The Deck at 260 Volume 50: 25 Years post 9/11

It's hard to believe we've been on the deck 50 times talking about various topics. 25 years since 9/11 is a lot. I'm starting to realize that many young adults weren't even born yet. 

DaBaby restaurant (No Knife),  new shows, RareUSA growth, Why Did I Get Married Again, Another 7Brew

Charlotte folks and surrounding are not only crowding DaBaby's new restaurant No Knife, they are criticizing the prices. First of all, it's Charlotte and a celebrity. It's not going to be hole in the wall, grease stain prices. 2nd, it's clear many of you don't go out to breakfast/brunch near as much as unk and I do. I've seen cheaper but in this market this is average. Everything is expensive especially when you're getting $10 coffees daily. Some of you don't know how to save, cook, etc and it's showing. 

The new Fall shows are here and coming. It's a far cry from when the new Fall lineups were the thing post Labor Day. I personally prefer seeing the new shows premiere in the Fall and the favorites/popular shows in the Spring when there's less interruption due to sweeps. I am definitely interested in The Drop-Off since I'm a Snowfall fan. Football is back of course and I always coordinate my TV show watches around Thursday-Sundays. 

The growth in Blacksburg continues with RareUSA coming soon and at least 500 jobs expected. This is big especially if you're a commuter like myself. I don't plan on leaving Amazon at the moment but for those that have 30 minute and greater commutes this is huge. It's also big for the small businesses. They can get greater support with more residents working locally. It seems the older generation is pushing back as always. They need to realize that if the town doesn't grow soon it will quickly turn into Hickory Grove or Sharon. Granted we don't want to be Lake Wylie, Rock Hill or Fort Mill but we want to be in between also. Gaffney and Clover are facing similar.  The mills are long gone, we need something locally.  

One thing we don't need is another 7Brew. Dang these are coming everywhere and as a coffee fiend I don't see the hype.  They apparently have a special every 7th of the month. They are definitely coming for Starbucks bit by bit. I won't lie I thought it would be Scooters or Dutch Bros. 7Brew appears to have more versatility.  Some complain of the prices at No Knife but aren't going to miss out on 7Brew. 

I actually enjoyed Why Did I Get Married Again. Tarajii's presence in Janet's absence was huge, Mike is that friend you love from a distance, keeping in secrets and toxicity for so long is rarely healthy, mid life crisis is real and there were clear storyline holes.  I'm glad they pulled it off although I wouldn't have minded had it waited until Thanksgiving to release. 

It may be officially Fall for episode 51!

The Deck at 260 Volume 49 (Ber Months are here)

Flock cameras, Death of a Pastors Wife, college players returning, Lindsay Clancy, Clover demographics changing, Dabo, Michigan last night

I honestly didn't realize these were a thing until my uncle was mentioning them. I don't see them as bad unless taxes go up to fund them. We have so many methods of tracking a person's location and honestly there is a lot of damage someone can do with a license plate number. Therefore if you're one of the ones freaking out over them trust there are bigger fish to be fried.  

This miniseries continues to have people thinking and talking. Pastor JP Scott is very much that dark manipulator that uses the pulpit to justify his lust, sex addiction and sinful nature. He is a joke and I pray for anyone that still listens and believes him.  I would definitely watch out if I am Suzie his current wife. God has not visibly changed this man and he will only damage her and others. 

I think it's despicable that college football players can try out for NFL teams, get cut and still return to college football. Where is the clause/agreement that ends your college career? Lane Kifflin already gets enough of the wrong attention at times. He can begin his career at LSU on the right foot after not fostering these two former players and not even playing them at all. The education part is an admissions deal which is a different pickle altogether. 

Ok the Lindsay Clancy deal has really grown legs. Why is no one closely examining the husband here? I've been said the legal system as a whole is flawed and often useless. Unless there is evidence that Lindsay did unalive her children I am glad she walks free (no racial debate today although we already know how the other shoe deal works). Someone needs to be held accountable though. The lack of accountability with this case and with Mica Miller's and countless others is what gets me. 

Clover and Lake Wylie are now not only two separate towns and communities they are now two separate high schools. That was never more evident Friday night at Clover's home opener. Clover has more diversity in nearly every way: fans, student body, cheerleaders, football team, etc. Basically you don't have the more affluent white players and fans anymore since they're all at Lake Wylie High now. I'm not saying this is good or bad, it's just noticeable. Clover is a small town similar to a Blacksburg, York, Chesnee, Kings Mountain, etc. There just seems to be a more involved community that doesn't include just white people.  I do know the Black community has been strong and proud for decades (many of those being my relatives). It will be very interesting long term as athletes will have the option to transfer to Lake Wylie High and vice versa for their athletes. 

