A new blog you should see...

Don’t forget to donate to the Memory Walk. If you don’t want to donate using a credit card, you can click on a link to a donation form that you can print out and mail in with a check. If you can’t find the form, call me and I will email the form to you.

Labor Day Weekend is almost here!! Yes, I have already packed.

I’m just sayin… would like to point you to a new blog on the inter-web that is written by my cousin and good friend, Louis. As you know, we at I’m just sayin… have always said we will talk about any and everything here except chicken. Chicken is one subject that we decided a long time ago to leave to the experts and finally the expertiest of all the experts on the chicken topic has decided to step up to the plate (or should I say platter?) and write a blog about chicken.

There is a good chance I will be the opening act at a wedding next summer. I can’t go into details right now because my people are still negotiating with people close to The Bride. I also had some pretty good ideas for the wedding in general, but we won’t go into that right now either (though I will say a live tiger was involved). There is still a good bit of time between now and next summer, so I’m not too worried about getting all the little things in this negotiation worked out in time for me to work my first wedding.

The high school football season has started. I didn’t go to many games when I was in high school because most of my friends were playing. And I have something The Wife has diagnosed as social anxiety. I think another reason is that I didn’t want to have all of the cheerleaders get in trouble for running up into the stands to sit with me. Laugh if you want, but many a cheerleader could be found back in those days hanging out with me all over James Island. Was it my looks? Or perhaps by athletic ability? Or my personality? I can’t say for sure… It probably had something to do with the fact that they were dating my friends and we were all hanging out together, but if I had to guess I’d say it was a mixture of looks, athletic ability and personality.

The I’m just sayin... Football Predictions Results

With all of the hurricane talk last week, most/all of the high school football games got moved to Thursday night… so I didn’t get to make my predictions. So below I will tell you who I would have picked (I still haven’t seen the scores yet) and then we will look at who won.

High School
James Island vs. St. John’s – I would take James Island in this game. I can’t say for sure I’ll pick JI as much as I would like this year… but maybe I will. I can never figure them out. Result: James Island won 37-12 giving new Head Coach (and a former teacher of mine) Randy Hilyer a win in his debut. Congrats to Coach Hilyer.

Summerville at Conway – I would take Summerville in this one. Chances are good that I will pick Summerville in almost all of their games this season (unless something bad happens to them). Result: The Green Wave won this one 34-19.

Ashley Ridge vs. Cane Bay – I think Ashley Ridge had a pretty good season last year. Because of this, I’d pick them to win this game. Of course, I could be wrong about last season… so if I got this one right it’d be pure luck. Result: Ashley Ridge won 49-7

Fort Dorchester at Woodland – I’d pick Fort Dorchester in this for the simple reason that The Wife went there and I can’t say for sure I’ll be picking them much this season. Result: The Patriots won 35-24.

Dorman vs. Gaffney – This is a hard one. Dorman had some good players graduate this past year. I’m not sure if they have a good recruiting network like Summerville to stay at the top year in and year out. I would want to pick the “Cavaliers” (if my sources are to be believed… though I still think that’s a silly name for a high school), but Gaffney is usually pretty good (unless I’m mixing them up with someone else). I’d go with Gaffney in this one. Result: Dorman lost 14-35.

College
None

NFL
None – I don’t count pre-season games.

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Boatswain’s Mate William Campbell (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on December 24-25, 1864 and January 13-15, 1865 on board the USS Ticonderoga. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Ticonderoga during attacks on Fort Fisher, 24 and 25 December 1864; and 13 to 15 January 1865. Despite heavy return fire by the enemy and the explosion of the 100-pounder Parrott rifle which killed 8 men and wounded 12 more, Campbell, as captain of a gun, performed his duties with skill and courage during the first 2 days of battle. As his ship again took position on the line of the 13th, he remained steadfast as the Ticonderoga maintained a well-placed fire upon the batteries on shore, and thereafter, as she materially lessened the power of guns on the mound which had been turned upon our assaulting columns. During this action the flag was planted on one of the strongest fortifications possessed by the rebels.

Private William Campbell (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 22, 1863 at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."

Private Heth Canfield (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 15, 1870 at Little Blue, Nebraska. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

Football Memories, Part II

Speaking of memories, don't forget to donate to the memory walk (see link on the side of the page).

As you know, we at I’m just sayin… feel there is nothing better to do on a hot August night than sit with a PBR and watch college football. But Greg, you say, there is no college football on these days. Friends, at my house there is always college football on. Listen, we watch more than our fair share of cartoons, NCIS, House and other kid-friendly shows… but when it gets this close to the college football season, I have to put my foot down and put a DVD in the player. So last night I put in a DVD of the 1990 Clemson/NC State game. The Wife, of course, rolls her eyes and complains about this because as she says 1- We just watched this game (No, we didn’t. We just watched the 1991 Clemson/UNC game… Women, right?) 2- You already know who wins (Damn right I do… I’m not going to waste my time watching a loss... Women, right?) 3- We need to watch the news to find out about Hurricane Irene (I told her if it was bad enough, the news would cut into the game. Do you get it No Name Teri? We were watching a DVD… so I knew there wasn’t any chance the news would cut into the game. Somewhere, Sonny is laughing at that... he can be so mean to his sister.).

Anyway… During the game something was said about the 1987 Clemson/NC State game (a loss for the Tigers… so we don’t have it at our house). I told The Wife and anyone else who would listen (so pretty much just Maverick) that I remember that game because I was there. That got me to thinking… that wasn’t the first Clemson game I’d been to. I don’t remember the first time my parents took me to a game… but seeing as how I remember that ’87 game and I remember it wasn’t my first, I’ll be conservative and say I went to my first game in ’86. My parents had season tickets back then with some friends (back when season tickets costs about what a 3 game package costs today… but more on that later). Their seats were on the visitor side in the upper deck down toward the west end zone. When they would take me to games, I’d sit on the hill. “What’s the point?” you ask. The point is that in 1986 I was 7 years old. SEVEN! And we were with about 80,000+ other people and my parents didn’t think twice about letting me sit on the hill while they were in the upper deck. I don’t know if DSS was around back then but they missed out on a slam dunk case. Now, Mom will point out that I wasn’t really alone… Sonny and No Name Teri were with me. But if you look at the facts, you will see that while I was seven back then, Sonny was 16 and No Name Teri was 14… meaning they were watching everyone BUT me. Also, to add a little perspective here, Mary Ruth will turn six at the end of the year. I was just a year older than her back then. To be fair to the parents, it was a different time back then. And the games were fun. And the older (high school/college age) kids around me on the hill did look out for me (a crying kid draws the attention of security… which isn’t something an underage-drinker wants… so it’s best to keep the kid happy). That was also back when a player could score a touchdown and come over to the fans without having a flag thrown for “excessive celebration”. Ah… the good ol’ days.

