Joe Biden, Passes the Torch

Joe Biden, Passes the Torch

Joe Biden has done a lot since being elected in 2025.

Joe Biden, Passes the Torch

By Cate Rees-Hessel with Wes Hessel

Editor: As we adjust to a new political landscape I think we should spend a few minutes and a few words reflecting on Joe Biden, the most influential president of the last century.  Here’s a list of  what Joe’s done for this country. I and many historians believe his incredible legislative record will stand the test of time. So, here me go, a long list of what Joe has done over the last 3 and 1/2 years for the American people. This list of course does not include his accomplishments as a Senator or Vice President, those accomplishments will be addressed on another day.  Kamala Harris will bring a younger face to Biden’s policies but she supports most of them and will push for more legislation to help working and middle class families. VOTE BLUE.

  1.  Joe brought us the much needed infrastructure bill.
  2.  Joe was Vice President to our first black president, Barack Obama.
  3. Joe brought us our first female and multi-racial VP, Kamala Harris.
  4. Joe wrote and continues to champion the Violence Against Women Act.
  5. Joe has worked tirelessly to preserve Social Security for seniors and Medicaid for impoverished and disabled folks.
  6. Joe has fought his entire career for women’s rights, equality, and reproductive freedom.
  7. Joe won the largest plurality in history with his 2020 victory over Donald Trump.
  8. Joe guided our country back from the pandemic with the least economic damage of any nation in the world.
  9. Joe despite interference from the Supreme Court is working to eliminate student debt.
  10.  Joe is standing up for renters rights, advocating for a cap on rent increases, and other needed national standards.
  11. Joe got insulin prices capped at $35.00 for Medicare participants and is working at the same for other insulin dependent citizens.
  12. Joe has worked ceaselessly to expand healthcare to all Americans, today providing healthcare for more Americans than at any other time in our history.
  13.  Joe has been pushing for legislation to force billionaires pay their fair share.
  14.  Joe and his beautiful wife, Dr. Jill Biden brought class and elegance back to the White House.
  15.  Joe’s passion to address climate change, has brought money and attention to the problem including the US rejoining The Paris (climate) Accord.
  16. Joe has brought new respect to our service members. While Trump, the convicted felon, called our service members “losers” and “suckers.” Joe has worked hard to secure benefits for our veterans one such being the passage of the PACT Act.
  17. Joe Biden has stood with the LGBTQ community defending and expanding their protections.
  18. Joe never once held a Bible upside and then tried to sell “The Bible” for $60 bucks apiece. I think you can pick one up free just about anywhere.
  19. Joe is a mature silver fox, not crazy like a fox.
  20. Joe’s humor does not include insulting others.
  21. Joe is respected by world leaders, except for Putin, Kim Jung Un and  their ilk
  22. Joe cares about the war in the Ukraine – he is not Putin’s puppet- he has rallied NATO members to send money and weapons to the Ukraine to repel Russia’s invasion.
  23. Joe is working every day to end the fighting in Gaza, standing up to Hamas, and helping to end anti-Semitism in the United States.
  24. Joe is not a 34 count convicted felon, nor is he under indictment for any crimes.
  25. Joe stopped his busy work to empower little boy who stutters; an affliction that has plagued Joe since childhood, to stand tall and be proud and keep talking, you could become president one day.
  26. Joe respects people and is kind and considerate, not brash and rude like the other candidate.
  27.  Joe is truly pro union and proved it by being the only president in history to walk the picket line last year with striking UAW workers.
  28. Joe against all predictions brought unemployment to a record low, creating 15 million plus good jobs.
  29. Joe Biden has made creating “good-paying jobs,” including bringing work from overseas back to America, a central theme of his economic agenda at home.
  30. Joe has been pointing out Trump’s horrifying and insane Project 2025 plan. If you plan on voting you better read it; scary stuff.

 

Older and Wiser

Older and Wiser

Enjoying life is important to staying happy and healthy

Older and Wiser

By Cate Rees-Hessel with Wes Hessel

The Last 3 Weeks

The last three weeks have been torturous for Democrats. Joe Biden, one of the greatest presidents of the last 100 years has been under fire because he’s old. The drumbeat to pass the torch to the next generation became too loud to ignore and he has stepped down and endorsed his Vice President, Kamala Harris. Well, we just wanted to remind folks that many people do their best work well into their 80’s.

Age is Just a Number…

Folks in their 70’s, 80’s, and beyond are still going strong. Here are 80 examples of individuals still rockin’ it; capable, determined, and resilient:

  1. Betty White was entertaining audiences until the age of 99 – this Golden Girl let nothing stop her.
  2. Dick Van Dyke – still vital and funny at 98.
  3. Carol Burnett – still as lovely as ever and doing MeTV promos at age 91.
  4. Barbara Eden – pretty as a picture at 92.
  5. Mary Kaye Ash – was still keeping her skin care empire in the pink at 83.
  6. Patrick Stewart – as sexy as can be and still captain of his ship at age 84.
  7. Engelbert Humperdinck still has the pipes to croon the most romantic songs and tour at 88.
  8. Kent McCord (Jim Reed on “Adam-12”) at 81 is still doing voice overs, and involved in the Screen Actors Guild; he and his bride have been married 62 years.
  9. Clara Peller – she brought us the iconic “Where’s the Beef?” line forty years ago, starting her acting career at the age of 81; prior to that she was a manicurist and beautician for 35 years.
  10. Eric Estrada – as handsome as ever, still acting, and assisting law enforcement to help keep children safe at age 75.
  11. Robert Redford – good looking and active activist at the age of 87; as part of his very lengthy resume, he had a role in two Marvel films, the most recent in 2019.
  12. Randolph Mantooth, age 78, and Kevin Tighe, 79 – they continue to advocate for EMS and paramedicine, which their acting work helped create, and recently were working on producing a paramedic reality show.
  13. Rick Springfield – sexy, handsome and tearing up concert stages at age 74
  14. Angela Lansbury – was still acting, beautiful, and elegant at age 97 before she passed away in 2022.
  15. Julie Andrews – beautiful, regal, and still going strong at 88.
  16. Carol King – the phenomenal lady is still lovely and melodic, entertaining audiences at 82.
  17. Barbara Hale – known to many as Della Street, was still very vital at age 94.
  18. Della Reese – an ordained minister and actress until age 86.
  19. Anthony Fauci – now age 83, sustained us through the COVID crisis; director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases for 38 years until 2022.
  20. Jonas Salk – director of the virus research lab at the University of Pittsburgh Medical School when he created the polio vaccine; at his Salk Institute, he was diligently working on an AIDS vaccine until his death at age 80.
  21. Stanley Sacks – at age 100, has been practicing law for 75 years in Norfolk, Virginia.
  22. Warren Buffet – he has complained he doesn’t pay his fair share in taxes; at 92, and has been CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, number 7 on the Fortune 500 list, for nearly 60 years.
  23. Roger Penske at age 84 has been CEO for 25 years at Enterprise Products Partners.
  24. Joe Grier, at 99, is working full time at Victory (a Planter Company), making molds for awards and trophies.
  25. Mike Nussbaum – Had the pleasure of sharing appetizers with him at a Chicago Shakespeare reception; at age 99 he was the oldest working actor in America.
  26. Sara Dappen – per oldest.org, at age 92, finally retired from McDonald’s.
  27. Michelin Star sushi chef Jiro Ono – still active at age 97.
  28. Dolly Saville – at age 99, retired from her work as a barmaid at Britain’s Red Lion Pub.
  29. Jim Clements – in Essex, England, worked in the office of a security firm until age 100.
  30. Irving Kahn – retired from investment banking at age 109.
  31. Eileen Kramer – still dancing as a performing ballerina at age 108 – check her moves out on Youtube; she began dancing over 80 years ago in 1943.
  32. Senator Dianne Feinstein – retired last year at the age of 90.
  33. Walter Bingham – at age 99 was the oldest working journalist, in Israel; a heroic Holocaust survivor.
  34. Governor (Republican) Kay Ivey is running the state of Alabama nearing age 80.
  35. Buddy Guy – still touring, singing the blues at age 88.
  36. Dolly Parton – been performing since 1956, this beautiful lady is 78.
  37. The legendary Victor Borge continued to perform until his passing at age 91, having done so for 83 years.
  38. Magda Olivero – opera diva still belting out arias at 96 years old.
  39. Margaret Tunes – was still singing age 104; an African-American beauty that made her Met debut at age 55.
  40. James Ivory – director and screenwriter; won his Academy Award at age 89 in 2018.
  41. George Takei – strident activist, writer, and actor, 87.
  42. Barry Manilow – sensational singer/songwriter; still touring at age 81.
  43. Pope Francis – living a life worthy of Christ, while overseeing the Catholic Church at 87
  44. Robert Di Nero – actor, including recent Oscar nominee for “Killers of the Flower Moon”, father, and family man, recently on the cover of People Magazine, at 80.
  45. King Charles – monarch of the United Kingdom and cancer fighter at age 75.
  46. Lou Zambelli – at 87, still works 7 days a week at the family fireworks plant of the Zambelli pyrotechnic dynasty, manufacturing custom specialty shells (per the company’s website).
  47. Mel Brooks – still active producer/director at 97 years young.
  48. Quincy Jones – continues to produce music at age 90.
  49. Berry Gordy – producer and Motown founder, still going at 94.
  50. Al Pacino – still sexy as ever at 83.
  51. James Earl Jones – still intoning that signature bass in acting at 93.
  52. David Attenborough – another icon at age 97
  53. Michael Caine – still a silver fox at 90.
  54. Martha Stewart – the lifestyle maven, still creating and absolutely beautiful at 82.
  55. Joan Collins still stunning at 90.
  56. William Shatner – 93 and literally out of this world (in sub-orbital space) just 3 years ago, the oldest person in space.
  57. Kim Novak – still lovely and working at age 91.
  58. The “Hart to Hart” favorites still shine – Stephanie Powers at 81, and Robert Wagner, recently active in a recurring role on “NCIS”, at 94.
  59. Willie Nelson – still making music at 90.
  60. The two remaining of the Fab Four – Ringo Starr, 83 and Paul McCartney, 81.
  61. Gene Hackman – still can hack it at 94.
  62. Rita Moreno – full of energy at age 92.
  63. Morgan Freeman – the legend, active actor at 87.
  64. Gena Rowlands – still full of life at age 93.
  65. Eva Marie Saint – one of my favorite actresses; absolutely beautiful, gracious, and talented at 99.
  66. Clint Eastwood – age 93, ‘nuff said.
  67. The powerhouse pair, Lily Tomlin at 84, and Jane Fonda at 86 – both still activist and actors.
  68. Chuck Norris – 84.
  69. Tippi Hedren – vivacious vigor at age 94.
  70. Bob Newhart – still playing the ultimate straight man at 94.
  71. Robert Duvall – acting at 93.
  72. Keith Richards and Mick Jagger are both 80 – still tearing up the stage…
  73. Buzz Aldrin may no longer be in orbit but still active at 94.
  74. Ellen Burton – very pretty and present at age 91.
  75. Joel Grey – still the incomparable man, also at 91.
  76. Ruth Westheimer – continued to prove a good sex life keeps you young, up until her recent passing at age 96.
  77. Senator Bernie Sanders – still advocating for American people at age 82.
  78. Harrison Ford – ever the rakish rogue, now just the silver fox version, continuing his career at 82.
  79. Hellen Mirren – the perennial great actress, who was on the runway during Paris Fashion Week this past October, now 78.
  80. Judi Dench – another ground-breaking female, who had even taken on the classically male role of James Bond’s boss “M”; won an Oscar two years ago, still working at age 89.

 

 

Some are Saying it Was an Inside Job

OPINION:

Some are Saying it was an Inside Job

Some are saying it was an inside job

OPINION:

Some are Saying it was an Inside Job

 **Editors note. This is an opinion piece and Calamity News and Politics is neutral on this topic.

By Anonymous II

It seems like more and more often I find my writing fueled by outrage. My current outrage centers on the bedwetters in the Democratic Party and the hysterics in the media; instead of focusing on the dangers of a second Trump administration, the Republican 2025 Plan, and now the assassination melodrama.

For the last two weeks the only news filling the airwaves has been dump demented old Joe. This is in spite of old Joe having had the most significant presidency in the last 90 years. No one said the transition would be complete in four years. There is still much to do.

The news of an assassination attempt against Trump has finally changed the focus of the news. Unfortunately, the incident has only amped up Trump’s message of hate and violence instead of tamping it down. As a conspiracy theorist friend of mine said, ‘it’s a plot by Trump to solidify his position as targeted and persecuted.’ You know kinda like Jesus Christ.

As my friend noted, Trump doesn’t care that people were killed. He hadn’t given a fuck on January 6th when people were getting wounded and killed; so why would he give a fuck now? My friend’s thought was that Trump would have a small device tucked behind his ear and when Trump’s paid shooter started firing Trump would detonate the device which would ignite behind his ear making it appear he was shot.

My friend is convinced it was an inside job.

Who Would You Rather Run the Nation?

Who Would You Rather Run the Nation?

I'd rather be Joe Biden than Donald Trump

Who Would You Rather Run the Nation?