Dabo Swinney has reached the end, period. He has failed to adapt to the current landscape of college football. Yes we all know LSU is a great program especially at home on a Saturday night.  However this has been coming for about 4 years now. I don't think he makes it to October let alone the South Carolina game with another beat down like that. Looking at the schedule, there are at least two other teams that on paper could administer the same type of blowout and in Clemson. 

Finally I'm unsure what voodoo Michigan has at the Big House.  Was it paid off? Did someone legitimately make a mistake? Were they trying to prevent another App State upset? Either way I want someone with good sense to convince me how they were able to put 1 more second on the game clock, run another play and win? Michigan can't win them all doing that. 

Bring on Fall! 

The Deck at 260 Volume 48

Whew doggies what a day/week/month on the deck! Is it really almost September/end of summer?

TX Roadhouse, Hayden, Labor Day weekend, Clover v Lake Wylie, college football , Dalton and Saco, Dolly Parton, other deaths, Penn State

Ok this Texas Roadhouse deal has been getting overblown. I haven't seen a single report of it's a collective deal or exactly which restaurants are doing this to Black people's fold. You all know by know I stand strongly for the cause. However those that haven't worked in a restaurant nor been in a restaurant kitchen don't realize how nasty that food truly is. I detached from Roadhouse a while ago (those rolls are still some of the best though!) and have went to Longhorn. More locations, less crowded, better steaks (that Tomahawk) and a more versatile menu.

We're in another run of celebrity deaths. It started with Hayden Panteriee and it's gone to Eddie Kane, Dolly Parton, the voice of Optimus Prime, the drummer from ZZ Top and even Tim Curry. Dolly is definitely the most notable. Dolly really stood for the cause and supported ALL human beings! You better believe when I get back to my race relations activism Aunt Dolly will be referenced. No negative comments will be tolerated! 

It always feels weird when the first Monday in September is on the 2nd week of the month. Labor Day weekend is still a month out. I'm preparing the best I can as I will have a more odd weekend than usual. 

The Clover School District has two high schools for the first time in history: Clover and Lake Wylie. They are sharing a stadium in the interim and are now arguing about how the colors on the field should be. It should be equal on the field and even highlighted with Lake Wylie flags during their home games. There's no mistaking that this is Clover's stadium, has been for years. You can represent the new school without taking the traditions from the current one! I wish I could attend the inaugural game but I have my 30 year high school reunion that weekend!

College football is slowly kicking off and now you have players that tried to walk on to an NFL team or went undrafted, were released and reenrolling in college due to a transfer portal loophole. This definitely needs to be addressed as there are obvious violations. I knew there would be mass issues if the transfer portal wasn't clear enough.

Who else is sick of Dalton and Sako? I'm good with influencers. Many have become like reality TV stars and it's getting sickening.  

Speaking of race relations, the Penn State scandal is wild. We all know that if this was at an HBCU the sanctions and scrutiny would be worse. People really need to learn and practice confirmation bias and realize the playing field is not level. 

Finally Dolly Parton was a national treasure. Her death hits the hardest for many. I do also appreciate the jokes with "boobs at half mast". We all need to strive to be more like Dolly. 

See you in September!

The Deck at 260 Volume 47

School's almost back in session, football is backb more rain and hot weather but we don't stop at The Deck. It's just damp is all.

Zakarys/Boston Annies/small businesses 

June Fair murder

Shealys BBQ review and better spots

Gnat removal

WU in more trouble?

I do hate to see small businesses suffer. Summer is already the toughest due to folks being out of town for vacation. Boston Annie's has went from rough kitchen repairs that the city of Gaffney doesn't support. She went from trying to raise money to get a food truck to getting ready to go home to Boston. She and her awesome food will be missed (I never got to take unk there, I'm sure he would have loved the stews). Zakary's coffee shop is going through similar. Low support, Duke Power (how are they still around?) not responding to maintenance requests but charging them as much as they do the nearby multimillion dollar hospital for utilities. I don't frequent Zakarys: however I do realize them and Boston Annie's were not only hallmarks of downtown Gaffney for a period, they were fueled by the Limestone College community.  This is another ripple effect of Limestone College closing. I do pray for Annie in her next journey back home and that Zakarys can find a way to turn it around. 

This murder of young June Fair in Gaffney has hit me and the community really hard and close (nevermind he's a distant cousin of mine and I've come to know his mom and those over the years). First is of course the gun violence deal. 2nd is that kids do not fight anymore. What Pops from Friday said is becoming more and more true. 3. Some people around the county and state are so evil, racist and sad. Either way, a young man is gone, two more are headed to prison. I do love the action being taken in the moment to take care of both the funeral expenses and his unborn son. I also like that community members aren't giving up on resources and support to mitigate this violence from continuing. We have to start somewhere. 