There seems to be a lot of talk these days about paying football players. Even the Ol’ Ball Coach at USC thinks the poor young men playing for his Revolutionary War Heroes should get a little something for their trouble. Here’s the thing… it’s not like these guys aren’t getting anything. If you want to raise the number of scholarships available, I’d be for that. But the people wanting to pay players aren’t usually talking about walk-ons… they are talking about the stars. Spurrier even brought up the fact that poor Marcus Lattimore doesn’t even have a car. What is the world coming to when a major college football player doesn’t have a car?! I think if he can bum a ride from friends for a couple of more years, he’ll be able to get quite a few cars. Much has been made over the fact that the schools make so much money while the players get “nothing”. First off, the players get a full ride to school. People act like that doesn’t count. Really? Then take the freakin’ scholarship from the poor “star” player and give it to the walk-on. Do you know how much a year of college at Clemson is? Around $20,986. There are a lot of people in this state not bringing home $20,986. But Greg, you say, those people aren’t making a ton of money for their employer. I contend that these players also aren’t doing that. How much money do the current stars bring schools? Let’s look at Mr. Lattimore again (I know I keep jumping back between Clemson and USC but in this argument they are both pretty much the same). Last season Mr. Lattimore was able to help the Revolutionary War Heroes attract an average of 76,642 fans to their 7 home games. Overall it was a great year for USC as they won the SEC East for the first time in school history. That was an average of 1,325 fans more than the previous season… but an average of 1,631 fewer fans than the six home-game winless 1999 season. What’s my point? My point is that fans, by in large, show up because they are fans of the school… not just fans of one player. Players, after all, only play a few years (4 at most) before they leave… yet fans keep showing up. What about jersey sales? Here’s the thing… not every number is available to purchase… so who’s to say people are buying a jersey because of a specific player and not just because they want a USC/Clemson jersey? Also, as I pointed out to Sonny and Louis one day… if I bought a Clemson jersey I’d want #44. I have no idea who has that number now; I’d want it because Levon Kirkland wore it as a Tiger.

But what about these poor players who don’t even have enough money to take their girlfriends out on a date? I have a couple of points here… First, as anyone who ever saw Rocky knows, women weaken legs. So these guys shouldn’t be out with their girlfriends... besides, when do they have time to date? I mean, the whole reason people don’t want a playoff in that level of football is because it would get in the way of academics (how can the UNC tutors do class work for the UNC players when the playoffs are on TV?!). So… maybe these poor players should focus more on their school work and less on their girlfriends. Finally, if they really really really want to be like the average college student, just get a credit card and go into debt.

Or here’s an idea that’s a little out of the box. If there really is the overflowing of money, lower ticket prices. I believe a ticket to a Clemson game in 1988 was $18. Today, it’s $35 (for the Wofford game) and $55 for the FSU game. I think you got more bang for your buck in ’88.

I found a clip of Darius singing “You Never Even Called Me by My Name” Live
(video starts after song has started, but really this is the best video of the live version that I’ve found). It’s fun in person… but watching it on video is fun, too.



Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Albert Ralph Campbell (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 21, 1900 at Tientsin, China. His citation reads:

In action at Tientsin, China, 21 June 1900. During the advance on Tientsin, Campbell distinguished himself by his conduct.

Private Daniel Campbell (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 11, 1898 on board the USS Marblehead. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Marblehead during the cutting of the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Campbell set an example of extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.

Private James A. Campbell (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 22, 1865 at Woodstock, Virginia and April 5, 1865 at Amelia Courthouse, Virginia. His citation reads:

While his command was retreating before superior numbers at Woodstock, Va., he voluntarily rushed back with one companion and rescued his commanding officer, who had been unhorsed and left behind. At Amelia Courthouse captured 2 battle flags.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Marie!

I would like to start the post today by wishing my friend and I’m just sayin… follower Marie a very Happy Birthday! Marie is the older sister of my sister-in-law Terry… which most people don’t believe because she looks a lot younger than Terry. It’s a little known fact that when The Wife and I were engaged, Marie and her husband Jeff were part of a group that threw us a “couples” shower. If one were to ask me if I wanted a couples shower, I’d say no. But I have to admit that it was a lot of fun and I’m sure that’s because of all of the hard work and effort that went into planning it. I would like to think that I sent them a thank you note expressing my gratitude for what they did, but in all honesty I’m not 100% sure I did. I hope I did… but thank you notes (like spelling, geography and healthy living) are an area in my life that I do not excel in. So if I did, then great. But if I didn’t, then I hope this lets Marie (and Jeff and everyone else involved with that shower) know how much I appreciated it. And, of course, Happy Birthday Marie! I hope you have a great one!

We caught the end of Steel Magnolias yesterday on CMT. Well, I guess we tuned in around the middle. While I differ from The Wife in that I don’t think it’s the greatest movie in the whole world, I do think it’s on the list (hmm… maybe I should do an I’m just sayin… Top ___ Movies of All-Time list… I’ll have to get with the staff and see what they think). Back to this movie… if you haven’t see it, you should. It has an all-star cast and by that I mean Shirley MacLaine is in it. That’s not to say that Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Daryl Hannah, Olympia Dukakis and Julia Roberts aren’t good… because they are. And they all did a great job in this movie. But come on… Shirley MacLaine. I mean, she was the unanimous selection as the I’m just sayin… Greatest Actress of All-Time.

Sad news in the baseball world from Saturday... Coach Chal Port, former baseball coach at The Citadel, passed away on Saturday. If you read the paper, you’ll see that Coach Port ended his career with a record of 641-386-2. You will also see that he lead The Citadel to the College World Series in 1990 and is a member of The Citadel, State of South Carolina, Charleston and American Baseball Coaches Association Halls of Fame. What they won’t tell you (at least not in the exact words that I’ll use) is that when you make a list of the Greatest Baseball Coaches in this area, you’ve got Coach Port and that’s it. That’s the list. I guess there could be other great coaches in the area… but with very few exceptions, they all either learned from Coach Port or learned from someone who learned from Coach Port. I, myself, didn’t get a chance to play for Coach Port. Boy, I would have loved the chance. Especially in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s (which included the year they made it to the College World Series). Man, how great would that have been? Who, really, would pass up that kind of opportunity? I mean, other than Sonny of course… Still, while I didn’t get to play for Coach Port, I did work for him one game as a bat boy (during the 1989 season, I believe). I also went to a number of his baseball camps over the years. I also got the chance in high school to play for Coach Hatley… which is the second best thing to playing for Coach Port. There wasn’t a practice that went by where Coach Hatley wouldn’t share a lesson he learned from Coach Port or a story about playing or coaching for Coach Port. He was a great coach and a great man and he will be missed.

So Daniel got baptized yesterday. Thank you to I’m just sayin… friends Jeremy, Rebecca, Danny, Jen, Michael and Adrian for making it to the 11:15 service so see it. I would like to take this moment to apologize to the person responsible for cleaning the sanctuary. I’m sure when you go to work this week you will notice a large amount of glitter on the floor in front of the front pew. How did it get there? Well at about 8:00 Saturday night The Wife came to me and said, “Susie has no shoes so I have to go to Target to get her some”. She had to go to Target, I was told, because they have the best selection of shoes in Susie’s size… All of the church shoes she has now are too small for her and I was stupid to think that she could wear any of them for even just one day. So off The Wife went to Target while I stayed home with the kids. She came back some time later with these red shoes that were made of glitter. It seems these were the only shoes Target had in Susie’s size. I think you see where this is going so I won’t drag it out. While sitting in the pew, Susie does her best to get as much glitter off the shoes as possible (thus, getting it on the pew and floor). She then proceeded to take them off because they were too big and her feet kept coming out of them. So when it came time for us to go to the front of the church, I carried her up there and held her while she was barefoot. Guess we could have saved some money on those shoes…

My friend Danny got to meet No Name Teri at lunch after the service. Just an example of I’m just sayin… bringing people together.

