A writer's Random ramblings
The world lost a radio icon on February 17, 2021. On this morning, Rush Limbaugh succumbed to lung cancer. I write this not to take sides on anything, but to report how his show affected those around me. I come to this idea as a political centrist, where my views lean in different directions for different issues. However, this article seeks to describe what effect Mr. Limbaugh had on my world.
As I watch and listen to many sources of information, he brought the conservative Republican view into comprehensible words any time I heard the show. I came away from it having learned in concrete ways how he and his followers understood issues in the news. The show contained many expressions of his perspective, sometimes coming off as pompous, at others as more relatable. Many times, although I knew he could not hear my rebuttals, I found myself debating his points. This seemed to provide academic style entertainment for others around any time it happened. I only wish I could have seen him go on television and debate either a liberal or more centrist commentator. In general, my debates came up whenever Mr. Limbaugh would talk of human issues, usually those he opposed. He always held the Democratic party as his fiercest rival. He set off my wanting to debate his AM-radio verbiage by consistently calling them “the Democrat party” as if both this side and his beloved Republicans could be called by using the same word as both noun and adjective. Many times, he would call certain groups of women “feminazi.” Although that may be partly radio-speak, I often would remind anyone along with me at the time of that term meaning only a small minority of women, who want to use force to become greater than men. Most women, and the men who support them, could better be called feminist, as we look more for equality regardless of sex or gender identity. I also recall several shows where he inflamed me from a generational standpoint, by not seeming to understand those of us in Generation X. Sometimes, it would be that he forgot to include us in the discussion, and at others, use generalizations that did not apply to anyone I know of my generation. I always found the show easier to handle when he discussed economic or policy issues. On those days, the program felt more educational than opinionated. This makes for better listening by not making me want to scream back at the radio. Rush’s show always seemed to break down the numbers behind the economics better than most other sources I could find before getting online and finding the original data. In spite of his explanations coming from the conservative side of the fence, he always included facts on the fiscal and foreign policy nobody else had. He also wove in world history in a way many reporters and commentators don’t to support economic or policy points. For these reasons, I can respect Rush Limbaugh even though I don’t see the world as he did. He often made points that led to civil discussions or debates in my world long after the show. Finding a source who can do that enlightens the world in a way nothing else can. This remains the reason political and philosophical people prize the structure of debate, whether on a stage or among friends.
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2020, you showed humanity a year
In which nothing ever became truly clear. Protest after riot, none of which provided light, Bringing a time of conversation devolving into fight, Never making a difference if it occurred in one house Or caused most of society to grouse Over how a deadly virus began in one nation Then went on to worldwide decimation While science sought a way Of ending the germ’s chance to stay, But COVID went on to mutate in a chain Where it seemed each day a new strain Did in the world appear, Making us all hate the year. COVID’s nasty health and safety rules Gave everyone the blues Since have to wear a mask To do most any task In the public sphere Before coming home to wash our hands and be clear Until we Once again need the PPE And to practice social distancing of 6 feet away From anyone with whom we talk or play Even though we now hope to have some fun In the year 2021. Valentine’s Day now knocks at our door. In one week, lovers everywhere will send gifts to their beloved. What can a beer lover do for a chocolate lover? Can one product satisfy both and give them a topic for discussion?
