The 8 on Broad Street - The Gleaming

It was midnight and the day had been fruitless. The city was on alert and what few citizens were out into the night, walked in groups of three or four sometimes more. It was as if everyone and the entire city were in lock down mode.


People scampered by, afraid of their own shadows and were keeping in tight formation. They all knew of him, though no one could identify his face and that would allow him to walk freely among them for a while longer. For now, he was happy to sit in the shadows of this dark alley while watching the parade of souls stroll by in the tidy groups.



He knew that he could still strike as he had done before when similar alerts were called. He would just make adjustments and change his style to match the new situation. But this time it was different, he felt insulted even pitied by this pathetic display. Tonight would have to be a special night, one that would put an end to this idea of safety in numbers and relative safety, yes, tonight they must see that there is no hope for anyone or anything living.



He sat and pondered the situation, he knew that he could get the job done but if any one survived he could be identified and that would not allow him to move freely about. But most importantly it might remove or limit his ability to eat at the diner and he may have to give up those lovely eggs.



He thought deeply as another group of strollers approached him from the wet foggy street. There looked to be about eight of them, all male and they showed signs that they had been drinking.



One in the group was a young man in a blue jacket and he was yelling something about being ashamed of his friends for not standing up to someone in a place they had just visited. They ignored him as they walked, which only seemed to irritate their friend further.



The young man ran to the front of the group and walked backwards for a few moments while chastising his friends for their obvious cowardly retreat.



As they approached and passed, the man in the blue jacket noticed that there was an extra man in the group that was now following them. And he tried to focus his drunk and tired eye's to find the identity of the massive and very tall hooded follower.



When a street lamp they passed partially illuminated his face, the man could see that he was not a part of their group and signaled his friends to look behind them. They thought it was the booze still talking and continued to walk on unaware of the unspeakable danger lurking just over their shoulders.



The man in the blue jacket tried to see again who the follower was by letting the group go a little past him so that he could make out the stranger more clearly.



As the new stroller approached, he could see the hate in his eyes and the rage. He started to call out to his friends once more but was silenced by a 28-inch blade that cut through his neck like butter and his headless body slumped to the ground in a quiet heap, the only sound being the pulsing squirt of blood.



This would have been enough on most nights but tonight he felt that the city needed to be taught a lesson and his rage could not be controlled. He waded into the men; decapitating two more from behind before the others could turn around. The frenzy of murder continued until there was only one man left standing.



The young man stood in paralyzing silence as the man approached to within inches of his face. He wet his pants as the stranger circled him and thunderously spoke.



" Lets see what you are really made of. Can you see the gleaming? " He growled from under the dark hood. As he stared deep into his eyes of his victim he was astonished further as the eyes began to glow and sink inward as if they were whirlpools. All inside them were sights of agony and pain and a fire burned red, in some sort of hell reflected in his dark orbs. The man lifted him up and stared even deeper and the young man could see white light shining through a cloud of mist and someone standing there, someone terrible, even more awful than the man about to slaughter him now. The specter was waving him forward, beckoning for him to follow. " You see it don't you?" " What do you see, what do you see, tell me what is it that you see?"



The young man tried to answer but could not speak. It was too much for him and as he began to pass out. He could remember hearing a voice as he started to lose consciousness repeating, " I have found you, we will speak again. Remember all and we will end the Gleaming."



He placed the boy carefully to the ground and away from his slaughtered friends, removing a piece of identification from the young mans wallet, he retreated back to the shadows.



A friend appears.



A Chance Meeting






The Harvesting






The Man-Wolf






The Sacrifice at Ridgemont






The Gleaming






The Gleaming - Continue the Gleaming

The Gleaming - a Friend Appears

Rainy Day Killer Slays Seven, One Escapes Blood Bath


A friend appears.


The next day the papers read, "Rainy Day Killer Slays Seven, One Escapes Blood Bath."



"My" he thought. "If I could only find that writer, I could see if he could escape." Today he missed his usual breakfast and found himself standing on a bridge that separated the hustling city from the relative quiet of the suburbs. He could see the faces of the people in the cars as they whizzed by and he wondered what their life was like. Did they have peace in the their eyes or was the look on their faces really hiding some unspoken fear as he had come to realize in his own life?



Would he go days or months without this pain to kill returning or would he finally just find the strength to defeat this thing once and for all?



He would have a chance at beating it if he knew what he was up against. Something in his head ordered him to do this and he could not disobey. He could not see his own eyes to see what was there but he knew that there was something. He had tried seeing it once before but the event nearly killed him. He had stared into a mirror trying to find the secret but fell dizzy and collapsed to the floor deadly ill.



For days he suffered in agony with no hope. The pain was so severe that he could not see living through it. Then on the 3rd day, he was released from deaths grip and stumbled back to his bed, where he collapsed once more. When he finally came to his senses, it had been seven days of torturous hell and he did not ever want to experience it again.



Better if he find someone to look for him and maybe they could tell him what his own eyes would not.



He had decided that when the need to kill consumed him, he would demand of those who were about to perish, that they tell him what they saw in his eyes, if anything.



And that's the way he had planned it until the events of yesterday. Before then, he had no one tell him anything they had seen, neither had this one but he felt that he had seen something. Now he had found someone who may help him make sense of his life and gain control over his nature. But whatever he saw was so frightening and so horrifying that it almost killed the young man and probably would have if he had not passed out.



The cars were thinning out now and the rush hour was almost over and he had some time to kill, breakfast was waiting. He looked towards the pedestrian path where two bodies lay headless. He had approached their broken down cycle on the bridge a few minutes earlier and wanted to ask them about the "gleaming" but things got out of hand and he tossed the bikes off the bridge and left their bodies to be found.



But now he was hungry and only one thing would do, scrambled eggs!



He entered the doors to the restaurant and immediately the familiar aroma of the kitchen engulfed him as he walked to his table and took his seat by the window. It was where he studied the street as usual, looking for a target.



He ordered his meal and watched carefully through the dew-covered glass.



When his food arrived, he thanked the waiter and began his usually wonderful meal.



But something was wrong this day. Something made his senses tingle with alert and it was not like anything he had felt before or was it?



He hurried to finish his meal and returned to the alley where he had stood many hours earlier. Something seemed to be drawing him back to the scene of the crime committed the night before. He did not know why but he had to return there, now.



He knew there would be something there, something he had missed maybe a clue to himself. Whatever it was, it was pulling him back to the scene of his last crime.



When he reached Broad Street, the police were still on the scene and although they were busy collecting evidence, people were coming and going as if they were unaware or uncaring of what had happened just a few hours earlier. It took him only a few minutes to find what he was looking for as he stared from the alley out to the sidewalk. Down the street, he recognized a figure that he had not seen in a long time, Tom Sheppard. He was now on the case. Why? How does this rank him?



For the first time in his memory, he panicked and started to run back towards familiar streets. He temporarily lost his bearings and found himself back near the bridge. He thought he might escape by crossing over into the suburbs, putting distance between him and this threat. The reason for his panic was not quite certain; he just knew he had to get away. Crossing the bridge, he passed the place he had placed the bodies of the motorcycle riders and took a moment to glance at their lifeless decapitated bodies. He had not been able to ask them if they could see the "gleaming" because they had been in too much of a fighting mood and actually attacked him. He had no time this morning to fight and quickly dispatched them.



They were still there and he stared back at them while he hurriedly walked past.



