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LeRue Press Services and Social Media Contact Info
Janice Hermsen ………………………….8 LeRue Press Services and Social Media Contact Info . .. …... ...........................2 Nick Compise: Psychological Mind Reader-BTS Entertainment Corner
Calling All Writers-What’s the Story? Is Looking for Quality Articles
Brian T. Shirley …………......……….......3 Exorcism Literature by Blatty, Goodman, Baglio-Book Review John Loranger ……………………….…....4 The Storms of Our Journey Mike Aloia ……. ………………..……..…..5 Take the Quiz ....…………..……...……...7 What’s Cookin’? Pumpkin Puff Pancakes Ruth VanDyke ………………………….….9
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f you are someone who loves to write short pieces whether they are articles or short stories, LeRue Press is looking for new writers. As they expand their network, they are interested in quality writing for many different topics and genres. Go to the website. Hit the contact us button. www.lrpnv.com
TOPIC: The House and the Senate: The People’s Perspective Guest Political Contributors ............13
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Military Matters RG Cruise ……………………………..…...14 Take the Quiz Answers …….Back Page
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What’s the Story? News, Articles, Entertainment, Business, Arts and Culture Managing Editor: Janice Hermsen Layout & Design Lenore Halfide Proof & Print Kathy Szudajski Contributors Brian T. Shirley, John Loranger, Mike Aloia, RG Cruise,, Ruth VanDyke Guest Political Contributors: Democrat: D.L. Whitehead Independent: GD Fenderson Republican: R G Cruise Republican: Doug Ashby Delivered by Doug, The Jerkyman
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Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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Brian T. Shirley
Nick Compise Psychological Mind Reader
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ntroducing Nick Compise, a psychological mind reader, who delivers an extraordinary experience for you and your guests. Prepare to be amazed, from an intimate gathering to an audience of several thousand! Nick has a stellar record of astonishing audiences throughout the country. Committed to excellence, Nick prides himself in providing the highest quality of services to his clients. This commitment is why Nick is in constant demand! BTS: Nick, you have a fascinating profession! Could you please explain for our readers what a "psychological mind reader" is, your journey to becoming one, and looking back on your experience, what advice do you have for others? NC: A Psychological Mind Reader is a title that I created that covers what I do. To put it simply, I read people’s thoughts, but I’m not a psychic. I’m using natural means to do what I do. I offer two servicesentertainment & speaking. My entertainment program takes people into a world of fantasy and wonder. In my speaking program, I teach people how to read body language and detect deceptive language. Growing up, I was a very shy person. If I didn’t know you well, I didn’t say much. As a kid I had no interest in magic. I played sports all year round. In my senior year of high school; this is back in 1996. I started training in martial arts. I became very good at it. I got my first experience in teaching people at the dojo. I think it was in 1998 when I saw a magician on TV doing these cool mind reading effects and that is what sparked my interest. Over the next several years I started learning mentalism which was the type of magic that I saw being performed. This was just for fun to perform for family and friends. During this period, I went to college, graduated, and started my career as a schoolteacher. As I was getting more into mentalism, I decided to try and make a living at it. This all had a hand in preparing me later to be in front of large audiences. In 2005, I started performing in restaurants doing walk around/strolling entertainment. One thing led to another and I had the opportunity to perform a stage show. I put one together and it went well! I felt comfortable being up on stage. In 2006 I got into swing dancing. This was an incredible boost to my career. What I discovered is that not only is this fun, but people of all walks of life do this. It was through this hobby that I
BTS Entertainment Corner
met some great people who helped my career along with their connections. As I started my career as an entertainer, I also started learning about body language and detecting deceptive language. This was stuff I never knew about. I found it fascinating! I was learning this on the side. This was just for me, for my own self-knowledge. I’m the kind of person, when I get into something, I really get into it. I started learning these skills anywhere and everywhere I could. I put in countless time researching and training to develop these skills. What started happening is after a performance or when I was at a networking event pitching my service, people were so fascinated with what I can do that they started asking if I taught these skills. As more and more of this happened, I decided to create a second service. This was when my speaking program, which I call “True Thoughts,” was born. After all these years, I’ve been blessed to perform and speak throughout the country in some of the finest venues imaginable. So far, it’s been an incredible journey! It’s funny how life works out. You have plans to do one thing and then other forces come into play, guide you into other activities, and the next thing you know you’re on a different path that’s even better than you imagined. The best advice I can give is, don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone. Try new things and develop as many talents as you can. It’s through this, that other great things will happen for you. This is what attracts people to you. Many people are afraid to try new things because of a fear of failure or they’re worried what other people might say. It’s this mentality that prevents people from reaching their true potential and living a better life. Don’t be afraid to fail. Remember, you have some control over the message. What you will discover is that if you tell people you’re doing some activity and you tell it with excitement and joy, they will get into it. If you act like what you’re doing is corny/dumb, then that is how they will view it. If you don’t believe in yourself or in what you’re doing, then why should someone else? When people hear that you’re doing these activities, it may inspire them to try it or try an activity that they always wanted to do, but for some reason were afraid to. Don’t get me wrong, there is always going to be people who don’t’ support what you do, want you to fail, and stay where you are in life. (Continued on page 6)
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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John Loranger
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Book Review
Exorcism Literature by Blatty, Goodman, Baglio
tories about the supernatural fascinate and attract, I suppose, because they deal with those realms of human experience that are mysterious. Ordinary people enjoy such stories because ordinary people are mystics to one degree or another; and as such, they realize that a large part of reality is not merely unexplained—it is unexplainable. With reference to this (and to the Halloween season), my present focus is on exorcism literature; and three examples come to mind. The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty is a work of fiction (based on a true case) that was published in 1971. It concerns a girl named Regan MacNeil who becomes possessed by a demon. She is finally freed from this evil through the heroic efforts of two priests. Most people are at least vaguely familiar with this story. It became a bestseller that was made into a successful and chillingly effective film. In fact, the movie is better than the book. Blatty’s novel, while heartfelt and earnest, is rather mediocre in terms of style. I would say, however, that the author does convey a frightening vision of what humans can become if alienated from God.
