imagine ‘Family Matters’ without Steve Urkel…boring! He’s really the type of neighbor that you hate to see come over, as something is likely to get broken. “Did I do that?” More than a sidekick, Steve Urkel took over the show, similar to Fonz on ‘Happy Days.’

‘Seinfeld’ was the title, but its his trio of friends who really shined. Back when ‘Seinfeld’ originally aired Kramer was my favorite, but with more recent viewings I’ve grown to appreciate George more. I certainly hope it’s not because I unknowingly see a lot of myself in him. Of course, I’ve always had eyes for Elaine.

There are so many more like Schneider from ‘One Day at a Time,’ Six from ‘Blossom,’ Eddie Haskell/ ‘Leave it to Beaver,’ Al/ ‘Home Improvement’, Lenny & Squiggly /‘Laverne & Shirley’, Barney Rubble/ ‘The Flintstones’, Patrick/ ‘Spongebob Squarepants’, Boner/ ‘Growing Pains’…it could on and on…who are some of your favorite TV sidekicks?

A Challenge of Faith

It finally happened, with all the rest of the country, I received a challenge to dump ice and cold water over my head. I’ve been somewhat critical of the craze and would feel like a hypocrite if I were to do it, but I have devised a response.

Most of you have already done it yourselves, and if not have at least seen the overwhelming majority of your Facebook friends take the Ice Bucket Challenge. We are all much more aware of ALS, but what does that really mean? Does the awareness really make much of a difference in our daily lives? One of my gripes about the Challenge is that it’s become the popular thing to do and has become more about the videos than ALS.  The original concept was genius, but the nation has turned it into a mockery.

While sitting in church on Sunday morning (Yes, I daydreamed a little) I was thinking of how the blueprint of the Ice Bucket Challenge could be used for an even greater good. The really cool thing about the challenge is how its united the country and everyone from all ages, colors and class levels can participate in. It used social media to spread a positive message, like it does recipes. Everyone now knows about ALS, a challenge issued over Facebook can reach the masses and influence people to act. People who otherwise would have never heard of the disease are now aware of it. Imagine if the same method was used to make the public aware about Christ.

I can go pour an ice bucket over my head and post it, but the effect will be very minimal. Or I could maybe make someone aware of the power of Christ and help guide them towards a path that will change their life forever. If you think watching someone get soaked brings feelings of pleasure, its no comparison to having Christ perform miracles through you.

Thousands of people who two weeks ago had never heard of ALS are now supporters. You can’t be on Facebook for long without seeing yet another video of the Ice Bucket Challenge. It’s everywhere. Imagine if messages of faith were as rampant as posts about ALS. What impact would that have on our world?

We live in a society where the news is often nothing but bad. The lead story on the nightly news is a murder almost every night. Our schools are heavily secured because of multiple mass shootings in an environment that’s supposed to be safe for children. Drugs are everywhere. Our world is full of hate and violence and where Christ is being shut out, because non believers might be offended.

My challenge is to take a step towards changing that. Will make it even easier than the Ice Bucket Challenge, no video is required. Just simply post…I’m a Christian and include a brief description of somehow that Christ has worked in your life.

Maybe, just maybe it will help spread the awareness of Christ (no money involved) and if just one life is changed, it will be worth it.

To be fair, and so people won’t think I’m just trying to avoid the ice cold water, if twenty people accept this challenge I’ll complete the Ice Bucket Challenge. 

Thoughts on the Ice Bucket Challenge

The Ice Water Bucket Challenge is a craze sweeping the nation, while raising millions & millions of dollars for a very worthy cause; but what are the rules? I feel like everyone is doing it because it’s the cool thing to do, but aren’t fully informed on the details (that’s how Obama got elected…twice).

It doesn’t bother me that the video’s fill up my newsfeed, they are much better than the plethora of the useless personality quizzes. Nobody really cares what element from the periodic table your personality is most like. (We all know its helium anyway: full of hot air). Plus it’s interesting to see the different techniques that are used. Some use the same amount of ice that goes into a drinking glass, while others actually use like a five pound bags worth. Rules? I also enjoy seeing what everyone has laying around the house to use as a bucket. How long until someone markets a bucket to be used just for the ALS Challenge? Some using mixing bowls, other’s coolers, flowerpots, vases…anything that holds water.

The thing I really don’t understand and have yet to find a definitive answer (Yes, I looked on Google) is do those who soak themselves make a monetary donation? It’s my understanding that the choice is to either get wet or pay $100. Everyone is proudly posting the video of them getting drenched, but what’s the honor in choosing that route over paying? I’ve taken many cold showers, so what hurts me is opening up my wallet. The purpose of the Challenge is for ALS to make money, not for everyone to get their fifteen seconds, actually it’s usually closer to 45, seconds of fame on Facebook. I’d be curious to know how many people actually know what ALS even stands for, or if they took the challenge just because everyone else is doing it?