When he turned his head back, a figure stood before him. It was Sheppard and he was walking towards him, his hand extended. "Why do you run from me old friend, I am hear to be of help to you. I have a deal for you". "You are here to capture me and that can not happen," He shouted back as he climbed a pillar and leaned precariously on a cable." Not yet, not now, when I am so close to an answer". And with that he leaped from the bridge, tumbling hundreds and hundreds of feet to the water. Sheppard stood for a while looking down into the fast moving water, regretting what had just happened. This was going to be hard to adjust to. He had just witnessed the death of the only man who had even the slightest chance of saving mankind.

****************************************************************************************



A Chance Meeting






The Harvesting


"There may not be a perfect crime but there is near perfection in some criminals. These 'harvesters of man' wander the Earth avoiding capture or detection. You seldom learn of their horrendous crimes unless they are accidentally uncovered and even then, they are hushed up and spirited away to unknown locations, to await their fate from a justice system who would rather forget their atrocities than alert the public of their crimes." - Thomas Sheppard 2009.


Those were my words and I am, did I mention, uniquely qualified for this job, which I will explain later, until then, my code name is "Reaper".










The Gleaming






The Gleaming - Continue the Gleaming






The 8 on Broad Street

The Gleaming - Continue the Gleaming

It was still raining as he made his way around the house to the car of the boyfriend, he could see that the door had been broken in and climbing into the still running but empty sedan, he drove off silently and un-noticed towards the city.


It had been a good day overall he thought to himself. He had made a new friend, got out of the city for the day and acquired a very nice car. As he drove down the rainy streets he made sure that he did not move too swiftly, emergency responders were screaming by at a high rate of speed.



He enjoyed the drive back to the city and turned on the radio as he rustled through the glove compartment. Finding a small Walkman like radio he noticed that it had the face and colors of an American flag, which amused him, so he stuffed it into his pocket. He had no intention of keeping it but it would just give him peace tonight. It would help by drowning out the pain until the rains came again.



Back in the city he disposed of the car in the river and walked slowly back to the nest across town, to the place he called his home.



Passing store windows he could see the fuss being made of his latest exploits and from television to television he strode by watching the image of the house he had left earlier. A mans face was talking to the cameras and he paused for a moment, his interest peaked. The caption read David Scott - Chief Investigator "Rainy Day Killings".



He laughed a bit and thought, "That will have to change".



The next day in the city was clear and the people were all about going their separate bustling ways but all tongues were abuzz with yesterday's news in Wine Hurst. The "Rain Man" as the citizens had now labeled him, had struck again. This time outside the city, now even the suburbs were not safe.



Scene: a meeting of the Rainy Day Killer task force, with the press invited.



David Scott addresses reporters; "The toll of dead and missing is now at seven men and women and we are no closer to catching him than we were the first day. A special task force has been put together weeks ago but by now everyone from psychics, to amateur criminologists have offered their help in stopping this mad man but still nothing." "This latest crime provided clues but not many" " We knew or felt strongly that the killer was a man, until now we were only guessing but the description of the suspect's voice and strength leads us to believe that not only he is a man but indeed a very strong one. The victim survived but did not actually see her attacker. She suffered only a small cut to the back of the neck but she is OK and talking". " Citizens are advised to be diligent and to walk in pairs. Stay away from areas where you are not familiar with and away from people you do not totally trust." " Any and all tips should be directed to our hot line and they will be processed most vigorously". " We will schedule other briefings when the need arises to let you know more". With that, the interview was ended, the reporters led out and the doors closed.



While not too far away, outside a family restaurant, a man opens the door and strolls inside. He waves at the management and acknowledges the cook as he walks past the ordering window and to his usual table by the window. He takes a menu and asks for two eggs scrambled 'light' with dry toast and coffee.



Finishing a fine breakfast once again, he felt renewed and the start of the drizzle outside only served to heighten his feelings of impending mental satisfaction, for it was only with the rains that the 'gleaming' could be truly seen on his blade and only with the glittering water could he find temporary peace. The rains enclosed him and shouted down the thoughts that blasted through his head; they soothed him like a primordial bath of all-consuming sensations.



Some things about himself he knew well and others were still a mystery. He knew why he loved the glitter of the rain and the 'gleaming' of all things shiny but he had little clue about why he felt the need to kill and to see his victims' eyes while the blade struck home.



The last few days had been difficult, not because of the task force or the alerted citizenry but it had not rained one drop and that had troubled him deeply.



But now he could hear the familiar rumbling of thunder, as the clouds prepared to deliver the glistening that would bring the great rapture. He waited for these long dry days and soon he would see and show the "gleaming once more".



He had gotten to the diner late and finished his meal in a hurry but still he was behind in his schedule. Usually he went to the various places in the city where he could find new targets but today he planned to sit by the water and enjoy the rain first.



As he was leaving, he noticed that the cook had a radio like the one he had taken from the car a few days ago. Since he had already purchased another and the one the cook had seemed in bad shape, he pulled the striped red white and blue radio from his pocket and offered it to his culinary hero. He loved his eggs cooked just right and the man was the best in town. The cook gladly accepted the gift and watched him with confusion as he walked out into the downpour.



The catch: When he reached the park he was truly in ecstasy, he walked to the waters edge and slumped to the ground and fell to his back with joy. He let the rain cover him with its glittering justice and reason, this was the reward, and this was his reason to be.



After a moment he sat up and spotted a fisherman at the end of the walk near the railing and rose to his feet. He watched the man fixing his pole in the steady drenching downpour and the man smiled as he approached. "You love the rain too" the man shouted speaking above the roar of thunder and the pounding rains. " Some people tell me Joe you gotta be missing your head to go out in this to fish. You know, you really have to have a heart for fishing to come out into this. I guess I really got a heart for it" he again shouted.



In a guttural bellow of a voice he answered back to the fisherman " Do you really, lets take a look".



The next morning, the newspapers told of a weekday fisherman found floating in the river, his head removed and chest split open. Missing was his heart, which would be found a few days later dangling from a hook on a fishing pole in a water side park.



In a restaurant nearby the next day, its usual morning occupant chooses the usual table and a familiar order is taken, two eggs scrambled 'light' with dry toast and coffee.



The Gleaming






A Chance Meeting

The Gleaming

When he left the restaurant he was very pleased, Julian was really on his game this morning, paying the bill he gave Julian and his mother his thanks and left a good tip.


He always loved coming here, the eggs were always so perfect and the staff so kind that he just felt so at home. He thought to himself that maybe one day he would try their lunch. Opening the restaurant doors to leave he saw her standing in the rain.



Her eyes were hazel and although he did not like targeting women with that eye color, he was uncontrollably drawn to this one, "the Gleaming" was truly in her eyes.



She had a fresh look and as he passed by her slowly, he could smell the gentle remnants of the lilac bath she had taken recently.



She hardly noticed him as he removed a piece of mail from the handbag she carried loosely on her shoulders. The letter was stamped but not mailed and turning away for a moment he paused for a few quick seconds to examine it.



He could see that her name was possibly Rebecka and that her boyfriend was probably Bill and that he was on a business trip and that she missed him dearly.



Standing right next to her and reading these private thoughts that she only recently written gave him chills, so much so that he lost touch with himself and climbed aboard the bus with her when it arrived.



He moved to the rear of the bus as she found a seat up front, as he passed, the lilac perfume wafted into the air and for a moment he was transfixed.



The ride was long and even though he was not prepared, he felt that it would be fine and he was not nervous at all.



But then he had never been nervous before, it was not a part of his makeup. As the bus lumbered to her stop, she stepped out of the front and he watched her as he exited by the rear door.