The second example is The Exorcism of Anneliese Michel by Felicitas D. Goodman. This too was made into a film (The Exorcism of Emily Rose) that turned out to be superior to its written source. Goodman’s book, a work of non-fiction, is interesting and worthwhile up to a point. But a shift occurs during the last fifty pages that seemed jarring to me. Suddenly the author adopts a strictly neurological interpretation of her subject’s ordeal. The problem is not that Goodman offers non-spiritual explanations for what happened to Anneliese; that is to be expected. The problem is that she does so in a onesided manner. Add to that, she becomes increasingly condescending toward religion.
The third and best example is The Rite by Matt Baglio. His non-fiction book looks at possession and exorcism generally; but it also details the training of an (Continued on page 13)
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Mike Aloia The Storms of Our Journey
“Walk the Turtle”
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ith each day that passes, our hearts mend as we listen to the music of His grace that plays inside our soul; doing our time as we feel the process of healing slowly in play. Creating the scars of yesterday’s wounds, melting away from the kindness and understanding of our simple unbalances within the mind’s emotional memories that sometimes resurface through the fabric of abusive years gone by. These mirrored reflections inside the darkest caverns and crevices held behind the walls we have built across our spectrum of self-development are essential elements that remain hidden. As we look deeper and hear the words of encouragement from someone that truly cares, we are given the sense of being uplifted. Far beyond logic, a connection is created as the bond of feeling complete sets in around the peace and contentment of spiritual comfort. A change occurs during this transformation and renewal of spirit giving us a newfound appreciation for each other’s struggles and pain; we hold hands and pray.
Photo by Scott Van Hoy on Unsplash
Walk the turtle with unconditional love knowing God’s guidance is our compass as we go forward each day knowing the sincerity and truths held inside our loyalty and admirations to protect our hearts—never letting any fears seep into our mindset as we stand by each other’s side through every storm during our journey. I love you Brittany, I love Justine.
Mike Aloia is a father of two daughters and a proud grandfather. He lives in Jacksonville, Florida. Mike is multitalented: a cartoonist, comedian, musician, songwriter, actor, columnist, and the CEO of American Hearts Radio, LLC Entertainment Network. He has experience in web V, radio entertainment production, artist management, and other aspects of entertainment. His column “Walk the Turtle” are his thoughts on slowing down, taking it easy, and enjoying life. Mike's work can be found in the following places: www.americanheartsradio.com www.facebook.com/americanheartsradio www.harmonybooking.com
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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I’m telling you that it’s more about them than it is you. Your success and you trying to improve yourself in any area of your life only reminds them of their failures. It’s because of this that people will try and talk you out of your dreams. If you succeed, they will be left behind. Your success will be a reminder to them of their own shortcomings. That’s not your issue, it’s theirs! Don’t worry about the nay-sayers! Keep moving forward, keep bettering yourself, be honest with yourself, live in reality and acknowledge what your weaknesses are in order to improve, surround yourself with people who are where you want to be in life, and never give up! BTS: What can people expect from your brand of entertainment? NC: When I’m performing, I will read people’s thoughts, influence their actions, and predict the future. My performance will capture the imagination of you and your guests. I can offer either a stage/ stand up and or a strolling performance to accommodate my client’s entertainment needs. Both types of performances are filled with audience participation, humor, as well as mind blowing demonstrations that will create those out loud and or jaw dropping reactions of amazement from your guests. Some things I do involve the entire group, a few people, and or 1 person per effect/routine. I dress professionally and I don’t use any inappropriate language. What’s great about what I’m doing is, I’m giving people this cool, unforgettable experience while keeping it harmless and fun! BTS: I would also like to know about your speaking program "True Thoughts and can you give us any examples from this program? NC: This program is incredible and will change your life. Individuals, companies, organizations, and colleges have benefited greatly! What I’m teaching is empowering, motivating, and fun! I love hearing from clients who tell me how great they’re doing thanks to these skills. This is more than just a speech, it’s an engaging learning program. I offer two speaking topics. True Thoughts- Body Language and True Thoughts- Detecting Deceptive Language. Both are perfect for both your professional and personal life. These are lifetime skills that can be applied anywhere in the world. Your R.O.I is incredible! No prerequisites are required for this program. Guaranteed results! Knowing how to read nonverbal tells, can give you a great advantage into understanding someone in each moment. Imagine being able to observe people and pick up on an emotion they are experiencing without them saying a word. The skill set that you will learn can also be used to make you a better communicator and likeable person. Knowing how to detect deceptive language is critical in life. There are different tactics that someone will use to deceive you and by being able to recognize these tactics, it will put you at a great advantage when dealing with people. It doesn’t matter whether it’s your personal or professional life, people will try to manipulate you to do something or believe something. Now with this skill set, you will be psychologically prepared to counter any tactics that are being used on you and discover the truth. Some people may not know what they can use these skills for. To get you started, here are some questions to ask yourself- Are you looking to build a rapport with people? Are you looking to improve sales? Are you looking to be more successful when selecting the right
