Friday, July 1, 2016

Editor's Corner

July 2016

This month is filled with family birthdays and tons of memories. Not to mention one of the hottest months each year in the desert area of Texas where your editor resides. Already hit 108 in June so let's see what happens in July. One thing for sure, there is plenty of interesting things to read in this month's issue.

LC Van Savage, in one of the articles, explains when and why she learned not to be a bigot. Though as a child the experience was traumatic, what triggered this reminiscence was the events in Orlando recently.

For the second article, Dianne Lynch returns with one of her "lessons learned" essays. "Do I Matter?" may touch off some personal guilt for you. Thomas F. O'Neill, "Introspective," recognizes how fast Time flies with his personal take on it. Michael John Fierro, numerologist, brings an interesting analysis on the remaining presidential candidates according to their specific numerology.

LC Van Savage's column "Consider This" reveals a couple of her favorite "go-to's" to grab the attention of her children, and er, anyone in the area. Mattie Lennon in "Irish Eyes" has details of multiple events that just concluded and several coming up to ensure visits to the green Shamrock Land are worthwhile to guests.

Judith Kroll, "On Trek," allows tender memories to be expressed which the recent Father's Day brought rushing into her mind. A wonderful family pic is shown with her column.

Rod Cohenour, "Cooking With Rod," brings in a few timely recipes for an Independence Day snack. Melinda Cohenour, "Armchair Genealogy" tells the story of Joseph Alexander, an American Patriot, then shows how he connects to her family tree (and your editor's, since she is my youngest sister.)

Judith Kroll, aka Featherwind, shares her lovely new poem "Lavender Moon." LC Van Savage also sent a poem, "Emma."

Bruce Clifford submitted "Our Emotional Glow." Bud Lemire submits three verses with "Personality," "Universal Treasures," and "Mary, A Special Lady."

Phillip Hennessy aka Phillipo sent five poems, some that are being reworked as lyrics for songs: "Imagine," "Back to it All," "Devotion," "Do You Mind," and "Pieces of Paper." He tells us,
Good News, Mary...!!
July 2nd is the Release Party for Aretey's new CD, which features 3 of our poems, as songs.....one of which is YOUR poem, Spiritual cobwebs. in fact, it's the First song on the Album
Forgotten Times | Aretey Music The album cover states "Na ons eerste album “Legends” (2012) zijn we verder op zoek gegaan naar onze eigen sound en stijl. Het resultaat daarvan is dit album “Forgotten Times”, waarop we meer verhalen van vergeten tijden vertellen. Verhalen die niet vergeten mogen worden, legendes van lang geleden maar ook verhalen over aa... areteymusic.nl Translation:After our first album "Legends" (2012) we have also started looking for our own sound and style. The result is this album "forgotten times", When we more stories of forgotten times to tell you. Stories that should not be forgotten, legends of a long time ago but also stories about AA... areteymusic.nl.
Congrats to Phillip who always remembers that poem "Spiritual Cobwebs" is my favorite one he has ever written.

In "Adventures of Ollie-Dare" Chapter 15 by Rebecca Morris, the bear helps an old friend. LC Van Savage shows up with a cute story with a moral for children, "R. E. Pulsive, The Lonely Ugly Toad."

Thanks again to Mike Craner for his expertise and patience that allows this little ezine to continue its mission of encouraging writers, experienced and beginners, and to promote reading.

Watch for us in August!

Click on author's byline for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.
This issue appears in the ezine at www.pencilstubs.com and also in the blog www.pencilstubs.net with the capability of adding comments at the latter.

Cooking with Rod

A Summer Snack Menu for Independence Day


      The Fourth of July is nearly upon us. We all love barbecues, cookouts with obligatory hotdogs and hamburgers and all the wonderful goodies that go along with it: potato salad, cole slaw, and lemonade and limeade, teas and other cold drinks.


      But, one of the things often overlooked is the presentation of various quick and easy appetizer trays. One of my favorites involves barbecued Lil Smokies, fresh fruit, and yummy cheeses. Pair these with zesty crackers, spicy or plain chips, and a full variety of artisan breads.


      The key here is to keep things simple, the preparation painless, to feed the eye, the soul as well as the stomach. In addition to the fruit, cheese, and Lil Smoky tray, it is good to provide some fresh, crisply cold, pleasingly cut vegetables with a yummy dip alongside or centered in the serving tray.


      So, along with the ripe, red watermelon, the trays of goodies, the cold drinks, here is a little selection of additional offerings that should fill out the menu – and fill out the tummy! The recipes here are simple and quick to prepare. Choose any or all to round out your 4th of July picnic.


Bon appetite! And Happy Fourth of July!!
 
 
Melinda’s Waldorf Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
  • 4 cooked, cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts (you can boil, grill, or bake the chicken)
  • 1 cup seedless green grapes, sliced in half
  • 1 cup peeled or unpeeled (your choice) Red Delicious apples, cut in small bits
  • ½ cup chopped pecans
  • 6 pecan halves for garnish
  • 3 crisp celery stalks, with strings removed before cutting into small pieces
  • ½ cup Miracle Whip, low fat (you can substitute Greek Yogurt if you so choose)
  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice
  • Cinnamon, a dash
  • Apple Pie spice, a dash
Instructions:
    In medium bowl, toss together chicken cubes, grape halves, apple bits, chopped pecans and celery. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Miracle Whip (or Greek Yogurt) with the spices and a squeeze of lemon. Add to chicken mixture and toss gently, making sure not to shred the chicken cubes.
    Cover and chill well. Just before serving, use pecan halves to decorate the top of the salad.
Classic Queso Dip
 
Ingredients:
 
• 1 brick Velveeta cheese • 1 can Rotel (tomato and chili peppers)
• 1 can chopped green chilis (about 4 oz) drained well

Instructions:
    Cut brick of Velveeta into medium sized cubes. Place in top of double boiler, and add contents of Rotel and Hatch green chilis to the pan. Melt slowly, stirring frequently to make sure all ingredients are blending and no scalding is imminent.
    Serve with a selection of Tostados and warm soft flour tortillas.
Variations:
    • This classic dip can be made more hearty by adding a can of prepared Chile such as Wolf Brand after the cheese has melted. Make sure the chili is heated thoroughly and blended well.
    • Addition of sauted onions and bell peppers or pickled mix of cauliflower, carrot, and jalapenos (drained) changes the flavor and presentation a bit.
Zesty Southwest Sour Cream Dip
 
Ingredients:
 
• Carton of fresh sour cream
• 1 packet of Taco Seasoning
• 1 tsp. cumin
• ½ cup chopped green onions, reserve a little of the green tops as garnish


Instructions:
 
Whisk together sour cream and seasonings. Add chopped green onions. Cover and shill until ready to serve. Top with a the reserved green onion tops cut like chives.

Green Chile Sour Cream Dip
 
Ingredients:
 
• Carton of fresh sour cream
• 1 can, well drained, chopped green chiles
• 1/4 cup Pico de Gallo (see recipe below. NOTE: add without cilantro leaves

Instructions:
 
Mix ingredients together well, tossing gently. Chill until ready to serve.

Pico De Gallo


Ingredients:
 
• 1 tomato, chopped in small cubes
• 1 small white onion, chopped (I love Vidalia onions for this)
• ½ chopped green bell pepper, no membranes or seeds
• ½ chopped red bell pepper, no membranes or seeds
• 1 jalapeno, diced fine, no membranes or seeds
• ½ tsp Chile powder (or to taste)
• ½ tsp Garlic powder (or to taste)
• Juice of one lime
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, leaves only (reserve a few stems with pretty leaves for garnish)

Instructions:
 
Prepare Pico de Gallo by mixing all ingredients except the cilantro leaves in a small bowl. Toss together well, then chill.

Reserve ¼ cup if desired for Green Chile Sour Cream Dip shown above. Just before serving, add fresh cilantro leaves, reserving a few with stems for garnish.

Click on author's byline for bio and list of other works published by Pencil Stubs Online.

Armchair Genealogy

The Story of Joseph Alexander, An American Patriot


      Joseph Alexander was born in Northern Ireland, in the province of Ulster and the County of Tyrone, in the year of 1756. No further information has been revealed as to his exact date of birth or the names of his parents. It is known he, his father, and a brother (whose names are not known) migrated to the shores of America when he was just a nine-year-old boy. They arrived in Pennsylvania in the year 1765, a fact generally agreed upon by all family histories though this researcher has located no documentation of their immigration.