Into the rain they stepped, her heading off to her home and him following from the other side of the street. He had practiced this technique often ,even when he did not feel "the Gleaming". He would often practice following people undetected and unaware. It was almost as nice as the real thing but nothing was as wonderful as the light in the eyes of a mark that feels the passion and pain of the "Gleaming". The rush he felt drew him ever closer to her as she walked casually to her house on this quiet street in the suburbs.



When she got to the little yellow house, she paused at the gate and looked around in all directions but he was in the alley beyond her sight. Feeling safe she walked to the door and removed the key from under her porch mat and when she stood to open the door, he was instantly upon her. Forcing the key that was still in her petrified hands deep into the lock and turning it, while covering her mouth, muffling her screams. Once inside he forced her to the bedroom and tied her with sheets from her bed. She screamed and begged from under the gag but he did not notice or care, she was today's remedy for his ills and that was that. His attack had been so sudden that he was sure she had not seen his face, plus he had forced her face down on the bed while he tied her.



The rain was pouring outside and they were still dripping wet from the torrent. I won't look at you she said in a muffled voice from under the gag. "Really" he replied. "What if I have to look at you my dear? You are quite lovely". She could feel his hot breath on the back of her neck and struggled to free herself. Just then, a knock came at the door and he quickly tied her to the bed and went into the living room and peered out of the window into the storm. "It's me, Bill, honey open up I got in early". The doorknob moved vigorously and he knew that he would go for the key next. The key was always kept under the mat and when he could not find it, he would know she was inside. He went back to his car for a minute perhaps to call her from his cell phone or worse, so while her boyfriend was in the car, he went into the bedroom quickly and removed the Gleaming.



When the police arrived and forced the door open, she was tied to the bed with a note attached to her body that read "Wet lilac is your scent".



Part I - A Chance Meeting


  

The Sacrifice at Ridge Mount

The Sacrifice at Ridge Mount


Intro:



When the haze of the morning light first appeared over the lampshade in my sparsely furnished room, its amber brilliance burned my face like fire. I rolled over to shield my eyes from the effects of the previous night but knew I would eventually have to face it. As the sun peels back the dark, cloudy veil of the night, it has a way of rejuvenating memory and making things crystal clear.



In my small estate, as far as I could remember, last evening had been another sorted tale of deviation and promiscuousness, not unlike many others that had been repeated time and time again in this mountain retreat that was so far away from civilization and societies barriers.



The place had more than one paradox; the first was that it was just far enough away from the city to claim being in the peaceful countryside yet it was not close enough to civilization that one would feel completely safe. I guess that is why the parties started. In a way they began to keep me pacified until I could find a loophole that I could crawl through in my contractual agreements of the will and unload this lonely fortress for cash.



I had received this house from an inheritance. A distant uncle had left it to me along with 5,00 acres or "hectors" as stated in the will. His last wish was that it was to be kept in the family, so by virtue of my deceased parents, here I was, master of all that I surveyed.



My eyes scanned the room to search for the usual left over friends or acquaintances that, like me, are hung over and not yet ready to safely take the long mountain road ride back to the city. Climbing to my feet, I stagger down the hallway to the kitchen.



The other paradox of this place was that the land was large enough to house a few armies in bivouacs but the house was not large enough for a live-in maid, not that I could afford one on my income. As I crack two eggs and watch them start to sizzle in the pan, I fantasize in my aching head about breakfast in bed.



Finding a chair I sit and try to enjoy what I have clumsily prepared. Looking down at my watch I could see that it was 7:05 Saturday. As I begin to sip the concoction I generously call coffee, my freshly focusing eyes gaze around the kitchen and through the open door into the living room.



My eyes start to focus into the still murky morning light.



There she was by the fireplace. It looked like a small child curled into a ball by the fire and the dim light of the slowly dieing embers bathed her.



As I stared deeper into the early morning light, the figure seemed to change form, growing larger now as if expanding, this while I rushed to offer assistance and all the while she was shivering uncontrollably.



When I reached the fireside in the living room, I found that it was a young woman not a child. Checking her for injuries I placed her on the sofa and went to retrieve a blanket to cover her. When I returned she had recovered a bit and was sitting up and conscious.



"Where are you from? Are you in pain?" I asked. She said nothing to me but I could tell by her smile that she was grateful for my help.



I placed more wood on the fire and told her I was going for help but when I did she grabbed my arm sobbing as if she was afraid of me leaving her alone. As I attempted to pull away from her clutch, it grew stronger and stronger. The grip she had was strangely tight and her hands were icy cold. The foul stench of death permeated the air. I felt as though I was being lifted up and then down towards her.



Pulling me ever closer I could see deep into her eyes as she stared at me silently. Her eyes seemed to change into something not quite human and as I looked deeper and deeper, I started to lose myself in their hypnotic spell. I felt that I was being pulled, ever so slowly into hell. I could hear a voice in the room calling out as if from a cave " Remove this pain from me and give me peace" the voice thundered through the house.



I tried to get free but I could not move. I was caught fast by her frozen hands. I struggled for a long time and then at some point I blacked out.



When I came to, I was back in my bed and watching the sunlight dance across my lampshade. I sat for a moment in sublime peace and suddenly remembered. I ran into the living room but there was no one there. I looked into the other rooms but could not find a soul.



When I was sure that there was no one in the house, I sat down again in the kitchen and pondered back into the living room where the specter had appeared.



"This had happened" I found myself saying, "This did happen", I caught myself saying out loud. I vowed then and there to find the answers to what occurred that night but little did I know it would also uncover a lot about myself that I may not have wanted to know.



A strange calm came to me as I now looked down at my watch, it was now Friday 7:15 the day before.



Next week: A Window to the Past



Other Short Stories by



Robert Lee Alford Jr.



The Man Wolf






The Harvesting






A Chance Meeting

 



 

The Harvesting - Ripping Tales by Robert Alford

"There may not be a perfect crime but there is near perfection in some criminals. These 'harvesters of man' wander the Earth avoiding capture or detection. You seldom learn of their horrendous crimes unless they are accidentally uncovered and even then, they are hushed up and spirited away to unknown locations, to await their fate from a justice system who would rather forget their atrocities than alert the public of their crimes." - Thomas Sheppard 2009.


Those were my words way back then, in a now historic letter to the World Council . I made the mistake of giving my opinion, the council agreed and drafted me to my present position.



Those were my words and I am, did I mention, uniquely qualified for this job, which I will explain later, until then, my code name is "Reaper".



For ten years my job was to detect these vile creatures and bring them to justice but that was before "The Times" , now my job is to terminate them, with extreme prejudice, wherever I find them. I am above the law and operate on a charter from the Supreme Council of the Earth Church and International Law, which gives me the authority and tools to pursue this race of evil and ready the Earth for "End of Days" I track them to hells gate and sometimes beyond.



Case 1. Killing Field:



April 1st 8am. London's tube system near Tottenham Court Road. It was an old abandoned subway station that had not been used in many decades. Now it is one of the British Tubes long abandoned, so called "Ghost Stations". It was formally called British Museum Station and as I walked with investigators toward the sight, down the dimly lit tracks, you could feel the death all around you.



There were only a few body parts on the tracks and only a little blood, much less than the situation I had been alerted to, so I signaled for the transportation trolley to enter the tunnel to take me to the next station, where the commuter train had stopped and the full brunt of the tragedy was first revealed. "We've closed down the line for a mile, in all directions and we can expand the quarantined area if needed and we have seven hundred heavily armed officers topside" he said as we boarded the trolley. "That won't be needed" I said "When we get to the platform, have you and your men clear out and I'll get in touch with you when they are needed". As we approached the station, I stepped out and the investigator insisted, "well at least let us leave a few men here with you. They say this is the worst they have seen". I ignored his words and walked away as the trolley rolled off "Just maintain your distance and let nothing and no one out , not even me". " But what about you?" he asked. I did not reply I had to get to work.