Yes, one product can bring both parties together. As of the Holiday season of 2020, Yuengling partnered with Hershey Chocolate, since both companies reside in Pennsylvania. The resulting chocolate porter-style beer brings together the best of both worlds for chocoholics and beer lovers. Mashups such as this make great gifts to get people talking about their passions. In the case of Yuengling-Hershey Chocolate Porter, bittersweet baking chocolate meets porter beer. This could provide a great base for many types of recipes. Many would use it as an ingredient for chocolate cake or pie, for example. However, such a hearty type of beer could bring a new flavor profile to a beef stew or pot of chili. Either would take on a Mexican style of cookery by so doing, as the ancient cultures there used chocolate in many meals and beverages for their kings. The chocolate porter would chase down any of these dishes efficiently. It also stands on its own for either dessert after a large meal or for winding down at night’s end. According to Yuengling’s website, the partnership made the beer for draft before, but chose to add a bottled version as of 2020. Amid the pandemic, this proved to be a smart move on their part. Now, those who prefer to drink at home for any reason can try the dessert brew without going beyond their favorite store. Whether for health reasons to avoid human contact or just wanting to be alone, everyone can experience what happens when chocolate meets beer. The Chocolate Porter provides the same taste whether one buys it on draft, as we originally did when we saw it, or from a nicely chilled bottle. Beer lovers of both camps can appreciate this since many beers have a slightly different flavor from the bottle than the tap. Thus, the Yuengling-Hershey Chocolate Porter combination will impress many. Those who love chocolate could learn to enjoy beer this way. Here’s hoping this partnership sticks around! After all, we could all use changes from our “usual” sometimes, whether in the form of a new recipe or a new beverage, or even a product that does double duty. I follow Linganore Winecellars on Instagram, so when they release a new wine, my husband and I talk about it. Many times, we look for it around town. In the case of Seventh, it took Christmas to help us get around to trying the new wine. I had added it in with several other new concepts from the liquor store to create a gift.
The Instagram post on which I had found Seventh mentioned notes of strawberry, raspberry and apple. This made us curious to try it and think of what we could match with it. We tried the wine by itself as a relaxation agent at the end of a night. After all, one bottle provides us each about two glasses. We found this a fair way to taste a new wine. Although we enjoyed it after chilling the bottle in the refrigerator, the flavor allows Seventh to act as a room temperature beverage. In the clear bottle in which Seventh arrives at the store, it looks like a rose style wine, which many would think sweet. The tasting notes provided on Instagram also led us to this idea. Much to our surprise, however, Seventh came across as a dry rose with subtle notes of berry and apple at the end. This complexity and subtlety remind us also of the personality of Maryland, the seventh state of the USA, from which the wine gets its name. This gives the wine a fun nod to history and those who appreciate the discipline. We agree with the Winery that Seventh would pair well with poultry or soft cheeses. Brie or Camembert, either on crackers or baked with puff pastry and grapes or berries would make a perfect appetizer. Seventh would also pair well with milder flavored vegetables such as asparagus or cauliflower, especially one with a white cheddar or other mild cheese sauce. A simple salad would also do well with this wine for someone seeking a lighter meal. In the dessert realm, a bowl of fruit or slice of pie would likely match best. Bittersweet chocolate or perhaps white chocolate provide better bases for endings to meals when the diner prefers chocolate. Whether you prefer to visit Linganore Winecellars in New Market, Maryland, or find it in your local store, Seventh provides a worthwhile experience for the money. A still, dry rose, Seventh gives a consumer a different combination of nose to taste that pairs with all courses of a meal or a quiet night. History lovers, those who enjoy wine for its own sake or as a beverage with food, and the plain curious of drinking age will enjoy this offering from Linganore. My husband and I have a beloved Christmas tradition where I usually buy him a bottle of Scotch whiskey, among his other gifts. However, 2020 had other ideas. The price of a bottle in my area went up so high, I caught sticker shock. What could I do? Knowing that he also appreciates trying new tastes occasionally, I looked down the shelf to Irish style whiskey.