      In 1765, Pennsylvania was largely wilderness, populated by warring tribes of Indians. The area was part of the generous charter made by King Charles II in 1680 to William Penn, the Quaker, as repayment of a large outstanding loan to the King by Penn’s father, the Admiral Sir William Penn. Penn wished to name the territory “Sylvania” meaning “forest land” but King Charles II wished to honor William Penn’s father and insisted the land be called Pennsylvania. In 1682, Penn sailed on the Welcome to America, and established the first “planned and surveyed” city in North America, Phil-Adelphia (the “city of brotherly love”) a name that soon became commonly written as Philadelphia.

      The area, though granted Penn through the King’s charter, was tribal land, owned and occupied through the ages by several disparate groups of Indians who disagreed as to their own territorial boundaries. Penn found it necessary to learn a number of the native dialects in order to negotiate with the leaders of these tribes personally for use and extension of his original charter of land. His primary dealings were with the Leni-Lenape (Delawares), but he sought to treat all these native tribes fairly. Though his intentions and actions were honorable in this regard, many who followed to occupy the lands did not. The question of ownership of the lands settled by Penn’s colonists remained a strong factor in the later actions of the tribes during the French and Indian War and, later, the alliances made with the English or the French during the Revolutionary War.

      William Penn, the Quaker, never actually lived in America, for after the founding of Philadelphia and his travels to secure additional “treaties” with various Indian tribes, he returned to England. He desired to raise additional funds to further his colony’s welfare. He would not return to America until 1699. It is said he (as a victim of religious persecution himself) was a strong proponent of religious freedom and, on this trip, sought to establish a federation of the colonies. Although he owned slaves, it is said he urged the fair treatment of slaves, in much the same manner he sought to treat the native tribes fairly in all his dealings. The Quakers, strongly influenced by Penn’s actions and beliefs, became some of the first to decry slavery in later years in America.
(Source: Brief History of William Penn, www.ushistory.org)
       Given the relative infancy of the settlement of these areas of Pennsylvania, it is not surprising we have few documents that survived from that time. Rather, we rely upon the family lore that has survived and is supported, rarely, by those documents which have been preserved. We know Joseph Alexander’s personal family documents, such as the family Bible, fell victim to an Indian attack on his settlement:

      “…we learn that his home was burned in 1780 during the warfare with the Indians on the frontier, destroying the family Bible with records and his commissions in the Pennsylvania Militia.”
(From History of Montgomery County by Beckwith (1881) page 499.)

      From The History of Lycoming County Pennsylvania, edited by John F. Meginness, about 1892, we learn the following:

      “Lycoming County originally belonged to Berks, which was erected March 11, 1752. Twenty years later Northumberland was formed out of Berks, and twenty-three years after this, Lycoming came into existence. At that time it covered a region vast enough in its proportions to constitute a State, and three-fourths of its territory was practically an unknown wilderness.”


      We know that Joseph resided in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, for many years following that initial move. His marriage, his wife’s place of birth, the birth location of most of his children are all identified with this same area of Pennsylvania. It is known he married Frances “Fannie” Malone:

       “Joseph Alexander married Frances Malone daughter of Richard and Rebecca Malone, born August 27, 1762. Richard Malone lived in April 1773 six miles from Fort Augusta (Sunbury) up the West Branch of the Susquehanna which would be about two miles above the mouth of the Chillisquaque Creek. His tavern was a prominent place for meetings, notably those of the County Committee of Safety during the Revolution. Joseph and family moved to Ross County, Ohio about 1803. In Ohio they lived in Ross and Clarke Counties until September 1828 when they moved to Montgomery County, Indiana. "Joseph and his wife came to Montgomery County to live with their children who had preceded them. They were Joseph, Richard, Hartley, and Margaret, wife of Joseph Hanks."
(From History of Montgomery County by Beckwith (1881) page 499.)

      The four named children are documented by this biographical sketch. Some researchers, perhaps in the hopes of linking their heritage to Joseph Alexander’s for membership in the DAR or SAR, have provided the names of up to eleven children. This researcher has not been able to document all those children, but firmly believes the eight named children in our family tree are accurately placed. At the end of this narrative text, our lineage from Joseph Alexander will be outlined.

      The newly formed Congress of the United States on 7 Jun 1832, signed an Act which paved the way for the many Patriots who served their country during the Revolutionary War to receive the benefits and monies due but never paid. We, as family historians, are fortunate that the Pension Application documentation has been preserved so well through the efforts of our governmental historians. These documents provide a first-hand account of the majority of the service and campaigns in which our ancestors participated.

      Joseph Alexander filed his Pension Application on 19 March 1833, in Montgomery County, Indiana. Details of his service, and of his life as well, are revealed through an examination of that Pension Application. That narrative text (as originally written by hand) of his Application states:

       - That he enlisted in the army of the United States about Christmas in the year 1777 as a volunteer private under Captain Hugh White in the Regiment of Pennsylvania militia, at Sunbury in Northumberland County State of Pennsylvania and marched thence to Philadelphia, Thence to Trenton and Princeton and Piscatagner and near to Amboy where the British then was, and was discharged deponent thinks at Springfield about the 1st of April 1778 and marched to Philadelphia for this pay - deponent was in ten skirmishes during this tour among which were the skirmish of the Ash Swamp, Camron's Hills Piscatagner and one at a place called Crow as Deponent thinks in New Jersey
      Durring this tour Deponent was elected an ensign of said company


       The Battle of Ash Swamp, A.K.A. The Battle of Short Hills New Jersey fought 26 Jun 1777 is known as the Crossroads of the American Revolution (1). The Battle of Ash Swamp was also known as the Battle of Short Hills. The fight, in the summer of 1777, pitted the British regulars of Gen. George Cornwallis against Continental soldiers under the leadership of Lord Stirling. It was not a pivotal battle like Saratoga or Trenton. However, the fight was significant for two reasons: Stirling's defense here in Scotch Plains allowed Gen. George Washington, awaiting the outcome of the battle in nearby Green Brook, an escape to his encampment at Middlebrook, Franklin Township; and it was the first battle where Americans fought after the adoption of the American flag by Congress, thereby defending the Stars and Stripes.

       Clark historian Bill Fidurski says you can make a case that the Battle of the Short Hills was the first clash where Americans defended the Stars and Stripes.

       "The flag resolution was adopted by the Continental Congress at Philadelphia twelve days earlier," he says, "and there were no significant engagements anywhere in the colonies between that time and the battle at the swamp. We don't know if the American troops at Ash Swamp fought under the Stars and Stripes, but you can say figuratively at least that they were the first to defend it."
(Source: A Guide to New Jersey's Revolutionary War Trail: For Families and History Buffs, by Mark Di Ionno, p. 167
The Battle of Ash Swamp: Sources:
1) http://aithistory.org/us_history/ash_swamp/
and http://www.revolutionarynj.org/
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:
Battle of Short Hills -- Part of American Revolutionary War
* Date: July 26, 1777
* Location: Short Hills, New Jersey
* Result: Tactical American Victory - Strategic British Victory
* Strength: 2,200 versus 15,000+ (4,000 engaged)
* Casualties and losses: 12 killed, 50 wounded, 50 captured, versus 70 killed and wounded
The Battle of Short Hills (or the Battle of Metuchen Meetinghouse) was a conflict between a force of Americans commanded by General William Alexander ("Lord Stirling"), and an opposing British force commanded by General William Howe, that took place on July 26, 1777, at Short Hills, in New Jersey, during the American Revolutionary War. William Howe, leader of the large British force at the Battle of Short Hills; George Washington, leader of the main army of American troops. <>Prior to the battle the British tried to lure George Washington's army into a place where it could be conquered by the larger British army. However, the smaller American force won the battle. Prelude: Before the battle, in the early days of June, General William Howe's British force of almost 17,000 withdrew from Somerset Court House at New Brunswick, to Perth Amboy, after they failed to draw Washington's central army from their post at Middlebrook Heights, the plan having been foiled by the tactics of Lord Stirling. The failure of the British ploy proved a major setback: success would have forced the small poorly-equipped American force to fight the larger British army on the flat plain of New Jersey. Instead of falling for this trap, Washington followed the retreating British, having left his post in Middlebrook in the Watchung Mountains, as well as considering the possibility of assaulting their poorly armed rear guard. Washington harassed the British as they withdrew into Somerset and Middlesex counties, while troops under Stirling further irritated the retreating British.
After withdrawing to Perth Amboy, Howe counterattacked, meaning to devastate Lord Stirling's forces, cut off Washington's retreat back to Middlebrook, and engage the Americans in a pitched battle.
The Battle: The ensuing battle between the American forces of Stirling, which numbered only about 2,200, and the British and Hessian forces of Howe, proved extremely intense, but with Stirling suffering only minor losses. However, Stirling was gradually forced backward, leading both of the armies into the Ash Swamp and Scotch Plains. Severe cannon fire forced Stirling, as determined as he was to stand against his foe, to retreat even further back, toward Westfield. However, Stirling's efforts in the Battle of Short Hills allowed his regiment to successfully reform with Washington's army and return to the post at Middlebrook. For these reasons, as well as the large amount of casualties inflicted on the British, the battle is considered an American victory. The British then were able to return safely to their post at Perth Amboy, leaving the American forces to ponder on what Howe's next action would be.
(Sources:
1. The Battle of Short Hills. Retrieved on 20 April, 2007.
2. The Star ledger. Retrieved on 20 April, 2007. 3. History of the Jersey Brigade. Retrieved on 20 April, 2007.
- Deponent recollects to have been on this tour (?). Putnam and Mansfield of the regular army, and Col. Cook with his regulars cooperated at the Battle of Ash Swamp. This tour was three months or more. Deponent having enlisted at Sunbury in the fall 1778 for a three month tour (having been ordered out for (?) under Capt James McMahan of the Pennsylvania Militia being under the commission of Col. Frederick Antis was first Llietenant said company, and marched to the west branch of the Susquahanna span the Big Island where they remained guarding the frontier during the winter and were discharged in the spring of 1779 at Pine Creek