I have heard for weeks (especially after I had Marilyn Martin on the podcast) about Shealys BBQ. I wanted to go the week I was off and try them but it was right after the 4th of July and they always close for two weeks afterwards. I decided to try them this past Thursday, made the trip through secondary roads and the Midlands region of South Carolina.  I did like a lot of the esthetic: a sink and towel to wash your hands upon entry, affordable buffet, ample parking and communal big tables. They had a nice salad bar, soft serve ice cream and dessert bar. However their regular food was underwhelming. Most of the stuff was cafeteria style, not homemade tasting nor smelling. That had to be the worse looking and tasting mac n cheese I've had. The hash looked runny and gross. The BBQ (all 3 kinds) did not taste smoked and had too much vinegar. It was like Wades: overhyped due to reputation and location. I do not like when places like this (Harolds, Beacon, etc) do not live up to the hype.  The chicken was good and the staff was kind and courteous though. I know many other BBQ/country cooking places I would recommend before Shealys. It is my opinion but I also feel like I know what good should look and taste like. 

I've dealt with many issues in this 33 year old home, currently on the end of my home improvement upgrades. The current challenge is getting rid of these gnats. I have cleaned house (will do more tonight), followed recommendations online. They appear to be coming from my bathroom, likely from all of these storms. I also have a toilet in the other bathroom that will not flush. Ahh the challenges of home ownership and with an older home. 

It appears at Winthrop University (the WU) there is financial difficulties. These are to the tune of $100,000 from normal projected donations.  Many minority alums are not happy about what's been happening and are refusing to donate (myself included). It's truly sad, I love my school and my time there. However the board needs to get this together and show us minorities they care and they do stand for diversity.  

Until next time. 

The Deck Volume 46 (The I Plead the 5th Edition)

Alright now, it's feeling cool on the Deck for the 2nd straight end of July/firdt of August!  The deck and life feels better with Fall and football just around the corner. 

Fauci, Odyssey, bonnets, All Star weekend recaps, back to school giveaways parasite

Ok by now most know about Dr. Fauci pleading the 5th during the COVID/CDC hearings. Even those that took the vaccine/followed COVID protocols knew Fauci was full of it, likely was behind creating it and an opportunist. I don't know many that dispute that. What is also disputed (I'm so over talking about it) is the way the USA handled the COVID pandemic. Dr. Fauci was again an opportunist. We all should always do our due diligence. Trust but verify. 

The Odyssey as well as the newest Spiderman are currently the biggest in the theaters right now. Everytime I get ready to drop Regal Unlimited a new string of good movies comes out. Now far as historical accuracy (specifically involving race), we were not there. We do not know whom looked like who. We can ascertain based on the area and ancestors but we cannot say that everyone was white. It goes back to Cleopatra, Napoleon, Beetoven, even Jesus Christ. 

The bonnet/durag debate at HBCUs has definitely heated up the socials lately.  I'm going to say this as a former college student and a current manager that's enforcing dress codes. Dress for the occasion, use common sense and good judgment to know when it's appropriate to cover your heads, put on a decent T-shirt and show some class. I dressed down much of my college experience in the classroom and residence halls. You better believe I dressed differently when I went to administrative offices, meetings and especially the Cafe at 615pm (if you went to the WU in the 90s you know!). I'm currently in the middle of a fashion makeover and if these are things you don't know naturally know then the rules must be stricter. I'm a heterosexual man and honestly I get sick of seeing young women with booty shorts and basically their bras. There is a time and place for everything. 

All-Star weekend in Gaffney was again a success.  It doesn't seem like the crowds came like they have in the past. You all know I can be critical of events and event planners. However I don't think this was all on them. It's the crowds as well. These guys and the community have been very consistent, successful and I'm confident adjustments and improvements will continue to be made. One thing would be to lower the amount of games, announce the dates further in advance and possibly even do a 2 day game pass instead of so much for each day. People genuinely want to see the games but with back to school so early this year there is a choice to be made. 

Speaking of back to school, it is so early this year! I'm not used to this. I have to adjust my commutes and traffic patterns. Also I didn't really prepare properly to give to back to school drives also due to a busy July (my birthday month plus busy stuff at work).  I'll continue to post on this throughout the month but it is taking summer away from the children and staff members.  Unless they're getting multiple days off like years past.

It appears the food parasite is starting to pass us by. It hit ginger ale, lettuce and then bacon. Most I know that got sick (myself included) appear to be recovering.  We should always take heed in which foods we trust. 

The Deck Volume 45

Back on the Deck as we are finally getting sustained rainfall in the dog day's of summer! 