Editor’s Note: Over the last couple days most of the political talk shows have been rehashing Joe’s poor debate performance. I think it involved terrible optics. Why did his people allow him to be facing away from the camera? Whoever it was on the presidents team that okay’d the studio lighting should be horsewhipped. And the total incompetent that was responsible for Joe’s make up should be fired.  So much of what happened was visual. In response to all the negative chatter Cate Rees-Hessel and hubby Wes Hessel wants to have a word with you. 

 

By Cate Rees-Hessel with Wes Hessel

 

Winner, and Still Champion…

After the first presidential debate, I must say that I honestly feel President Biden won. Why? Because he actually answered the questions, didn’t whine or insult like a spoiled brat, and he was honest. Would you rather have a slow talker that tells the truth, or a fast-talking felon as president? Yes, it comes down to this.

A Real Leader

Joe had a cold – his voice was a bit soft and raspy, but his answers were solid. He spoke slowly with his stutter, but that has never stopped him from being an effective leader. He has even helped empowered a little boy who has a stammer challenge, because Joe Biden is a good man. He cares about America. Even if you felt his lost his train of thought at times during the debate, many of us need to pause to think in order to give an intelligent answer. Taking a moment to compose yourself is not a sign of weakness, especially when you’re not feeling well from a bad cold – our President got the job done, because he is a professional. “The Donald” was arrogant, spewing the same old hate instead of giving legitimate answers.

Run, Joe, Run…

After the debate, our president said he walks a bit different, does not debate as well, but knows he can continue to run our nation because he is mentally and physically fit. He quipped that he is not a young man – that is stating the obvious – but I truly feel he does not look or act his age at all. When he accepted his victory in 2020, Joe jogged to the podium like a man half his age – that was only four years ago. I can recall President Obama stating that before his presidency he was a much younger man. The office can age a person, but President Biden is still as strong as ever.

Breakfast (Lunch, and Dinner) of Champions

He was on fire when he gave the State of the Union a few months back. One slow talking debate does not mean he is not able to continue being a strong leader. Donald Trump is only three years younger than President Biden. Just look at them – it’s clear Joe is in better shape than Trump, and that’s without the hair and makeup jobs that Trump has used for years. President Biden eats nutritious food, not a diet of junk food; he exercises and does not have the stress of a possible jail sentence like the Donald has.

Running Mate

Joe Biden also has a very capable vice president if Lord forbid something were to happen to him. Kamala Harris is a very capable woman that can run the country well. Trump has not even chosen a running mate – Lord only knows whom our president would be if Trump’s felony convictions or poor diet catch up with him. Rumor has it Marco Rubio may be his choice, and frankly Marco scares me with his extremist mind set and Tea Party-type association.

Just a Number

Age is just a number. Patrick Stewart at 84 is a fine actor, intelligent and powerful and still a little bit sexy. Engelbert Humperdinck is still entertaining audiences live at age 88 with a clear voice, moving about the stage with vigor and grace. Carol Burnett is still on the tube for MTV at 91, and Dick Van Dyke is going strong at 98 years old. And Clint Eastwood is still directing movies at 94. In fact, his recent thriller “Juror #2” should be released around Christmas. The number of capable senior citizens that continue to handle challenging careers is growing.

The Right Choice

I am voting for the silver fox, in the ever so cool Aviators. Joe Biden, is one of the best presidents to ever serve this country. Joe Biden is the first real working man’s president. Joe Biden knows what its like to worry if there will be enough money to make it through the month. He will stand up to terrorists, foreign and domestic. His administration has created a record number of jobs, cares about the environment and women’s rights, including reproductive freedom. Women with unsafe pregnancies that are approaching death’s door before they can get the medical treatment they need, can rely on Joe Biden to save their lives. He will protect the children already on this Earth with nutritious school lunches, quality child and health care.

Clean Up Man

Are prices higher than before Joe Biden took office? Yes, they are because during Trump’s reign of terror, the pandemic raged unchecked, leading to rampant deaths and economic collapse. Americans are back at work now, thanks to the hard work of Joe and Democratic lawmakers, and it’s only a matter of time before prices begin to decline, but only if President Biden remains in office. Trump gives tax breaks to big business and the ultra-wealthy, not caring if Americans can put food on the table.

…vs. Sell His Soul

Maybe you don’t like President Biden, perhaps he is not your first choice for whatever reason, but please recognize he is the only choice, because the alternative(s) is unthinkable: a convicted felon that holds the Bible upside down and then tries to sell them for sixty dollars apiece. A racist that tries to claim a connection to the African American community because he is now a convicted criminal, and wears gold sneakers that he is also peddling. That is the biggest insult to the Black community that I can even imagine. And his claim that immigrants are stealing “black jobs” should outrage us all. And then the rarely mentioned third candidate Robert Kennedy Jr, who is an extremist anti-vaxxer who claims a now dead worm ate a portion of his brain. Oh my. The choice is clear, Joe gets four more years.

What a Leader Looks Like

The real man of God is the one who prayed during his inaugural speech, attends church on a regular basis for worship of the Higher Power, not himself, and does not participate in “locker room talk”. A convicted felon cannot vote, so how can one run for political office? Donald Trump, the person that wants to be president, has lost his right to vote – think about that. He didn’t belong in the Oval Office before, and he certainly does not now.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

President Biden respects women – he wrote the Violence Against Women Act; he respects our military – his son served. He’s created a record number of good jobs, brought unemployment down, is daily working to protect our labor force and our unions. Joe stands up to large corporations, getting them to pay their fair share of taxes. He got insulin capped at $35.00, finally affordable for those that need it to control diabetes. Allowing Medicare (the government) to negotiate drug prices is another big Biden win.

Oh, Sleaze…

Donald Trump brought us the first “lady” with a belly button staple, President Biden brought us a beautiful Doctor of Education, a true lady. There is no doubt about it the Biden’s have brought class and dignity back to the White House. The Trump era had a mice infestation and a chief rat in the Oval Office. Don’t let our nation go back to being the laughingstock we were during the orange monster’s “presidency”. Trump had the audacity during the debate to refer to the Biden era as an embarrassment – this is surely the pot calling the kettle gray. There’s a reason, well, dozens of them, why he wasn’t reelected. Donald Trump promised a bloodbath if he does not win; don’t let that bully scare you, vote blue and the authorities will stop the violence. He promise to be a dictator from day one should on itself be disqualifying.

Democracy in Action

America is a democracy. We have the best economy in the world after the pandemic because Joe Biden took office – he is the clear choice. President Biden promises to stay in the race after this debate, because one debate does not define a President. A record of making a needed infrastructure bill happen, decreasing student loan debt, limiting rent raises for tenants, saving social security for our seniors, these things define a good president. “When you get knocked down, you get back up” – President Biden got right back up; ninety minutes does not define a presidency.