      From the USGenWeb’s archives, generously provided for free research, we are treated to some valuable documents that reveal the hardships faced by our brave ancestors as they fought for our country’s independence. Below is narrative text, as selected extracts, from one of these, titled Area History: Bell’s History of Northumberland County, PA – THE REVOLUTIONARY PERIOD, a file contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by Tony Rebuck,

       “Although the early settlement of Northumberland county occurred during the period of tranquility following the close of the French and Indian war, the possibility of future hostilities was a constant incentive to military organization, while the circumstances of frontier life were eminently calculated to foster a spirit of independence; and thus her people, although deficient in the elements of wealth and comparatively few in numbers, were well prepared for the Revolutionary struggle. In all the movements preliminary to the organization of the State government they were represented. The first of these was the "Meeting of the Provincial Deputies," July 10th, 1774; it was called by a committee of correspondence at Philadelphia, the chairman of which, Thomas Willing, addressed a letter to William Maclay, William Plunket, and Samuel Hunter on the 25th of June, 1774, in compliance with which the different townships elected committee-men who met at (*) Richard Malone's on the 11th of July and selected William Scull and Samuel Hunter to represent the county.
       “During the progress of these developments the county was well represented at the front. A resolution was adopted by Congress, June 14, 1775, directing the formation of ten companies of expert riflemen, six in Pennsylvania, two in Maryland, and two in Virginia - to be employed as light infantry and be paid the following sums per month: a captain, twenty dollars; a lieutenant, thirteen and one third dollars; a sergeant, eight dollars; a corporal, seven and one third dollars; a drummer, seven and one third dollars, and a private, six and two thirds dollars - all ‘to find their own arms and clothes.’

(*) Richard Malone was the father of Francis “Fannie” Malone, wife of our Patriot, Joseph Alexander. Richard kept a public house which was the regular meetinghouse for the Patriots, their Commanders, their funding groups, and the regulars in the Continental Army in that area. He was this researcher’s 5th Great Grandfather.
      These groups of militia were not large. They were comprised of the best marksmen their county could rally. The following shows the typical size of each group. (This also extracted from Bell’s History:

      The following "Return of the Second battalion of Northumberland county militia, commanded by Colonel James Murray, May 1, 1778," on file in the office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, shows its numerical strength at that date. Our Joseph Alexander noted he was in the Company headed by Captain James McMahan:
NOTE: Each Company had 8 officers: ONE (1) Captain, TWO (2) Lieutenants, ONE (1) Ensign, FOUR (4) Sergeants and the balance being militiamen, basically Privates:
Captain Thomas Gaskins's Company – 53 Militia for a total of 61;
Captain John Wilson's Company – 52 Militia for a total of 60;
Captain David Hays's Company – 56 Militia for a total of 63;
Captain Arthur Taggart's Company - 58 Militia for a total of 66;
Captain James McMahan's Company – 49 Militia for a total of 57;
Captain Robert Reynolds's Company – 35 Militia for a total of 43;
Captain John Chattam's Company – 41 Militia for a total of 49;
Captain John Clingman's Company – 65 Militia for a total of 73;
The total of all officers and militiamen in this Regiment totaled only 472 men.
To illustrate the difficulties faced, yet another extract from Bell’s History:

       “Great difficulty was experienced in procuring provisions; the price of bacon was four shillings six pence per pound and of flour three pounds ten shillings per hundred-weight. Not more than half the militia was armed; the powder was very inferior in quality, and no flints could be bought. A consignment of seventy guns, thirty-one rifles, sixty-nine muskets, and a quantity of powder, lead, and flints was ordered sent to Colonel Hunter by the Supreme Executive Council on the 18th of May.
Notwithstanding these defensive measures, Indian outrages became alarmingly frequent. On the 14th of January, 1778, Colonel Hunter reported two men killed at Pine creek on the 23d ultimo; May 14th, one man killed at Bald Eagle on the 8th instant and another in Penn's valley; May 26th, three men killed at Bald Eagle on the 16th, three persons taken prisoners at Pine creek on the 18th and nine at Lycoming on the 20th, and sixteen Persons killed or taken prisoners at Loyalsock on the 24th.
On the 17th of May Colonel Potter reported twenty persons killed on the North Branch. "The back inhabitants have all evacuated their habitations and assembled in different places," wrote Colonel Hunter on the 31st of May; "all above Muncy to Lycoming are come to Samuel Wallis's and the people of Muncy have gathered to Captain Brady's; all above Lycoming are at Antes's mill and the month of Bald Eagle creek; all the inhabitants of Penn's valley are gathered to one place in Potter's township; the inhabitants of White Deer township are assembled at three different places, and the back settlers of Buffalo are come down to the river; all from Muncy hill to Chillisquaque have assembled at three different places; Fishing creek and Mahoning settlements have all come to the river side." Eight persons were killed between Loyalsock and Lycoming on the 10th of June, and Indians were encountered below Muncy hill a week or two later. On the 3d of July occurred the massacre of Wyoming, the intelligence of which produced a general panic among the inhabitants of Northumberland county and precipitated the "Great Runaway."

- Deponent recollects to have been on this tour (?). Putnam and Mansfield of the regular army, and Col. Cook with his regulars cooperated at the Battle of Ash Swamp. This tour was three months or more. Deponent having enlisted at Sunbury in the fall 1778 for a three month tour (having been ordered out for (?) under Capt James McMahan of the Pennsylvania Militia being under the commission of Col. Frederick Antis was first Llietenant said company, and marched to the west branch of the Susquahanna span the Big Island where they remained guarding the frontier during the winter and were discharged in the spring of 1779 at Pine Creek

      So simply stated, yet the narrative text below describes the horrors these brave men faced as they were “guarding the frontier during the winter.”

       “On the 9th of July Colonel Hunter addressed a letter to the officers of the Berks county militia; there was then every reason to anticipate that Sunbury and Northumberland would be the frontier in less than twenty-four hours, but a few of the inhabitants had determined to make a stand and re-enforcements were urgently solicited. On the 12th he sent a communication to Council, in which the following passages occur:-
“The calamities so long dreaded, and which you have been more than once informed must fall upon this county if not assisted by Continental troops or the militia of the neighboring counties, now appear with all the horrors attendant on an Indian War; at this date the towns of Sunbury and Northumberland are the frontiers, where a few virtuous inhabitants and fugitives seem determined to stand, though doubtful whether tomorrow's sun will rise on them freemen, captives, or in eternity. Yet, relying on that Being who never forsakes the virtuous, and the timely assistance of the government which they have with zeal and vigor endeavored to support, they say they will remain as long as they can without incurring the censure of suicide. The carnage at Wyoming, the devastations and murders upon the West Branch of Susquehanna, on Bald Eagle creek, and, in short, throughout the whole county to within a few miles of these towns (the recital of which must be shocking), I suppose must before now have reached your ears. If not, you may figure yourselves men, women, and children, butchered and scalped, many of them after being promised quarter, and some scalped alive, of which we have miserable instances amongst us; people in crowds driven from their farms and habitations, many of whom have not money enough to purchase one day's provisions for their families, which must and already has obliged many of them to plunder and lay waste the farms as they pass along. These calamities must, if not speedily remedied by a reinforcement of men from below, inevitably ruin the frontier and incumber the interior counties with such numbers of indigent fugitives unable to support themselves as will like locusts devour all before them. If we are assisted to stand and save our crops, we will have enough for ourselves and to spare; you need be under no apprehension of any troops you send here suffering for want of provisions if they come in time, before the few who yet remain are obliged to give way; with men it will be necessary to send arms and ammunition, as we are ill provided with them. Gentlemen, you must all know that this county cannot be strong in men after the numbers it has furnished to serve the United States. Their applications to its for men were always complied with to the utmost of our abilities and with the greatest alacrity; should our supplications now be rejected I think the survivors of us, if any, may safely say that virtue is not rewarded.”
- Upon this campaighn we fell in with no regulars and had no skirmishes, and were (?) three months. Deponent had a commission as such (?) immedially after being discharged from that service. Deponent got from this as departamental a Captains Commission in the Susquehanna boat service under Commandor Frederick Antis with the privilage of raising 50 men for a five months tour, wich he did about the first of April 1779 and they went up the Susquehanna and Tiaga rivers in this boat to Newtown point. Commandor Antis went no farther General Sullivan commanded this expedition at Newtown Point they were met by General Clinton and his army: which two armies marched them by land (Deponent going with them) to Seneca Lake and thence to the Ginapee County and cut off the supplies of the enemy then and returned to Newtown point, and then Deponent and them with him reembarked and went down the river and was discharged at Cox's town about November 1779
- Durring this Service Deponent acted as an Captain as above stated