I could smell the specter and I could sense that he was watching, I knew that his pale eyes were fixated on me, even in the darkness. My next move would be crucial and there was no time to think.



　**************************************************************************************************************



From a series of short stories, inspired by true life events and dreams...anticipated release date Dec. 2010.....Ripping Tales by Robert Alford










 

Witch Fight - Part II

...As he fell to the floor, he could not control his arms to brace himself for the fall. He fainted into unconsciousness. "He is blood but I will destroy him and you, if my property is not returned immediately" said the old woman. John lay there helpless and watched the two cousins become combatants. First, they just stared at each other, then he saw his grandmother sit in the chair by the fire. "I guess to be fair you should go first, you are technically older" she said as she closed her eyes. " Bring on all the evil you can. I am ready for it."


"Do not worry. I promise it will be quick and you will not feel a thing" said the old woman.



With her back to John, who was still on the floor, he could see something shiny that she was holding in her hands. It was a blade!



As the old woman neared her, John tried to get to his feet but could not. He tried to warn his grandmother but could not speak. As he struggled to move, he watched the old lady move toward her prey. His grandmother opened her eyes once more and smiled at John just before the dagger was thrust into her heart.



He could not believe his eyes. He had just watched his grandmother be murdered, right in front of him. He could not lift a hand to prevent it.



The sounds of the raging storm died down as the young woman leaned forward. Lifeless. "This is not what I wanted," she said now staring at the young woman," "I gave her every opportunity". " She told you of the amulet did she? Is it on you perhaps?"



He struggled to stand once more as she moved toward him but still he could not move. He was so filled with fear that he could feel the sweat itch under his skin as the knife was raised. The old woman stopped in mid plunge; with a startled look on her face. She stood motionless. Then John could see his grandmother was now standing behind her holding the Amulet. " You couldn't unlock the power of this but I did, with the help of my daughter who you betrayed and killed. We have found out how to put you to rest, finally. Your master knows of your thievery and he has heard all. A mysterious fiery arm enveloped the old woman and pulled her back towards the fireplace. The old woman was still frozen when she hit the fire and the flaming arm held her tightly in place. Suddenly John lurched forward, he could move once more.



"Go dear. Leave me with her. It is my turn to stir the pot" "I will remember you to your mother. Now go quickly!" John felt as though he was being pushed from behind towards the exit. As he neared the door , it opened and he was pushed into the yard.



A blood-curdling scream came from within and he knew that it was the old woman crying in agony. The screams continued for a while and then stopped abruptly. Soon he could see that a fire had begun inside and the house was burning. He tried to re-enter the house but the door was locked. He had to try to help his grandmother whom was still inside. Just then, the door opened and she walked out.



"Grandma are you O.K.?" he asked. "I saw her cut your throat". "And so she did" answered his grandmother. He could see she looked different now. She had aged once again and she seemed very weak. "Get me away from here quickly!" John helped her to his car and transported her away from the burning house.



"I'll get you to a hospital, you're going to be alright", he said, as he raced toward the highway. He did not stop until he was there and when he went to help his grandmother out of the back seat she was gone.



And.



He never saw her again.

Witch Fight - Part I

On this day, he found himself near his old hometown of Exeter and decided to stop in to visit his grandmother. He had not seen her in ages and thought that it might be a pleasant surprise. One that would make both him and her happy.


The family lives so far apart now that it was hard to get together even on holidays. Grandmother was really getting on in years so he would drop by and see her one more time, while he could. Besides, grandma was a bit of a loner and did not take to people, not even family visiting, accept for him. They had a great relationship that grew even stronger after his mom had died. He had gone to stay with her until it was time for him to go off to college.



As he approached the little house, he could see a young woman standing in the yard trimming the rose bush. He said, "Good evening" and asked if his grandmother was home. Just then, he looked deep into the young woman's face and he knew at once. It was she! His grandmother! However, how could this be? She now, looked even younger than his very own mother had before she died. "Grandma! It is you." "What is this? You look thirty again." She laughed and said, "Lets keep it our little secret". "Come, lets go inside and I'll explain." " Hurry along now, the weather is changing for the worse". She led him off to the house. He was quite stunned and surprised.



Once inside, she told an amazing tale that was hard to believe. She said that she was given this youth as a gift for a favor she had done for a witch and that the witch would soon visit her to take it back. It was only to be for a short time anyway and she just wanted to feel young again, this one final time.



"I know you find this impossible to believe but you can see the evidence in my face. I will have to ask you to leave." "Why" he asked. She just shrugged her shoulders and said, "well when I did it, I was going to give it back but now I have found out something that makes me unable to keep my word, so go along and let me talk to her alone. You may still be able to reach the highway if you leave now". 'But before you leave I want you to know that this is what did it" She pulled, from her bosom, a black stone that was attached to a rope necklace. "This is what she gave me and this is what she needs for life. She is not who she pretends to be. She is evil and I will address that evil tonight". With that, she led him to the door but the storm was gathering too quickly and it looked like it would not allow him to travel. "This happens sometimes when she is near. Best you stay out of sight and do not say a word until I tell you that you can speak. She is near now".



Suddenly there was a loud clasp of thunder and the door swung open, the wind carrying it into the wall with a loud crash. Standing there in the midst of the howling winds stood the figure of a fragile old woman. "Welcome cousin, this your cousin Morra" the young woman introduced the visitor. "And this would be your grandson?" The old woman questioned. " Good, good, it is fitting that he be here. "Now where is my amulet?" "Sit cousin and warm yourself by the fire. You have only just arrived and should rest first after your long journey. There will be plenty of time to socialize before you return home. After you have rested, I will present the amulet to you then". The old woman snaps, "You know it was a loan to you! It was not mine and it must returned to me before midnight!" "And it will be", said the young woman. "John, get your tired cousin a chair and sit it by the fire, so that she may not catch cold". "I don't catch cold anymore you know that! Or EAT or DRINK or put up with waiting for what is rightfully mine!" Now give it to me or else". "Or else what?" said John as he placed the chair by the fireplace as he was asked to do. "Now, now, she is tired from her journey and is not herself". "Not myself" "Oh I see you are trying to shield the young man from our history, so be it, you have one minute to retrieve it and then I will punish you all". The young woman looked at her grandson, smiled and said "John remember to stay clear of the fireplace. This storm may stir up those hornets that live in its walls. Storms seem to get them excited, remember." John was not quite sure what she'd meant at first, there had been hornets living in the chimney years ago but they'd been rid of them ages ago." "So you would have me stung by bee's? You know such things cannot harm me anymore. Like you, I have taken the pledge but you of course already know this." The old woman thought for a moment, "Whatever trick you have planned, it is not going to work. I am stronger than you and you know it". "Yes you are, cousin, I would not be wise to cross you" said the young woman.



Now the old witch was perplexed. Why was her cousin acting so strangely? What was her trick? "Never the less, your time is up" John heard the old woman say, and at that moment he was struck with a paralyzing pain emanating from his back...