-Food recalls/explosive diarrhea 

- Quiet on the creek

-Bron to Phil

-Term limits 

- All-Star weekend in Gaffney

We have food recalls often and this is the first time in years I can honestly recollect a spell of explosive diarrhea. If you're Gen X and above, that's honestly not the worse thing (IYKYK) unless you're not near a toilet or if you have food poisoning. I may have to go exclusively to Red Rock ginger ale or even to Vernors for a while due to some ginger ale brands being affected though. 

I am angered at this "quiet on the creek" meaning. Being from the country, I thought it referred to fishing. Some of you know my mind can be nasty but innocent on certain accounts. Now this is disturbing. I am curious to know what the LGBT community thinks of this. 

Welp LeBron has made his 40th decision. I guessed Philly because he goes back some long years with one of the executives. You're about to see a different brand of Philly fans. I will also say I'm glad Bron didn't do this on my birthday/birthday week for once. 

Lindsay Graham has passed, Mitch McConnell is on his death bed. Now people are having the discussion about term limits again. I think it all depends on health and mental competence as well. No more than 4 terms should be it in my thoughts. I keep wondering who is voting for these folks? 

I'm still gathering feedback from All-Star weekend in Gaffney. It was a vibe but diluted from years past. Could it be due to some of the players that played/didn't play? Sickness (parasite) and the storms? We will circle back later. 2 years ago I was on time and couldn't find a good parking space. This year I was late both days and still plenty of parking. Now York and Lancaster counties may partake. 

Almost the end of July!

The Deck Part 44 (4th of July/Birthday edition)

Good to be back on the deck between the 4th of July and my 48th birthday having my morning coffee and mantras. Here's what we're talking about. 

4th of July overall recap

Hash quality 

Wedding guests

USA v Belgium World Cup

Braves slump

YMCA?

Famous track star connection 

Know your friends

Big Tigger

I will likely go back on the deck before returning to work next Monday but we will start here. 

Ok despite the usual 4th of July controversy and the milestone being the 250th anniversary of our country it was still a great weekend. Listen if anyone paid attention in history class we all know Blacks were still in slavery 250 years ago. We do know that Blacks were not considered equal at the time the Declaration of Independence was signed. I nor anyone else should excuse this. However, people of all cultures still celebrated. Whether be independence, family, or simply a weekend of good food, family, cooking out, fireworks. etc, who says you can't celebrate? You are in America, this is 2026, celebrate whatever you like (even if it's Juneteenth the remix, Juneteenth 2.0, 704 day, my birthday, family reunions). Staying inside and doing nothing nets you nothing, period. 

I'm seeing more and more folk in South Carolina make and sell hash. For my next batch, I've decided to add two more ingredients, one you will immediately recognize. I think this is awesome given just 30 years ago where if you didn't make it out by 9am to your favorite hash place you were out of luck. Now hash (beef/pork, etc) is a South Carolina delicacy that's mostly enjoyed on the 4th of July and now even year round. Basically it should have at least beef, butter, onions, salt, pepper and some potatoes. I currently make mine without potatoes and it gives a different taste and texture. 

I like the debate about wedding guests. I always think it should start with close family and friends. One married couple is only inviting those that know them both. I see nothing wrong. Weddings are uber expensive and some people aren't coming for your best interest. They are coming to see and be seen. The plus one deal is another topic. I'm ok with a miscellaneous plus one. I like what my accounting guy from the WU said a while back about RSVPs, gifts, etc. Either way, invite whom you want (including no children), keep it under budget and remember whose day it actually is. 

The USA's FIFA World Cup run ended with a loss to Belgium. I do love how our country has come together over the past few weeks and how soccer is becoming more of a norm in youth sports. One day, one day!

The Atlanta Braves are in a downspiral after not losing a series from April-June. Going into All-Star break we need to see if we should keep Acuna Jr or not given his injuries. It's also time to go after another big star, a leader. We need that presence at the moment. 

Man listen the YMCA is where it's at! I'm glad I can finally enjoy along with keeping my current gym membership active. It's a modified all access pass, great facilities, staff and also a pool to go to from sun up to sundown.  Sun tans and better diving here I come! 

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden put the track world on notice by beating ShaCarri Richardson in a recent 100 meter face off. ShaCarri of course is well known, Melissa is mostly known around our area as she's from Coastal Carolina. Best part, my friend/current gym manager was her former coach. I'm over the moon for them both! 

In the wake of all of these mysterious murders and going back to Kenneka Jenkins and those, KNOW YOUR FRIENDS! I'm friendly with lots of folks but I trust few. Especially without my phone, where I am outnumbered in minority, and near clear danger. I'm not making this a racial thing (yet). Everything does add up. We as adults and parents have to be viligant regarding whom our children associate with. I can see now why my mom was so protective. She was ahead of her time and knew what could go wrong. We have to see discrepancies and red flags before it's too late! 

Ok with the Big Tigger drama. There's no telling how long this was going on and let's be real, this was more than about that phone. Always look within.