“The Pennsylvania Navy, 1775-1783:
The Pennsylvania Navy was created in 1775 and, like the Pennsylvania Line, was filled by voluntary enlistment. In enrollment, it probably never numbered as many as one thousand men. Its main objective was the defense of Philadelphia and the protection of the Delaware river and bay of the outward and inward bound trade of the state. These two needs determined the form and six of her armed vessels and the character of their operations. Pennsylvania therefore adapted her fleet to shallow waters. Only in a few instances did her armed vessels pass beyond the Capes of the Delaware into the Atlantic. To avoid capture, nearly all its vessels were sunk in the spring of 1778. Many members of the Pennsylvania Navy were entitled to and received Depreciation pay certificates, and, rather curiously, some were paid off with Certificates of the Funded or Militia Debt. Navy veterans were not eligible for grants of Donation Land.”
(Source: Pennsylvania State Archives website.)
URL: http://www.phmc.state.pa.us/BAH/DAM/military/revwar.htm - Deponent never received a written discharge - Deponent at the time of said several enlistments resided within one mile of (?) town of Northumberland in Pennsylvania
- His commission as Captain as aforesaid was burnt with his fathers house in 1780. He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present and he declares that his name is not on the pension roll of any other state.
JOSEPH ALEXANDER
Sworn to and Subscribed the day year aforesaid
John Wilson CLK

(Source: Website: Revolutionary War Veterans of New Jersey, donated by 4th Great-Granddaughter, Leslie Malone.
http://nj.njgenealogy.org/military/revol/revsol.txt )
In honor of Joseph Alexander’s service during the Revolutionary War, the grave he shares with his beloved wife, Fannie, has been marked with a special headstone denoting his service. The picture below shows a Memorial Service, in his honor, carried out by the reenactment group of the local Sons of the Revolution.
Sugar Grove Cemetery, Jackson Township, Tippecanoe County, Indiana, Memorial Service provided by the William Henry Harrison Chapter of the SAR in West Lafayette, Indiana.


Our ancestral descent from Joseph Alexander, the Patriot, is as follows: Joseph Alexander (1756-1839) married Frances “Fannie” Malone (1762-1832) and had at least four children, but more probably eight children. Their son, Richard, was born 31 December 1789 and died on the 9th of April 1857. One son they named Richard.
Richard Alexander married Susan Hempleman Alexander (the daughter of George F. Hempleman and Ruth Howell and a direct descendant of Baron von Hempleman, Lord Johann Hempleman, born 1704 in Cassel, Stadt Kassel, Hessen, Germany). Richard and Susan’s son George was given his mother’s family surname as his middle name in a traditional gesture of honor.

George Hempleman Alexander (1830-1894) fought in the Civil War. He enlisted 1 July 1863 as a Private in the Union Army and was assigned to the 5th Regiment, Indiana Cavalry (90th Regiment, Indiana Volunteers), Company C, as documented by U.S. Civil War Soldiers, 1861-1865 database from microfilm documents: Union Film Number: M540, roll 1. In his private life, George was the owner of a mercantile establishment and was twice elected Recorder for the County of Montgomery, Indiana. George Hempleman Alexander on 23 Feb 1850 married Margaret Lowe in Montgomery County, Indiana. This union produced six daughters and two sons, the eldest son being Lewis Wallace “Lew” Alexander who was born 22 March 1862, the year before his father enlisted in the Union Army.

Lew married three times, the first marriage to Ida Qualls ending in her death during childbirth. The result of that union produced a son, Thomas Wallace “Tommie” Alexander (1894-1974). After Ida’s death, Lew married our own Flutie Creek (born 19 Aug 1877 in Lockwood, Dade County, Missouri and died 3 February 1951, in our family home in Monahans, Ward County, Texas). Flutie and Lew had a brief marriage, the first for Flutie. The only child of their union was Nora Viola Alexander, born 23 December 1896, in Galena, Cherokee County, Kansas and died 13 August 1964, in Monahans, Ward County, Texas in her home immediately next door to our family home. Lew’s third marriage took place in Joplin on 27 September 1914 to Mary Elizabeth Eppler. Lew Wallace Alexander passed away in Los Angeles, California, on 29 August 1941.

Nora Viola Alexander married Everett Marion Carroll on 22 December 1912 in Barton, Missouri just outside of Joplin. Nora and Everett were the paternal grandparents of Mary, Noralee, Jacquie and Melinda Carroll.

Researched and Compiled by Melinda Cohenour.

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Irish Eyes

From Writers’ Week To Knockanstockan

June was truly a month of culture. From June 01st to June 05th there was Listowel Writers’ Week. Once again we could bask in the wit and wisdom of Ciaran Carson, Patsy McDermott, P. J. Kennedy Hilary Fanning , Peter Sirr, James Runcie and dozens of others too numerous to mention.

Theate, Poetry readings, Book launches and Literary workshops catering for everything from “ Creative Writing Getting Started” to “Poetry Advanced.”

 As usual it finished with a marathon Open-mic session (“The Healing session”) in John B. Keane’s famous pub.


And speaking of Kerry: When I read that the Kerry County Councillor, John Joe Culloty (see pic above), recommended that we eat Japanese Knotweed I immediately contacted a Japanese friend of mine who sent me the following recipe:

Japanese Knotweed Bread
    2 cups unbleached flour
    ½ cup sugar
    1 ½ tsp baking powder
    1 tsp salt
    1 egg
    2 Tbsp salad oil
    ¾ cup orange juice
    ¾ cup chopped hazelnuts
    1 cup sweetened Japanese Knotweed Purée.
Originally described as Reynoutria japonica by Houttuyn in 1777 from Japan, that name was lost to botanists for over 150 years, in the mean time the same species was independently named Polygonum cuspidatum by Siebold and Zuccarini in 1845. It was not until the 1901 that Makino, a Japanese botanist, realised that the Reynoutria japonica of Houttuyn and the Polygonum cuspidatum of Siebold and Zuccarini were the same Japanese Knotweed that was introduced from Japan to the unsuspecting West. (It is now seen as a plague.)

But trust a Kerryman to turn the tables on it. After a bit of research I found that there are two kinds of knotweed in Japan, green and red.
    Green is used with vinegar and poured over grilled fish.
    Also green knotweed is added sauce of broiled tofu.
    Red one is good for vinegared cucumbers, salad and spaghetti dishes.
Please check out recipes of salt-grilled Japanese seaperch, broiled tofu and vinegared cucumbers.
Here’s a few links for you:

Salt-grilled Japanese seaperch recipe

Broiled tofu recipe

Vinegared cucumbers recipe
And from July 22nd to 24th my home village will stage a music festival to equal Glastonbury, although the dry pastureland of County Wicklow doesn’t call for as many Wellingtons.

KnockanStockan, held in Lacken, is an Irish independent music festival now in its ninth year. Each year the festival takes place overlooking the Blessington lakes in Wicklow. In 2008, KnockanStockan won "Best Small Festival" at the Irish Festival Awards. In 2012, KnockanStockan was shortlisted for the Irish Times - The Ticket Festival Awards.

The communities of Lacken and Ballyknockan have become an integral part of the KnockanStockan music festival since it began in 2007. The support and co-operation of the residents has been and still is vital to the continual growth and success of the festival. KnockanStockan believe that giving back to the community is top priority.

