>It was a rough first few years..... a combination of moving from a metro area to a rural small town with the extremem difference in life style and attitudes....and leaving friends of 15 years.... but I found out that everyone in Ga is not a racist and that with any place you live you have to take the good with the bad.

Tom;

I could tell you many stories about my adventures in the Southern United States. Being raised in San Francisco, I was taught by my Irish Catholic family to treat everyone alike - with respect, and help whenever possible. Traveling through the South while I was in the Air Force (17 years old) was an eye opener. 1960-1967. I will not forget it. I asked myself: "United States of what"? I saw so much hatred and when I spoke out on these issues I received the famous “Oh you are from California and all Californians have tail pipes up their a***’s or there are only two types of Californians – queers and steers – I don’t see any horns on your head boy”!

I had friends of all flavors at the Air force base in Orlando, and we were told it was O.K. on base to associate with members of “other races”. We were warned to not be together in the same car, or walking off base.

One nice thing about being me is that I am 6’7” tall. A few fools have tried to start fights but did not know I have Black Belts in Judo and Karate and can lift 240 pounds with either hand. I am a very mellow person but will not allow myself or anyone in my presence to be abused.

Growing up in California during the 1940’s –50’s was great fun. I met so many different peoples from around the world and learned much about habits, culture and enjoying the great gifts others have to share with everyone. Music is one of my greatest joys as well as good food and conversation. It is amazing to some who will never understand but in reality we are all so much alike. Our customs or language may be different but we are all humans. There are some who will disagree with me on this.

The population in California found today (many from other states) has introduced an element similar to those whom I met in the South years ago. They hate others and have noting to say that contributes anything positive to society. Your comment "any place you live you have to take the good with the bad" is so true.


Tom