As I hunted for my price range, I found Jameson Stout-Barrel Aged Irish Whiskey. The price to this was just the ticket for my budget a few days before Christmas. Plus, we had seen it before but had not yet tried it. I figured that since it said the whiskey had aged in a barrel formerly occupied by one of our favorite beer styles, it would be time to try it. Jameson’s Stout-Barrel Aged Irish Whiskey has the nose to show where it aged. It comes from the bottle with an amber color rivaling any Scotch I have tried. This whiskey has a smooth finish on the palate to rival many more expensive brands. The main difference besides price between this and other whiskey comes in the flavor, with Jameson Stout-Barrel Aged containing just enough stout type flavor to convince the drinker that it came from the same barrel. Those who like origin to match name will greatly appreciate this attribute. Aging in the stout barrel also gives this style enough of a twist of flavor to let people know that it comes from Jameson but gives a different experience from either regular Jameson or the company’s IPS-Barrel Aged whiskey offered on the same shelf. Jameson Stout-Barrel Aged Whiskey acts as a great chaser to the orts left after a cup of coffee or as a perfect unwinding drink at the day’s end. One could drink it with dessert after Saint Patrick’s Day dinner or as an aperitif before any meal. It works as an everyday substitute for the pricier drinks or a gift for any occasion. This ability allows for the whiskey to adapt beautifully to any time of day, celebration, or occasion, which that adds to its value for those who prefer bang for the buck. Thus, I highly recommend Jameson products, especially the Stout-Barrel Aged Whiskey, as a gift for oneself or any other who appreciates the finer items of life while minding the money. I would buy this again as long as I can find it. After all, Jameson Stout-Barrel Aged Irish Whiskey brings together great flavor and fun for those who enjoy great drinks. With a pandemic happening, what does a family do for Christmas Eve dinner? After all, nobody wants to cook in anticipation of the big Christmas Day dinner. In the spirit of delivery fatigue, we decided to go out to a favorite local hangout. Responsible restaurants already offered safe distances between tables, so why not?
We chose to visit our friends at Foster’s on the Point, a family run place here in Hagerstown, Maryland (http://www.fostersonthepoint.com) that has existed since 2017. We had also picked up our older daughter’s birthday snacks of nachos and calamari there back in April, when we could only do take-out or delivery as the pandemic raged. Knowing that we always like their food and drink, it felt like the right place for the occasion. Plus, each person at the table could order something different to satisfy their hunger. Bonus points for not making it necessary that everyone agree on one dish! To my pleasant surprise, Foster’s had crab cake sandwiches on the menu. I had been looking to make these at home, but unable to find most of the key ingredients. They placed a large fried crab cake, more crab than filler, on a fluffy bun. The provided tartar sauce balances out the sandwich and makes it much more like what I would find in my native Annapolis. This reminded me of the way my grandmother taught me to make the recipe, which I greatly appreciate, as many places do not use nearly enough Old Bay and/or put too much breadcrumb type filler in the cakes. Foster’s also makes the potato chips in-house and gives these a liberal dose of Old Bay when the patron orders that flavor of chips. Paired with a beer for those over 21, this dish brings the central Maryland flavor west to Hagerstown the best I have found. In conclusion, if you find yourself hungry in Hagerstown, Maryland, give Foster’s on the Point a try. Although the menu changes periodically, the food always hits the spot. Whether you seek Maryland specialties or items found in many places, Foster’s on the Point seeks to satisfy your hunger and thirst. They provide the atmosphere of a small family restaurant, which they are, mixed with diner and finer food to fulfill almost any craving a patron can bring them. Look them up at http://www.fostersonthepoint.com for all the information you need. Have you been seeking a different type of socks? Bored with the basics and what seems common? Try Hot Sox, found on the Internet at http://www.hotsox.com for art fans of all ages. This company sells some of the zaniest socks I have seen. This fits my personality, and I have received the socks as gifts as well as buying them for myself.