candidate for the job? Are you looking to be more successful when interviewing for a job? Are you looking to be able to determine if people are being honest with you? Are you looking to be a more powerful negotiator? Some things to consider if you can only learn one of the topics- When reading body language: to apply this skill, you must be able to see the person whether in person or on TV/ video. When detecting deceptive language, it can be applied when talking face-to-face, over the phone, listening to someone on TV, radio, video, and typed messages email/social media. When it comes to detecting deceptive language, the average person can detect it about 45% of the time. On their best day, around 54%. This isn’t good. With the skills learned in my program it will take you to a 90% detection rate. No one can ever be 100%. It doesn’t exist. Not even polygraph tests are 100%. With these skills that you will be taught, it puts you at a huge advantage. As far as tips go, here is one. Whenever you must talk to someone about an important topicinterviewing, trying to find out what happened in a situation, negotiating, etc never sit at a table if you can avoid it. Try and arrange it so that when you have a discussion with someone, you can see their entire body. The table blocks half of a person’s body. They could be giving off tells with their hands and or lower body that could be a red flag, and you would never know because you can’t see it. BTS: How have you used "True Thoughts" in your own life? NC: I use these skills daily! A couple of examples: I talk with numerous people daily who are looking for an entertainer and/or speaker for their event. By using these skills, I’m able to close far more bookings. Potential clients don’t want to tell you everything and by understanding the language they are using, I know whether this person is serious or not, even when they’re saying they’re interested. Anytime I watch the news regarding any events taking place, I know who is telling the truth and who isn’t. I know exactly which news shows are more honest than others. If I have some free time and I’m discussing a topic with people via social media, I know who is being dishonest. (Continued on page 7)
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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(Continued from page 6)
BTS: I smell a good book coming from all this, could my nose be correct? Or maybe a video series? Both? NC: Anything is possible. I’m always thinking of the best ways to get my program to people so they can have these skills. I’m going to be doing much more with social media. Coming soon will be free individual videos regarding body language and detecting deceptive language on my Facebook page. For those who want to learn some tips and tells go to Nick Compise-Psychological Mind Reader and like the page. This way when a video is posted you will see it. BTS: Final thoughts? Warnings? NC: I get asked: are you always on guard and reading everyone? NO! It depends on the conversation. If it’s important to me, then yes. If it’s a meaningless conversation, then no. Don’t think that if you learn these skills, you must be on all the time. It’s your choice. You can instantly switch it on anytime you want. The more skilled you are, you will automatically notice the tells physically and verbally. When it comes to detecting deceptive language, everyone lies. Let’s get that out of the way. Some lies are petty/harmless and other lies are harmful. Example: If I ask someone what’s the temperature and they say 74 and then I check my phone and it says 75. I don’t care! When it comes to reading body language or detecting deceptive language you need to be properly trained. There is a lot of bad info out there. This bad info can cause you to misread someone. For example, in body language when a person crosses their arms most people automatically believe that the person is defensive. That’s not necessarily true! Crossing your arms is a comfort position. What if it’s cold outside or what if this is what they like to do? If the person is engaging with you, answering your questions in a polite way, asking you questions back like a regular conversation, how are they defensive? Don’t just jump to conclusions. Anyone, no matter how skilled they are, can still be deceived or miss a tell. No one is perfect and no one is immune. Even the greatest martial artist can still get hit. With their training, it is much more difficult for someone to land a punch. Same thing with these skills. Being properly trained just makes it more difficult to be deceived. Proper training puts you at a greater advantage. People of all walks of life can be fooled. Substitute credentials are not the same as real credentials. What do I mean by this? I hear people say, I’m good at detecting deceptive language because I’ve been in business for 20 years. What does that have to do with anything? They say- I’ve been negotiating for a long time, I raised 3 children, I have a master’s degree, I’ve been interviewing people for job positions for a long
time, or some other substitute credential. I don’t mean to minimize this, but it means nothing. Unless you were specifically trained to detect certain language, you’re not good and are vulnerable. Remember, unless you’re trained, you’re at best at a 54% detection rate. I’m telling you so you don’t fool yourself. If you don’t want to learn these skills or you don’t think you need them, that’s fine, just don’t fool yourself with the substitute credentials. The ones with no real training and use these substitute credentials are the people who get burned the most. They allow their ego to get the better of them and they unknowingly let down their guard and that’s when it happens. Regardless of your skill level, always be on guard in an important conversation. www.nickcompise.com https://www.facebook.com/ NickCompise.pmr/ Brian T. Shirley has the look of a Don Rickles, the comedy of a George Carlin with a touch of Robin Williams but when you roll it all together, it is pure and unique and something only Brian T. Shirley can deliver. Brian has toured the USA, Canada, The Bahamas and Japan for 25 years. He combines menology, character driven material, story telling and has worked well known comedy clubs, country clubs, resorts, cruise ships, special events, military installations and private events! Check out some of his upcoming shows, promo videos, videos from his webs series and other projects at www.briantshirley.com.