Obviously someone is paying, and understands the rules, because millions of dollars have been earned. That’s great, and I’m truly glad to see a disease other than breast cancer get some attention, but I at least understand the rules of a 5K run. I can’t do it, but I understand it. I can withstand being doused with cold water, especially in August. Want to be praised? Take the ice water bucket challenge in the middle of winter.

On the bright side, it is heart warming to see the entire country come together for a common cause. The challenge is something all ages, colors and genders can partake in. Everyone from elementary aged kids to President George Bush have participated. Entire sports teams, work places and probably neighborhoods have partaken. Just don’t let the real cause get lost in all the attention.
The dollar amount raised is very impressive, if the government had came up with the idea the national debt could be solved in less than a months time.

Furthermore, how did everyone suddenly become such experts on video recording? Parents miss capturing their child’s first step on film because they can’t find the right button to push. I’ve seen videos of weddings where nothing but the ground was recorded, because the cameraman messed up. However, every single ice water bucket challenge is filmed perfectly, centered and with high quality sound, and we know it was all one take because nobody would dare go through it twice.

Here’s my challenge for you, and you have more than 24 hours to complete it…share this with three readers. I want to go viral too. (I’m kidding)

The Battle of Music in Churches

Though its meant to be a center of love and all things holy, the church is often the cause of much conflict. A common cause of discourse within a congregation is the type of music that’s played. It’s a battle of the ages, literally, as traditional is pitted against contemporary. The older members feel the contemporary music is to loud, even with their hearings aids off, while the younger crowd is put to sleep by the hymns. Who wins?

I can only imagine (no reference to the Mercy Me song intended) what the complaints in churches were like when pianos first started being played..‘Feel like I’m in a saloon’, ‘He/She pounds on those keys,’ and ‘I liked the harp much better.’ The inclusion of a guitar, keyboard, bass and drums was a near equivalent of murder in the minds of some, who felt overtaken by the devil’s music.
According to the traditionalists, the contemporary music is not only loud enough to almost break the sound barrier but the choruses go on forever. Their feet feel like they have run a marathon after standing through two praise songs. However, singing all six verses of the hymn on page 152 in the hymnal is no problem.

There’s no question that there is a difference between the two styles and I understand both sides. The elderly just want to honor God, not attend a rock concert, while the younger generation won’t attend unless there’s a praise band. What get’s lost in it all is that both genres give glory to God.
Despite their volume, and repeated chorus, most of the contemporary songs contain lyrics that are taken directly out of the Bible. Whenever I read scripture, it usually doesn’t take very long before the words of a song come to mind. If able to hear themselves think and actually concentrate, the naysayer’s might realize they shouldn’t be complaining about the word of God.

Over the past couple of years, much to my surprise, I’ve become a devoted fan of Christian music. It’s all I listen to on the radio, if not 700 WLW, and the last several concerts I’ve attended were Christian recording artists. I’d choose Matthew West over Miley Cyrus, I at least know some of his songs. However, I still have a respect for some of the traditional hymns, as ‘Amazing Grace,’ is still hard to beat, even with drums. Like with television shows like ‘I Love Lucy,’ it’s nice to take a trip back in time once in awhile, but ‘The Big Bang Theory’ is the standard of today. How a Christian can partake of a song such as ‘10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) and not feel touched is beyond me.

Some churches try to find a happy medium by offering a blended service, which is when a old hymn is occasionally added. I attend a church that is pretty contemporary but does do another classic pretty regularly ‘How Great Thou Art.’ A perfect blend, better than cappuccino, is when
‘How Great Thou Art’ is put with ‘How Great Is Our God.’

My preferences aside, its hard for me to argue against contemporary music when I’m part of a congregation in which its hard to find a seat and the hundreds of people positively respond to the music…and have also witnessed churches dwindle away to nothing because they wouldn’t stray from the hymnals. The important thing to remember is that it’s all about God, and to maybe bring some earplugs and comfortable shoes.

Memories of the O.J Trial: Twenty Years Later

It seemed to be a slam dunk case, or in this instance maybe more of a touchdown case, with all the blood evidence, a history of violence and a suspect who attempted to flee; yet ‘not guilty’ was the verdict. It’s been twenty years since the O.J Simpson trial, an event which many would like to forget, but remains so memorable for a number of reasons. It was true ‘reality TV’ with stakes much higher than a million dollar prize and without any Kardashians…well yes, the Kardashians were involved.

