Meth descriptive words

Hi All 🙋🏻‍♂️
Today I went to Tasjeel for testing a Nissan X-Trail 2022 model and only in 37.000 KM.
1) Oxidation on engine and under body aluminum components - could be a reason of flooding? Any comment?
2) Right side both doors repainted/repaired - but the Chasis Number doesn’t show any accident. How could it be possible?
Need your comments 🙏🏼

I am reporting back after this post.
It was u/forswearThinPotation who put me on track with this comment.
Unfortunately, that particular bottling was no longer available, but with the help of my local whisky shop, I was able to locate this beauty. A GlenDronach 27yo 1994 Oloroso Sherry Puncheon cask #7469. They claimed it was the last bottle available in their network.
One week from now we will open (and likely empty) it with a few close friends. The occasion? This bottle is the occasion. Life is short, create memories!
Excuse my 7/10 picture. I don’t have a receipt, and neither was I wearing a noteworthy watch today. I know you guys expect better. I’m hoping the bottle makes up for some of it.

Inspired by Rear Admiral Tim Gallaudet’s (Ret.) recent discussions on USOs, I thought I would relate the following. Just over 70 years ago, an interesting incident occurred on board the USS Curtis – the U.S. Navy vessel tasked with delivery of the Shrimp device to the Pacific Proving Ground in 1954 for the notorious Castle Bravo nuclear weapons test. This particular test, which scientists from Los Alamos and Lawrence Livermore laboratories had calculated to have a yield of 4,8 megatons actually went far above this calculation to achieve nearly 16 megatons of TNT equivalent yield. This miscalculation exposed many U.S. military personnel to dangerous levels of radiation and, more importantly, post traumatic stress disorder from being exposed to the close-range effects of such a large blast. Was the USO incident related to the yield miscalculation event?
USS Curtiss (AV-4)
The Curtiss class were the first seaplane tenders built from the keel up for the US Navy, the previous tenders had been converted from cargo ships. They were designed to provide command facilities for forward operating long-range patrol seaplane squadrons. To accomplish this, they were heavily armed with four 5-inch (130 mm)/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, and contained repair and maintenance facilities, along with supplies for operating in forward areas for many months.
The ships had a large seaplane deck located at the stern with the maintenance shops located in the superstructure just forward of it. They were built with three large cranes, one located at the starboard extreme of the stern, the second was at the aft of the superstructure on the port side, with the remaining crane located midship on the starboard side. The starboard crane at midship was removed from both ships during WWII and replaced with a 20-millimeter (0.79 in) Oerlikon cannon gun tub. Two of the 5-in guns were staggered on opposite sides of the rear superstructure, with the remaining two in a superfiring configuration at the bow of the ships.
From 23 February to 13 June 1951, Curtiss served as flagship for "Operation Greenhouse" and was the base for civilian and military technicians during the atomic tests at Eniwetok. She also provided meteorological information and operated a boat pool. Curtiss served at San Diego, in local operations until 29 September 1952, when she again sailed to Eniwetok, as flagship during the atomic tests of "Operation Ivy", during which the first hydrogen bomb was detonated. Returning to San Diego, on 4 December, she cruised the west coast, and visited Acapulco, Mexico, in 1953. From 10 January to 28 May 1954, she participated in "Operation Castle".
Rather than write about the USO event, I will post verbatim the eyewitness accounts of two U.S. Marines onboard the USS Curtiss – Robert Mackenzie and G. Nicholas Stuparich.
First, a little background from Mackenzie and Stuparich regarding their duties on the Curtiss:
Mackenzie: So all the guys that got a clearance, we went as a group on the Curtiss. Now we knew where it was going but we really didn’t know what we were going to do.
Interviewer : OK, so after the fact, at some point you know that you’ve gotten a clearance.
Mackenzie: We didn’t know that until we were already halfway on the cruise. And the way we found out is that some of the men were called in and they were told they didn’t get a Queen Clearance. They got top secret but they didn’t get Queen. And it was no fault of theirs, Mary. Some of them, if they had one relative that was born in another country and something, they just couldn’t get one.