Take the Quiz: You May Know More Than You Think! 1. Which bird can swim but cannot fly? 2. Which insects cannot fly, but can jump higher than 30 cm? 3. What do dragonflies prefer to eat? 4. What is called a fish with a snake-like body? 5. How long is the Great Wall of China? 6. According to the Bible, who was the first murderer? 7. What is the most fractured human bone? 8. Which famous British women murderer of the 19th century was never arrested? 9. Which nuts are used in marzipan? 10. How many calories does a glass of water contain? 11. What is the name of the gas that let rise bread dough? 12. What is the chemical formula for Table Salt? A variety of questions this month. Thanks to https://www.quiz-questions.net (Answers on back page)
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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Janice Hermsen
V
oltaire said: “Appreciation is a wonderful thing: It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” From Voltaire’s perspective, I have benefited tremendously from my interactions with a lot of people during the years of doing business as LeRue Press. Because our business is diverse and caters to both entrepreneurs and writers, we wanted to appeal to audiences that could benefit from hearing about what they do and why they do it. Everyone has a story! It’s not just in books. In 2012, we had our first radio show on America Matters Media, now KCKQ 1180 AM, a Lotus Broadcast station. We eventually added What’s the Story? Radio show to include entrepreneurs as part of the guests we would include on the show. I have had the honor of interviewing many interesting and creative people in so many different walks of life. We’ve had best-selling authors, local authors and everyone in-between. In 2019, we changed the format to become a variety-type show that would be both informative and entertaining. We also began streaming live on Facebook and have now added a You Tube channel under LeRue Press. Our audiences have grown and we appreciate the support and engagement from our listeners and (now) viewers. You may have seen our ads in What’s the Story? Print publication for a “business card size ad at $15”. We offer this low cost to businesses so they can take advantage of getting the word out about their business or event. Though these are under market rates, it helps offset some of the cost we incur to produce our publication. It is less than it would cost to mail to 2500+ businesses or customers in Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Charleston, S.C., Jacksonville, Florida and recently to Maryland thanks to one of our political writers. Doug, “the Jerkyman” has been instrumental in getting What’s the Story? to many locations, especially in Sparks. The Sparks Museum recently agreed to take copies there also. Be
Thank You! sure to visit the museum if you pick up a copy there. We appreciate the many long-term writers that publish with us and those that may only drop an occasional piece to be published. These folks, in many instances, are passionate about what they do and we are glad to be able to provide a forum for them to write. For those businesses that have taken advantage of advertising with us, thank you! We especially appreciate the long-term advertisers that had faith in the beginning and “took a chance” that they were not throwing their money away when we first started out. To the people who have used our commercial and book printing services, it is a joy to be able to help you brand your business and/or see your “baby” come to life. When it comes to books, especially, this is a long process and requires trust and coordination to make it happen. To those starting a business that have used our virtual services, mailing, phone and professional assistant services, we enjoy being “the face” of your business. Many of these clients transitioned from our former business, “The Executive Center”. We appreciate the confidence you placed in us to represent your business. We will continue to do so for as long as you entrust us with the job! In addition to those who print their books here, we also have had the honor of hosting many authors from small press publishers and self-published authors by consigning their books. There are so many creative people with so much (Continued on page 11)
Grab a Steamin’ Wienie and a copy of What’s the Story® at Sinbad’s
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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LeRue Press 280 Greg Street, Suite 10, Reno, Nevada 775.849.3814 www.lrpnv.com lrp@lrpnv.com
Ruth VanDyke
Ruth VanDyke
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Pumpkin Puff Pancakes e are all looking forward to that
scrumptious Thanksgiving Day dinner. Our annual holiday celebration, however, begins with a traditional Thanksgiving brunch shared with family and friends. Putting the fine china and holiday linens to use makes this early meal even more special. The menu is always the same, and only served on Thanksgiving -- pumpkin puff pancakes (made just a little bigger than a silver dollar), marble sized sausage balls, scrambled eggs and a fruit cup of ambrosia orange, grapefruit and pineapple sprinkled with coconut.
PUMPKIN PUFF PANCAKES 2 eggs 1 cup milk 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin 1 3/4 cups pancake mix 2 tablespoons sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ginger 1/4 cup salad oil Published by LeRue Press
An American Story
2019 Release
What’s Cookin’?
Beat eggs until thick and lemon colored. Stir in remaining ingredients. Pour batter by tablespoon onto medium-hot lightly greased griddle. Bake until puffed and bubbles begin to break. Turn and bake on the other side until golden brown. Makes about five dozen twoinch pancakes. Serve with warm rum-flavored maple syrup. Heat one cup of maple syrup and one tablespoon of butter. Remove from heat and stir in half a teaspoon of rum or rum flavoring. Serve warm. Enjoy the holiday season! Ruth VanDyke is the mother of seven, grandmother of 16, and boasts of 10 great-grandsons. The heart-warming true stories of her life are seasoned with humor and tantalizing recipes from her travels over six decades. She is a published poet and has been writing short stories for a number of years, as well as editing newsletters for various organizations. Her style of writing and wit have been compared to the late Erma Bombeck. You can join her daily as she posts recipes, short stories and poetry on her popular BLOG, 'Ruth's Food for Thought' and pick up a copy of her book, Memories with Recipes online and at LeRue Press, 280 Greg Street #10, Reno, NV.