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Jose Calugas (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 16, 1942 at Culis, Bataan Province, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

The action for which the award was made took place near Culis, Bataan Province, Philippine Islands, on 16 January 1942. A battery gun position was bombed and shelled by the enemy until 1 gun was put out of commission and all the cannoneers were killed or wounded. Sgt. Calugas, a mess sergeant of another battery, voluntarily and without orders ran 1,000 yards across the shell-swept area to the gun position. There he organized a volunteer squad which placed the gun back in commission and fired effectively against the enemy, although the position remained under constant and heavy Japanese artillery fire.

Private James S. Calvert (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from October 1876 – January 1877 at Cedar Creek, Montana. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action.

Private Carlton M. Camp (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 2, 1865 at Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Brought off from the picket line, under heavy fire, a comrade who had been shot through both legs.

Football…

Before we get started on our topic today, I would like to make sure you notice the newest addition to the blog on the right hand side of the page. There is the spot you can click to donate money to the Memory Walk that I am, again, taking part of. Last year you really stepped up to the plate and gave to me the way a Miami booster would give to a Miami Hurricane athlete (zing!). Right now my goal is to raise $1,000… but like last year I hope that I have to keep upping my goal because so many give so much. I’ve already donated enough to get the “free” T-shirt, so now I’m just collecting for fun… and because I really care about this. Some of you have given before… and will be asked to give again. Some of you haven’t given before… so now is a good time to start. This actually goes great with the fact that I will be talking a lot about sports memories and family memories (and all other memories) on here. Honestly, part of the reason that I put some of the things on here that I do is to help me remember them. So make sure you give early and give often!

Speaking of Miami… Have you see this yet? I for one am shocked (SHOCKED!) that this is going on at The U. I mean, I have always looked at that program as a model program. Sure, there were some problems in the ‘80s… and in the ‘90s… but who would have guessed that there would be problems in the 2000s? Ok… so maybe I had an idea that something might have been going on down there. But I can see how the school wouldn’t think anything wrong was going on. I mean, I guess the coaches who say they knew might have known… by why in the world would anyone expect the AD or compliance office to pay attention to stuff like this? How could they know that you can’t just trust a bunch of 18-22 year olds to “do the right thing”… much less with the temptations in Miami. Ok, maybe someone there could have done a little research, but it’s not like that was their job… oops, I think it was their job. You might say, “Greg, don’t be so hard on them. These schools can’t know everything that’s going on”. Well, funny story here. It seems the guy who was the Miami AD when most of this stuff was going on was also the chairman of the NCAA’s Committee on Infractions and oversaw USC’s (not that one, the other one over on the west coast) receiving sanctions that were some of the most severe in recent history. When talking about the punishment given to USC, this former Miami AD said that high-profile players demand high-profile compliance. So I guess someone at The U should have noticed something going on.

Like you, I have been hearing talk about conference expansion. It seems Clemson had a little get together of its higher-ups to see what everyone was thinking. I have placed calls to all the board members to find out what really went on in the meeting but so far none have returned my call (maybe I didn’t say my number clearly enough). Anyway, this expansion stuff is hard for me because I hate the big conferences. I don’t like the fact that you don’t play every team in the conference every year. I wouldn’t be surprised to see the conferences grow so big that they end up splitting up into a bunch of smaller conferences. The College Football circle of life, if you will. Looking at where we are now, the conferences will have to get bigger before they get smaller. So what is the next step? I don’t know. I can tell you what I would like to see happen:

I would like to see Clemson in the SEC. I would like to see them get to play UGA, Tennessee and Florida every year (and, of course, keep playing USC). Do I think they would win every year? Nope… but I think they could compete (I don’t buy that the SEC is the best top to bottom… I think they’re the best top to middle). And really, if a team comes in the middle (or even bottom) of the SEC people give them the benefit of the doubt. Come in 2nd place in the ACC and people think you stink. Really, I’d just like to see Clemson play a bunch of SEC teams every year. Especially Georgia… I’d love to see them play Georgia. I know things will probably never be like they were back in the ‘80s… but if you look back on those Clemson/Georgia games back in the 1980s you’ll see what college football is all about. I’ll tell you another reason I’d like to see Clemson in the SEC… because Clemson is in the South East. I know football is what is driving this talk, but teams from other sports at the schools will also be affected. Travel costs will be a lot lower for the SEC teams (and Clemson) if the Tigers were in the SEC. A number of SEC teams already hate Clemson… so you wouldn’t have to worry about starting rivalries. And, best of all, Clemson leaving the ACC would open the door for Winthrop to get an invite (since the ACC wouldn’t want to lose the SC market). Haha… ok, maybe that last part wouldn’t happen.

Now, let me address a few things that I’ve been hearing on why this shouldn’t happen (*note, this does not represent the views of everyone in either fan base I am about to talk about).

First, from Revolutionary War Hero fans: “I don’t want Clemson in the SEC because then we would lose our only recruiting advantage over them”.

Do you people realize how weak this makes you look. Not to mention the fact that I don’t really think it’s true. But really, do the people who say this really think that the only reason Steve f’ing Spurrier is able to get guys that Dabo also wants is because USC is in the SEC then I think they need to take a hard look at how they see USC compared to Clemson. I mean, I would expect a Clemson fan to say the only reason someone would pick USC over Clemson would be because of conference… but I would think a USC fan would think the Revolutionary War Heroes have more to offer over Clemson than just that.

From Tiger fans I hear a couple of things: “We can’t win in the ACC, why would we win in the SEC?”

This is a fair point and I think I covered it earlier in this post. But to go over it again… I do think the Tigers could compete. Does that mean they would always win? No. Does that mean they would never win? No. It means sometimes they would win and sometimes they would lose. They would have good years and bad years. Except now the good years would be looked at more highly by those outside of Clemson and the bad years wouldn’t be seen as being as bad.

“I want Clemson to stay in the ACC because they have a chance to be great in the ACC. The SEC would be too hard.”

That quote comes in many forms, but that’s the gist of it. This is not a fair point… it’s a weak point. This is what we call the Big Fish in a Small Pond Theory. I am not a fan of it. I think it’s weak and people should be embarrassed to even say it. If this is how people feel, then perhaps they would like it better if Clemson were to join Conference USA… or the Big South… or the Southern Conference (though that might be too hard of a conference). To these people I simply say, “Listen Princess, go put on your big girl pants and suck it up. If you want to follow a big boy football program then you should want that program to play in the best football conference”.