Interviewer: Correct. Correct. So “Q” stands for “Queen.” Yes. Or is “Queen” something you make from “Q”? I wonder. I’ve never—
Mackenzie: Well, “Q” must be “Queen,” I guess. Yes. It must be.
Interviewer: You guys said “Queen,” though, when you said clearance.
Mackenzie: Yes. Yes. And it’s a Queen Clearance, yes. And they’re still around, I understand.
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Mackenzie: And I tell you why, is that when I went aboard ship, they made me an orderly, which was a great honor. And so I was the admiral’s orderly, and before that I was the captain’s orderly. In fact, by the time I was aboard the Curtiss for eighteen months, I worked as an orderly for three admirals and two ship’s captains and the executive officer, which was a great background for a young man. And I have the highest regard for naval officers. I watched them talk to their men, I watched them talk to their fellow officers, I saw how they solved problems, and just what a great example for a young man, to be around people of that caliber. It was wonderful.
Interviewer: Let me ask you a question here because I don’t know that much about the armed forces. The Curtiss is obviously a Navy ship.
Mackenzie: Yes.
Interviewer: And you’re a Marine serving on it. Is that common?
Mackenzie: No. It’s only in capital ships, normally, which would be battleships— Interviewer: “Capital ships.”
Mackenzie: Capital ships, which would be—the terminology has changed today, Mary, but in my day it was battleships, cruisers, heavy cruisers, light cruisers, aircraft carriers, would have Marine detachments. Now originally the Marine detachments were almost the police force of the ship. And they were called MAs, which would be Master-of-Arms. Very unpopular with the Navy. And the brig is, of course, run by the Marines. But on our ship, we didn’t have those duties, not on the Curtiss. The Curtiss, we were a special force with top secret clearances. People only didn’t talk to us because they would say, Hey, you don’t talk to those guys. It was that kind of thing. So anyway, but we ended up being very close with the Navy, but our duties, we didn’t talk to each other about our duties.
Stuparich: So, I remember signing the clearance papers and they didn’t tell us what we were going to do or where we were going. We went aboard ship as supposedly just a Marine detachment, but then it ended up being as nuclear security. We were well briefed and well trained on what our jobs were aboard ship. I did security with the devices, once they were delivered to the vessel. We did perimeter security when the devices were being delivered, which meant we were out on the pier and out in the area when the trucks arrived, delivering units. Once the canisters were brought aboard, then we were assigned to security aboard the ship, which meant working in the hole. In other words, the devices were put in a particular compartment. We were responsible for the security of that department, the corridor that led to it, and I can’t remember if we were reading the temperature. We had to take a reading, I believe, once an hour and record it. I do not remember whether it was temperature or radiation, but it had to be recorded; I remember that if there was something wrong, and I don’t know the standard, but if it went over that standard or under that standard, we had to notify the science officer, who was also the engineering officer. That was Commander Hart, I believe.
Interviewer: Now, let me back up just a tiny bit with the security piece. So there’s a point at which you’re informed, I assume after you’re cleared, of what your mission actually is?
Stuparich: Correct.
Interviewer: Give me a sense of how much detail they give you there, and how much that is connected to what you already might know about nuclear weapons.
Stuparich: That’s a little bit confusing because I know so much more now than I did then. I do not believe they gave us that much information. They definitely didn’t give us a detailed description of our duties, other than that what we were doing was actually guarding a nuclear device, and that’s all they would say. We and I think about a half-a-dozen sailors were the only ones that actually saw the canisters being brought aboard. There were not very many people. That was secured. The whole aft deck was secured when that occurred.
Interviewer: And how many of there were you, when you say “we”?
Stuparich: There were probably six Marines on the dock, one or two on the trucks, then I think there were a couple in the different corridors—what they did was they dogged the hatches so people couldn’t come in when we were loading this particular material. Then it went down into the hole and then there was a special rack because the canisters had to be triced up in these racks. I can’t remember whether there was—I think there were six to a rack. And they were triced up like you would trice up nitroglycerine, you know, with like Bungee cords but I think they were springs.