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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LeRue Press 280 Greg Street, Suite 10, Reno, Nevada 775.849.3814 www.lrpnv.com lrp@lrpnv.com Hunter is only 3-1/2 years old, but he has a wisdom beyond his years and loves to talk to the animals. And sometimes, (he says) they talk back. Grandpa and Grandma love Hunter so much, they humor him. As it often happens on a ranch, outside forces and wild animals prey on the ranch animals. Leon and Hootch, two of the dogs, face a difficult challenge. With Hunter’s unusual talent of being able to “talk” to the animals, the story unfolds. It may bring you to tears, but Floyd’s homespun style is an easy and enjoyable read for all ages. Release: 2019 Select non-profits supporting wild horses Reading group promotion Social media campaign
Marketing Campaign: Book signings National online campaign Published by LeRue Press
GIFT JARS & BOXES $10.00 & UP
Our US CONSTITUTION We use material from the NCCS, the National Center for Constitutional Studies. Gain a better understanding and appreciation for the principles of our US Constitution. All you need to do is join the group. The only cost is your time!
The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. – Amelia Earhart https://www.forbes.com Top 100 Inspirational Quotes contributor Kevin Kruse
Where: Scheels, 1200 Scheels Dr. Sparks Legends Shopping Mall 2nd floor, Pyramid Lake Meeting Room When: 4 – 6 PM each Wednesday Textbook optional: The Making of America by Dr. Cleon Skousen For additional information contact K.J. Jones 775-626-6651 or email Jones.Richard@yahoo.com
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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to say! What a pleasure to be able to offer an opportunity to present them to the public. It’s been a while since we had a Book Blast, but we have some new things on the horizon for 2020 and look forward to seeing you again and meeting those we have not had the opportunity of hosting. Finally, to my husband, my business partners, cohosts and those I may have inadvertently left out, thank you for your support during the years and providing insight and always remembering to have fun while we are doing what we do! I appreciate every one of you! Janice Hermsen is the co-founder of LeRue Press, the editor of What’s the Story print publication and host of What’s the Story Plus the Book Hound. You can reach her at janice@lrpnv.com or by calling 775.849.3814, extension 701.
When You Believe by Floyd Sneed with Janice Hermsen
Published by LeRue Press
WHEN YOU BELIEVE: FLOYD SNEED, ORIGINAL DRUMMER FOR THREE DOG NIGHT From drumsticks to paintbrushes Creative and inspired
Classic Drummer Hall of Fame and Pop Music Hall of Fame inductee (Three Dog Night), Floyd Sneed tells his story in his book When You Believe. It is a witty, entertaining and insightful book full of stories told by original Three Dog Night drummer, Floyd Sneed, with perspectives from people who know him. A look at life in the 60s and 70s from one of the first black drummers in an all white band. How he took his creativity to another level with his own personal imagery that is joyful and inspired by his sense of humor. Published by LeRue Press, LLC. Follow Floyd on Twitter @FloydSneedDrums
Follow Floyd on his Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/FloydSneedDrums/
What Deepest Remains
Published by LeRue Press
By Joseph Andrew Holsworth
An autobiographical narrative that follows a young but seasoned veteran from his last mission in Iraq to his return and readjustment to life outside of combat. It explores the inner psyche of the modern veteran from the perspective of a jaded young man caught between his pride of service and the moral dilemma of fighting an unjust war. He battles PTSD and alcoholism until he finds peace in the company of a young progressive local poet. Marketing campaign: Release: 2019
National Online Campaign Reading Group Promotion
Author Speaking Tour Book Signings
Copyright, 2015-2019, LeRue Press. No part of this publication may be copied or reprinted without permission from LeRue Press (LRP).
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The People’s Perspective
TOPIC: The House and the Senate
It has been a volatile period in history with dramatic splits between people and parties. Rather than maintaining silence, What’s the Story™ would like to contribute some down to earth, people-focused OPINIONS. These do not reflect our view necessarily; they reflect the views of people who identify as one of the parties listed. If you belong to one of these parties, your view might be different than what is expressed. That is to be expected. Writers share their perspective independently and without discussion between them.
A representative government, or republic, is one that is governed by elected officials who represent different groups of people. The Romans were the first to use a representative government and most modern democracies feature some form of this system. Unlike a direct democracy, voters in a representative one do not directly decide public policy and laws. They instead decide who represents them and makes these decisions on their behalf. (www.reference.com)
WHAT WE ASKED: According to statista.com (from a Gallup poll), Congress has an approval rating of 18%, the second lowest figure in the past year. Though polls can be wrong, that’s a very low percentage. What do you feel our representatives were sent to Washington to do? Are they doing it in your opinion? How could they improve?
Democrat View
Independent View
Is Congress Effective?
Congress- A Love Story
D
A
o you know what the most heinous word in Congress is? Optics. The reason why is simple. Optics are what drives decision making within those hallowed halls. The definition is simple: Optics is the perception of an action rather than the execution. It means impression means more than reality. One party relies on it for everything while the other couldn’t give a crap. Congress has an 18% approval rating. The public, which still sees these stalwart representatives as representing them, does not understand why important business is shelved for no other reason than slapping the other party down. Most of the people who hate Congress do so because the Representatives and Senators have decided they represent a narrow portion of the country rather than the desires and needs of the common man. Can you blame them?