The valley, which encloses, the beautiful Blessington Lakes was alive with the sound of everything from John Deers to old TVO Fergusans as the 12th Hillbilly Tractor Run was held on Sunday 26th June. The people of Valleymount, Kylebeg, Lacken and Kylebeg were transported back in time as well preserved vintage machines belched out their smoke.

The annual Sean McCarthy Memorial festival will take place in Finuge, County Kerry from July 29th to August 01st. The diversity of the programme can be judged by the instructions on their website for laying a traditional Irish flagged floor:

METHOD OF LAYING STONE FLAGGED FLOOR:

  • 1. Break up and remove existing concrete floor. Care to be taken not to damage any surviving cobbled floor beneath. (No cobbled floor underneath)
  • 2. If cobbled floor exists this should be retained as the finished floor as it has historic value. If not proceed to 3.
  • 3. Clear top soil and lay 150mm clean hardcore compacted using a vibrating plate.
  • 4. Lay a 50mm screed and lay NHL 5. Ratio 2 1/2 parts sand to 1 part lime.
  • 5. When dry arrange the stone flags over on a thin lime slurry of the same mix.
  • 6. Allow variable 10mm to 20mm joints between each flag stone and use a lime mix NHL 3.5 to fill the joints.

LIMEWASHING:

  • First couple of coats bond better a week after plastering has been complete.
  • Blend all together in a big plastic bin to avoid having joints.
  • Allow for 5 coats of limewash.
  • 2 to 3 buckets of lime putty.
  • 200g pigment per bucket(if required)
And guess what - Researchers feel certain that there was a colony of Irish folk living in what is now South Carolina, when Christopher Columbus 'thought' he had discovered the New World.

See you in August.

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On Trek

Remembering . . .


      Remembering my dad on Father's day. He will have passed a year in August.

      My heart was filling up once again with the memories of my Pop. We racked up a lot of memories together in our lifetime. He was an intelligent, hardworking soul, but his biggest asset was has positive spin on life, and his winning humor.

      He always had a joke up his sleeve, or quip here and there, always thinking, always sharing. I have beautiful wooden Wilfred sculptures that he made thru the years. A couple clocks, a lazy Susanne, a cookbook holder, a tv stand, etc. I smile when I see each piece, because I know it was made with love. His talents never ended. Nothing ever ends..

      I grabbed a photo from some pictures my cousin Martha sent me. She passed just three months before pop did. Both of them are definitely sharing a new kind of life together, unencumbered with pains and sorrows. I sometimes feel like I am privy to the laughter from the other side to here in my home.

      The one photo I grabbed was dad and his siblings. My hand traced each and every face, touching their souls as I did this small act of love. I was taken away in thoughts and dreams to the day they took that picture. Finding their suits and dresses, and laughing on the drive to the studio. Each one had a unique personality, and all of them shared and cherished the fine art of humor.

      When my shaking fingers touched the still image of my daddy, my heart skipped a few beats. Remember, they are my ancestors . I carry parts of their dna within me. What an honor. What a joy. The picture I am melding with at the moment is before my dad even married. A young man who ran like the wind, winning trophies for his track and field talents. He won for winning the hurdles. I listen as the crowd cheers him on. I picture the huge smile of satisfaction on his face.

      He loved his woodworking hobby. He built a few homes for us. He served his country fighting in ww2. He raised three children, and worked many jobs, ending with his inspecting small aircraft with the FAA, Federal aviation agency.

      A good man, loved life, the glass was always half full for him. He was an inspiration to all he met.

      When he was passing, he said to my surprise. I guess I will meld with the universe, and he took his index finger and turned it around and around as he pointed upward and said..zipppppp. Gotta love him..Always.
Judy

      In the pic below, dad is on the left. For my cousins, I want you to know I adore all my aunts and uncles, and the love they have for everyone.
©6/15/16 Judith Kroll

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Consider This

My Best Friend, The Acme Thunderer


       It’s tiny, kind of silvery, and very small. I keep it on a long brown cord so I can put it around my neck when and if it’s needed. It has a small, hard ball inside of it and it’s shaped exactly like a whistle. In fact, it’s a whistle.

      This tiny whistle has a title, and it’s called “The Acme Thunderer.” An old friend, this is one truly loud gadget. It’s used I think by coaches and referees, and police too. It deafens the person doing the blowing, and can be heard from far away.

       Why do I own one? Simple. When our three young sons were out in the ‘hood doing whatever they were doing, most of which I didn’t want to know about and actually still don’t, I could never find them when it was time for them to come home. I used to stand at our front door and scream their names out and while to this day I’m pretty sure they generally heard me, I’m equally sure they generally ignored me. I even developed polyps on my vocal chords trying to round them up for dinner. Surgery fixed that but I was instructed to not speak for a week. Seriously?

      I found the Acme Thunderer in a now closed sporting goods store in downtown Brunswick. To make sure it was really loud I asked the store owner if I could test it. Distracted with another customer, he nodded slightly and so paying little heed to the other customers or the fact that perhaps a multitude had already put that whistle to their lips, I put it to mine and blew hard. The shrill sound all but blasted the ears off the people in the store and my own went and deaf for a bit. That was one terrific whistle, and I bought it instantly.

       Once home I showed our sons my new weapon of control, and told them that from now on I was going to not scream them home, I was going to blow the whistle, and once they heard that sound, they should understand clearly it was I calling them, and it would not be particularly prudent of them to ignore it. Me. The whistle. I hung it on a long brown cord next to our front door and lovingly advised them that tomorrow would be the day the whistle would be employed.

       Oddly it worked. I’d blast and within 10 minutes or so they’d shuffle on home, annoyed beyond belief but trusting me when I’d told them they’d be in dire straits, and yes, we all knew what those were, if they dared to ignore the calls of my new and shiny Acme Thunderer. I also found another use for it; when our boys got into the shower and decided to take a nap, a few loud detonations at the bottom of the stairs from my new friend the Acme Thunderer woke them up and got them out of the bathroom so someone else could use it.

       I discovered yet another great use for the AT, and it’s at graduations. We just attended our granddaughter Jordan’s BHS graduation and I blasted that whistle constantly, at the processionals, at all huge applaudings and especially when this very beautiful and worthy kid went up to receive her diploma. And just in case the Acme isn’t enough, I have 2 huge, tall, well-worn fake sunflowers that we wave from our seats so our graduates can find us. And they do. So my precious Acme Thunderer and the sunflowers are doing their jobs. These items have become a tradition and have appeared at numerous family graduations, and hey, let’s be honest here, there are all kinds of nifty ways to embarrass our children and grandchildren, all seriously worth going for. Because of the sunflowers and the Acme Thunderer, our much loved, accomplished and gorgeous granddaughter Jordan Van Savage saw and heard us cheering her on to a glorious, wide open future, so it was all good. Very very good.

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Introspective


      They say when you get old time goes by with a blink of an eye but for the very young time moves at a snail’s pace. I am witnessing firsthand how fast time is moving especially here in Suzhou, China.

      It wasn’t that long ago in 2009 to be exact that I was invited to be a guest teacher at the Suzhou International Foreign Language School for one semester. Now seven years later I’m still in China and the semesters are racing by very quickly.

      I get easily attached to my students especially the ones who participate in class they make my classes more enjoyable with their unique brand of humor. Some of my students even comment that they wish my classes would continue on especially when the semester comes to an end. I enjoy teaching and entertaining my students with humorous stories about some of my experiences in life. When they ask me how old I am I tell them I am very old with a young heart.

      A Buddhist student once said, “Mr. Tom you are an old soul that returns to teach and enjoy life with others.” The Buddhists have such a unique perspective on life and the subject of Buddhism intrigues me.


      I once told my students when you are enjoying life time moves quickly and that is very true for me. I suppose that is why I don’t have any particular plans on moving back to the United States. But it’s not that difficult to stay in touch with people due to the internet. I can email videos to people and call people via Skype anywhere in the world. I enjoy staying in touch and reading about the happenings in the area I grew up (Shenandoah, PA) because a part of me never left my hometown.

      I tell my students the world is becoming a smaller place especially with our modern technology. Computers, cell phones, satellite television, and especially our internet technology are bringing the world closer together in ways our ancestors never would have imagined possible.

      The evolving technology has no end in sight and it will only make our lives a bit easier as time progresses. I have witnessed amazing technological growth in my lifetime and I bring that up often in my classes. China’s culture here is progressing rapidly as well and my stay here is something I value dearly because of the beautiful people I encounter.

      I particularly enjoy spending time with the children here and I never find myself getting bored when they are around. I like playing games with them and they have a knack of making me laugh. I find that the Chinese children here are more trusting and open than most American kids their age.

      That lack of trust among some American Kids is mostly due to the U.S. media covering crimes against children especially the abduction of young kids. That is something that always disturbs me how people could harm a young child in such heinous ways. A little Chinese girl once said to me “America Danger” she was trying to say that it’s dangerous for kids in America.