Go, Go, Go, Joe…

I agree with my girl Jill, there is no one I would rather see in the Oval Office than her husband, a President for the people, not a criminal puppet of Vladimir Putin. Let’s go Joe, four more years; there is still more work to be done, and you are the man to do it.

“Go, go, go, Joseph, you know what they say

Hang on now, Joseph, you’ll make it some day

Don’t give up, Joseph, fight till you drop

We’ve read the book, and you come out on top…”

(Go-Go-Go Joseph, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Andrew Lloyd Webber)

 

 

Summer Events on a Budget

Summer Events on a Budget

Summer Events on a Budget

By Cate Rees-Hessel

 

Celebrate…

June brides, grads, 4th of July patriots, and fun seekers can celebrate without breaking the bank with these money saving ideas:

  1. Wedding gown resale and discount shops offer dresses as lovely as the exclusive stores – don’t discount them, pun intended. A good seamstress and dry cleaner can be invaluable when choosing a pre-owned fashion, or a dress that’s been on the rack for some time. Choose a classic style and make it your own. A prom dress off the clearance rack can even be adapted with some sewing know how.
  2. Something borrowed can be a dress, shoes, or veil – just make sure the dress fits well; have alterations if need be. A tailor or seamstress can save you money by altering the size or changing the look of the garment, but ask the lender if it’s okay to make changes.
  3. Weddings, graduation parties, or showers can use items like plastic silverware, as long as it’s a higher quality plastic. Party stores, as well as big box retailers, stock heavy plastic cutlery that is ornate and in a variety of colors. Pair with pretty colored napkins and matching paper or heavy plastic plates and cups. Have pretty baskets on the buffet table to hold these items. After Mother’s Day is a perfect time to get pretty table items on clearance.
  4. Decorations can come from a dollar store, but be VERY choosey. Avoid cheaply painted ceramic, or plastic decor. A glue gun and pretty ribbons can be your friend.
  5. Make sure everyone has a good time – keep events fun filled. People will remember a great time more than an elegant but dull event, though do be very careful about being tacky. Tasteless and chintzy are also things guests will recall. Budget friendly does not have to equate to trashy. There are many nice inexpensive things available for festive times.
  6. Bridesmaids can wear dresses in coordinating hues of the wedding color scheme – just pull them together with matching scarfs, ribbons and jewelry.
  7. There is nothing wrong with a potluck, but if the item you are providing is leftover from another event, please keep that to yourself. A relative of my husband’s announced rather loudly that the appetizer she was serving was left over from a funeral. Needless to say I nearly choked on mine.
  8. To avoid the aforementioned tacky, streamers and crepe paper wedding bells that go from flat to puffy in the blink of an eye, are among the tackiest of decor. Don’t go there. Vintage touched are a better bet. Something from a loved ones wedding back in the day perhaps.
  9. Set up an area with a background for selfies and have a few fun props handy. Here is where a bit of tackiness is okay…
  10. Consider alternative venues for weddings or graduation parties. Water park, beaches, backyards and park district shelters can be very nice. Use plastic or linen table clothes, and clean the areas before guests arrive if the venue does not provide that service. Remember porta potties are modern equivalents of the dreaded old fashion outhouses – choose a place with indoor bathrooms. Make sure soap, lotion, toilet paper, and paper towels are well stocked – be prepared to bring your own. A basket of amenities, such as perfumes, breath mints, and a sewing kit with safety pins, needle, and thread are a nice touch. Maybe add a few fresh flowers in the wedding color to the restrooms in glass mason jars. Talk to the venue and find out what is allowed.
  11. If you are an invited guest of a casual venue wedding or other party, dress nicely. Don’t assume that a less formal venue means shorts, T-shirts or cheap flip-flops. Designer flops are fine with the right outfit, but wear a nice dress or casual suit. It’s still a celebration of someone’s nuptials or accomplishment, and being well dressed shows respect. Leave the sneakers and sweat pants at home. Deck shoes or a very nice new pair of jeans might be okay, but actual slacks or leggings would be very appropriate.
  12. Games are fun, and even a karaoke machine might be alright, but remember, after a couple glasses of wine, Uncle Fred’s off-key version of “Some Enchanted Evening” (or worse yet “Disco Duck”) can certainly bring down even the best party ever.
  13. Weddings can have thrifty themes and still be fun – beach or luau work for both showers and grad parties as well.
  14. Balloons all over can be very lots of fun and add pretty pops of color – just remember safety for children and the environment.
  15. If you are using a church social hall, school gymnasium, or the like, inexpensive tulle or satin look fabric to cover shelves of books or equipment can work to give the room a professional look. The same is true for VFW and other community type venues.
  16. Gazebo weddings are pretty for the actual vows; I know someone that had a beautiful ceremony under the Welcome to Las Vegas sign.
  17. Be creative, museums, theaters or art galleries might be available, if you ask.
  18. Look for coupons or specials in your local paper or online for catering – this time of year they are often offering discounts.
  19. If you opt for a backyard wedding, mow the lawn and have a well stocked indoor powder room for guests; designate an indoor area in case of inclement weather or this year, cicadas.
  20. At-home showers can be intimate, friendly, and frugal. I was given a unique kitchen shower where everyone was asked to bring a favorite recipe, and the non perishable ingredients for the dish, along with their gifts; a nice way to stock the bride’s kitchen cupboards. Maybe make a couple of the recipes to serve at the event. Another options is a white elephant motif.
  21. In addition to gifts, bring a little some thing you have enjoyed in your home over the years with a story surrounding the item for happy couple to treasure – giving beautiful memories is priceless. Lingerie showers can include active wear as well as sexy nighties. Remember that couples showers are popular these days and can include themes like fix it or honeymoon travel. Spa showers can be fun for everyone, maybe with homemade scrubs or essential oils. Multi level marketing company reps sometimes offer theme showers, but if the bride is registered elsewhere or has a specific list, stick to that. Coordinate with guests to avoid duplicate gifts. Brides and grooms to be, please choose gifts in various price ranges to accommodate everyone’s budget.
  22. Don’t cut corners on certain items. Your wedding photos cannot be retaken, and trusting a beauty school student or multi level cosmetic sales rep to do your makeup, hair, or nails is not a good idea. Choose a seasoned professional – it’s worth the money. Trying bartering for these services, it may not work but it’s worth a try – just be polite and don’t be pushy. Some areas have barter groups that you might use. There is always Groupon, too.
  23. A pizza party rehearsal dinner is a bit in poor taste perhaps, but a buffet is fine. Engagement parties can be casual, appetizers and desserts work for this type of party, so do barbecues.
  24. If you opt for a cake and punch reception, utilize a Pittsburgh, PA tradition with a homemade cookies sweet table – have bakery boxes available for guests to take some goodies with them. Never bring plastic sandwich baggies or containers for left over party food from A candy table with mini chocolates and other confections with pretty bags for guests to bring home is a fun, memorable that can be done inexpensively.
  25. For graduation or engagement parties, a board game night can be lots of fun. Have everyone bring a favorite with them.
  26. Carnival theme parties with snow cones, funnel cakes, and cotton candy to go along with games of chance can be fun for summer birthday parties. Inexpensive trinket prizes and a large stuffed animal door prize can be fun. Give tickets to win the main award to everyone in attendance, and have the big reveal at the end. Have smaller prizes ready for everyone as they exit.
  27. Check local laws and regulations if you want to have your event at the beach or a local park – don’t leave anything to chance. Most forest preserves, public beaches, or parks require permits for private parties. They might be free or a nominal fee must be paid in advance – plan ahead, as reservations for spaces may have to be made at the beginning of the quarter or year.
  28. Memorable touches can mean more than pricey allocates. Dear friends that are like family recently celebrated a graduation with custom T-shirts exclaiming sister, brother, mother, father, grandmother, and grandfather of the graduate. Team Bride and Team Groom buttons, tees, or jackets are also a great way to commemorate a special day.
  29. Use a pretty chalkboard with the wedding colors for each bridal event leading up to the big day, as well as at the ceremony and reception themselves, to greet guests, welcoming them to each event. Include directions to seating areas, restrooms, and the like to help navigate their way through the venue with ease.
  30. DIY multimedia presentations can make for a enjoyable walk down memory lane without the high price tag – try websites like Canva.