ccording to my late mother (Better her than me), when I was only a few months old, my late paternal grandfather (Better him than me) sat me on his lap with the newspaper every day. (Not because my diaper leaked.) He would read the paper to me and explain the news. In first grade, I read the Constitution. Fourth grade I met my first Congressperson. I learned to tell a politician from a civil servant. Politicians are liars. Civil servants work for the public good. Congress’ job is to represent us, protect the commons, write laws, uphold the Constitution, control the “purse”, investigate, plus other duties as needed. (Like raise money and lower standards.) Congress’ overall approval rating for doing their job is very low; as low as 9% in 2013 making them less popular than hemorrhoids, traffic jams, root canals, colonoscopies, and gonorrhea (STD= Sabotage the Democracy). Yet individually,
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Republican View
R
epresentatives are elected to a two-year term by the people in their district. They are supposed to listen to the needs of their constituents and return to DC and voice these concerns to the rest of Congress by submitting bills that would address these issues. Chances are that other Representatives would have been notified by their constituents of similar issues. We refer to this as: “Taking care of the people’s business.” However, through the years, less work is being completed; corruption has increased exponentially; political infighting and division is now the norm, all of which is detrimental to the country and the American people. With an approval rating at 18% (the second lowest figure in the past year for Congress), makes my neighborhood dog catcher look stellar with an approval rating of 83%! So how did we get here? It has been NO secret for years about the corruption that exists in DC (and Congress). I repeat NO SECRET! When you run for office, in the words of former California governor Jerry Brown, “Just tell (Continued on page 15)
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(Continued from page 4)
American Catholic priest who is sent to Rome to learn about “the rite” from an expert. Each day people visit this veteran exorcist, hoping to be delivered from various demonic torments. The trainee suspects right off that most of these people have problems unrelated to the powers of hell; but before long he witnesses things that cannot be explained quite so easily. Baglio explores this perplexing and unsettling topic thoroughly, and is neither too credulous nor too skeptical. Natural explanations are presented with clarity and intelligence; so too their counterpoints. For example, Tourette syndrome might explain some of the behaviors of people who are allegedly possessed; but it doesn’t explain how such people can levitate several feet off the ground. Readers must decide for themselves what all of this means. For myself, I have always leaned toward Baudelaire’s aphorism: “One of the devil’s best ruses is to persuade you that he does not exist!”
John Loranger was born in Butte, Montana in 1961 but has spent most of his life in Nevada. He served in the United States Navy from 1983 to 1987, then worked for the telephone company before retiring in 2011. He has always enjoyed reading fiction and has published two novels of his own: "The Odyssey of Art O'Hara" and "Lions and Souls: the Story of St. Mary of Egypt", available at LeRue Press and Amazon. His approach to fiction is best summed up by a quote from Walker Percy: "The first rule of thumb, of course, is pleasure. A good book gives the reader pleasure, the sort of deep, abiding pleasure he likes to come back to."
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Another Independent Opinion
O
ur nation’s forefathers would be profoundly disappointed in today’s Congress, as much, if not more, than the polls show. Just as is stated in this month’s question, members of Congress were voted in to represent their constituents in making laws and running our government. Although they represent their constituents, they should also understand their job is to advance the greater good of the nation. However, most politicians appear to seek power and the betterment of themselves, as well as to bicker with their political rivals. All of this while there are important issues they should be attempting to fix. Further eroding the trust of the American people is the high level of corruption in our government. When this country was formed, being a congressman was a part-time job that people sought in order to better the country, not themselves. Most congressmen today see themselves as royalty. There are far too many members of Congress who have made it their lifelong career, getting richer and richer. Congress should go back to attracting those with the right intentions, through the use of term limits, a smaller government, nominal pay, tougher laws, and transparency to pursue corruption. First, term limits would prevent the career politician, and also foment new ideas. Term limits would also curtail the influence of special interest groups on career politicians. Second, most federal government employees are not allowed to make more than a U.S. congressman, even though congressmen only work a part of the year. A lower, yet reasonable financial compensation, would attract those whose primary motivations are not money related. Third, a smaller government would decrease the bureaucratic nightmare Congress faces, allowing it to run more efficiently. A smaller government would also allow us more freedom and lower costs, but that’s for another article. A limited government would also make controlling the budget and deficit easier for Congress, allowing them to concentrate on other important tasks. Fourth, although federal law enforcement is still able to successfully investigate corrupt politicians, they fight with one arm tied behind their backs. Laws allowing federal (Continued on page 16)
Military Matters
D