              

The Hidden Island

It was about 1am and I was still nursing my second scotch and lime at my favorite watering hole; McCluskies. I was about to leave to have my usual smoke outside before going home. I sat for one last minute before challenging the darkness. It was an awful night . Looking out into the drizzle and fog, I saw the shape of a man starting to appear through the sweeping mists. He was an older man and he walked with a noticeable limp. I did not recognize him, which was strange because I thought I knew everyone in the neighborhood. Having lived here all my life seeing this face was unfamiliar to me. His face had little color, probably cold and clothes were very old and worn. He lacked umbrella or rain coat but there was no sign he was bothered by this. He just kept purposely plodding on as if he were in a hurry.

As he hobbled into the bar I was surprised to see him head directly towards my booth by the window. Now I could see his face clearly as He sat down across from me and spoke, "How are you tonight son, care to buy an old man something to warm his soul?" I said "sure what will you have". He breathed a deep sigh and said "just about anything will do for me, how about the same thing you are having?"



" Fine", I said, "Bill, set us up with another". "You are a fine young man as I have been told. May I ask you the time? I have only so long you know" .



I told him the time which was a little after 1:oo as the bartender appeared with his drink. "Thank you young Tyler ", he replied, "it'll only be a minor interruption".



Tlyer was what my father called me, it was my grandfathers name. How did you know it?".



" I knew your grandfather, he sent me here to speak with you today".



I thought I was dealing with a full blown nut case. " That is where you have slipped up, next time research your story better. My grandfather has been dead for twenty years. The old man laughed and then paused for a moment and said " Oh I can assure you that what I say is true. It is important that you believe me." "It is vital that I have a few minutes of your time, just a few more minutes, can I get a smoke". I gave him the last in my pack and offered him a light but he refused it saying, " I'll smoke it later thank you." What time is it now?" "About 2 minutes since you first asked" I said angrily.



" Just a few more minutes of your time" he continued "it'll only be a short time more". " You are a sailing man perhaps?" " No" I replied " Never been on a boat. You really need to get your facts straight the next time you decide to con someone for a drink."



" No matter. You will learn." " There is something your mother has been keeping for you. Tell her Nathan said that "it is time". She will understand



" Once more what is time exactly?" I looked again at the time and when I told him he said "well I can see I have delayed you long enough" he quickly downed his drink and stood to leave . Looking at the feeble old man I said " it is horrible outside let me call you a cab " Oh, that won't be necessary but thank you. I am just down the ways a bit I can make it there fine, just remember what I said."



" And don't smoke these things they can kill you" and with that he left the same as he had come, pausing only long enough to crumble the cigarette and toss it by the door. Minutes after he had gone I heard a loud crash. I ran to the door to see that a taxi had crashed into the bus stop. The driver looked to be fine and standing outside the car but the bench was in shambles. I always had a smoke underneath that covered stop every night after the bar...



That next morning I walked to my moms house and sat with her in the kitchen. She was making breakfast and poured me a cup of coffee while I related to her the weird events of the night before. At some point she stopped and started crying and left the room. When she returned she was carrying an old strong box. She opened it and handed me some old papers and a letter. "They are for you. They are from your grandfather, he wrote them long ago, I have never read them. He said they were for you to read only." When your father did not return from his last voyage he went searching for him and never returned. Later we learned he had been killed when his boat capsized". What did grandfather look like?" I asked. She rose and went to her room and returned in a short time with a small jewelry box. "Here, these are the only pictures I have of them both, it was taken on return from one of their fishing trips. There they are, proud of their catch. The young man stared at the worn old photograph and recognized the man immediately. Even though it was badly weathered, he was positive it was the man he had met at the tavern.



The Man-Wolf

The Harvesting




                                                                       

"The Whole Town is Talking" - Jacksonville Florida - How to Bury an Angel

The story of Haleigh Cummings is a sad and confusing story indeed . The five year old went missing the night of February 9, 2009. The case has become one that is incredibly complicated, even though, many of the principles who last saw her alive are already in jail and have been for weeks.


All along, her baby sitter/ stepmother/babysitter, Misty Crosslin/Cummings/Crosslin has maintained that she knows nothing about the missing baby girl but her story has changed like the tide on the river in Jacksonville, which is where they are now searching for her remains. Misty, then 16 now 18 years old, said she went to bed that night "with" and later "without" the child in her bed. Later on, she woke to a masked man standing over her, or not, or it was a few people. She does not know what happened to the little girl but then, is quite sure her cousin Joe (who was there that night) knows. Cousin Joe was there "with" or "without" Misty's brother, Junior ,who "did" or "did not" come by earlier, while trying to steal a machine gun with his cousin Joe. The three "did" or "did not" take part in the child's disappearance or "death", as the sheriff has reclassified it.



I take it back, the waters in the St. Johns River can not possibly change this much. And now the grandmother of Misty says that she was told that the child was placed into the river by cousin Joe, or killed by Misty by hitting her in the head with a piece of brick or wood. Wheeew. At least Charles Manson stuck to his story, hell, even Son of Sam made more sense with his talking dog defense.



Now we have divers sloshing around gator infested waters looking for a year dead corpse and collecting evidence (little pieces of bone) ,through a tip from a grandmother in Tennessee. It just don't get any weirder than this. Add to it, the father marrying the potential number one suspect and in days divorcing her, then getting busted for selling drugs along with his ex-wife Misty and her brother and you have something truly out of Jerry Springer. If not for the murder part, maybe she got off lucky, not being in this family any longer may be a blessing in disguise, a blessing for an angel.



Yesterday Misty was brought to the river where she apparently pointed out where the body interred the river, all this info from a woman who still has not admitted being there and has blamed everyone except yours truly for having something to do with it. This tiny angel of a girl had not done a thing to wind up in this family of truly confused individuals and she may have become gator bait because of some terrible wrong that was done to her. Why not have the gators eat the evidence placed unceremoniously into the St. Johns? Now there, you may have it, the only smart thing they may have done in years, maybe in their entire life and I hope who ever did this gets life, I guess that's how to bury an angel.

The Whole Town is Talking" - Ponte Vedra Florida - Part I - "He Almost Got Me Killed Twice Today" .....Quinn Gray

A beautiful 37 year old mother and wife missing, a 2007 white Mercedes abandoned near her fashionable home in the upscale community of Ponte Vedra Florida, could only mean one thing or could it?
The fantastic beaches of Northeastern Florida and professionally manicured gardens and lawns of this exclusive community was hiding a secret more treacherous than a bad "dog leg" at the local golf course that hosted "The Players Cup" every year.
Her husband, family and friends breathed a collective sigh of relief when she was found a few days later, walking disorientated, a few miles away in a parking lot near Orange Park (another upscale city outside of Jacksonville). But the relief would turn to disgust for most when the sorted details of her days of excess and shameless passion was revealed for all to see.
It started even earlier the few days she went missing when Quinn Gray and a male lover and accomplice hatched a plan that would lead police from three jurisdictions on a zig zag journey across the first coast.

It began when she was spotted walking hurriedly on Wells Road in Orange Park. When police approached her, she said she had been kidnapped but started crying, fighting police and cutting an officer with an empty torn open soda can when he attempted to offer assistance.

The story sounded suspicious from the start said some at the St. Johns Sheriff's Office but little did they imagine, how strange the story would become. Here is what has been learned:

Quinn Gray was a rich (and apparently bored) house wife married to a wealthy businessman, although she did not have too much direct access to cash, there was plenty available to keep her in the style she was accustomed to.
She met a man, Jasmin Osmanovic, an immigrant and they became lovers. On the Friday before labor day weekend of 2009, the two embarked on a three day love fest that would see them checking into one of Jacksonville's seedier motels on the south side of the city. There they would have sex for hours and hatch a plan to extort 50,000 dollars from her husband Reid Gray. The manager at the motel, where they spent a lot of their time together, said he did not sense the woman needed assistance. I am familiar with the area and know that with the police presence in the area, she would have received that assistance immediately.