Most of all, have fun, enjoy your loved ones, and these important summer moments…

 

Trump’s a Convicted Felon-Now What?

OPINION:

Trump’s a Convicted Felon-Now What?

Trump faces numerous civil lawsuits and DOJ criminal indictments.

OPINION:

Trump’s Finally a Convicted Felon – Now What?

By Cate Rees-Hessel

 

Time to Serve? Just like my previous article pointed out Mr. Trump has done many things no other “president” in history has done, now we can add being a convicted criminal to his list of sins. Finally, “the Donald” is a convicted felon – thirty-four counts – but what does it mean for the presidential election in November? Some legal experts feel Trump will not get jail time – if he does not do a stint at Club Fed, that’s totally unfair. Other celebrities such as Martha Stewart and Lori Laughlin did their time for far lesser crimes than the orange haired monster. No one is above the law, including a former “president”. He has not been pardoned as former president Nixon was by his Vice President Gerald Ford when he took office after Watergate.

Check A Mirror…

Trump has already rudely commented on Hunter Biden’s conviction, but allow me to point out, Hunter is the son of our president and not running for office himself, not to mention he was convicted on three charges, not thirty-four. The only time a previous president did not attend the inauguration of their successor – no peaceful transfer of power – and then he incited the January 6th insurrection. The Donald promises if the horrific should happen and he is elected into the Oval Office, he will be a dictator from day one. A democracy has no room for a dictator. The United States is the land of the free and the home of the brave, dictatorship has no place here.

All the King’s Horsing…

Unfortunately, the Republican party and Trumpy Dumpty’s followers still want him to run again for the presidency. Ironically, convicted felons lose their rights to vote, so how in the world can one be president? We all learned the basics in civics classes that in order to be elected president, one must be at least 35 years old and born in the United States but what about felonies? I suppose it never came up before because the Donald is the only individual with enough nerve to seek the presidency when he is in the midst of being on trial for 91 felony charges.

Doesn’t Know Which Way is Up

He had the audacity to claim President Obama was not born in the United States. Apparently, old Grumpy Trumpy is also as inept at geography as he is at American History or Biblical knowledge. The imbecile that told the American public to drink bleach as a way to prevent COVID, and that windmills cause cancer, wants once again to soil the Oval Office with his hatred and chaos, this time as a convicted felon. A slap on the wrist is not good enough here. Trump belongs behind bars for a very extended period of time. Lock him up and throw away the key. Lock him up. Lock him up.

Got to Run…

Will he flee the country to avoid jail time? Perhaps his good buddy Putin will give him a place to stay. The orange haired cult leader had to surrender his passport to the court, however his brain washed followers will consider it an honor to help him escape. Would these deluded folks try to break him out of jail, also? Many questions to ponder, but most important is the issue of his being on the ballot for president of the United States as a convicted felon. Will individual states remove him from the slate? A couple have tried and failed due to our MAGA Supreme Court.

Same Song, Second Verse (And Third…)

And what is going on with the Donald’s other trials? What is actually happening in Georgia? Putting off the hearing until the last day of the session for this term seems like Donald is getting preferential treatment, now doesn’t it? Will he face the music in other states? Who will follow in New York’s footsteps and get him on trial for his many crimes? We need to see more convictions, not just for hush money to pay off porn starlets, but for election fraud and his part in the insurrection of January 6th, 2021. An insurrection verdict would allow the Fourteenth Amendment to be invoked. Will right wing “evangelical Christians” the ilk of Robert Morris still canonize the man that is convicted of election fraud and paying off a porn star?  They supported his “locker room talk” when he “grabbed ‘em by the p—-“. My prediction is that they will.

Book ‘Em…

I am a very devout left wing Christian with a Jewish heritage and I see no fruits of the Spirit in Mr. Trump, especially not humility or compassion, and my spouse agrees, and so do most of my friends, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23 NIV) “Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.” (Ephesians 5:4 NIV) “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” (1 Corinthians 15:33 NIV)

Support This?

This is more than bad morals – Donald Trump is a 34-count convicted felon, completely corrupt, with many more charges against him, yet his followers are still going to vote for him. Claiming he is hated by liberals and loved by his country, the latter is simply not true. If America loved this evil man, President Joe Biden would not have beat him with a record number of votes. Trump is losing favor finally, held in contempt of court, convicted, and recently booed at the Libertarian convention.  Sometime soon might Scott Baio, Roseanne Barr, and Kelsey Grammar may be his only followers? Doubtful but some of his former fans are wising up to his manipulative narcissistic ways.

