Posts by BenFerko

Matt Laur, (how-ever you spell it), was asking that question recently and the response was varied. Wow...that is a good question. Very subjective though. Just Who was the greatest American?

Well sir...there are many whom would fit that description. Many of which we all have heard of. Many of which we never heard of that died on some foreign beach fighting for our freedoms. (Well...what's left of them anyway. I digress.) Was it George Washington? He certainly deserves a seat at the head of the table. What about the entire body of the Founding Fathers of this Great Nation. Let's not forget their families whom stood beside them in the aftermath of their declaration to old King George. Many of which paid with their lives and / or personal fortunes for us all.

What about other notable Presidents throughout history. Some quite admirable. Do they rise to this level of notoriety? I don't know. Outside the borders of America do people even remember who they were? Not many, I'm sure.

What about Oprah Winfrey, as was suggested in recent polls? I don't think so. Even though her accomplishments in the business realm of things has been quite documented, She's not whom Id hire to represent America.

......Let's think about that for a moment...The Greatest American wouldn't necessarily have to be a true hero, in the sense of actual record of achievement in those senses. The greatest American could be one that was easily recognizable around the world by a tremendous track record of promoting truth, justice and the American way of life. Someone whom helped show the world what a true American was really made of.

Does that kind of American bring anyone you know to mind?

We miss you John, wish you were hear to receive this award from me.

R.I.P.

What do you think? Whom would you add to this list of greatest American's? - Ben

Thank you, Hondo Duke Lane, for starting this topic of discussion. Eddie was a member of some of the last great old school ones still with us. It is a shame that not only these talents but the studios and writers of their time are all gone. The Hollywood of today is so caught up in political agenda's and pushing "gay rights", what ever that is, that they will never go back to the way it was. Especially in this sue happy culture with so many attorneys chomping at the bit to make a name for themselves. ACLU and such.

I remember a day when attorneys were someone you called for consulting on a matter in question. The person hiring the attorney always made the final decision wether the attorney liked it or not. Somewhere along the line, our culture decided that a person whom held public office, ie..Senator or Congressman, had also better be an attorney. The majority of which they are today. Just look at the latest performance of the self appointed "Magnificent 14" did in the Senate the other day. What a bunch of losers. There is a time and place for compromise and this was definitely not one of them. The blind leading the blind you might say. What can we do other than vote and discuss it? Not much I fear. Attorneys need to be put back in their place along with the Judicial Branch of Government. Start reading our Constitution for a change of pace. I digress.

Oh, for the days of simpler times. Good bye Eddie. You will be missed. - Ben

Hello Emmanuel,

I'm glad you asked that question. Gun ownership in America has prevented more crimes than the media is willing to report. The only thing bad about it is some folks aren't well equipped to secure their firearms, as they should, but really they are few. A person doesn't really have to own one but just live in an area that allows ownership to benefit from the deterrence effect. Home robbers don't want trouble they want to get what they came for, be it goods or rape, and if they think that there is a possibility that you are armed...well...they'll just as soon go to another neighborhood instead.

Places were this doesn't work too well is areas that allow gun ownership but limit the homeowners ability to use it for protection, ie: too many rules and such. Governor Jeb Bush in Florida was right to allow homeowners to go on the offensive if they are threatened in their homes. Just watch the crime levels drop, in homes, in that area. The media wont want to talk about that either.(Ha,ha) - Ben Ferko

Well...I don't know. It was just an idea. Something to think and talk about you know.

Of course there are plenty of opportunities, at any time, for anyone to travel too / or when they can afford to. I didn't realize how spread-out we poster's truly are either. (I really must spend some time, some day, reading peoples bio's. ha,ha)

Have a good day, - Ben

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Originally posted by Hondo Duke Lane@Apr 25 2005, 09:06 PM

Ben,

I've been looking into your question and trying to tie in what your question is about. I'd like for you to explain something to me. What is the source of your question so I may look into what you are talking about? I have ran cross references and came with with conservative actors who are taking stands, but not sure about the writers or directors. Not to say there are none, but what have you heard?