o you have an OLD military ID card which lists your Social Security Number (SSN)? If so, you will need to turn it in and get a NEW military ID card which will display a DoD number, otherwise, you will NOT be allowed to fly. You can still register to travel with the old card, but I was informed that a new card would be required to board the plane. This is the DoD’s attempt to replace ALL old identification cards with new ones in an legitimate effort to protect your identity. Be sure to do this. If your return flight from flying Space A has to be commercial, do you stress about the TSA security process? To avoid some of the inconvenience, you can sign up for TSA’s Precheck for only $85. For the money, you will receive 5 years of stress-free security speed and it takes less than 10 minutes to sign up! You will be assigned a Known Traveler Number (KTN) for only $17 a year! Use this number whenever you book a flight, stand in designated TSA Precheck lines at the airport and save on time and stress! No more removal of your belt, shoes, light jackets, laptops or 3-1-1 compliant liquids! Sounds like a good deal, right? I have news of a better deal for you just use your DoD number! That’s right, service members and spouses with a DoD number are automatically enrolled in TSA’s Precheck, but many may not know be aware of that. Service members that defend our nation should be trusted to board a plane, that is the thinking by TSA and this is just another benefit that we have earned for service to our country. When making flight reservations, be sure to list your DoD number in the box for the KTN that’s it! I have a friend in Florida that would like to fly together with me. I told him ‘Great’ and since Travis is a major (Continued on page 16)
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(Continued from page 12) (Democratic)
Here’s where the problem with optics rears its ugly head. Since the Democrats took over the House in 2019, they have passed hundreds of pieces of legislation, most of which still lies in the Senatorial logjam created by Mitch McConnell. He considers it heroic, not to get the country’s important business done in a timely manner, but to stymie every piece of legislation that comes into the Senate passed by the Democratic led house. He does this with the same alacrity as when he refused to allow Merrick Garland’s appointment to the Supreme Court any hearing whatsoever. He considers it his job to single-handedly kill any legislation; even bi-partisan bills. Yet, he is still in charge of the Senate. When the first whispers of impeachment began in 2017, the Republican led house scuttled it quickly, but Paul Ryan heard it. He left office before he could be held accountable for supporting Trump. It was obvious to him that Republicans would pay a steep price for that support. Two years later, as the number of violations (from emoluments to Russian bribery and election interference) mounted up, Democrats remained reluctant to move forward. Once again, optics. Nancy Pelosi said impeaching Trump would kill the Democrats in the next election. Amazingly, even these crafty political veterans ultimately became afraid they would suffer from inaction as well. Optics again. Right now, according to The Hill, a non-partisan government (Continued on page 18)
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members have higher approval ratings, and most get re-elected despite their job performance. This phenomenon is not too hard to explain. Basically, name recognition, voter suppression, gerrymandering and voters be crazy. The main reason that Congress doesn’t do their jobs depends on the party. First, understand that political parties are privately run organizations and are not beholden to the voting public. They decide who can vote in their primaries. They decide the rules for their delegates. They decide whether they are going to hold primaries. (Five states have decided not to hold Republican presidential primaries this go around.) “Republican Inc.” is pro-business. Businesses (who are not people) by nature are profit first, people and environment last. Since (BAD) businesses do not want their influence and agendas made public, they are antitransparency and hence “Republican Inc” is pro-dark money. “Democratic Inc.” is more inclusive and diverse and thus harder to get a consensus. Sometimes they try so hard to please everyone, do the right or
the people what they want to hear!” When you are elected, you then join the “swamp” in DC. You learn the process from other veteran Representatives and then you acclimate yourself. This includes: taking special interest and lobby money, which can influence your decision making process (Congress ensures that this stays legal and this is a failure to serve the public interest); sexual harassment and abuse violations (illegal, but Congress has a fund which pays out for any lawsuits that may be filed to settle); ethic violations (this happens a lot since a good “majority” do NOT have any ethics or possess a morale compass); abuse of your government office for financial gain. The list goes on, but this is what comes to my mind. Note: most of this is happening in the Democratic Party! Who’s to blame? Mostly the American people. For years we have looked the other way. I’ve had many people tell me that corruption is normal in DC and there is nothing that we can do. I disagree. President Trump is doing what no one else wants to do: calling out corruption acrimoniously in Congress and
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law enforcement to more easily pursue corrupt politicians would deter those seeking a seat for the wrong reasons. Last, Congress should be forced to be more transparent with everything they do, allowing the American public to see how our money is spent and how our representatives work. I love our country, and have served it for decades, but it is, unfortunately, mirroring the Roman Empire as its glory began to fade. I don’t want to see that happen to our great country and improving Congress would be a huge step in the right direction in ensuring our country remains the greatest place for people to pursue life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Space A hub, I instructed him to catch a commercial flight to Sacramento and I would pick him up and we would continue on to Travis. He lives near MacDill AFB which have few flights. Keep in mind that a handful of bases sponsor about 90% of the flights that occur. He mentioned that he could drive to JB Charleston which is a 6 hour drive for him and try for a flight to Travis. If there are no flights to Travis, then he could possibly fly to JB Andrews and try for Travis from that base. If there are no Travis flights there, he could try for JB Lewis-McChord. Do you see where this is going? Under this maze plan, I don’t think that we’ll be able to fly together and he may have a better opportunity winning the Florida State Lottery! I believe in theory and in practice and in the long run, that he will end up spending more money and not less!
Guest Political Contributor, Reinhold Becker grew up in Dallas, Texas. Becker has a degree in Finance/Accounting and is a CPA for an accounting firm.
By R G Cruise, U.S. Navy Vet RG Cruise is the author of Operation: Omega www.RGCruise.com Editor’s Note: RG Cruise has made every effort to provide accurate information. Please check the appropriate website for verification of details if you plan to use Space A travel.
What a Deal! Distribution In Reno and Surrounding Areas Reno issue $15 for business card size ad (B&W) for a limited time only. 2500 distributed in print plus online In full color.