Let Justice Roll Down

Of course, the gun lobby through the NRA endorsed him shortly before his conviction. His meeting with big oil had Donald making promises to support them should he be elected – nothing has changed. Trump is worse than ever – he is in no way a better man. Will Trump have to pack up his “My Pillow” for a staying in federal prison? It seems only time will tell. The truth has not set him free, but will his freedom be taken from him for his criminal behavior? The questions remain which way the scales of justice will swing. I applaud the jury of his peers that found him guilty, the presiding judge that held him in content for violating the gag order, and the prosecuting counsel. Will the man be in handcuffs, shackled, and incarcerated, we ask ourselves these questions? His conviction is a step in the right direction, but how can we assure he never sees the oval office again? There is only one way: pray, vote, and take political action by volunteering for the Democrats – www.democrats.org.  What can we do? Vote blue…

Making Memorial Day Memories

Making Memorial Day Memories

 

 

Making Memorial Day Memories

By Cate Rees-Hessel & Wes Hessel

 

Remember and Honor…

Memorial Day officially ushers in the summer season. Here are some fun ways to celebrate this holiday. Let’s honor our veterans that have given their lives in service of our country, making the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

 

  1. Attend a mass or service on Memorial Day – light a candle for a military member that has passed. What better way to honor our fallen service members?
  2. Send a card or gift to a military person; those on active duty would love some home baked cookies – older veterans may welcome a visit or small gift. Let those who serve or have served know you care.
  3. Widows, widowers, and children of fallen soldiers might enjoy a present, also – a batch of brownies or a plant, perhaps.
  4. Memorial Day used to be called Decoration Day, so let’s decorate. Honor the graves of service members with flags or flowers.
  5. Red, white, and blue bunting, banners, and decor are great ways to get in the holiday spirit. Doors, patios, balconies, walls, and windows can all be decorated. I leave my patriotic decor up through Flag Day, July 4th, and Patriot’s Day.
  6. POW and MIA bracelets may be a thing of the past but a nice patriotic pair of earrings or necklace looks pretty for the holiday.
  7. Picnics and barbecues can be fun. Try new recipes with less red meat – try grilling fruits and veggies. Keep food safe from warm temperatures, iced or cooled until time to eat salads and cold sandwiches.
  8. Parades, as well as outdoor concerts and films are free activities for the whole family to enjoy.
  9. Avoid sparklers or other fireworks by your self – they can cause very serious injuries.
  10. Veterans in nursing facilities might like a visit – make a new friend.
  11. Patriotic films can be found online, on streaming services, and at your local libraries.
  12. Many pools and water parks open Memorial Day weekend. Use a safe sunscreen (ones containing only zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide are the best) and enjoy water play. Remember SPF lip balm, also. It’s fun to hit the beach, but check conditions and bacteria levels locally before swimming – do the same for lakes. Install a weather app on your phone for quick updates on air quality, temperatures, and storm warning.
  13. Pay attention to boating safety if you decide to do some sailing. Keep keys on a floating chain, at least enough life preservers on for everyone in the boat, and a well charged cell phone in a waterproof case with you at all times.
  14. If it rains, an indoor picnic is just as much fun. Indoor grills are a great way to bring the outdoors inside.
  15. Check ingredients before allowing pets any of the celebratory fare. Onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and chocolate are some of the foods toxic to our furry friends.
  16. Remember summer is a short season, so patriotic items are usually inexpensive. Some stores will put them on sale after Memorial Day, so you can stock up for the 4th.
  17. Take a walk in the park, hike, or bike ride – summer is finally here. Some cities have free or minimal fee bike rentals available.
  18. Use the long weekend to clean out your garage or basement. Power wash your deck or patio, and outdoor furniture. It’s time to get everything season ready.
  19. It’s a great weekend to wash the car or the dog in the backyard.
  20. Start a vegetable and flower garden – fresh vegetables and fruit you grow yourself are nutritious, taste great, and rewarding. And who does not love the look and fragrance of beautiful flowers?
  21. Don’t forget the insect repellent – check websites like the CDC and Consumer Reports about the safety of the various active chemicals; I still like the Skin So Soft products by Avon, myself.
  22. If you have allergies to bug bites, food or the like, carry your EpiPen, and your inhaler if your asthmatic. Hotter temperatures can cause worse reactions.
  23. Stay hydrated – water is important in avoiding heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
  24. Sunburn cream can be kept in the refrigerator for a nice cooling effect. Lipsticks, lip balms, and eye pencils are less likely to melt if kept cold, also. Toners are more refreshing when chilled, as well.
  25. I am addicted to indoor plumbing, so camping does not work for me, but if you are inclined to enjoy nature this way, keep safety first and foremost. Know where you are – carry physical maps and a compass. Most cell phones go out of range when far from civilization. Have provisions such as hand sanitizer, wipes, extra socks, antibiotic, and burn ointment and bandaids with you, as well as acetaminophen and water with you. You might want to carry a pocket size Lysol for those outhouses. Keep a cooler with ice for anything perishable to avoid dehydration and food poisoning. Nothing can ruin a trip more than an unprepared and unexpected injury or illness. S’mores are great, but bring clean metal sticks to use over the campfire. Respect nature by cleaning up your camp site. Consider a tree hanging shower pack. Personally, I feel a nice camper with a kitchen and bathroom inside at a camp site or a cabin on the campground is a bit more my way of roughing it. Cabins have indoor plumbing facilities; guess I am a hotel kind of girl.
  26. If you are traveling for Memorial Day, make sure your gas tank is full – carry a tire gauge, jumper cables, and Fix-A-Flat or the equivalent, as well as coolant and water in your trunk. Have transmission and brake fluid on hand, also.Check your vehicle’s oil before you, or get it changed. Make sure your battery is well charged. Check your car’s safety before you hit the road. Better safe than sorry, is my motto. Keep your motor club and insurance cards handy, too.
  27. Many restaurants have outdoor patios to dine al fresco – search the Internet for money saving coupons and offers.
  28. Festival season has begun. Wear your comfortable shoes and carry a light jacket for weather fluctuations. A bag chair or other portable seating is a must, also. Check policies before bringing a cooler. Many venues might require that you carry clear purses or tote bags – leave anything that might be problematic at home or locked in your car, out of sight. Carry a charged portable charger with you. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry, and keep cash and credit/debit cards on your person.
  29. Enjoy your loved ones, include your fur babies, but make sure pets are permitted at your outdoor events. Check local leash laws, and bring a travel water bowl for Rover or Fluffy, when attending events close to home. When traveling with animals, pack a small favorite toy, disposable litter pan (for cats), and baggies of food. Furry friends likely won’t need clothes in warm temperatures but a cute neckerchief never hurts. Remember, if you are warm in your skin, imagine how hot they must be in fur – keep pets hydrated and cool. Bring a cold wet washcloth in a bag or container.
  30. As a final suggestion, carry a few disposable bags, hopefully sustainable ones, for any trash you may accumulate. Find a garbage can or take the rubbish home to dispose of – never litter or just leave debris behind. Let’s take care of our planet, God bless America and our service members.