Cheers B)

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Sure Hondo,
Right after Mel Gibson's successful release of "The Passion", there was talk in the media of Mel possibly getting together with a group of conservative director's, writer's and distributer's to put together a new motion picture company, / or group of companies, to rival Hollywood. They wanted to return to the Hollywood of old, without the liberal's whom have taken over the Hollywood of today, and start producing movies with conservative values and focus on good writing and acting rather than fluff and soft porn in mind numbing performances for quick sales of box office tickets.

This was over nine months ago. Of course the main stream media wont talk about it any more than they have too. (My guess is that we'll have to drag them kicking and screaming into covering the emergance of such an industry.) Sorry, I don't know much more than that. - Ben

"Someone said that there was a new group of Conservative Director's, Writer's and such being formed after the Mel Gibson success of the Passion. What ever became of it? Who can we call upon to fill the void? "

Thanks for all the comments so far. Very interesting. I still, am looking for an answer to my question (Listed above) though. Thanks. - Ben

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Originally posted by InHarmsWay@Apr 18 2005, 08:35 PM

Hi Ben,that does sounds nice.I was wanting to head to Monument valley in 2007 as i meant alot to duke and for all of us fans especially me.So i would rather go there as opposed to going to Ireland,although it does sounds great to go to such a lovely place.

I wont have the finances until,probably 2007 though.

-IHW

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I'm not sure how much any of these trips would cost, as a ball park figure. I haven't done much research other than to know that there is a museum, built like "White-o-Mornin" cottage, with the first floor decorated just as in the movie. "Cohan's" bar is really a gas station that is currently being remodeled to become a real bar named "Cohan's Bar". I really like John's western roles and locations too. I just have The "Quiet Man" on the brain right now. It will pass...Ha, Ha.

Well, I have to go back out on the road for another week. I'll check back when I get home. Thanks for the post, IHW. - Ben

Here is a thought. What is the possibility of a group of us getting together in the coming years for a trip to Ireland to Cong in the County of Mayo, where the "Quiet Man" was filmed in 1951. They say it has hardly changed in all these years. I think it would be an idea for those who could attend. Perhaps, in other years, we could put together a trip to Monument Valley or another location. This year is out for me and probably most folks but the future is open.

Well...That's the idea. What do you think? - Ben

Just when I thought that perhaps Hollywood had ran its course of reality shows and perhaps was going to turn to writers for some real entertainment again, I saw the upcoming movie thriller being advertised for "Aftershock". Dear God, have we hit the bottom of the barrel for story ideas?? We couldn't have! But then came the add for the new "Ripley's Believe it or not" hosted by Dean Caine. ....We've now gone from reality shows to officially rolling out the freak show! (Carnivals used to have these shows. The Bearded Lady and such.) This is so sad.

Oh, for the days of John Wayne and company and the likes of DesiLou Studios or writers like Rod Serling. Not necessarily CGI woven movies leaned on heavily for the entertainment portion, but good stories and story telling. We've gone from artful performances to pure flash , glitz and soft porn for family entertainment with high profits as the main goal.

Someone said that there was a new group of Conservative Director's, Writer's and such being formed after the Mel Gibson success of the Passion. What ever became of it? Who can we call upon to fill the void?

I Look forward to your thoughts. - Ben

"On This Day:

111 years ago Jack Benny was born. He appeared briefly in Without Reservations as an autograph hunter."

I was surprised to read about this statistic Arthur. After all, Jack will be only 39 this year. (Ha ha) A little inside humor for those whom new Jack well.

He probably had that information copywrited too. You may get a bill in the mail from his estate. (Ha,ha) Well, again...a little joke.

Really, though. I like the concept of posting these interesting notable points of record with reference to the current date. They are usually very entertaining and often memory lane on-ramps. Keep it up. - Ben

Well, I'm back. I see some folks have read my last post concerning Kirk Douglas' latest book "My Stroke of Luck". Unfortunately, it sounds as though no one has actually read it yet. That's a shame. It's a very inspiring book that shouldn't be casually overlooked.

I saw a comment posted concerning an older book about Kirk's life as a younger man. Yeah, he probably was full of himself for a long time. Stardom can have that effect on the best of people. It's too bad that it took all these years to open his eyes and see the big picture of his life and were he truly stands. I believe many people are guilty of similar short sightedness in their own lives and it takes time to open all our eyes as to our true nature and how others see and think of us really. Some people do grow up quickly. Some people take a long time. Some never get to see the big picture.