The plan was to call the husband and tell him that his wife had been abducted, then lead him through a string of drop off points until they felt comfortable to retrieve the cash. The note that was delivered to the Quinn home read:

"Dear Reid, I need you to read this and be calm please what ever you do.
Stay calm if you call the police it is over for me. Reid do not be a hero this is a professional and there are three men holding me right now and they want 50,000 dollars cash. They need it by tomorrow. You can not get more than 9,500 at one place 4 different banks, we only have seven thousand in the account right now so start with that, they are not going to hurt me if you give them the money. They do not care where it is from, but donot tell any one what is going on there is a GPS on your car and they know your every movement so don't do anything stupid. No cops, Stay at the house keep your cell phone on you, keep the kids with you do not look for my car I will be OK if you get them the money tomorrow bring the kids with you and wear a tight T-shirt tomorrow, please do this honey please. Her husband immediately called police, thank goodness.

At one point at a drop off sight near Jacksonville a group of students inadvertently interrupted a stake out by police and federal officers when they stumbled upon thousands of dollars left in a parking lot.

The youth turned the money in when they realized what it was but that was only one drop sight that led police on a not so merry adventure around the city.

This letter was supposedly authored by Miss. Quinn when her husband went to the police against her wishes in the above letter:

***** "Mom,

So far I'm fine - No harm has been done to me. Do as they tell you! They have complied to everything they said they would. My life is worth more than $50,000. So please do what they say. After you pick up this letter you are going to drive North towards Jax Beach, you'll see Joe's Crab Shack on the right hand side (beach & 3rd St) . A parking lot is going to be on the right hand side for Joe's Crab Shack. Park in there. Drop the money out of the car and do not look back. Anything goes wrong, I'm dead! There's 3 of them. One is going to pick up the money, one is following you, and the third is with me. Any of them run into any issues, it's over for me. Mom, I Love You. Now put your cell phone in the mailbox and drive without it. They won't hurt you or me as long as everything goes fine, Reid is the one they are looking for.

Quinn

Do Not Let Reid

Follow you

He almost got me

Killed twice already!!! .........

(to be continued) part II

The Whole Town is Talking" Ponte Vedra Florida Part II - Sex, Betrayal and Extortion Under the Exotic Florida Sun

Do not let Reid!

Follow you
He almost got me

Killed twice already!!!

*Go back to your cell
Phone and we are going
To give you directions

How to pick me up." *****

This letter was delivered after Miss. Gray was released:

****** "To Quinn Hanna Gray
Reid we released your wife on Monday night 6 p.m.

Reid you are still responsible for the money owed to us.
Quinn the only reason we let you go was based on your word of

Keeping your mouth shut.

The split cola can was a demonstration from me to her of what I am

Capable of.
I shot that can from a 730 yards distance, you can ask her.
The is nothing the police can do to protect you Reid.
At least not from such a distance.
Quinn you were given instructions for the delivery on the day you

Were released, since everyone else was capable of following

Instructions. The police was not capable of finding your Mercedes

For 2 days, how do you think they are capable of helping you. I only
Left it a block away.

Quinn you will make the delivery on Thursday you will do exactly

Everything as I told you beside the cell phone part. Delivery is at 2
Pm. As far as you Reid remember that my eyes is close by, while

My rifle is far away. You are my first target. If I can do the can

From 700 plus yards away, imagine what I can do to you.

By the way how is the Spanish brunette that you are f*cking on the side. Lucky bustard.

I took her from your house not the street. 4 million dollar house
And your alarm sucks as much as your bank account 7k after the bills. Is that the reason you had to loan money. Reid you didn't even bother showing up with money on two counts. Did you
Want me to shoot her?
Last time you didn't take me serious, try me. No cops no feds" *******

****** Letter sent to "Diane Cho(A local news reporter in the area)

Be smart and I will make a great reporter out of you.
Follow exactly what I tell you.
You need a great story and I will provide it.

It is regarding Quinn Gray, the 37 year old Ponte Vedra woman.

Her husband Reid Gray came to us with a request.
He borrowed 50k from us with a 25k interest.

He had a deadline when to pay it back, he refused.

Friday at 2 pm I and my accomplices took her hostage.
She was terrified and confused.
She didn't know what we wanted.

I explained the situation and made her show me all the bank accounts.

There was 7k in the bank account.

A man that is valued at 20 million dollars has 7k in the account made no sense.

Reid had a chance to rescue his wife 3 times on Friday.

While calling him he hung up on us 3 times.
He said I have no use for her.
The following morning we contacted someone who did, her mother.

Quinn Gray put her life on the line for her families sake, and her husband showed no

Responsibility towards her.

Now to the reason why he didn't care.

They had marital problems in the past.
Adultery, alcoholism.
The main factors that Reid Gray forgot to tell the media is to keep his name in the clear.

He is the cheater and the liar.
He is a smart man.
While his wife is doing rehab, he is doing the coworker (Spanish girl).
From our sources he used the money to get life insurance policy on him 10 million and 500k on his wife.

500k-50k=450k for him and the mistress

Quinn Gray did everything we asked her for, and she is the one being dragged thru the mud.

We are giving you this info because we want the people to know what really happened to Quinn Gray.

She is not a drug addict or a lunatic case.

All she wanted while being our hostage was to see her girls once again.

The Coca Cola can was a demonstration of what we are capable of. I shot that can from a 730 distance. We are not in a business of hurting people but collecting what is ours.
We will get our money one way Reid, remember that.

It is not foul play Quinn is displaying.

The reason Quinn Gray is not talking is fear of dying.

You are wasting time on her instead of him." ******

Quinn gray denies any involvement in the her abduction or any ransom attempt, and it ,may have worked if it had not been for the secret recordings of what seemed to be consensual sex between her and her partner ion crime, who folded like a pup tent when questioned by the police implementing her from the start and confessing ti willing participation himself.

The tapes not only shed light on their torrid sex-capades but revealed an angry hurt wife who believed she had been cheated on and abused. No doubt she authored many parts of the letters but alas Reid Gray recently filed for an end to his marriage with Quinn. Now maybe the twists of the tale will end.

(continued from part I)

Why Lawrence Taylor May Walk Away from This One

Lawrence sure has had a few brushes with the law, mostly his fault and some well deserved but this recent one has me thinking of the possibility that he may be getting a bum deal.


From the facts we have now, he dialed at some point "phone a whore" and had a nice hot one delivered to his room at the hotel. Gifts were exchanged and after she got the big prize for her talents, Taylor tipped her for her delivery, $300 bucks, then went back to dream land in his hotel room to wake up refreshed for a new day.



Well, the girl was a runaway and 16 at best, the pimp was a child beater who forced her to have sex with men (slave master). The police arrest the pimp near her home and Lawrence, after awakening him from his beauty sleep.



What is more reasonable to believe is that Taylor's wife is right when she points a finger to a set up but not as you would think. Here is how I surmise it; Taylor is feeling kinda horny and being an x-jock and lifetime idiot decides to call the "hoochie shack" for some hot buttered loving, only to have this girl arrive at his door. With him half drunk and her totally developed, he decides to listen to his penis, after all he has done this many times by his own admission. When they are through, he gladly pays the girl for services rendered and gives her a generous gratuity. She leaves and he falls to sleep. The next thing he hears is police asking him his name and telling him to get dressed. He asks to use the bathroom but is denied due to evidence issues (understandable). He is later read his rights and told of the charges. It is at this point that he realizes what has happened and becomes aware of the huge trouble that he is in.