 

As President Biden said in his Memorial Day remarks last year, “We haven’t always lived up to it, but we’ve never walked away from it. And today, standing together to honor those Americans who dared all and gave all for our nation, we can say clearly: We never will.”

Get Up and Get Moving

Get Up and Get Moving

According to the experts, it doesn't really matter what you chose to do, just do it. Sitting is killing us.

Get Up and Get Moving

D. S. Mitchell

 

Getting Fatter

We hear it every day, our society is becoming more sedentary and with that comes obesity. Many of us spend hours behind a desk at our jobs.  We drive our cars to the fast food drive thru, then the bank drive thru, and the pharmacy drive thru, we never even have to get out of our cars.  We use our computers to shop, (I love Amazon), without ever leaving the house.  With decreased activity people are increasingly complaining of multiple issues including aches and pains, bad knees, obesity, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

Too Much 

Just like we enjoy eating and drinking too much, we enjoy sitting too much. We are surrounded by cars, snacks, elevators, sugary drinks and fast foods. The problem has become serious enough that the World Health Organization has a new agenda focused on encouraging physical activity. Things are serious when WHO recognizes the problem as a world wide health issue.

Improving Mental Health

A “Black Dog Institute” of Australia study found that 1-2 hours of exercise per week can prevent depression. In addition to improved mental health multiple world-wide studies have shown that vigorous movement can stave off heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, fatigue, diabetes, and even cancer. That should be a hell of a motivator, but sadly it doesn’t seem to be. There could be many reasons for that; but to combat the sitting disease it is necessary to drop all the excuses, find your tennis shoes and go for a walk, sign up for Pickleball at the local park, take a water aerobics class.  This exercise thing can be a fun thing.

Sitting Addiction

Our country, and most of the industrialized economies are suffering from a “sitting addiction” which leads in turn to “sitting disease”.  Physical inactivity is one of  the top 10 causes of disease and disability according to a recent UK government study. That study attributed 1 in 6 deaths to “sitting” which is equal to smoking in that country.

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No Other “President” In History

No Other “President” In History

Trump established many new firsts most of them bad, destructive and downright reprehensible

No Other “President” In History

 

By Cate Rees-Hessel & Wes Hessel

 

First Failure

I vowed when Trump took office to never call him “president”. For the sake of this article, I will loosely refer to him as such. “The Donald” is the first world leader to do many things but none of them are positive. Read on about Trump’s dubious “firsts”, and then vote blue:

No Other “President” In History

  1. First U.S. president to promise to be a dictator. America is a democracy, a republic technically, but still – our forefathers are spinning in their graves at this conduct.
  2. He is the first to want a military parade – not to honor our veterans but to seal the fact he wants to be a dictator.
  3. Refused to attend the inauguration of the newly elected President Biden – first president to not attend his successor’s inaugural ceremony in 152 years.
  4. Claimed the election was stolen from him because he lost, when in fact President Biden received 81,283,098,  a record number of popular votes.
  5. Trump was the first president to claim his predecessor (Obama) was not born in the United States and as such was disqualified from even running for the office.
  6. Has never released any tax returns – the first president in 45 years to have kept them secret.
  7. Lost party control of the House, Senate, and then his own office – first time in 89 years.
  8. Trump was the first president that failed to achieve at least a 50% approval rating at any time during his 4 years in office.
  9. Trump is the first president to openly support ”Christian Nationalism” – a.k.a. “white supremacy”.
  10. The first president ever indicted for crimes; paying off a porn star, mishandling classified documents, election law violations, etc., trying to hide behind an invented presidential immunity claim. At last count Trump had at least 88 felony charges against him, and in the words of Curly in “City Slickers”, “Day ain’t over yet…”
  11. First president to cause a foreign nation to issue a warrant for his arrest.
  12. Invited an insurrection – obviously first (and hopefully only) president to incite violent action against our government.
  13. Promises a national “bloodbath” if he loses the 2024 election.
  14. First former president to run for election after already losing his bid for a second term – first president in 28 years.
  15. Trump is the first former president to hawk bibles and gold painted high top sneakers to a weary late night television crowd.
  16. A Godless man using the faith of other to get votes, selling expensive Bibles to fleece far right wing supporters. Holding a Bible (upside down) he does not read, outside a church he does not attend, to get votes.
  17. Brought the first centerfold “first lady” into the White House.
  18. Insisted on visiting Pittsburgh after the synagogue shooting in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood. Trump disregarded the Jewish mourning process to sit shiva for the deceased, showing disrespect for the Jewish community.
  19. When Trump entered office he dissolved the Infectious Disease Task Force which was put in place by the Obama-Biden administration, to quickly address communicable disease issues. That action crippled the response to the COVID-19 pandemic leading to the death of 1,200,000 (or 120,000 depending again, on your source) in the U.S. He was the first president in a 120 years to preside over a crippling nationwide pandemic.
  20. Trump took credit for vaccines that President Biden was actually responsible for.
  21. Claimed in letters to Americans that he personally was responsible for the  first stimulus checks, when in fact it was the House of Representatives led by Nancy Pelosi that was responsible for the checks.
  22. First president to deliver fumbling, bumbling remarks about Easter, the Revolutionary War, and the Civil War with such iron pyrite nuggets such as, “Gettysburg, what an unbelievable battle that was. The Battle of Gettysburg, what an unbelievable-I mean, it was so much and so interesting, and so vicious and horrible, and so beautiful in so many different ways.”
  23. Another first when the former bragged about, “Grabbing  ’em by the p____” .
  24. A serial adulterer during each of his multiple marriages while claiming to be a Christian man.
  25. The first to  brag about overturning established legal precedent. Roe v. Wade was 50 years of established law when Donald’s Supreme Court overturned it. We now have chaos and confusion. leading to dangerous  pregnancy complications going untreated.
  26. Trump wants to see programs for children eliminated. He supports childhood poverty unless they’re white males.
  27. Encourages the repugnant practice of trophy hunting.
  28. Trump is Putin’s puppet – the first president believed to have won election  aided by a foreign power.
  29. Wants to destroy Social Security for seniors and disabled Americans.
  30. The first to mock and make fun of a disabled journalist
  31. Trump appointed Postal Service hater Louis DeJoy to head the USPS. With DeJoy in office, our mail arrives late in the day, if at all. The plan was to line his and wealthy supporter’s pockets with service outsource contracts by privatizing the Postal Service.
  32. The first candidate to advocate for the elimination of Obama Care, Medicare, and Medicaid, effectively making healthcare only for the rich, and the white.
  33. The first candidate who’s election speeches are more like a bad comedy act, threatening retribution and poking vicious “fun,” at the deep state, yet not once giving legitimate reasons to vote for him.
  34. Trump is supporting turning back time on women’s, LGBTQ, children’s, and minorities’ rights.
  35. The first to refuse to allow White House cleaning staff to clean specific areas of the WH, leading to a rodent infestation – of course, Trump is the biggest rat of all.
  36. Claimed victory for an election he didn’t win before all votes were counted – the first president to not concede their loss.
  37. Trump called soldiers “suckers” and “losers”, refusing to go to honor their ultimate sacrifice in WWII.
  38. His policies added nearly 8 trillion dollars to our national debt, the most by far of any president.
  39. Trump was impeached twice, the only president to be so distinguished.
  40. Also, the only president whose own party member voted for his impeachment conviction.
  41. Of all the presidents, he is the first to not sleep in the same bedroom as his wife.