Now John Wayne, I believe, saw a big picture for the most part. Of course there were things he probably wished he had done differently in his life, as we all have. If we only had a rewind setting on our own lives.

Perhaps someone will take the time to read the book and eventually comment on their findings later. I know I'd be interested in hearing about it. For now though, I'll move on to another subject. That is...as soon as I figure out what I would like to talk about. (Ha,ha) Perhaps I'll stop talking and read some more posts myself and respond to what others want to discuss. Sounds like a plan. (Ha,ha)

It's good to be back with you all. Good company. - Ben

PS: Chester 7777, I saw your last post to me on the Newbie Board. No worries mate. (Ha, ha) Thanks.

I'm headed back out on the road today. I noticed that my last entry was missing from where I placed it, concerning Kirk Douglas's book "My Stroke of Luck". I did find it in the Off Topic forum were Chester 7777 moved it. Probably a good idea too. Again, I'm new to this forum stuff and am only figuring it out by trial and error.

Thanks for the move Chester 7777. Might be a good idea to leave a message on the original board notifying the writer of the move next time though. I probably never would have found it if I weren't poking around, trying to figure this board thing out. As a matter of fact, this might be an appropriate time for me to graduate from the Newbie forum to the OFF Topic and / or General discussion area anyway. Leave the Newbie forum for welcoming Newbies as it was intended Id imagine. (I'll figure this thing out yet. ha,ha)

Well, Id better go now. I'm burn'n daylight! (Ha,ha) I'll check back when I get in again. - Ben

PS: My next post will be in the Off Topic area if anyone is interested. (Well, it's a place to start.) Have a great week y'all.

Woooe there Pilgrims! Sounds like I touched off a small firestorm when I left you all. (ha,ha) I'm back in town now. Well, I guess these things aren't so uncommonly seen by others as what the elite would have you believe. (Of course I figured that as you did. We didn't need a degree to figure it out either. ha, ha)

Here's a thought for you.... I see the great experimental phase of our still Great Country being just about over. The flower children of the sixties that grew-up, (I use that term loosely mind you), to take public office and take over the Universities and main stream media. The Phycologist crowds that has placed several citizens on Prosaic and the like. (Some in real need of but many, I would guess, just victims of marketing for profit.) These people whom questioned time tested traditions and sensibilities. That selectively moved a nation to the far left these past oh, 35 to 40 years, is coming to an end.

Even they are now questioning their policies of sparing the rod with the raising of there own children. They can't remember ever disrespecting their own parents the way that their own children dismiss them these days. The scarey stories of what conservatives are out to do aren't being accepted by the majority anymore. Their golden childs of what was once a well respected media outlet has been irrevocably damaged by themselves and the age of information. Talk radio has evolved and in many ways becoming more attractive than Television these days due in partiality to the lack of originality and good writing being permitted for well made entertaining shows in exchange for reality shows that basically disrespect their guests entirely. The art of humiliating their fellow man / woman, all for the almighty dollar. It's getting pretty sick out there.

Oh, for the days of the Duke! I would have genuinely loved to spend some time with the likes of him. The good news is that although he was a great focal point of idealism. It is us whom recognized and are continually attracted too this vision that are the like. It is therefore my privilege to know and have the opportunity to get to know even better people like you. Jay, SxViper, InHarmsWay, Stumpy, Chester 7777, Ringo Kid, Hondo Duke Lane, and William T. Brooks. (Sorry if I left anyone out). Although our hero has fallen, we are all still here and our numbers are growing with new generations being attracted to the same ideals. As Jay would say..Cheers! - Ben

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Originally posted by SXViper@Feb 2 2005, 07:51 PM
Well Ben, i am about a year younger then you, I will be turning 39 in July. I have been a fan of J.W. since I can remember. My dad is responsible for that

If you look at our profiles it will tell you how long each person has been a member. I joined the board in July of 03.

