Grandpa,
I am hearing a lot of different thoughts about this Pride Parade coming up. Why do a bunch of gay people have to prance around in public? That kind of stuff should be kept behind closed doors. I don’t need to know who is sleeping with whom.
Grandpa says; Every time a group of individuals feels put down, denied rights, denigrated, or stepped on by society, it is obliged for them to speak up and ask for recognition. The pride parades around the country are for one major purpose: To lift the self-esteem of those involved. Earlier this month we celebrated Cinco de Mayo. That started as a way to raise self-esteem of those involved. So did Black History Month. So did St. Patrick’s Day. Everyone has the right to feel good about who they are. God created all of us equal. Only man created hatred. I will not attempt to speak for God. All I can do is accept the person, whether or not I accept the actions. If you don’t care to see the parade, nothing is compelling you to attend. But attending may help you understand.
Grandpa,
I recently had a plumber come out to my house. I went on (a computer site that recommends trades individuals) because I tried to get a pipe fixed in my bathroom. I had a very bad leak and could not stop it. I had gotten some telephone estimates that were very high. This guy came out and in 10 minutes had the problem solved. He said it was condensation on the cold-water pipes. He dried the pipes and put a foam tube over them. They haven’t leaked yet! And charged me (a small price). I want to recommend him to everyone. His name is (not being published by Grandpa) and his phone number is (withheld by Grandpa). Thank you for giving this guy a plug.
Grandpa says; When I first read your letter, I was going to suggest that you buy an ad to thank the plumber for his help. Grandpa does not do public endorsements. A member of my team had a hunch. She contacted this plumber and found that he lives in your house. You used the same E-mail address to write me as he gave her to contact him. Pretty slick there. You obviously don’t read this column often or you would have known better than to try to get free advertising out of me. I suggest you call The Voice and look into the idea of display advertising. But don’t be a part of your relative’s false claims. Until he is licensed as a plumber, I suggest he call himself a handyman. I suggest that he buy business insurance. From your letter and actions, it sounds as if he will need it.
Grandpa’s reminder; Saturday will be Armed Forces Day. If you love Our Country, please take a moment to thank those in our Armed Forces for keeping us safe from outside haters.
Grandpa says; To all our Muslim friends, may you have a blessed Ramadan.
Got something stuck in your craw? Ask Grandpa. Address your letters to Ask Grandpa c/o The Voice, 314 N. Lake Street, Suite 2, Aurora, IL 60506 or send an E-mail to askgrandpa@thevoice.us.