Congrats to my friend (it’s true, just check Facebook) Drew Meyer on his return to USC to complete his undergrad work and work with the baseball team.  Congrats also to USC as I’m sure Drew has a lot to offer the Revolutionary War Hero baseball program. As I know you will remember, Drew is the answer to the trivia question “When did Greg come the closest to getting in a fight during a baseball game?” For any who don’t remember, I was playing on a Fall Ball team with a bunch of guys from Wando and BE (as well as one other guy who was transferring to JI) the fall of my senior year at JI. The tournament we were playing in was in Atlanta… I know I’ve talked about this on here before, so if you want all the details just read every post I’ve written until you come to it. To summarize what happened: Ball gets hit to me (2B). I throw to Drew (SS). Drew throws to first to complete the double play for the third out. As Drew is throwing, the runner from first runs over him. Doesn’t slide or anything. Just runs over him. I run over and shove the runner (while also saying in words that I won’t say here that I did not agree with the choice he made not to slide and that there would be consequences should he continue making such choices). Nothing came of it as the runner (most likely thinking either a- he was wrong or b-I was crazy) decided to just run back to the dugout. It is good that a fight did not break out, since by that point his teammates were coming out on to the field and the SOBs on my team had already gone into the dugout. Moral of the story, don’t trust baseball players from Wando or BE. :)


Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Rear Admiral Daniel Judson Callaghan (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 12-13, 1942 off the coast of Savo Island. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty during action against enemy Japanese forces off Savo Island on the night of 12-13 November 1942. Although out-balanced in strength and numbers by a desperate and determined enemy, Rear Adm. Callaghan, with ingenious tactical skill and superb coordination of the units under his command, led his forces into battle against tremendous odds, thereby contributing decisively to the rout of a powerful invasion fleet, and to the consequent frustration of a formidable Japanese offensive. While faithfully directing close-range operations in the face of furious bombardment by superior enemy fire power, he was killed on the bridge of his flagship. His courageous initiative, inspiring leadership, and judicious foresight in a crisis of grave responsibility were in keeping with the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the defense of his country.

Private John H. Callahan (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from April 9, 1865 at Fort Blakely, Alabama. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.

Private Thomas J. Callen (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 25-26, 1876 at Little Big Horn, Montana. His citation reads:

Volunteered and succeeded in obtaining water for the wounded of the command; also displayed conspicuously good conduct in assistlng to drive away the Indians.

iPhones

I mentioned at the beginning of my post yesterday but forgot to get back to it. The Wife and I are going to join the i world. The touch screen on our phones have stopped working and this was unacceptable to The Wife. I didn’t like it, but I’m able to adapt… The Wife, not so much. She complained and complained and complained about my touch screen not working until hers also stopped working. Once that happened, she was able to start complaining about that. She decided she wanted an iPhone. Really, there were just no other options that were available unless we wanted to get a phone like our my friend Danny (you know, the kind that is in a bag and takes you 5 minutes to type a 4 word text). So we went to the cell phone store to get our new phones.


We go in the store and I do what I always do… walk away and let The Wife talk to the sales lady. I do this because I want them to know up front that talking to me will get them nowhere. The good news here is that for the brief time we were in the store, I did not have anyone walk up and ask me to help them. So I’ve got that going for me… which is nice. Anyway, I glance over to the counter and see The Wife with an annoyed look on her face. I can tell the sales lady is telling her something she doesn’t want to hear. They go back and forth for a while and then I decided it was time to step in. So I walked over there and told The Wife it was time for us to go. Apparently The Wife was mad because she was told that we would have to pay full retail for the phones since we weren’t eligible for new phones. And they don’t have our phones anymore… so they can’t replace them. So we leave and talk about it in the van while going back to church to get my car. By the time we get to my car we have agreed that our phones are still useable (not ideal…but useable) so we will wait a while before we get new phones. I guess I wasn’t really clear on how long “a while” was. I drove home while The Wife went to her parents’ house to get the kids. When she got home I was informed that our new iPhones would be here by Wednesday. I had thought “a while” might mean a few months… it seems she thought it was a few days. To be fair, it seems The Wife was able to call someone and beat them down until she was able to get what she wanted (kind of reminds me of our engagement). She got them to agree to let us upgrade at the super deal price (still more than I’d like… but a heck of a lot cheaper than retail). So by sometime tomorrow (or today if you’re reading this on Wednesday) we will enter the i world. I hope it is worth it.


Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Daniel Caldwell (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on February 6, 1865 at Hatchers Run, Virginia. His citation reads:

In a mounted charge, dashed into center of the enemy's line and captured the colors of the 33rd North Carolina Infantry.

First Sergeant Ivers S. Calkin (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from April 6, 1865 at Sailors Creek, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag of 18th Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.).

Corporal Donald M. Call (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 26, 1918 near Varennes, France. His citation reads:

During an operation against enemy machinegun nests west of Varennes, Cpl. Call was in a tank with an officer when half of the turret was knocked off by a direct artillery hit. Choked by gas from the high-explosive shell, he left the tank and took cover in a shellhole 30 yards away. Seeing that the officer did not follow, and thinking that he might be alive, Cpl. Call returned to the tank under intense machinegun and shell fire and carried the officer over a mile under machinegun and sniper fire to safety.

Congrats Susan!!!!!!!!!!

BIG NEWS!!!!!!!!


The Wife and I are getting iPhones. But more on that later… In other news, we at I’m just sayin… would like to extend our very happy congratulations to our cousin Susan and her now fiancé Bryan. We are happy because we like Bryan and because we didn’t want something to happen to them causing us to feel like we’d wasted the last 8 or 9 years of our lives trying to remember his name :). Haha… I kid… I don’t really know how long they’ve been dating. Anyway, CONGRATS to Susan and Bryan. I know it was a great Saturday for them.


Speaking of Awesome Saturdays… This past Saturday was an awesome day/night for me. I have been looking forward to this day for sometime now and it lived up to my expectations. It started with us running late to KC and LA’s house. As anyone who knows me knows, I hate running late… which is somewhat ironic since I seem to be late a good bit. So I’m not in a great mood and The Wife got a little snippy with me. I told her the only reason she was making us late is because we were going to hang out with my friends… if we were going to hang out with her friends she wouldn’t be making us late. She seemed to take offense to this since, she feels, they are just as much her friends as they are mine (and she’s known most of them longer than I have). So one thing leads to another and she says if we were divorced, they would stay friends with her and not me. That, I told her, was just crazy talk. So we went down the list trying to figure out who would stick with her and who would stick with me. Let’s just say, I won by a large margin and really the only reason she had any on her side was because I didn’t want to hurt her feelings. To prove my point, when we got to KC’s house I got out of the car and asked my friend (and longtime I’m just sayin reader) Danny who he would stick with. Before the question was fully out of my mouth (and with a tone and facial expression which would lead one to think that the question is such a no-brainer that it’s almost insulting to be asked it) he said “Greg”. The Wife then, in a very pleading tone, ask Danny’s wife Jen (also a longtime I’m just sayin… reader) who she would stick with. While Jen did say “The Wife”, the soft wavering tone of her voice and her body language clearly said “Greg”. So that’s how the night started. We brought with us a good sausage/cheese dip, Woodchuck (the apple juice of beer… for The Wife) and PBR (the beer of real men… for me). Susie picked the beer for me earlier in the day when we were at The Pig (my choice for grocery stores). Of course, I could have gone with Pig Swig, but I was feeling the canned beer Saturday night over bottled beer… so that ruled Pig Swig out. Anyway, I’m standing there trying to figure out which beer I’m going to take and Susie picked PBR. Actually, I think she picked Old Milwaukee NA (non-alcoholic)… but she didn’t protest when I grabbed the PBR, so we’ll go say she picked that. Some of you might be asking, “Why PBR?” That’s a very fair question. I’ve taken a liking to PBR for a couple of reasons. The main reason is when I’m in a group setting, it makes it easy to keep up with which beer I brought… since no one else in my circle is going to bring it to a party. Also, it makes it easy to share with others:


Friend: “Hey… Can I grab a beer?”