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Another Republican Opinion The People's Perspective Our country was founded on a simple premise, “We the People” As citizens, we cast our hard-fought vote in federal elections, bestowing upon Congress the right and power to act in our behalf. From the beginning of our republic we have had fundamentally a two-party system. This check and balance system has served us well for the past two hundred plus years, until now. The primary function of the news media, is to be the guardian of our democracy, the watch dog over the government. The 2016 presidential election campaign was hard fought, and dreadfully contentious. The underdog was victorious, much to the chagrin of Hillary Clinton, instantly starting a bruhaha which has served no one. Two days before the inauguration of Donald Trump, Representative Maxine Waters, from California, wanted to begin impeachment proceedings. Fifteen terms in the House, taught her nothing regarding the constitution. Adam Schiff, representing another congressional district in California, chairs the House Intelligence Committee. He has spent the past 36 months exploring deceitful ways to continue the impeachment debacle. He has proven to be untrustworthy. The impeachment upheaval is consuming the nightly news by frequently denouncing and thwarting republican accomplishments, of which there are many. Mass media has now become an arm of the Democrat party. The Media Research Center reported that the coverage of President Trump on evening newscasts since 2017 has shown a whopping 90% percent negative coverage regarding the President and his performance. The President is fully ensconced in the deep end of the preverbial swamp in Washington. Supporters are not thrilled with his relentless “Internet tweeting”, most often commenting, “I can’t believe he actually said that!” He gives his opposition constant fodder, and adds creditability to “The doer and the deed” attitude. Followers object to his unsophistication and brash verbal comments, but appreciate his accomplishments. Nancy Pelosi is Speaker of the House of Representatives, she is second in the presidential line of
succession, immediately after the vice president. That should scare the pants off of everyone. She represents four-fifths of the city and county of San Francisco. San Francisco is a “Sanctuary City” with the homeless population exploding by 30% in the past 2 years. Poop on the streets and sidewalks has risen more than five times the number reported two years earlier. The City of Los Angeles homeless and drug use problem morphs that of San Francisco. Speaker Pelosi and her ilk have put out the welcome mat for immigrants from other countries and does their bidding. The homeless population in her district growing, yet she invites more to join the homeless population. The national debt is swelling by more than one trillion dollars annually, and we cannot afford health insurance for its own citizens, yet she plans to offers free health care to illegal aliens. California’s once excellent educational system is now ranked 45th out of the 50 states. Our elected officials tout their accomplishments, most notably “The Affordable Care Act or Obama Care, and the Student Loan Program.” Health care is still in shambles, with no relief in sight. Sixty-nine percent of the 2018 graduating seniors, have encumbered themselves with student loans. Their average debt is $29,800. Politicians once again surrendered to the demands of the powerful business and university lobbying organizations; student loans cannot be discharged now under the new bankruptcy legislation. With congressional programs like these, it’s best the legislature remains in a stalemate. Congress’s conduct is abysmal, collectively they have turned a deaf ear to the desires of those they serve. Their behavior, on both sides of the isle, is rude and uncivil. The news media is no longer a guardian of truth; their juxtaposition to the democrat party is appalling. Until we start electing representatives, who will listen to their constituents, do the will of the people, and end squabbling amongst themselves, we are in for some troubling times ahead.
Guest Political Contributor, Doug Ashby Doug Ashby is the author of Heroes and Giants Retired Los Angeles County Fire Department Battalion Chief
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(Continued from page 15) (Democratic)
(Continued from page 15) (Independent)
watchdog, there are over 400 pieces of legislation sitting in the Senate and there is no hope that the Senate will take them up any time soon. Mitch McConnell refuses to allow any discussion on these bills. Conservative versus Liberal impediments have supplanted the good of the country as the most important things in government. This may explain why he has only an 11% approval rating in Kentucky (if you believe some polls). Until Schumer and Pelosi realize you cannot negotiate with today’s Republican party, public impression of their effectiveness will suffer. Dems are looking for a way to improve their own optics, while McConnell believes if he stymies their every move, his base will send him back for another term. Opinion polls warn against it, but considering the occupant of the White House, polls appear to be worthless.
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least offensive thing, that they wind up doing nothing usually. However, this D-house has passed over 50 popular bills on gun control, healthcare, fair pay, etc. While the Republican controlled Senate has voted on one of them- the immigration bill that Trump vetoed after proclaiming support for it. The adage is that the Senate is the slow-moving deliberate part of congress. Slow and deliberate is one thing, they are a slug parade led by a tortoise. I haven’t seen anything move this slow since my cheese and ruffage diet of ‘96. McConnell’s pro-business, dark money influence will not allow him to pass pro-people, pro-environment bills. I would fix this by getting rid of dark money. I would make voting a constitutional right and civics classes mandatory. I would end corporate personhood. I would put the League of Women’s Voters back in charge of the political debates. They did a great job; they informed voters while pissing off “Republican Inc.” and “Democratic Inc.”. Finally, I would replace political parties with gym memberships. Maybe this way we can get rid of the “Fat Cats” that are running things behind the scenes.
elsewhere in our government. Because this is not popular with the establishment, he is running into some resistance. What can we do to help rid DC of corruption? We need to have an open mind, listen and decide rationally to the truth and fire (vote out) Congressional members that are not adding value or love our country. Every time a member of Congress enriches themselves (minority), they do it at Americans expense (majority) and they don’t seem to care. Overall, Congress is NOT doing a good job, hence their low approval rating. Good Representatives need to call out the corrupt. Corruption in our government is America in Crisis and will cost us our country. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a third world country? The ruling class won’t be affected!
Guest Political Contributor, D.L. Whitehead D.L. Whitehead is the author of Darwin’s Sword, https:// dlwhitehead.wordpress.com/
Guest Political Contributor, GD Fenderson GD Fenderson is a Certified Forensic Humourist out of Maryland. Go to www.SoGDFunny.com To see a second Independent’s opinion, go to page 14.
Guest Political Contributor, R.G. Cruise RG Cruise is the author of Operation: Omega www.RGCruise.com Editor’s Note: We ask our three guest contributors to provide opinion. Sometimes, those opinions contain information that may have been contradicted or additional information added at a later date. Please keep that in mind as you read their columns.
To see a second Republican’s opinion, go to page 17.
Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear. — George Addair https://motivationping.com/quotes/
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