I was pretty consumed by the O.J Trial as it provided more legal drama than even ‘The People’s Court.’ The participants were not actors, unless you count “Naked Gun,” but real litigants having their case heard on national television. It’s the most I ever watched CNN, (Fox News was not yet invented), where Greta Van Susteren got her start as an analyst, pre plastic surgery. I also watched a lot of the coverage on E!, which was hosted by the more attractive Kathleen Sullivan. (Remember, it was twenty years ago)

No matter where you stood on the case, there’s no denying that it was all very riveting. Before the trial even began was the historic White Bronco slow speed chase, which interrupted the NBA Finals. Millions of Americans tuned in to watch a Bronco, driven by A.C Cowlings, which contained O.J holding a loaded gun. Much more exciting than NASCAR. Meanwhile, Simpson’s attorney, Robert Kardashian (Kim’s biological father), publicly read what very much sounded like a suicide note written by O.J.

Yes, it all makes O.J look pretty guilty, plus the fact his blood was found at the crime scene and everywhere else of relevance; not to mention a cut on his hand; but that’s without anything from the defense. I think Johnnie Cochran could make the Devil sound innocent of any wrongdoing. He should have received an Emmy, or at least been nominated, because his performance was better than anything else on television in 1995, including Bob Saget in “Full House.” Seriously, Cochran was so captivating you almost had to root for him….I know, most of you disagree. However, all legalities, evidence testimony etc. aside, Cochran prevailed and narrowed it down to one simple line, “If the glove doesn’t fit, you must acquit.”

Simpson had a ‘Dream Team’ of lawyers, which in addition to Cochran and Kardashian, also included Robert Shapiro, F. Lee Bailey, Alan Dershowitz, Barry Scheck and others. It’s Scheck who introduced the world to DNA. Now DNA seems like common knowledge, as people routinely say, “It’s in their DNA,“ but prior to Scheck it was just, “It’s in their blood.“

The ’Dream Team’ are just some of the memorable figures that became household names during the trial. There was the fumbling prosecutors, Marcia ’the Mole’ Clark whose now an author of courtroom drama novels and Christopher Darden. The victims families, Fred Goldman with his handlebar mustache and daughter Kim. There was also Denise Brown . From the LAPD were detectives Lange and Van Atter, plus Mark Fuhrman , who before Paula Deen and Donald Sterling was most infamous for having used the ‘N-word.’ And of course Kato Kaelin the aspiring beach bum actor, whose only role of any significance was his testimony. There were many more intriguing witnesses, but those are the only names I remember.

Finally, after more than eight months the trial concluded and in just four hours the jury had a decision. I remember I was in class at Sinclair when the verdict came in, I wasn’t expecting it or I would have skipped. Fortunately, I’ve been able to see many of replays. To be honest, I was a minority amongst whites as I was rooting for O.J. I didn’t want to believe a likeable celebrity could be guilty of such a heinous crime and plus I supported Cochran. Plain and simple, irregardless of Simpson’s guilt, the case was won by Cochran…if the glove doesn’t fit, you must acquit.

Ironically, and perhaps somewhat fittingly after the ‘Trial of the Century’ and all the time, money and attention it took that Simpson’s freedom wouldn’t last. He ended up in prison for a totally unrelated crime, so I suppose in the end that justice was served, but it wasn’t nearly as entertaining to watch.

Facebook Etiquette..Is there such a thing?

Seemingly everyone in today’s society has a Facebook account, and despite its widespread use there is no User’s Manual. Without specific directions there are facets of Facebook that I’m unsure of and apparently I’m not alone as I often witness some violations. There’s recipes on how to boil water, but no real rules on how to handle social media. I’m pretty certain there are more Facebook users than cooks, though I do see a number of posts about what people are making for dinner.

One question I have is, how frequently should you post a status update? Some believe that at least once an hour is acceptable while others are on more of a yearly schedule. Ironically its sometimes those with the most uninteresting life who provides the most updates, assuming everyone really cares that they are stopped at a red light. There have been exceptions, but personally I try to limit myself to one post a day. On particularly mundane days I feel pressured to make something happen that’s worthy of a status update. There’s a lot of responsibility in using the allotted space wisely as there’s nothing more humiliating than a post that doesn’t get a single reaction. Not even a ‘Like’ from the ‘friend’ we all have that ‘Likes’ every single post that’s made. It’s like walking into a crowded room and everyone turns their back to you.

There’s even some uncertainty when something really exciting happens in my life, as I’m unsure when the best time is to post it is. I don’t want the news of me finishing a season of ‘Downton Abbey’ to go unseen, but posted whenever the most people are online. Is prime time for Facebook the same as it is for television? Posts made early in the morning, or before 10 a.m., seem wasted because the viewing audience is going to be down. Plus, if something really status worthy happens later in the day, I’ll have to break protocol and post twice.