Me: “Sure, no problem. It’s the PBR”.


Friend: “Never mind”.


So we were at KC’s house partying with my friends KC, LA, Danny, Jen, Michael, Adrian, Ross, Ginny, Cory and Ashley. We won’t talk about what was talked about because, as you all know, what’s said at KC’s stays at KC’s. This extends to cars going to and from KC’s. Speaking of cars, big shout outs go to LA and Adrian for being our drivers for the night. While I won’t get into specifics, I can say a somewhat inappropriate conversation was going on between some of the people in the Adrian car while Jen was on a work related phone call. I know it was somewhat inappropriate because at one point Jen covered her phone and said “Hey! I’m on a work related call here!” What went unsaid, but could be gathered from her tone of voice, was “If I get a (bleep)ing call on Monday morning because of the (bleep)ing stuff you (bleep)ing people are talking about right now, heads are going to (bleep)ing roll!!!!” So everyone did there best not to say anything else until she got off the phone… and she did her best to resolve the work situation and get off the phone in a record time. Needless to say, no more work calls were taken that night.


We then get to the Hootie and the Blowfish concert and… well… it rained. Really, really, really, really hard. How hard? Go get a big bucket, fill it up with water and pour it on your head. Now picture that going on non-stop. The girls went downstairs to get under cover. Me, KC, Michael and Ross stayed in our seats. Within five minutes we were soaked. We would not have been any wetter had we been standing in a pool. It’s funny to see how different people react to rain. The girls (who were out of the rain) had ponchos/rain gear… Danny (also with the girls) had some type of rain gear (I don’t remember… maybe a poncho). Cory (also with the girls) had a fishing shirt that was made out of duck hair (a yellow duck). Ross, Michael, KC and me (the people in our group still in the rain) had the clothes we were wearing… and smiles on our faces. The rain actually felt pretty good. I mean, if it were the middle of November then I’d have gone downstairs. But in the summer heat we’ve been having I was willing to take my chances in the rain. Then someone from the concert staff came around and told us the show was being cancelled. We weren’t happy… but it was still pouring rain so Michael and I started heading down to get the girls. By this point, KC had made some new friends and was under the stairs to the metal bleachers… he refused to leave. Ross… well, let’s be honest… Ross is easily distracted and I think by this point he had wandered off to who knows where. So we decide to head to the cars (really, to only lose two guys in a situation like that isn’t all that bad). We get to the gate and as people are flooding out (pun intended), the guy working the gate is telling people the concert has not been cancelled. This is about 9:15pm. So we head back up to our seats and Hootie comes on a little after 9:30pm. If I had to use one word to describe the concert, it would be: justasfreakingawesomeasIthoughtitwouldbe. It looked like they were very grateful and somewhat amazed that so many people stuck around in the pouring rain just to hear them play. I won’t give you a blow by blow accounting of the concert (like I did for most of the night), but I will point out some things. I’m pretty sure they played all of the Hootie “classics”. They also played some of Darius’ Country hits. The guys also had some guests up on stage with them. They had a couple of guys from Sister Hazel get up on stage with them to sing “All For You” (with Darius singing back-up… along with everyone else in the stadium). Radney Foster was also in the house and he got up on stage to sing some of his songs that the band has covered over the years. It was kind of fun seeing how much fun Darius was having singing with a guy who (he says) has had a big influence on his music. Let me tell you why I like going to a Hootie concert… it’s because I like their songs AND I like the songs they cover. I don’t remember all of the cover songs they sang this past Saturday, but two that come to mind are “Losing My Religion” by REM and “Surrender” by Cheap Trick. That was the song they ended the show with and I think it was a good choice. It sends everyone out on a pumped up high note. I would have liked to have them play (and perhaps end the show) with David Allen Coe’s “You Never Even Called Me by My Name” as they have a few times in the past… but “Surrender” was also a good choice. After the concert we went back to KC and LA’s house to hang out some more. The Wife and I finally left some time after 1:00 am because we had to get up and go to church in a few hours (I had to usher the 8:45 service and she had to teach the Special Needs Sunday School class… and trust me, after the night we just had… we needed to go to church).  :)


Cory and Michael also had to get up in time to usher the 8:45 service. I am happy (and more than a little surprised) to say that we all made it (and on time… and by on time I mean after Jeremy, who I think must spend the night in the church on Saturdays before we usher).


One more thing about why I like Darius Rucker. He’s from the area and he still lives in the area. He could live anywhere he wants… and he wants to live here. I like that. He’s also a big supporter of Pattison’s Academy which is a non-profit group that does a lot of work helping children with special needs (including running a charter school for special needs children). We at I’m just sayin… would like to tip our hat to Darius Rucker and all the guys of Hootie and The Blowfish. We can’t wait for the concert next year!


Speaking of school… Today was Mary Ruth’s first day of school. Susie also moved up to the 2 year old class today. Here’s a picture of my girls from this morning:

The big one and the little one

I don’t know if you heard this, but it’s pretty good. The Indiana football coach and some radio guys got in a little argument. It’s worth a listen.


Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Sergeant Luman L. Cadwell (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from September 20, 1864 at Alabama Bayou, Louisiana. His citation reads:

Swam the bayou under fire of the enemy and captured and brought off a boat by means of which the command crossed and routed the enemy.

Private Hector A. Cafferata, Jr. (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 28, 1950 in Korea. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a rifleman with Company F, in action against enemy aggressor forces. When all the other members of his fire team became casualties, creating a gap in the lines, during the initial phase of a vicious attack launched by a fanatical enemy of regimental strength against his company's hill position, Pvt. Cafferata waged a lone battle with grenades and rifle fire as the attack gained momentum and the enemy threatened penetration through the gap and endangered the integrity of the entire defensive perimeter. Making a target of himself under the devastating fire from automatic weapons, rifles, grenades, and mortars, he maneuvered up and down the line and delivered accurate and effective fire against the onrushing force, killing 15, wounding many more, and forcing the others to withdraw so that reinforcements could move up and consolidate the position. Again fighting desperately against a renewed onslaught later that same morning when a hostile grenade landed in a shallow entrenchment occupied by wounded marines, Pvt. Cafferata rushed into the gully under heavy fire, seized the deadly missile in his right hand and hurled it free of his comrades before it detonated, severing part of 1 finger and seriously wounding him in the right hand and arm. Courageously ignoring the intense pain, he staunchly fought on until he was struck by a sniper's bullet and forced to submit to evacuation for medical treatment Stouthearted and indomitable, Pvt. Cafferata, by his fortitude, great personal valor, and dauntless perseverance in the face of almost certain death, saved the lives of several of his fellow marines and contributed essentially to the success achieved by his company in maintaining its defensive position against tremendous odds. His extraordinary heroism throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

Seaman Thomas Cahey (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 31, 1901 on board the USS Petrel. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Petrel for heroism and gallantry, fearlessly exposing his own life to danger in saving others on the occasion of the fire on board that vessel, 31 March 1901.

HAPPY 30th Susan!!!!

Happy Birthday Susan!!!!!

My cousin Susan turns 30 years old today, so we at I’m just sayin… would like to wish her a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!! I have been slammed at work and home, so I haven’t had a chance to come up with 30 things about Susan (and about the day, month, year she was born)… but I will share a few things (and if we get to 30, so be it).

