http://www.thetentacle.com/ Thursday, November 12, 2009
Fulfill the Promises or Face ConsequencesTony Soltero
There's a lot of anger out there. It's been out there for several years, and every year Americans take the occasion of elections to express this anger.
Helping the Bad Guys SucceedPatricia A. Kelly
I’m sitting at my computer wearing a pendant that reads, in Arabic, “There is no God but God”. I‘m not a Muslim. I’m wearing it in sympathy for the many innocent Muslims who will suffer more hatred as a result of the Fort Hood killings by Major Nidal Malik Hasan.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Stop with the Political Correctness…Kevin E. Dayhoff
As Americans look forward to honoring our nation’s veterans today; we do so with heavy hearts in the wake of the senseless and cowardly murder of a dozen soldiers and one civilian at the Fort Hood (TX) Soldier Readiness Processing Center last Thursday.
Tom Goes Spark’in – Part 2Tom McLaughlin
Kuching, Malaysia – I decided that I was tired of living, sleeping and traveling alone. I am ready to find a wife and begin a new marriage after five years of bachelorhood. I have met many ladies here in Malaysia and have been courting a 42-year-old Malay girl. (see last weeks column).
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
“Berlin bleibt doch Berlin”Roy Meachum
That’s how Marlene Dietrich sang it. “Berlin remains Berlin after all” may be the closest translation I can make in English. I lived there years before the Wall went up; the 20th anniversary of its fall was celebrated around the world yesterday, setting off memories in me.
Math Anxiety: Causes and CuresNick Diaz
Test anxiety is a common problem for many students, regardless of level – middle, high, or college. At the college level, this is an especially difficult problem for those who are in “developmental” courses. Unfortunately, it is also common to experience test anxiety only in math, and not in other courses.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Various and Sundry…around the hornSteven R. Berryman
Last week’s column went out on The Tentacle at over 1,400 words and I swore to do better this week. To wit, I offer you these nicely abbreviated sundry items:
Extend the Credit; Curb the FraudMichael Kurtianyk
Last Friday, President Barack Obama signed a bill extending the first-time homebuyer tax credit through April 30, 2010. Though controversial (more on this later), overall, it’s a positive step to improve our economy.
REVIEW: Michael Jackson, I Never Knew YouRoy Meachum
It was a surprise. Young people were walking around the local movie theatres with pasteboard and plastic festooning their wrists. A guy when asked where he was going responded: “The Michael Jackson movie.”
Friday, November 6, 2009
Jennifer FactorRoy Meachum
She certainly has a way about her. The sometime saloonkeeper and Irish gift merchant that came up from Washington to attend Mount St. Mary’s and decided she liked what she saw. Jennifer Dougherty has been a heavy factor in Frederick’s elections the last eight years.
District ElectionsJoe Charlebois
As the newly elected administration at Frederick’s City Hall moves in, one thing is certain; with or without the annexations, Frederick will need to grow. Mayor-elect Randy Mc Clement understands this. More homes will need to be built and land will need to be acquired if new business is to take up roots and provide good paying local jobs.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Happy Days Are Here Again?Chris Cavey
Tuesday evening I joined the Republican faithful gathered in Frederick at The Green Turtle to watch election results. While they were cheering the victory of Randy McClement, mayor-elect of Frederick City, I couldn’t help but think that perhaps the political pendulum crossed the apex and was now swinging the other way. Their way.
Looking Back Going ForwardMichael Kurtianyk
The results are in, and the voters have chosen Randy McClement over Jason Judd in the City of Frederick election. Before getting into the specifics, Congratulations are due both candidates for running a strong, civil race. Despite pressures from others, both men campaigned without slinging mud. Let’s hope the county races next year are run with the same decorum and respect.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Pulling the Plug on MarylandKevin E. Dayhoff
Word spread quickly through Maryland early Monday evening that the Black and Decker Manufacturing Company is “merging” with The Stanley Works. Black and Decker employees were notified by email at 4:30 P.M. of the $4.5 billion all-stock acquisition of the venerable old Maryland manufacturer.
Tom Goes Spark’inTom McLaughlin
Kuching, Malaysia – Being a relatively healthy male, I enjoy the company of women and learning the dating customs has been a challenge. Wandering around in my mid 50’s, yet thinking I am in my 20’s, I have met and carefully enjoyed many platonic associations.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Pushkin between the PollsRoy Meachum
On this voting day in the city, I can almost envy Pushkin; the boy Pointer will sail through the whole democratic process unaffected. He might be inconvenienced by accompanying me to the basement of Evangelical Lutheran Church on East Church Street. Although his shank is long and his beard grizzled, he always finds admirers. No sweat.
20091112 sdosm This week in The Tentacle