Hot Sox offers socks for the whole family. One must be careful in sizing and be sure to match the socks to the wearer’s shoe size. I noticed this firsthand with my 10-year-old daughter. She needed to borrow a pair of socks for tap dance class, so I pulled out a pair of my Hot Sox with Degas’ painting “Dancers” on them. Since she currently wears a women’s size 6 shoe, my socks fit her very well, only a tad long. While the socks stretch wonderfully for me, they looked like knee-highs for her. Although the socks stretch well, the fabric used also makes them extremely soft and comfortable. Hot Sox come in several collections for people of all ages and genders. My experience comprises many pair from Women’s styles. Last Christmas, I received a pair of black socks with white dots, a pair with a wine print, and several pair with various art masterworks. The art series allows the buyer to choose among not only what pieces of art rocks the wearer’s world, but often on what color background that art should live. As an example, I personally own the aforementioned “Dancers” socks in both pink and blue. I have also built my sock wardrobe around Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus,” Michelangelo’s “David, and Picasso’s “Starry Night.” I picked up several of these themes with multiple backgrounds as items went on sale. Hot Sox runs sales as they change the collections up. It pays to stay heads-up using the site to build a new wardrobe of socks or find the perfect pair for gift giving. Unless choosing from seasonal themes, which do come up as appropriate, Hot Sox make great gifts for any occasion. A ballerina or other dancer might appreciate the Degas socks using a favorite color for the background as a birthday gift. Someone graduating from a history or art program might enjoy a pair of socks keyed to a favorite era in art for that occasion. Hot Sox, while zany, do not detract from those who dress for fashion. The socks only add a surprise to an outfit when other folks see them and can ask the wearer questions. They can spark conversation or simply make the wearer feel good knowing art can go the feet. Thus, one need not always confine art or pretty patterns to the main parts of an outfit. For this reason, Hot Sox (http://www.hotsox.com) deserves a place in the drawer of anyone seeking subtle ways to show personality. Calling all ladies! Have you been seeking a new bra? Did the old one wear out or shrink too much in the laundry? Do you find a high degree of difficulty in finding something comfortable, whether or not you play sports?
Recently, I found my own answer to a lot of these very questions. While I do not consider myself athletic and do not participate in sports, Modvica’s Racerback sports bra provides what I need. It brings a tank top style to put under any shirt I choose to wear. The product page on Amazon says those to whom the idea applies could wear this as a yoga top as well. It comes in a range of colors to suit many styles, although I chose gray so it would camouflage better under lighter shirts. I find the Large size of this bra very comfortable even though I am somewhat larger than the size chart claims a woman should be to wear it. Since this bra has the basic styling of a tank top and is made of a nylon/spandex combination, the straps do not slide from the shoulders as so many others do. The actual bra itself comes in black with the cropped tank top over t in the color a buyer chooses. I also appreciate that I do not need to fumble with any type of hooks on this bra since it goes on over the head. When the bra arrives, it has a small pad in each cup. These serve to hide a woman’s nipples very well in case she worries about that. The wearer can take the pads out through a small hole near the seam in the armpit on each side. Then, if necessary, the pads can be re-inserted through the same spots. For those with a larger bust, removing the pads will make the bra more comfortable, as it did for me. The airflow through this bra keeps the wearer cooler than any I have tried, a great but usually hard to find feature. All in all, I plan on buying more of these as the need arises. I would recommend having these in several colors to go with all aspects of the wardrobe. This great bra deserves more attention from those in the market for a new style as they shop for the category of clothing. Can a pandemic do anything good for society? Yes, it gives people the abundance of time to go online and find new places to do businesses. For example, when my family craved a new hot sauce, we could not find in store despite it being advertised, we turned to the Internet. This led us to Route One Apparel, a shop based in Towson, Maryland specializing in products with local appeal.