* She is the only first-cousin I have who is a girl.

* She went to Clemson to become a teacher (guess she couldn’t get into Winthrop).

* Susan is a teacher (funny how that worked out).

* She was a cheerleading coach (not sure if she still is).

* I don’t want to start anything here… but I wish I could post her baby picture and my cousin Louis’ baby picture. Don’t get me wrong, they’re both in good shape now… but Louis in his baby picture looks like he’s in a POW camp and Susan in her baby picture looks like Jabba the Hutt. Like I said, they look normal now… but it’s funny to see their baby pictures.

* As a child, Susan was what we like to call “bossy”.

* I think she is a math teacher… so unlike Sonny these past few years, Susan has had to earn her paycheck.

* The IBM PC was introduced on the day Susan was born. It ran on MS-DOS, had 16 kb of RAM and had a base price of $1,565.

* A short time before Susan was born (August 1), MTV went on the air with the video “Video Killed the Radio Star”. I guess now you could say crappy TV shows killed the music video on MTV.

* Also on August 1, 1981… Abu Daoud (the PLO terrorist who oversaw the ’72 massacre of Israeli athletes was shot 5 times at close range while sitting in a coffee shop in Warsaw. This reminds me of an old Chinese proverb: “Don’t f*** with the Jews”.

* On August 2, 1981… Frederick Mellinger, owner of Frederick’s of Hollywood, introduced thong underwear to the US. Someone buy that man a beer.

* On August 3, 1981… US Marine Lt. Col. Oliver North became a staffer on the National Security Council.

* On August 5, 1981… President Reagan ordered the firing of 11,359 American air-traffic controllers who had ignored his 11:00am deadline for returning to work. That reminds me of a Russian proverb: “Don’t f*** with Reagan”.

* On August 6, 1981… France did away with the state radio monopoly in France and permitted privately owned stations for the first time. Within two months, 400 new stations were on the air talking about how much it sucks to be in France. :)

* August 8, 1981… Roger Federer was born.

* August 11, 1981… The first AIDS fundraiser took place in NY City.

* Some people who share a birthday with Susan: George Hamilton, Mark Knopfler (singer-songwriter/guitarist of Dire Straits), Roy Hay (the other guy in the Culture Club), Sir Mix-a-Lot, Pete Sampras, Plaxico Burress,

* She is the second child in her family to make it to 30.

* My Aunt Yvonne just has one baby left under 30.

* I wonder if that makes her feel old?

* Maybe just a little?

Sorry, Susan… I couldn’t get to 30 things. I’ll try to do better when you turn 40.

Hey, did you hear about the fight that took place during the Regionals of the American Legion Baseball Tournament? This took place in Sumter between a team from NC and a team from GA. If you don’t want to watch, here is a brief breakdown of what happened. Batter hits ball. Runner scores. Throw comes home. Second runner scores. Catcher gets ball. Catcher fires ball at the back of the second runner (who by this time is off camera). GAME ON! Every kid on the field who has ever wanted to be involved in a baseball fight runs to the area behind home plate. You can’t really see a lot of the fight, but it’s still fun to watch.




I’ll be at the Hootie and The Blowfish concert tomorrow night with a great group of friends, so don’t expect any posts this weekend. Maybe I’ll give a recap of the concert early next week.


Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private Joseph A. Cable (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from October 1876 to January 1877 at Cedar Creek, etc., Montana. His citation reads:

Gallantry in engagements.

Private First Class William Robert Caddy (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 3, 1945 in the Volcano Islands. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a rifleman with Company 1, 3d Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, 3 March 1945. Consistently aggressive, Pfc. Caddy boldly defied shattering Japanese machinegun and small arms fire to move forward with his platoon leader and another marine during the determined advance of his company through an isolated sector and, gaining the comparative safety of a shell hole, took temporary cover with his comrades. Immediately pinned down by deadly sniper fire from a well-concealed position, he made several unsuccessful attempts to again move forward and then, joined by his platoon leader, engaged the enemy in a fierce exchange of hand grenades until a Japanese grenade fell beyond reach in the shell hole. Fearlessly disregarding all personal danger, Pfc. Caddy instantly dived on the deadly missile, absorbing the exploding charge in his own body and protecting the others from serious injury. Stouthearted and indomitable, he unhesitatingly yielded his own life that his fellow marines might carry on the relentless battle against a fanatic enemy. His dauntless courage and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of certain death reflect the highest credit upon Pfc. Caddy and upon the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his comrades.

Corporal Abel G. Cadwallader (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions during the Civil War at Hatchers Run and Dabneys Mills, Virginia. His citation reads:

Gallantly planted the colors on the enemy's works in advance of the arrival of his regiment.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE WIFE!!!!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to The Wife!!!!!

As I’m sure all of you are aware, today is The Wife’s birthday. So I would like to begin the post today by wishing The Wife a very happy birthday! A gentleman never tells his wife’s current age, so I’ll just say that she was 30 yesterday.

I’m not sure how happy a birthday it will be for her today. We’re going to “Meet the Teacher” night at Mary Ruth’s new school tonight… if it’s anything like “Facts and Fees” day, The Wife will be shedding some tears tonight.

I won’t list a bunch of facts about The Wife this year like I did last year… but I will tell you that she’s a great wife and an even better mother. Together, we have three kids and I can honestly tell you I have absolutely no clue what I’m doing when it comes to raising them. She is the one that reads to them and spends time talking to them… helping them develop their mind and body. I’m the one that teaches them what is good TV and what isn’t.

She works with special needs children. It’s not just her job, but it’s her passion. She doesn’t really have set work hours... even when she isn’t “at work”, she is on call. The Wife isn’t required to be on-call, she chooses to be because of how much cares about “her kids”. I think most of the families she works with appreciate all that she does for them… but I’m sure there are a few who have no clue how lucky they are. If ever anyone went above and beyond in their line of work, it’s The Wife.

I can still remember the day I met her.

So… to The Wife I say, Happy Birthday!! I love you!!!!


Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain Bernard A. Byrne (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 19, 1899 at Bobong, Negros, Philippine Islands. His citation reads:

Most distinguished gallantry in rallying his men on the bridge after the line had been broken and pushed back.

Sergeant Denis Byrne (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from October 1876 to January 1877 at Cedar Creek, etc., Montana. His citation reads:

Gallantry in engagements.

Boatswain’s Mate James Byrnes (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on during the Civil War on board the USS Louisville. His citation reads:

Served on board the U.S.S. Louisville. Carrying out his duties through the thick of battle and acting as captain of a 9-inch gun, Brynes consistently showed "Attention to duty, bravery, and coolness in action against the enemy."

Football memories... Part 1

Someone on the radio this week was talking about kids getting autographs from their heroes on college football teams and it caused me to have a very vivid flashback to the spring of 1989. I was in the 4th grade and Sonny was still in his first year at Clemson (remember, he was an accident). Dad came to pick me up from Stiles Point Elementary School early on a Friday so we could head up to Clemson for the weekend. We were going up there to visit Sonny, watch some baseball games and go watch the Orange and White game. Up to that point, I had been slightly disappointed in Sonny as I had written him multiple times asking him to seek out certain football players and get their autographs for me… yet had received no return letter containing autographs. Honestly, I was 10 years old at the time… why the coldhearted jackass couldn’t have just scribbled some names on a sheet of paper and mailed it to me I’ll never know. But, as you can tell, I hold no grudge against him.

