For Fathers Day this year, Tim and Megan got me a pair of black Converse sneakers. They weren’t the high tops; they were the low cut style. Back in the day, however, I wore the high, black Converse sneakers. Who would have thought I was a fashion trendsetter all those years ago? Certainly not me! Why do I tell you this? Well, now it seems that what is old is new again. With the challenges in the economy, some commentators are now calling this the “New Normal.” I know what new means, however, I have not figured out what normal is. It would appear to mean something you have gotten used to. more…

Sorry for the dramatic headline. Most of you that know me are aware that I am pretty conservative and not one for grandstanding. Don’t worry—I am definitely not qualified to write for the National Enquirer, and no, I won’t be discussing Britney Spears. But now it’s time for me to put my cards on the table. I’m not talking about playing today’s favorite pastime game—Texas Hold’em. I’ll admit that in my youth I played some cards, but nothing serious. These days whenever I turn on the TV, which isn’t frequently, there’s a bunch of guys (and gals) wearing sunglasses sitting around the table having cards dealt to them. Even my son is in on the action—he’s got his own set of chips and a table set up in the basement. more…