(Thanks to Dan Kunz at the Coeur d’Alene/Post Falls Press for his article highlighting many of these inauspicious firsts.)

Be True Blue

It is imperative we vote blue – we need reelection for President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris; the alternative is unthinkable. Racism, sexism, and anti-Semitism are out of control in our nation. Once the orange haired monster got a taste of power, the floodgates of hate and insanity were opened wide, and it’s very difficult but not impossible to stop the storm. Should “The Donald” be elected for another term, things will be even worse than his first horrific term. Trump is out of control and we just need to send him a clear message that he will never enter the Oval Office (or any other part of the White House) again.

Hasn’t Got a Prayer

Franklin Graham (no stranger to scandal) is demanding we pray for Donald Trump, but he has no right demanding anything. This is the typical arrogant, lemming-like behavior of Trump’s supporters. I pray that the orange monster is convicted of the crimes that he committed and goes to prison. I pray our nation will be finally be rid of him, once and for all. Here are some ways to get involved and ride the blue wave:

  1. Offer to make election calls for Democrats.
  2. Donate what you can to the Democratic election efforts – if you can’t financially support campaigns, give of your time.
  3. Bumper stickers, yard signs, t-shirts, etc. – we can display these things for Democrats with far more dignity and class than MAGA’s in their red hats and gold metallic gym shoes.
  4. Offer your home for Democratic events such as meetings, watch parties, envelope stuffing, postcard writing, and so on.
  5. Don’t engage with MAGA’s – ignore the insanity they spew; it would be a battle of wits with an unarmed person. Let’s concentrate on a Democratic victory in November.
  6. Offer to transport people to the polls.
  7. Volunteer to register folks in your community to vote.
  8. Post on social media positive things that Democrats are doing, and the negative things Republicans are up to.
  9. VOTE!
  10. Do pray that President Biden and Vice President Harris are reelected, and the orange haired monster is convicted of his crimes.

We can do this, together and united we stand for democracy…

Resources: www.democrats.org, www.lincolnproject.us, www.facebook.com/p/Mary-L-Trump-100076207187060/, www.taylorswift.com.

 

Women of a Certain Age-The Next Generation

Women of a Certain Age-The Next Generation…

You may be a woman of a certain age if you used hair curlers

Women of a Certain Age –

The Next Generation…

By Cate Rees-Hessel

 

  1. If you ever had a man in a boat in your toilet tank…you might be a woman of a certain age.
  2. If you ever drank a Tab…
  3. If you ever wore hose from an egg…
  4. If you ever wore a $5 dollar tube top from Woolworths…
  5. If you know what was on the lunch menu at Woolworth’s Restaurant…
  6. If you ever ate lunch at Woolworth’s Restaurant…
  7. If you ever ate at a lunch counter…
  8. If you know what a lunch counter is…
  9. If you ate a chocolate Popsicle (nope, not a Fudgesicle) …
  10. If you know what stairs up, stairs down means…
  11. If your first tablet was an Etch A Sketch…
  12. If your tablet is made of paper…
  13. If you ever wore a floral maxi…
  14. If you ever owned a poodle skirt…
  15. If you ever had a tiger in your tank…
  16. If you know who had a dog named Tiger…
  17. If you can recall the Brady Bunch wedding…
  18. If you owned a Schick Love Light…
  19. If you know what a Love Light is…
  20. If you owned a turntable, eight-track, or cassette player…
  21. If you know what a turntable, eight-track, or cassette are…
  22. If creamy ever creamed, you…
  23. If you ever used an Avon Funburger…
  24. If you know what an Avon Funburger is…
  25. If you ever mixed blue eye shadow with water…
  26. If you wore blue eye shadow…
  27. If you used peach peppermint Lip Smacker…
  28. If you owned a Cinnabar Frost lip color pencil…
  29. If you owned anything Estee Lauder in an aqua turquoise case…
  30. If you used tinted Clearasil…
  31. If you wore Clinique Pore Minimizer makeup…
  32. If you carried a disposable lighter for your eye liner pencil in your purse…
  33. If you think “Zoom” is a TV show from the 70’s, not an online meeting portal…
  34. If you ever had a cream pack…
  35. If you know what a cream pack is…
  36. If you can finish this line and name that tune: “Hey, Hey…”
  37. If curlers in your hair caused you shame…
  38. If you still own curlers…
  39. If you ever drank from a garden hose and lived to tell about it…
  40. If you only think of pickle as a food, not a sport…
  41. If “who wears short shorts” is not you anymore…
  42. If you have ever been a Lustre-Crème Shampoo girl…
  43. If you think turkey neck is a soup ingredient…
  44. If you still, make turkey soup…
  45. If you move slower than a sloth…
  46. If you think Alexa and Siri are among your bridge game partners…
  47. If you still play bridge…
  48. If much of your wardrobe came from the mall and department stores, not Amazon…
  49. If you think Robert Redford is sexy…
  50. If you own white gloves that aren’t for winter…
  51. If you call your purse a pocketbook…
  52. If you can name all four of the Golden Girls…
  53. If you can remember when Hallmark was only cards…
  54. If you remember when Olay was Oil of Olay…
  55. If you ever used a rotary dial or push-button landline…
  56. If you know what a landline is…
  57. If you watched Luke and Laura’s wedding…
  58. If you remember “The Guiding Light” and Bauer burgers…
  59. If a section of your closet is dedicated to shoes you can only sit in…
  60. If you know “Shake and Bake” is not a new variation of Hot Yoga…
  61. If you husband owns a leisure suit…
  62. If you owned an original Barbie doll…
  63. If your Barbie dream house had cardboard furniture…
  64. If you can remember when Barbie was just a fashion doll, you might be a woman of a certain age.
  65. If you always realized he’s “just Ken”, you might be a woman of any age…