Anyway, Dad and I headed up to Clemson for a fun weekend. After one of the baseball games I was able to go down on the field and get autographs from the players (none of whom I knew… and as far as I can tell, I didn’t get any autographs of any future Major League Baseball players… though I may have gotten Brian Barnes’ autograph… I don’t remember). I do remember that I got Coach Wilhelm’s autograph. That was cool. I can remember going into the restaurant at our hotel and seeing Frank Howard. Well, I didn’t see him… Dad did. But Dad pointed him out to me so I walked over and asked him for his autograph. Actually, I was so scared that I just walked over and stood there. He didn’t see me at first, so his wife had to point me out to him. Then I asked for his autograph. He was real nice to me.

Now let’s talk about the Orange and White game. I don’t know how it happened, but somehow I ended up following an older kid down to the sideline. Where were Dad and Sonny while I was down there? Beats me… probably up in the stands looking at the cheerleaders. Heck, for all I know, they left to go grab something to eat and came back to the game in time to pick me up. That’s not the point of the story. The point of the story is this. I have followed Clemson football for as long as I can remember. I was a huge fan of the Tigers up until early September 2004 (which I’ve talked about before)… now I follow (and cheer) for them, but don’t live and die with the team. Anyway, if you ask me where my heart is when it comes to Clemson football I will tell you 1988 – 1991 (with a heavy emphasis on the ’88 and ’89 teams). It is no coincidence that this is when Levon Kirkland was playing for the Tigers. I loved the players on that team. I lived and died on how well they played on Saturdays. Simply put, on this Saturday back in the spring of 1989 I was walking around the sideline of Death Valley amongst my heroes. The kid I was with handed me a pen and a yellow sheet of paper off of a legal pad and off we went. Let me take a second here to let you know that at no point did I have a player refuse to give me his autograph. All the guys were great. I can still remember walking up to Chris Morocco as he was kneeling on the sideline watching a play and asking him for his autograph. He grabbed the pen and paper, turns his back to Danny Ford (who was a short distance away) and as he signs he says, “Be careful… don’t let Coach Ford see you out here”. I don’t remember if I got Coach Ford’s autograph… I don’t think I did. While I can’t remember every person who signed for me, I can tell you these players signed: Levon Kirkland, Ed McDaniel, Wayne Simmons, Otis Moore, Chester McGlockton, Rob Bodine, Vance Hammond, John Johnson, Doug Brewster, Jerome Henderson, Arlington Nunn, James Lott, Dexter Davis, Chris Gardocki, Terry Allen, Joe Henderson, Wesley McFadden, DeChane Cameron, Doug Thomas, Gary Cooper, Stacy Fields, Stacy Long, Eric Harmon, Hank Phillips, Chip Davis, Bruce Bratton, Jeb Flesch and Vince Taylor (and, of course, the previously mentioned Chris Morocco). To some of you, these names don’t really mean anything. To me… they practically represent my childhood. This yellow sheet of paper, folded carefully multiple times, was perhaps my most prized possession. I kept it in my room against the mirror. Days, months, years went by and every so often I would pick up that piece of paper and I would look at those names. It was great. Then one day it was gone. I have no idea what happened to it. Mom claims that she didn’t throw it away… though if you must know the truth I think she did. If she didn’t throw it away, then it is still in that house somewhere. Every so often when I am at my parents James Island estate, I will look around in hopes of finding that yellow sheet of paper (and with it, a piece of my childhood). Oh well, at least I have the memory of that day in 1989. And, thanks to my cousin Louis, I have Levon Kirkland’s autograph.


Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Second Lieutenant John E. Butts (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 14, 16 and 23, 1944 at Normandy, France. His citation reads:

Heroically led his platoon against the enemy in Normandy, France, on 14, 16, and 23 June 1944. Although painfully wounded on the 14th near Orglandes and again on the 16th while spearheading an attack to establish a bridgehead across the Douve River, he refused medical aid and remained with his platoon. A week later, near Flottemanville Hague, he led an assault on a tactically important and stubbornly defended hill studded with tanks, antitank guns, pillboxes, and machinegun emplacements, and protected by concentrated artillery and mortar fire. As the attack was launched, 2d Lt. Butts, at the head of his platoon, was critically wounded by German machinegun fire. Although weakened by his injuries, he rallied his men and directed 1 squad to make a flanking movement while he alone made a frontal assault to draw the hostile fire upon himself. Once more he was struck, but by grim determination and sheer courage continued to crawl ahead. When within 10 yards of his objective, he was killed by direct fire. By his superb courage, unflinching valor and inspiring actions, 2d Lt. Butts enabled his platoon to take a formidable strong point and contributed greatly to the success of his battalion's mission.

Corporal Ulysses G. Buzzard (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 1, 1898 at El Caney, Cuba. His citation reads:

Gallantly assisted in the rescue of the wounded from in front of the lines and under heavy fire from the enemy.

Commander Richard Evelyn Byrd, Jr. (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on during the Interim 1920-1940. His citation reads:

For distinguishing himself conspicuously by courage and intrepidity at the risk of his life, in demonstrating that it is possible for aircraft to travel in continuous flight from a now inhabited portion of the earth over the North Pole and return.

The real I'm just sayin...

I have received a number of calls and emails regarding the fact that Warren Peper is now writing a column for the Post and Courier titled “I’m Just Sayin”. People are in an uproar over the fact that he stole the title of my blog. While I am thankful for the support the community has given me, I must let you know that I am ok. Before things get out of hand, let’s take a look at what is going on. Warren and I go way back... I played basketball in a church league against his sons (mainly the older one, but a couple of years against the younger one too) back in the day. Does he remember this? Probably not, but I do. Let’s be honest here… he has had a great media career in this area. However, since going off of TV, he's struggled a bit. His career is not on the way up, if you know what I mean. He’s doing what he can to stay in the game and if using the title of my blog helps him do that then I am ok with that. I like Pep. I hold no ill will towards him. Plus, it seems that the title is only used for the print version of the column…not the online version. Therefore, I have nothing to worry about. Everyone knows that fewer and fewer people are reading the print version of newspapers these days.

It happened again. I was in Staples wearing my Winthrop golf shirt and someone came up to me asking for help. I’m standing there trying to find the type of pen I wanted, and she walks up behind me asking a question. I wasn’t 100% sure she was talking to me, so I didn’t say anything. She asked again (with slightly more irritation in her voice). I still didn’t say anything. Finally she shook my shoulder and asked her question again. Without looking at her, I (somewhat politely) informed her I had no idea where the stuff was that she was looking for while also pointing out to her that I don’t work there. She was nice and apologized and said that I looked like I knew what I was doing (which I think was a lie because The Wife always tells me I look like a moron). Here’s the thing… my WU shirt is garnet. The shirts employees wear at Staples are red. Yes, garnet is in the same color family as red… but they don’t really look like each other. I am thisclose to going off on someone for stuff like this.