      With the help of a Chinese English teacher I told her it’s not as dangerous in America as some people think. People think that way because of the American News stories of adults in the U.S. harming children.

      I never watch Chinese television here even though you can pick up loads of western channels on satellite television. I get most of my news online by reading various newspapers and watching news programs via the internet.

      I like to recap some of the global events in my classes and the students are always ready for the questions and comments. One student asked if America is losing its ‘top dog’ statues in the world. I replied that I do see China as being the ‘top dog’ in 20 years. A female student then quickly interjected that “China is not a dog.” I said to her your right ‘top dog’ is just a bad expression of who has the greatest influence and in my opinion in 20 years China will have the greatest influence on the rest of the world.

      My students’ readiness to voice their opinions in my classes is something I truly enjoy. There are times when I disagree with their comments, especially, when their perceptions of America is based on what they see in popular western films.

      One of my student’s felt that all Americans’ walk around with concealed weapons. I told him some Americans do but most don’t. I went on to say if they ever visit America they won’t have to worry about a little old lady sitting down next to them with a magnum 45 hidden in her purse.

      The western media along with western music and movies is greatly influencing China’s culture. It also influences their perception of what America stands for. America was once a land of dreams and opportunities for many in China. But their perceptions of America is changing they see the U.S. as a land of immense wealth, growing crime, and material greed.

      The sad thing about that is many here in China are ignorant of the millions of Americans struggling below the poverty line. The great divide between the haves and the have-­nots are becoming wider in America. China's middle class is now the biggest in the world, and growing much faster than America's.

      There are 109 million Chinese with an annual income between $50,000 and $500,000. Since 2000, twice as many Chinese as Americans have joined the middle class.

      The Chinese are getting richer at an astonishing rate. Wealth per adult has quadrupled to about $22,500 since 2000. The country now accounts for a fifth of the world's population, while holding about 10% of global wealth. China now has more than 1 million millionaires.

      China could also see the number of millionaires soar from 74% to 2.3 million by 2020 and a new billionaire was created every week in China in the first quarter of this year.

      With that being said both the United States and China still have an immense disparity between those who have plenty and those who have far less. I am deeply troubled by the poverty in America perhaps because I witnessed it firsthand. I also have deep empathy for those who are impoverished here in China but seeing homeless children in China is most disturbing of all. No innocent child should have to live on the street.

      It is extremely painful for me to see homeless children and some of them are forced to beg on the streets of China to all hours of the night out of despair and hunger. I tell my students that there are plenty of homeless in America too some with serious mental health issues.

      You can judge a nation by how well it reaches­-out to the unseen the so called downtrodden. They are the ones with the least influence but some Americans will complain that the U.S. is using hard earned tax dollars to help the down and out.

      Those same people who complain about Government entitlements derogatorily call it ‘Socialism.’ Helping the homeless however is not ‘Socialism’ it’s just doing the common decent thing when common decency is called for.

      America and China need to do a far better job in caring for the less fortunate.

      One thing I enjoy doing here is visiting an elementary school near my apartment. I get various invitations to go there and when I visit the school the first thing the Chinese teacher does is hand me a cup of tea. It’s a sign of respect and hospitality for my visit and the children stand up when they see me enter the room. Then they show their excitement for my being there.

      Some of the students at the primary school yell “Hello, Mr. Tom” and they practice their English with me. They keep me entertained, young at heart, and they bring out the child in me.

      The children here are also more disciplined than I was at their age and I enjoy the time I spend with them. When I was a child in America I should have worked as hard as the Chinese students do now in their studies. I also wish I had the dedicated teachers they have as well.

      The Chinese students are not smarter than American students they are just better disciplined and far better prepared for their future academic challenges. China’s emphasis on education will enhance China’s overall well-being because education is vital for any nation to compete within the global economy.

      Always with love from Suzhou, China
    Always with love from Suzhou, China
    Thomas F O’Neill
    WeChat - Thomas_F_ONeill
    U.S. voice mail: (800) 272-6464
    China Cell: 011-86-15114565945
    Skype: thomas_f_oneill
    Email: introspective7@hotmail.com
    Other articles, short stories, and commentaries by Thomas F. O'Neill can be found on his award winning blog, Link:
    http://thomasfoneill.blogspot.com
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Pieces of Paper

 
Most important are the Words
- Not where they came from
- Not who said them
...though what they mean
and Oh, what Emotions
must have passed through that Soul
that decided to describe
How it feels to be Human
and how very few words we have
to transmit those Wonderful
Feelings of the Heart
and commit them,
...Forever,
onto tiny pieces of paper
for all the World to read
and Dare - to Understand
 
©2016 Phillip Hennessy

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Imagine

 
(Waterfall)
 
Imagine, my Love as the leaves in fall
descending softly, to the ground
Imagine, my Love as a waterfall
when I'd speak, you'd drown
if I said that I Love You
and I do, Only you

 Imagine, my Love as the sun that shines
so warm and tender, always there
Imagine, my Love as the deep blue skies
a threatening cloud would be so rare
and if it rains, I know
that you will, never go

Our time together's all life and fun
my time before bears no comparison,
You're the One
©Phillip Hennessy
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Personality

 
It's the Personality
That makes you and me
What we like, what we wear
And how we like our hair
What we like on TV
Everything we came to be
What we talk about
Our choices and doubt

The music we listen to
And everything we do
The books we enjoy reading
The life that we're leading

What we believe
How we grieve
What we go through each day
And our own special way

How we love
All of the above
Personality is our soul
It's what makes us whole
©Jun 15, 2016 Bud Lemire
                       Author Note:
It's so very interesting to interact
with others and to know their
personality. How they dress,
their hair style, the way they do
things, and so much more. It sure
would be a pretty dull world if we
all were exactly the same.
Thank God for Personality!

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Lavender Moon

 
When the quiet darkness settles on my side of the earth,
my body wants to relax and feel the joy and mirth of life.
The moon starts to shine immediately, once it comes into my view
if the moon had a scent I bet it would be, lavender, with the purples an blue.

The meaning of love, and devotion and truth, all wrapped in the delicate scent,
calmness would rule the evenings, the moon covers like a glorious tent.

Heaven and earth once again, merges with love and light
A beautiful love, and beautiful scent, combined makes things all RIGHT...
©6/22/16 Judith Kroll
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Universal Treasures

 
I use to think of success as how much money you made
Every now and then I'd get a little more when paid
Money is nice to have, yet I felt that life was more
I searched within myself and found an opened door
Life for me, was just getting by
Other things in life was what got me high
A little extra money, is all that I need
Before I knew it, I had planted the seed

It grew to be a flower, with many petals on it too
And within this flower, my soul also grew
Human life teaches you, that money is the key
But I believe there's much more that you can be

The Treasures of the Universe, are often never seen
Only if you take the time, to see what's in between
Move slowly, look around, you'll see so much more
Once your visions opened, you never will ignore

Seeing the beauty around you, appreciating it too
Is a treasured feeling, which will help you through
The creatures that live here, have a part to play
Recognizing their value, every single day
In this world, we need a certain amount of money to live
But the value of the soul, is in how much that we give
©Jun 08, 2016 Bud Lemire
                      Author Note:
Too many people rush through life working their lives
away just to make the money they want and need. I've
balanced my life so I have equal amounts of both. This
way I can look and see so much more around me. I can
feel so much more within me. I can be so much more,
and have so much more, with less.

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Do you Mind?


Such a wonderful thing, the mind, it is true
Whatever we think we can do, we can do
We dream of the winning, that coveted prize
That feeling we get, suppressing surprise!

The gifts that we own, are discarded, a while
When the “new boys in town” (our thoughts), display style
Strutting around, the Ego has landed
The Enemy tired, its leaders, disbanded

“this isn’t working” the whole world cries
this language unspoken, it wears no disguise
we see it in faces, we taste all those tears
we feel it in places untouched, all those years

lamenting sad songs of woe and despair
we attract the vibration that placed us there
“come back” is the cry we so desperately seek
feigning our strength, appearing so meek

go back, or go forward, the signs they all say
the back of the future awaits you, today
shall we enter, do we dare?
Is anyone here, to take me there?

Stepping it out in huge leaps of faith
We ponder awhile, each breath that we take
The sweet smell of water, a babbling stream
Enters my nostrils, reminding of dreams

Dreams from the past, or thoughts from the future
Encircle our minds within dimensions uncertain
Reality arrives with audible grace,
A sweet, pleasant smile, adorns her face

Ah, Destiny please, remind me, this time
Why your circles entwine such lifetimes, sublime
The debts that we pay, we do not even owe
Reward is the gift of Giving, we know.