Although I live about 100 miles away from them, in Hagerstown, I receive products in a few days from order. I greatly appreciated this the first time, when I ordered some Old Bay hot sauce for my husband’s Father’s Day gift. The family could finally try it, after having checked many stores to no avail. This vinegar-based sauce uses Maryland’s signature spice, Old Bay, rather than typical peppers, to create the flavor. This distinguishes the limited time offering (as it as advertised) from anything I tasted before. The sauce itself acts as a great condiment on any dish from chicken nuggets to a sandwich needing spice. Those who love Old Bay would not need to mix the hot sauce into mayo, mustard, or anything else. At the same time as the sauce, we also ordered a tote bag with the Old Bay logo, which we use for grocery store trips to this day. The vinyl bag with woven handles remains strong, although we prefer to use it for dry goods. Since then, I have ordered twice from Route One Apparel. The first time, I bought 2 t-shirts. These came to me so soft that I find them great for the days where itchy skin flares up. The black t-shirts boast Maryland specific designs, which makes me happy as a proud Marylander. The graphics on both speak much the way people in most of Maryland would. One even spells the phrase “wash your hands,” a timely reminder amidst the pandemic, as “warsh your hands,” the way people from central Maryland remind one another to do the necessary task. The other shows a can of Old Bay being shaken over some imaginary food and declaring the use of the spice as the Maryland way. I could not agree more. When I needed a second mask to prevent COVID, I found great designs on Route One. It took several looks through this part of the website to finally decide. I decided upon a purple and orange crab design. This remains the only mask not of a gaiter design that I can comfortably wear without the ear loops falling off or squeezing too much. The design makes this mask fun, as not many places use purple and orange together. I know Route One did that to celebrate the Baltimore Orioles by using orange and the Ravens by using the purple but seeing my two favorite colors in one place made it for me. The crab brings everything together to represent Maryland by way of our state crustacean. Thus, I finally found my perfect design. So, yes, a global disaster can bring on some good along with the bad. It gives us new reasons to get online. When we do, we can find businesses we otherwise would not encounter. By engaging in commerce with them, everyone can help one another create the society we all wish could happen, one that can emerge even stronger on the other side of the disaster. Looking for Alternative Relief of Sleeplessness, Hot Flashes, and Other Symptoms? Try This!10/9/2020 Many people feel medical challenges, but do not want to or cannot take chemical fixes. What do we do if this is the case or our doctors did not provide effective advice? Considering clinical advice, hemp-based solutions exist in all states and over the Internet. These will not cause legal trouble even where marijuana remains illegal. For example, I live in Maryland, and can only get hemp without a medical license. I recently found Fantasy Organic Hemp Gummies on Amazon.
These come in the form of small gummy bear-shaped supplements. Each one, per the label, contains 4500 mg of CBD from the hemp plant. On Amazon, the company sells two-packs of bottles of the gummies. Each bottle contains five flavors with a sour salt on the outside. This gives the gummies a taste similar to Sour Patch Kids candy. Please keep the bears away from small children, since this dose of CBD promotes sleep too well. In the flavor and color department, I found a few discrepancies with the flavors listed by the makers on Amazon. On the site, the company describes red gummies as having a cherry flavor. However, once one factors in the sour substance on the outside, red reads as more of a fruit punch flavor. This makes it tastier to my household. The orange colored ones are billed to taste as the color appears but pack a slight mango punch when eaten. I did not find any information on Amazon as to the flavors behind green, blue, or yellow gummies. To my palate, green brought a lime lollipop type of flavor. Blue gummies have a flavor resembling a blue raspberry slushie drink, and yellow packs a lemon punch that will wake up the taste buds before the CBD inside promotes relaxation and pain relief. Since these contain only CBD from hemp, they do not cause the “high” associated with marijuana. As I mentioned earlier, this keeps Fantasy Organic Hemp Gummies legal in the United States. Making them available online allows the manufacturer to promote them to more people. Ladies in menopause who experience hot flashes and night sweats, as well as arthritis and muscle pain sufferers, will appreciate the alleviation of symptoms. The gummies also put the itch of eczema or atopic dermatitis to bed for the night. This will allow the product to promote rest and even sleep to many who have not found this restoration otherwise. Those who enjoy a glass of wine or other adult beverage before bed need not worry, as the gummies do not have any ill effects when used in combination with alcohol. Antihistamines also do not cause any side effects with hemp gummies when used as directed. Thus, many medical challenges can be relieved with Fantasy Organic Hemp Gummies. These show a great ability to help a person relax and destress before bed. They are well worth the price on Amazon.com for the above reasons. |
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