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Thanks for the tip SXViper. As I said, I'm not really familier with this medium yet. When I wrote my first response I was not really fully awake. I've had trouble with my eyes for the past couple of days too. (Must be allergies.) We have a cat living with us and although I like cats, I may be allergic to them. Anyway, you were right of course and I think that was pretty clever of the person running this site to put that there. I've tried to use large letters in my posts to make it easier for some people to read. I'm not sure if I'm setting this thing right for that but I'll figure it out.

Speaking of being close in age, I know that we've seen a lot of change in our lifetime. It seems like nothing has stopped changing in our time. As a matter of fact, it seems to be speeding up. (Ha,ha) Pleasure to hear from you and if you have any more tips I'd be greatful to have them. - Ben

Well... looks like I found a pretty lively site to converse with on occasion. Like most folks, I don't constantly dwell on J.W. but every once in a while... we all get in this mood of longing for simpler times and a world where things are more black and white. The main stream media and Bostonian types would like us all to believe that everything is actually grey and that there really is no right and wrong just choices. Right! I don't buy that, not for a moment. I do think that in some instances there may be a grey area but usually when the lights of knowledge are turned on the answers are pretty clear. Even though they don't want to hear them.

Jay, you sound like someone who has not just fell off the turnip cart. Probably seen a lot in your days. How are things in Texas? (Yes, I do remember the Alamo. Ha,ha.) Perhaps "InHarmsWay" could enlighten us on wether they were still teaching it when he/or she graduated a couple of years ago I'd imagine. I only ask this because of some schools today choosing not to teach the US Constitution in public schools due to the reference to our Creator. (Separation of Church and State hogwash!) It's getting pretty strange out there these days. Who knows what they're teaching about the Alamo these days. (Re-writing history, and making it theirstory. Ha,ha)

Nice to have you around "InHarmsWay". Young people today are inspiring me that they are becoming aware of their world and rejecting the established mainstream views for the truth, or something closer to it. They helped in the twin tower attack clean-up and rescue. They also are helping rid the world of Terrorist groups in real harms way. Lining up to join the service with a clear sense of honor and duty. God bless all you youngsters.

Well, I have to go now and help my 11 yr old with his paper route. I'll check back soon. - Ben

Thanks Jay and SXViper for noticing my post. I had gone to the chat room after posting that day and received no response. I was beginning to wonder when was a good time of day to actually speak to someone on that venue or this one for that matter. (I don't use web postings usually, nor am I a user of chat rooms. Therefor I'm not in tune with it's normal operations.) To be frank, I spent a quite while just trying to find my original post and was tickled to see that someone not only had seen it but took the time to actually respond. Thank you for your kind words.

How long have you been members here and what age group am I addressing. As for me, I'm just approaching the big 40 later this year. I've been a fan of the Duke since I was a "Yonker", (as one of John's Characters would put it.) I have three children whom have all been exposed to his performances and they are all fascinated with him. This of course pleases me that they would recognize the quality of a person that he would portray. They have also come to realise that he was a lot like that in person as well. Truly fortunate am I to have them. My wife likes him too but doesn't like to watch all the violence of course.

Tell me what I can expect to see here. (I will also continue to brows the posts to see for myself of course.) Please note that I am a Professional Motor Carrier and am on the road for week at a time so if it takes a while to get a response from me, don't give up. I'll check back when I'm home and get back with you A.S.A. P.

Thanks - Ben

Well, hello... thanks for the kind welcome. I'm proud to be among folks that have the good sense to recognize quality when they see /or hear it. I, like millions of others across the globe, still miss Big John. It shouldn't be forgotten that many thanks also go out to the ones who inspired and befriended a boy named Marion such as John Ford, Harry Carrie Sr., the writer's for all of his successful films, sound, lighting and set crews. The members of the so called John Ford Stock Co. The world hasn't seen a successful collaboration of talent like that before or since.

Big John, for all the characters he portrayed, was always true to his principles and to his adoring fans. Yes, a principled person whom "says what he means and means what he says". No regrets... or at least none to speak of. He was himself, un-apologetically. The way that most of his fans are, Id expect. (I know I am.)

If there ever really was a Mr. America it was John Wayne. His popularity transcends the generations he originally entertained. (Yes, our children are even showing signs of good sense too. ha,ha.)

Please God, continue to bless America.

Nuff-said for now. Your comments are welcomed. - Ben