Accept these gifts, and keep them safe
They transverse time, the world, and space
Hold them dear, as Love intended
Pass them on renewed, resplendent.

Oh, Shaman, do wisdom tell
Visit me I wish, so well
Share your light with me today
A torch to pass, along my way
Let me hold it, touch it, blind
My vision’s here …..”Do you, Mind?”
©2016 Phillip Hennessy

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Back to it All

 
I don't want to stay, I don't want to go
I want you to say, whatever you know
Losing the plot is a can of worms
choosing or not, to plan your turns
So much stuff we all have to deal with
never enough to know what real is

Walking away with your back to it all
Talking each day through the crack in your wall
When Beauty cries, we feel something inside
with suitable lies, we forget that we cried

Dancing around the roofs of our lives
Chanting the sound of our Truth, realised
Speaking the words that we all learn to say
in the presence of Strangers we meet every day

Accidents of Nature will make us move along
Knowledge forsaken, our thoughts prove us wrong
We pray in our minds, we hope for the best
Repaying the kindness with no further debts

We hope what we said is not showing bad
we choke on the edge of us all going mad
trying each way to think of Humanity
crying each day to bring back our Sanity
©2016 Phillip Hennessy
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Mary, A Special Lady

 
She wakes from a dream, she wants to go home
That's where she is, and she's never alone
A smoke on her cigarette, a sip of her tea
Time spent with this special lady, was what happened to me
She'll tell it like it is, a great personality
And a wonderful heart, as I've known it to be
She loved looking out the window, on a sunny day
Intelligence was in her, in every single way

Our time was limited, on the time that was spent
Yet I feel luck, of the time that was lent
The News, Family Feud, and The Andy Griffith Show
Those were shows we'd watch, and then my time to go

“I don't eat much,” is what she'd always say
She's settle for a grilled cheese sandwich, made my way
A few chips and a pickle, and that would do
She'd eat it all, until everything was through

When I first met her, she said I was an interesting guy
I played music that she enjoyed, and the time would fly
She felt comfortable with me, considering I'm a man
I listened to her stories, from within her lifespan

I'd read Hagar The Horrible, for her to hear
It would make her laugh, a smile and a cheer
It was always an honor, to know her for our time
This special lady, Mary, was a wonderful friend of mine
©Jun 23, 2016 Bud Lemire
                       Author Note:
Whenever I came in, she wouldn't hear me and called me
Sneaky Pete. We always had a lot to talk about and I found
she was a very wonderful lady. It was always so easy to give
her a hug before leaving for the night. She was always thinking
of her love of life Forrest, and I know she is now dancing in Heaven
with him. I am sure he was waiting to take her hand as she crossed
over. She is now happy and free of the burdens that were here. Thank
you, Mary, for being a wonderful friend of mine.

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By The Numbers

The Numerology of
The Presidential Election Candidates

PROLOGUE:
This essay has been written from the perspective of the Numerology of the election. Other than at the end when I state my personal opinion, this is a non-political look at the candidates. My wish is that you read it as such. Not as a political treatise, but as an analysis of the people who are currently remaining in the race (as of the date of this writing). The contrasts are presented to illuminate what each candidate represents, not what my choice or political beliefs dictate. - MJF.



      As I write this essay in mid-June of 2016, there are currently three, major remaining candidates in the running for the presidency of the United States. They are Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. My intention here is to present a look at the candidates solely through the lens of the Numerology of their Expression numbers (the sum of all the letters in their name and who they must be in this lifetime). I found it interesting that the Expression numbers of these three are consecutive numbers and upon reflection, I realized that they represent a very distinct progression in what they stand for and reflect in the macro-picture of the metaphysical aspects of the world. In essence they each represent a phase in the process of moving from where we have been and in many ways currently are, to the place we must be with a transitional phase bridging the two points. FIVE, SIX and SEVEN are the middle numbers of the numerological procession from 1 to 9. In this case, the 5 would be the starting point, the 6 would be the middle ground allowing for the transition to the final number in the sequence, the 7.

      I will begin with an overall definition of what the number means.
FIVE (5) - Expansion/Balance. The human condition. The lower mind.

      The number FIVE is the middle number between 1 and 9, thus it represents the fulcrum on which all other numbers balance. Consequently FIVE is a representation of balance. It is the second of the most commonly occurring numbers in a name and provides the qualities of change, adaptability, mobility, and imagination as well as a sense of adventure and curiosity. FIVE is also a representation of the five human senses, so it will also provide an inclination towards indulgence in “pleasures of the senses” if shown in abundance. In ancient Greece, FIVE was the number of man and was a representation of the five elements of fire, water, air, earth and psyche. It is a representation of travel, change, and movement.

      FIVE can express too much freedom and adventure and it needs to be responsibly channeled into positive action. The restlessness will be cured by the appearance of:
SIX (6) – Responsibility and healing. The place of resetting the paradigm while creating an environment that is all encompassing and nurturing for all.

      The number SIX represents a sense of responsibility, being conscientious, the home and family, purpose, law, and the cosmic parent. Six brings harmony, truth, justice and a sense of balance to its environment. It also is indicative of the mother and the father, along with the teacher, health care worker, and counselor. SIX is the healer. It is an energy that strives to take care of others and so is indicative of service to others. There is a need to balance the desire to be of service to others with the demands and needs of the family and home.

      The SIX lacks sensitivity to spirituality. It is too willing to accept life without exploring the deeper meaning to gain understanding. This lack of spirituality leads to the need for the:
SEVEN (7) – Knowing/Learning. The place we must move towards. A place of learning and understanding that the world is more than the physical plane. The higher mind.

      SEVEN is the seeker and represents the inner self and spirituality, along with the powers of analysis and understanding. It seeks to uncover the hidden facts and meanings of things and has a thirst to know and understand. It is a number of religion, intuition, the occult, the mystic, the researcher, the teacher and the writer. It has a strong interest in mathematics and science and in understanding the rhythm and inner workings of the world in which it lives. Since research, analysis and understanding need solitude, the SEVEN feels a need to be alone, away from crowds, preferably in nature. It prefers to spend its time with like-minded individuals and those who have an elevated consciousness. Its goal is one of one of perfected thinking. It is these qualities that ascribe the sacred image that SEVEN holds. Knowledge is necessary to build on intuition (if you are going to go on your feelings, it would be a good idea to know what it is you are feeling).

      To further expound upon these descriptions, let's take a look at a deeper meaning of what they represent in the context of this essay and the Numerology of how this plays out in this year's election.

      The FIVE, which is the first number in this sequence of three numbers is a reflection of from where we are coming and to a great degree, where we currently are. It represents the old ways that are in need of being removed from our existence as human beings or greatly altered to better reflect a nation that promises equality for all. It shows the lower mind and the ego as represented by the human condition and the five senses. With its close association with the human condition and its very physical being, this number appeals to the ego-driven mind and experiential extremes of human behavior. It shows the pleasure-driven aspects of living and in many instances it is rooted in the basest aspects of living life, e.g. pleasure for the sake of pleasure and ego gratification. By not giving much thought to the aspects of the higher mind, the Five stays rooted in the drive for money and materialism, thriving on greed and creating and maintaining a separation from those things that are necessary for us to improve and grow as a nation. While the Five has an aspect of change and transition, if it gets caught up in the pleasures of living it may opt to stay where it is, forsaking growth and movement for the sake of 'living in the moment'.

      The FIVE Expression is the person who lives for, and learns from, experience. This person is easily bored and quite curious. They will thrive in a situation where they have opportunities to be a traveler. This is not an office worker as their restless nature will chafe with the restrictions of being in one spot, doing the same thing repeatedly. They work best in a job that requires movement. The FIVE Expression needs constant stimulation and excitement. They are quite adaptable while being quick-minded and quick-acting. This person is impulsive, daring, action driven, and may get angry if restricted. This Expression number is creative and their curiosity leads them to be a pioneer in new ventures. The FIVE is also drawn to social activity and they are a magnet to which others are drawn. They have great sexual appeal and will usually be attractive, even if in a somewhat off-beat manner. Their sexuality is often subtle but noticeable. In relationships, the FIVE must have independence and freedom. If provided this, they will be loyal companions and mates. Negative aspects of this Expression are personalities that are moody, irritable, and high strung. They may be restless and shiftless, with a tendency towards pleasure above all else. They may also have a tendency to be outspoken, controversial and rude. Their curious nature and active minds may be hard for others to handle. The FIVE has a casual, 'live for the day' attitude and consequently money comes and goes in their lives.