So did you see the news a few weeks ago about the Revolutionary War Hero’s QB coach? Seems he got arrested for peeing in public and then lying to the police when they caught him doing it. If I’m not mistaken, this happened late at night (after 2am?). Like you, my first thought was… “Crap, that’s against the law?” I am happy to see the school didn’t overreact and fire him. He made a mistake and was punished. Next time he will do a better job of not getting caught.

I love this time of the year. College football fall practices are now underway and we get to hear about how this group of kids worked harder over the summer than any other group that’s been in school. By next February coaches will be talking about what a great group of recruits they signed to replace the bums they had to use the past season. I love it.


Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

First Lieutenant Frank G. Butterfield (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 4, 1863 at Salem Heights, Virginia. His citation reads:

Took command of the skirmish line and covered the movement of his regiment out of a precarious position.

Corporal William Robert Button (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 31, 1919 near Grande Riviere, Republic of Haiti. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in actual conflict with the enemy near Grande Riviere, Republic of Haiti, on the night of 31 October-1 November 1919, resulting in the death of Charlemagne Peralte, the supreme bandit chief in the Republic of Haiti, and the killing, capture and dispersal of about 1,200 of his outlaw followers. Cpl. William R. Button not only distinguished himself by his excellent judgment and leadership but also unhesitatingly exposed himself to great personal danger when the slightest error would have forfeited not only his life but the lives of the detachments of Gendarmerie under his command. The successful termination of his mission will undoubtedly prove of untold value to the Republic of Haiti.

Gunner’s Mate George Butts (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 5, 1864 on board the USS Signal. His citation reads:

Served on board the U.S.S. Signal, Red River, 5 May 1864. Proceeding up the Red River, the U.S.S. Signal engaged a large force of enemy field batteries and sharpshooters, returning their fire until the ship was totally disabled, at which time the white flag was raised. Although entered on the sick list, Butts courageously carried out his duties during the entire engagement.

Fear not… I’m better

Happy 300th post!

I know I gave all of you quite a scare this past Sunday with my short post. The good news is I am feeling better. Before we get to that, I want to start with something else.

Around our house, I have stumbled upon a nickname for my godson Lucas. (That reminds me, The Godfather was on last night. I tuned in about half way through and couldn’t go to sleep until I saw the rest of it. I think it ended around midnight. I was sleepy… I wanted to go to sleep… but I couldn’t. That movie is just that good. I don’t know if it was the time of night or what, but when I saw an ad for The Godfather II, I couldn’t help but think that The Godfather II was the Steve Young of movies [a Hall of Famer following a Hall of Famer]. If this doesn’t make sense, try reading it late at night when you’re sleepy, but can’t sleep and you should get it. Of course, some of you just might never get it. Oh, I also noticed for the first time really just how polite Michael Corleone is in this movie. I mean, just look at how he interacts with his brother-in-law near the end of the movie. He sees that Carlo is scared, so he tells one of his… friends, let’s call him, to get Carlo a drink. How nice is that?). Anyway, I’ve been calling Lucas by the nickname Bacon. Why? Well, there are a number of reasons. 1. It started when The Wife and Mary Ruth were talking about what Lucas’ teacher calls him now. I thought Mary Ruth said Bacon. Turns out she said a name that is nothing like Bacon… but the damage was already done. 2. I love bacon… I love Lucas. It seems to fit. 3. Right now he is built like a OL… The great Redskins OL was nicknamed the Hogs… I don’t think it’s a stretch to go from Hogs to Bacon. 4. I call Daniel “Piglet” (because he was the smallest of our babies and when he cries he sounds like a little piggy)… so I thought it would be nice to have Piglet and Bacon. (I find this interesting… The Wife doesn’t really mind that I call Daniel “Piglet”. She hates it, however, when I call him Lil’ Danny or Lil’ Dan or DW…).

So a stomach thing went around day care last week. Bacon got it Wednesday and gave it to Rebecca and Jeremy Thursday. Daniel got it Thursday so we kept him home on Friday. He didn’t seem to have it as bad, so we got lucky in that sense. I had him and Susie home by myself on Saturday so The Wife could go to the beach go to work to prepare for a big audit that took place yesterday. I thought I did a pretty good job since I started the day with two kids and still had two kids when The Wife got home (as a bonus, they were the same two kids at the end as they were at the beginning). Daniel wasn’t too bad, so I thought we were in the clear. Saturday night about 11:30 – midnight, I woke up and ran to the bathroom and pretty much stayed there until about 6:00 in the morning. I fell asleep for good about 6:05 Sunday morning, which was good because that let me get a good 30 minutes of sleep before The Wife left for “the office” and Susie and Daniel woke up. Susie has learned to say “Bless you”… but she hasn’t really mastered when to say it. Anyway, I go to help her get out of bed and that amount of movement was enough to send me back to the bathroom. I don’t want to get to graphic here, but we’re all adults (for the most part)… so I’m in the bathroom throwing-up and Susie walked up to me and started patting my back while saying “Bless you Daddy!” It made me laugh… which wasn’t all that great since it hurt to laugh. I spent the rest of the morning with a splitting headache, Piglet crying/sleeping in his swing, and Susie jumping up and down on me like she is riding a horse. The Wife came home early Sunday afternoon to take the kids away. I’m sure she told me where they were going, but to be honest I didn’t really care.

The moral of the story here is that if your child gets sick at day care, leave him/her there until (s)he is better. You do NOT want to risk catching whatever it is they have.

It’s August and you know what that means… College football is about to start! I’m sure I will be talking about that more and more as the month goes on. For the days that I’m not posting (and the days that I am), check out these two blogs which I enjoy reading:


For Clemson info

For Carolina info

August also means we’re now counting down the days until Labor Day Weekend! As you know, Labor Day is my favorite non-religious holiday. It’s the time of year that we get to spend time with my Labor Day Family and that’s something I really look forward to.

If you haven’t visited lately, make sure you head over to Our Life to see some of the good stuff my friend KC has been posting. Good stuff.


Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain Edmond Butler (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 8, 1877 at Wolf Mountain, Montana. His citation reads:

Most distinguished gallantry in action with hostile Indians.

Major Smedley Darlington Butler (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 22, 1914 at Vera Cruz and November 17, 1915 at Fort Riviere, Haiti. His citation reads:

As Commanding Officer of detachments from the 5th, 13th, 23d Companies and the marine and sailor detachment from the U.S.S. Connecticut, Maj. Butler led the attack on Fort Riviere, Haiti, 17 November 1915. Following a concentrated drive, several different detachments of marines gradually closed in on the old French bastion fort in an effort to cut off all avenues of retreat for the Caco bandits. Reaching the fort on the southern side where there was a small opening in the wall, Maj. Butler gave the signal to attack and marines from the 15th Company poured through the breach, engaged the Cacos in hand-to-hand combat, took the bastion and crushed the Caco resistance. Throughout this perilous action, Maj. Butler was conspicuous for his bravery and forceful leadership. FIRST AWARD For distinguished conduct in battle, engagement of Vera Cruz, 22 April 1914. Maj. Butler was eminent and conspicuous in command of his battalion. He exhibited courage and skill in leading his men through the action of the 22d and in the final occupation of the city.

Brigadier General Daniel Butterfield (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 27, 1862 at Gaines Mill, Virginia. His citation reads:

Seized the colors of the 83d Pennsylvania Volunteers at a critical moment and, under a galling fire of the enemy, encouraged the depleted ranks to renewed exertion.