The creep pimp admitted to lying to Taylor about her age, Taylor admitted to having sex with her but an under-aged person can not legally consent in such a matter.



The question of motive arrives, you must ask yourself this question "why would a man who has had the opportunity to do this at any time in his life, pick now to try it?" he has had a self inflicted wound for so long that he would have been front page news to any journalist who had gotten even the hint that he was a child molester. This would have been big news and a chance for a huge "legal" payday, yet there never has been any hint of this.



I do believe the victim in this, is the child, who had troubles at home and ran away only to end up in the hands of an evil sub-human who took advantage of a sad little girl looking only to be loved and accepted by friends and adults. Lawrence just did not think to check I.D. Guilty of rape? Maybe (if you follow the book to the letter). Stupidity? Absolutely. But intent? No, nothing points to that right now.

A Surprising Truth About Energy

These days, so much concern is being made about the subject of energy. Well, I think I can offer up some points that might help us steer through it a little better and with less worry. These points should satisfy all because they are based on sound scientific fact.


Some of you will argue that I am crazy but that's your call. Plus, who knows, you might be right. It's just that I have been thinking about these things since my mom gave me my first set of encyclopedias. I was around nine or ten and over time I read most every page. I learned that the things that seem most complicated might most times have really simple answers.



For instance, the time in Earths history that can be attributed to man destroying the environment is arguably around ninety years, which covers the industrial revolution and a few years extra. But let's say it's an even hundred.



Some say that the Earth and the Universe are timeless and that just might true. But if it were true, then with a countless amount of years to do damage to the environment: the volcanoes, asteroids, comets, etc would have destroyed the planet long before now. But you say hey, "Crazy Bob" the Universe may be infinitely old but the Earth is only a few billion years old. That is true but even that amount time should have meant that earth would have been pulverized again and again completely ending the possibility of life on earth.



Just like what has happened on planets like Mars, Venus and countless other terrestrial planets in this solar system and beyond.



The knowledge that books offered me was not as important as the reality that was gained from its cumulative effects on me. I realized that planet Earth has been abused by the universe and it's own geological processes for billions of years and that's a lot of years.



There must be something about Earth that is a unique thing that prevents run away global warming and runaway green house (unlike Venus) from occurring but that's another story for another day.



Many who believe in an infinite amount of time before and after this particular place in history do not completely understand all that this belief implies.



If this planet has been here for billions of years, wouldn't the cooling of the sun have been a larger threat to life on earth than man (who has only been here a mere blink of an eye when it relates to space time). Take a look at the solar winds alone, winds that are trying to blow away our atmosphere 24 hours a day. Not to mention that most of the gaseous substances in our solar system were blown out to and beyond the Orb Cloud at the moment the sun ignited 4 and a half billion years ago. No, if you want to know the truth about energy, you have to look deeper.



The ability of the planet to renew itself is well known. Plants take in carbon dioxide and give us back oxygen. Water is purified by running streams or through the process of condensation.



And the damage man is doing and has done is well documented as well. What people are not considering is that the process that brought these energy sources to us, have not actually stopped. Further more, there is so much energy to be created on Earth, which we could not possibly use up in a million years. Most of this energy is in the air we breathe, the water we drink and the land we walk on. The energy we use all (except for solar and nuclear wind generated and geothermal) comes from multi-molecular substances.



Coal, Gas and Oil- this comes from oily substances, which were formerly living things: such as plant and animal life. Even ethanol and methane are created from formerly living organisms. Then if you consider nuclear, the science of gaining energy from the atom itself, well I am sure you get what I'm driving at.



There are many sources of energy and most are renewable and this takes very little action on our parts. Even water can be used as a renewable energy source, just as it is used on space missions right now. We even have plans to use Europa a moon of Jupiter as a kind of outer-planetary filling station for deep space missions. Presently the same is planned for the moon; if we confirm there is water there (which of course there is) we will attempt to remove the hydrogen from it in order to power both the craft and the machinery and to allow for lighter payloads during take-offs.



Why is this wealth of renewable energy not talked about and why is the fear continuously growing when we can't possibly ever use it up?



"Money".



Fear =money and it can be as great a commodity as oil or gold.



MONEY has fueled everything from the evil of the dark ages, the witch craze, slavery, and the holocaust, as well as the toppling of countless civilizations. Yes, fear can also make you wealthy, very wealthy indeed.



Formula: spread fear for something, anything, that someone really needs. Then give him or her a way to solve this problem (one that does not exist)... Then you have created big bucks. Remember, "just scare the people and they will pay".

How to Discover Your Personal America

There are simply so many remarkable places to experience in the USA that listing them seems a dauntless task. Having done much traveling in this beautiful country I thought it only fitting to still try. Let's do it by categories.


1. Children and Adults:



You can have only one clear cut winner here and that winner is:



Disney World Florida.



While there in the area, be sure to visit the Kennedy Space Center . You will be amazed all day by the centers activities. Your biggest dilemma will be in deciding between the guided tours, the "Lunch with an Astronaut" program, or the half day of hands on training you receive with the "Astronaut Training Experience". With the current special offers at value resorts starting at $49, you are sure to find activities that fill your day and keep your wallet full as well. Whether you are taking advantage of the 24 hour a day Disney Services or just escaping the cold of the winter, by sunning at one of it's spectacular pools, Both you and your family are sure to walk away with a trip to remember.



2. Beauty:



For this category we could have mentioned many U.S destinations but we chose the ever-cherished vistas of San Francisco. You can't beat it for it's spectacular architectural beauty, breathtaking sunsets or it's rich heritage and vibrant multicultural history; all of which offer up, by design, a multitude of wonderful dining and shopping experiences.



3. Discovery:



We had a hard time with this one but we settled on the choice of Route 66. With it's rustic reminders of a by-gone era, the old highway route west, is dotted with memories of a culture and history that reveal Americana in it's truest and purist sense. Traveling this route will recall ghosts of a storied past and there is fun at every mile marker.



If you are looking for the famous Route 66 in your current map book, you probably won't find it there. Before you set out on your discovery trip, be sure to peruse a resource that can help you navigate the historical road that has a mile count of 2448. With this route crossing 3 times zones and 8 states, you are sure to drive away with a memory that you will hold dear for years to come.



4. Adventure: : It doesn't matter how you choose to see it, Whether you choose a river trip, a walk around the rim, the train tour or the slow mule ride down the majestic trails to the canyon floor below. The canyon never fails to impress and mystify it's vacationers. Atop the canyon you will encounter a pure silence that will free your soul and you will be left in awe of it's breathtaking natural beauty.



The Grand Canyon



The U.S. National Park which offers "Guided Tours" by air, bus, foot, horse or raft has "South Rim" park access 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.



5. Romance:



Another group of hands down winners are The Keys of Southern Florida. The keys can be enjoyed by all but are best suited to established couples. These mini island paradises are dotted with oasis' of both peace and adventure. There are tons of fun and exciting things to do and this majestic island chain will stimulate and amaze the senses. This is truly the total package of vacation fun, adventure, discovery, beauty and romance you get them all in the keys; while there, visit Sloppy Joes, which has been offering up it's fun, food and fare, since 1933. Engulf yourself in the TRUE Key West experience here, from 9am until the wee morning hours. They close at 4am , so be ready for an Island ALL-NIGHTER....