      The SIX, which is the second number in this sequence is a representation of the responsibility and service to others that is necessary to rein in the excesses of the FIVE. In the context of this sequence it also represents an energy that is torn between wanting to maintain the status quo while at the same time, holding on to that which is. It shows us the place to which we must transition as we move forward on our quest to reach the higher mind and an all-encompassing attitude of oneness and equality. As an indicator of the female energy associated with being the “mother”, it is a number that looks to do right for the many through its actions and its service in pursuit of the common good for the community.

      The SIX EXPRESSION
is the number that thrives in positions of service to others. This number is the homemaker and is truly 'the marrying kind'. This person is friendly, and a loyal and trusted friend, who makes friends easily. A SIX has a great sense of responsibility and will gravitate toward, and take on positions that require it. There is an idealistic quality that is a very strong part of this individual's make-up. They are very community oriented and become involved in local projects surrounding their home, schools and the town in which they reside. This also leads them to be a pillar of the community where they live. The SIX Expression has a great appreciation for things of beauty, the home, marriage, family, the arts, music and literature, and all these things are enjoyed and loved. The person with this number is respectful of self and others. They embrace taking on responsibility for themselves, their family, and others, in some instances, even strangers. In so doing, they are loving and soft-spoken, as well as helpful and concerned with the well-being of self and others. A caution with this number is that it may put self before others, often to the detriment of themselves. The SIX is prudent and respectful and is not a risk taker. They are conscientious and may be demanding of self and others to behave in a way that is beneficial to all. Negative conditions of this number are tendencies to be smug, conceited, outspoken, and meddlesome. They may also be a worrier or exhibit co-dependent behavior in relationships. Also in relationships, they should be aware of being jealous or a domestic tyrant. Other strong negative traits are that the person may be overly opinionated and stubborn and likely to dig in their heels, creating situations where they then have difficulty retracting their position.

      This leads us to the final number of the sequence, the SEVEN. In this instance, the SEVEN represents the higher mind and the collective consciousness coupled with the idealism of wanting things to be the way we wish they could be or better, know the way they should be. With its innate and natural ability and willingness to question 'why' it is a number that does not easily accept the status quo. In many ways it is all-knowing and what it does not know it seeks to learn and understand. It is strongly based in its intelligence, intuition and spirit. Being of the higher mind it possesses the innate understanding of the way things are and the way things should be. It is the number that is perfectly suited to lead us into the 'new world', a world of inclusion and respect for the fact that we are all in this together. The number that “knows” and seeks to create an environment that is reflective of that knowing. The SEVEN sees the future and works to bring it about in a way that incorporates all that is necessary to make things right for everyone.

      The SEVEN Expression
is the number of the scientist, mathematician, researcher, analyst, teacher and writer, as well as the psychic, medium, occult teacher, and spiritual counselor. This person is both philosophical and intellectual. Independent and desirous of privacy, this is the solitary researcher, the seeker of knowledge, information, and wisdom. The SEVEN has a great interest in science, mathematics, analysis, and technology. He is the person who looks for the "why" of things and spends his life on a quest for understanding. A perfectionist by nature, the SEVEN Expression may demand more of others than is possible as they have high standards and expectations of others. This is a number of trial and tribulation (as a reason for living). This individual is insightful and intuitive, possessing great understanding, sympathy and sensitivity to the people and the world in which he lives. The overwhelming desire to know and learn may lead to travel and adventure, as the SEVEN has an almost unquenchable thirst to unlock the secrets of the universe. With its keen and inquisitive mind, this individual is also a puzzle master. The SEVEN Expression is not overly demonstrative although they possess a deep well of emotions. This person must find a way to express these emotions as it may lead to anger and frustration if not shown. They may usually be quiet and withdrawn, and are often labeled stuck-up or aloof. Because the SEVEN understands, they may appear unreasonable, as they expect others to do likewise. In consideration of their naturally introverted nature, they may seek compatibility more than love. They are not overly concerned with image, but more about what makes the person. With a keen mind, they are inquisitive and demanding of others, but they do not react kindly to same. In dealing with a SEVEN, one must understand that they will reveal themselves in their own time and on their own terms. If pushed or confronted with nosy people, they may be inclined to withdraw deeper into their shell. Negative characteristics of the SEVEN are a tendency to be sarcastic, unreasonable and argumentative. They may also be shifty, a schemer, a liar, or abusive. Because of their ability to discern the person below the surface, they may use that information in a manipulative fashion.

      In reading these descriptions, you may have been able to discern for yourself which number applies to which candidate. The FIVE is Donald J. Trump, representing from where we are coming and where we currently are, stuck in the aspects of the lower mind. An in-your-face template for much of what is wrong in America today and a huge representation of the great imbalances that exists.

      The SIX is Hillary Rodham Clinton, the transitional figure who can guide us (perhaps temporarily) through a period that allows us to reject and move past the aspects and conditions of the old as we prepare to move into a new paradigm. She brings to the table the energy of the feminine that is needed to balance and perhaps counteract the overwhelming male influence that guides our country. Change takes time and transition is a part of that change.

      That leaves Bernie Sanders being the SEVEN, showing us the great possibilities of what can be in a country that once again (or, perhaps for the first time) provides an all-inclusive attitude and equality for everyone. An energy not constrained by the rules and dogmas of the old but instead possessing a willingness to move forward into new territory. Moving forward with a sense of spirit and intellect that can transport us beyond that which is keeping us stagnant in a system that is in serious need of overhaul. Bernie is showing people that there is an alternative to the dark side of politics and he is doing what he needs to do which is to show that there is an alternative and that there is an audience for that alternative. The seeds of the revolution have been planted. Unless you know of a plant that springs forth immediately as soon as you put the seeds in the ground, then you must exercise patience and work for the changes that are desired.

      It is this author's opinion and belief that change is extremely necessary for America. As I referenced in my earlier essay about the 9 Universal Year that is 2016 www.michaeljohnfierro.com/blog, this is a year of endings and we must make a concerted, collective effort to rid ourselves of those things that no longer serve the common good. In the realm of endings, I believe we are also seeing the beginning of the end of the political parties as they are currently constructed. The splintering that is occurring may very well lead to a move towards a multi-party political system as opposed to the two party system that has dominated the country for a majority of the last 160 years. In many ways, the three remaining candidates show us all the many differences between the past, present and future in a very dramatic fashion. I have previously said that this is not only a turning point year, but a turning point election. Not since 1980 has America been faced with such a monumental choice in how we move forward. 2016 is the final year in a 36-year cycle that began in 1980. Where do we wish to go moving forward? Who do we wish to be as a nation? When it comes right down to the basics, what vision do you, the individual have for the future? In what type of country do you wish to live and more importantly, what type of country do you wish to leave for your children and grandchildren? Will we continue to live in a country beset with the ugliness and problems associated with racism, bigotry, xenophobia, inequality, gender biases, homelessness and poverty? Do we wish to continue living in a nation that is more concerned with money, military and power than it is the well-being of each and every one of our citizens? Or, will we decide that it is time to recognize that the America dream encompasses more than the aspirational desires of acquiring more for the individual at the expense of anyone else?

      Even though I am a Bernie supporter, based upon my analysis and interpretation of the numbers, it is my personal belief that Clinton will win as she represents the shifting paradigm away from the patriarchal towards the matriarchal. She is the past, present and future and she may very well be a one-term president, serving as a place holder for an even better and more divergent choice in the next election. Of course, this will be entirely dependent upon how much progress we make between 2017 and 2020. Bernie has shown us what can be and, in all probability, will be in the future. He shows us that politics is not about the one or a few. It is about everyone...we the people. It seems to be a theme and a construct that he understands better than either of the other candidates. Trump shows us what we are and from whence we came and demonstrates in a very loud fashion, that it is time to move away from that energy. He is the ugliness and dark, shadow side of America writ large and, in many ways is serving the purpose of putting it in our faces while forcing us to look at ourselves in the mirror. So, the final decision of you, the reader is obviously up to you. No matter your choice, give it long and deep thought. Give consideration to the type of country, and the type of leader you wish to have to move America into the future. Step away from political affiliations and make your decision based upon humanity and the common good for the choice we make this year will lay the groundwork for not only the next 4 years but also, the next 36 years.

      It is my deepest desire and prayer that the collective awakening takes root and deeply embeds itself in the very fabric of our nation. The decisions made this year will have an extreme and defining impact for the next 36 years. Reflect on that thought.

      This is about much more than politics.

      Peace, love and light.

      Michael John Fierro Numerologist/Author

© 2016, Michael John Fierro. All rights reserved. Portions were previously published in YOU KNOW YOUR NAME...LOOK UP YOUR NUMBERS (© 2010/2012). Reproduction without the consent of the author is prohibited.

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