Another confliction I have with Facebook is how much merit should be put into the dispensing of ‘Like’s?’ Should ‘Like’ really resemble a stamp of approval or just a customary habit? When someone makes a comments on a post of mine that makes me laugh or is especially thoughtful or something I ‘Like’ it, but then I feel the need to ‘Like’ all the other comments. I’m an equal opportunity Liker, but that lessens the value of the ‘Like’ I really mean. Nobody wants to be the commenter who doesn’t get a ‘Like’ when everyone else does. Trust me, I’ve been that person and it doesn’t feel good.

The ‘Like’ system is complicated on so many levels, as another issue is the where’s the boundary on who to ‘Like’? The term ‘Friend’ on Facebook is used very loosely. Honestly, we all have ‘Friend’s’ who we wouldn’t even consider asking for help in our greatest time of need, mainly because we wouldn’t be able to even think of their name. Rather than friends they are more of acquaintances, or people you really don’t even like but don’t have the heart to de-friend them.
Is it acceptable to ‘Like’ one of their posts, or even comment, if they like get married, have a baby or something (not particularly in that order)? Or if they ‘Like’ your post, do you then have to ‘Like’ one of theirs? Friendships need to be of  equal balance.

That’s only a small sample size of the complexities of Facebook that a User’s Guide would really be useful for (Hmmmm I just got a book idea). Of course, just like in society, the rules don’t matter anyway. It’s a free for all. Nobody really cares what you do, except for sending out requests to play games.

Teacher Appreciation

There are certain things in life that are better the second time around, for many its marriage and some movies require multiple viewings before they can be appreciated. For me fifth grade was a nightmare as being overweight with glasses, a speech impediment and the tendency to throw up in class on a regular basis didn’t exactly make me Mr. Popular (I at least don’t puke as often now).
As a reporter for a weekly newspaper in Tipp City, I frequently cover school happenings and the fifth grade has become my favorite place to be.

Of course, this time around I don’t have to take any tests or find someone to sit with at lunch, I just get to be part of the special activities like field trips, assemblies, school musicals etc. The fourth and fifth graders of L.T Ball Intermediate School definitely have the most fun. They also have an extremely hard working and devoted staff. Year after year I’m always highly impressed by the extra time the teachers pour in on behalf of the students. Since its Teacher Appreciation Week, I wanted to express my gratitude to some very special teachers.

In my years as a student, teachers were seen as enemies whose sole purpose was to make life miserable for all children. Though I still have to use my fingers to solve math problems, I’m considered an adult now, and actually know some teachers that I proudly consider friends. Never saw that happening! It may sound cliché, but it’s the absolute truth, the one and only reason I’m still working in Tipp City after more than seven years is…the people. A group who ranks among the highest in that category are the teachers and staff at L.T Ball. Beyond greeting me with smiles, they are always willing to find the right students for me to interview and stage photo-ops. In addition, they alert me of school happenings so I can get those desired exclusives.

All teachers work hard, but I don’t think there’s any other school where the teachers devote more time to learning opportunities that occur outside of the classroom than L.T Ball. I must confess, the only reason I enjoy being back in fifth grade isn’t just the teachers, but the students get to do a lot of fun things. Of course, those experiences are all made possible by the extra work from the teachers. A few examples of the activities are the Relay for Life, kickboxing lessons, dodge ball, eggs hatching, Veterans luncheon, and more. After the dismissal bell rings there are many nights that the teachers stay well after and sacrifice time spent at home with their families.

Over the years with the fifth graders I have hiked Charleston Falls (including playing in the creek), made memories at Camp Kern, and walked around the track to honor those who have battled cancer. Thankfully I haven’t thrown up once during any of it. The staff has made me feel like one of them and have been extremely generous with their kindness by sending cards during both high and low times in my personal life; my marriage and the death of a relative. The acts of generosity are very meaningful to me.

There are some teachers from L.T Ball that I must not fail to personally recognize. First are Molly Flatter, Kem Fischer and Christa Oen. They each are not only beautiful blondes, but wonderful teachers, friends and three of my favorite things about Tipp City. I also deeply admire Tammy Conley, Carmella Lammers and Jeanne Koch for their endless efforts in giving above and beyond themselves on behalf of the students. They each spend countless hours doing extra work to make education as pleasant of an experience as possible. Furthermore, they are always more than willing to answer any questions I have and help make my job easier.

While in school, especially fifth grade, many students don’t fully appreciate their teachers, but I’m at the age when I do. I very much appreciate the teachers and staff of L.T Ball who continue to make a positive difference in my life and fortunate students they encounter.