Last but NOT least, we have our Honorable Mentions:



Natchez Trace:



New York City



Seattle Washington:



Pikes Place Market- This is where we enjoyed what seemed to be the world's largest pancake. They are as large as the plate they are presented on and there are plenty of them. Enough for 4 separate meals, well worth the money. Local lure has it, that it was the traditional Pacific Northwest breakfast of lumber jacks . It helped to fuel them for the long hard days work that they had ahead of them. I don't know much else about the legend but what I do know much about, is that they are delicious and quite inexpensive.



The market has many options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and they are perfect for dining while enjoying the views and activities that occur on Elliott Bay.



Don't forget to take a swing by the fish and produce market, you will be astounded at the value and quality of it's wide range of offerings.



Looking for a night's rest in PURE decadence? Spend a memorable and pampered stay at the Hotel Edgewater- Which is Seattle's, ONLY waterfront hotel. You have a choice of views of either the Olympic Mountains or the awe inspiring Downtown skyline. The Edgewater offers up Luxury accommodations and they are well worth the price.



Washington D.C.



The Smithsonian- which consists of The National Zoo, 9 research Centers and 19 museums is a step inside the walls, where the history of America truly comes alive in front of you. It is truly the crown jewel of Americana and the holder of its history.



South of the Border



We continue to travel the United States by road and rail and we are always surprised that there is never a bottom to the bag of discovery. New places and new things lie behind every corner, turn and mile of the road. "America the Beautiful" doesn't even HALF describe it. We are truly blessed. And a trip to America is unique and fulfilling. Bring lots of film, you will need it.



-you'll get it when you get there! When you are driving up I-95 on the east coast of the united States, near the Carolinas you will encounter a mammoth supply of billboard signs that are advertising a place called South of The Border. On the highways of America this particular place is probably advertised more than any other (other than, Disney World or Disney land). It is a child fun place and rest stop that is interesting for it's sheer advertising gall. But a photo op indeed. Visit the website for reservations and theme park info. from the Bronx to the Pocono's. New York is a staple on any site seer's diet.Were history comes alive at every bridge and scenic crossing. Extending 444 miles from Mississippi to just outside Nashville Tennessee. Don't forget to stop at the Loveless Cafe and get your picture taken with some of the many celebrities that pass through. The diner is world renowned and is visited by many international travelers.

Surviving the Economic Crunch: What Can You Do? Economic Survival - Money Saving Tips You Need to Know

We in this series of articles will try to do the grunt work of "surviving it".We hope to be able to help you survive in a way that leaves your stomachs full and your dignity intact. We won't waste your time with long winded theories, just the facts about how you can save money, put more food on the table for your family, pay the rent and maybe go out once in a while. That is all we will attempt to do , we invite your comments and we will add our e-mail address later for your ideas and suggestions, so hang in there America. This weeks top survival tips:


Misplacing a child can save you plenty!

How many times have you said to yourself "Gee, I wish there weren't so many mouths to feed". Well try this (Leave your child in a rich persons yard for the day, they will feed him and take care of them until you return) or if you do not want to risk child neglect charges, leave one or two of the gravy lickers with friends for a few days, just tell the friend you will return that night and then call and say you had car trouble and won't be back till the next day. Before they get wise to you, they will fed them for two days, you will have saved a bundle and the bonus "no child abandonment charges".



Begging can bring in a bundle!

I know what you are saying "Robert, how can lowering my self to begging in the streets preserve my dignity as you promised earlier", The answer "I lied" my first promise is to HELP YOU THROUGH this thing so pay attention. NOW, where were we? Oh yeah, right, BEGGING, can be quite dignified if you do it right, example: I once observed over a period of a few weeks three different men working both sides of an interstate of ramp. From my hotel window I watched with my binoculars as the cars drivers one by one deposited money in hands, when ever I saw green I counted it as one dollar only, when just change it was counted as 50 cents. By my crude calculations they made from $211 to 330 per day. I was curious to see what method of transportation the top money maker used to get to work and was shocked to see him emerge from the bathroom of a restaurant next door in casual wear ( at the exit he wore stained pants and rumple shirt) he continued on to a nearby grocery store parking lot where he took out his keys and climbed into a very nice BMW, How is that for preserving ones dignity!?!



Pawn(lend) your pets? For a no work, no guilt stream of income.

Now you are thinking " that's it, he's lost it, I barely followed him with the other stuff but this is outrageous. Well listen up Mr. smarty:



Some people need pets from time to time on a part time basis, things like photo shoots for advertisements, hospitals and elderly centers use them to brighten patients days and bring down blood pressure etc. During this time they are fed and taken care of in many ways until their safe return and sometimes you get paid to lend them.



Turn to petty crime.

O.k. you're right I have lost it, It maybe those whiskey sours I slammed about an hour ago were a bad idea for a breakfast appetizer but you must admit that committing a crime like vagrancy doesn't hurt anyone and you do get three squares and a bed, plus being homeless is where we are headed any way, why not get a head start! I don't know about you but I got my park bench all picked out.

Getting Your House Ready to Sell Without Paying for Help

Getting Your House Ready to Sell Without Paying for Help - The Exterior of Your Home:


First, it is important to pick up any trash in front and back yard. This includes paper and particles blown in from other properties. Just because it was clear and clean today does not mean it will be that way tomorrow morning.



Next, trim any hedges that may have grown out of control and mow the lawn. This can be accomplished by renting equipment from your local Home Depot or home and garden store, (no need to buy anything plus the rental store will tell you how to use it and give valuable info and the items particular safety features and it's method of operation.



Now that you have the greenery cut back, think about applying a fresh coat of paint. If you have been diligent on the upkeep of the exterior, minor prep work should be all that is needed to start painting (pressure washing maybe needed. If so, you can pick up a machine at the rental store). Pressure washers are easy to use but there are safety concerns. Read and follow the directions and ask about safety issues at the rental store.



Now that a nice coat of paint is on, think about planting a few more flowers here and there. There are many choices to consider. Try to choose bright colors that do not clash with the house and use them to highlight or hide features of you house.



Example: In order to highlight a window - use Roses or to hide an ugly exterior faucet use hard to see through Mums.



Return any stones from the walkway or yard to their appropriate place and finish off with a great exterior window cleaning. This can now be accomplished with the latest Windex exterior window-cleaning product. Just hook up your hose, scrub window with the included extendable applicator (we who have washed windows know how neat this product is) Finish off by hosing down your windows with clean water. How easy is that?



Next rake all the debris from your yard and lets head off to the garage!



So far you have done simple things that require only labor, now you will enter the cerebral world and most of your next moves will be governed by thought. You will ask yourself many questions like, "What would be more inviting"?



Right off, your garage is probably filled with normal junk you have acquired over time and the ugly unnecessary stuff you had placed there to unclutter and sell your house (smart, more later) and unfortunately they have only started their journey. In order to sell the house for highest value, you will need to rent storage space to place all of your unnecessary items into (what would be more inviting than an uncluttered home?) Easy answer a clean garage with a clean floor and maybe some floor paint applied. (Be sure to clean floor well to remove any oils or debris that would interfere with the bond of the paint and the final finish). All exterior garage work should have been done at time of exterior housework.



Remember that to create curb appeal that works, your home does not have to have thousands of dollars of landscaping done. Most people want to add some extras themselves, they just want to see a well-kept house on the outside and if they do, they will believe the same is going on inside.



Remember to use good quality paint! Benjamin Moore is an excellent brand, their exterior and Interior paint is far superior than most paints and adds such a professional look to the project that it's a no brainier. With all the money, you will be saving by "I can do this" and getting it done yourself, you will be well on your way to your house being sold and having a little extra cash in pocket.