Interviewer: Say that word again. I don’t know that word “trice.”
Stuparich: Tricing means to tie, and what it does is it keeps something in balance so that if it’s hanging, it’s free-hanging, but it’s in a rack, and this keeps the canister in line, and it’s called trice, you trice it up.
Interviewer: “Trice it up.” I see.
Stuparich: We didn’t do that. That was done by their people.
Stuparich: We embarked out of San Diego, went up to San Francisco. That’s it. We went to San Francisco, went to Hunters Point for something, some sort of refurbishing. Then from Hunters Point we went over to Port Chicago, picked up our merchandise, if you will, and then when we were through with that, when we pulled out, we went down and then into the bay. At that time we picked up some escorts, and then we went under the Golden Gate Bridge, at which time the Secret Service or FBI, whoever they were, had the bridge closed, and they were waving at us as we went underneath.
Interviewer: Wow, they closed the bridge.
Stuparich: They closed the Golden Gate Bridge. It was kind of cool because being from the Bay Area I kind of remembered that. I think I was aft at the time and I was looking up and yeah, sure enough, they did. And that was kind of interesting. So then we headed out to the Pacific. I think we refueled and resupplied once or twice, a ship came alongside, I think they came out of Hawaii. They used the high line and brought the stuff across, and then they brought the refueler up and then they refueled us. And that’s why they call us the Ghost Ship, because almost everything that we did, the replenishing and the refueling, was all done at sea.
Now, the USO incident – which many people denied having happened. The "Russian sub" somehow penetrated the flotilla protecting the Curtiss and was completely undetected until it appeared underneath the Curtiss. This event occurred a full 6 years before the Soviet's first nuclear submarine set sail - so for a diesel powered submarine in the middle of the Pacific without logistic support this feat would have been incredibly difficult to accomplish.
Stuparich Account:
Stuparich : The other thing that really upset me was the submarine.
Interviewer: Yes, talk to me about that a little bit.
Stuparich : Well, Robert Mackenzie was the admiral’s orderly that night, and I was the orderly on the next deck down, and my job was to protect the crypto room which was, if you were looking down the hall, was to the left, and then the CIC which was straight ahead.
Interviewer: CIC is?
Stuparich : Is Central Intelligence Control or something like that. It’s an area where they plot everything. [Note: on board U.S. Navy ships, the CIC is the Combat Information Center] Anyway, I was standing there and all of a sudden Commander Hart came running around the corner and said, “Come with me”, with that I was on alert. So we went into CIC and then there was—I stood at the door. He said, “Block the door”, and I blocked the door. And it was one of those combination doors in those days. And I saw him talking with an officer, with the officer in command of the CIC at the time, or duty officer, I guess is what you call him, and then they were really—I could tell they were really stressed about something. Then a chief electronics mate had taken the young man off of the board and they were looking at the board and plotting on the board something, and he got on the phone to the bridge. I immediately felt the ship changing course, and we immediately started into a zigzag situation. And then I could tell, this man was stressed, and I’d never seen him stressed like that before. This way, that way. Everything was very staccato. So went back up to the bridge and Mackenzie and the Admiral were already there. And as a young man, you’re looking at their body language and their facial features and we knew that there was something wrong. Well then, I heard the conversation, and they wanted to know, in profanity, how the son-of-a-b*tch got there. How did it get there? How did it get through the perimeter? So then they were communicating with the vessels that were on the perimeter, there were destroyers out there and everything else, and they couldn’t figure it out. Admiral Wellings said, I believe that’s he’s probably been sitting here waiting for us. He probably plotted our course and just dropped to the bottom and waited till we came by, and then he came up underneath us. And he just followed us, and it was just a Russian sub, is what we anticipated. And they figured that they knew it was a Russian sub. Yeah. And it did. It stayed with us. And then what really became scary is that I remember the admiral telling the captain, We don’t have to worry if he’s directly under us. If he drops back into firing range, then we have to worry. By then, the other ships were doing crisscrosses in front and in back of us. These are the little destroyers. And sure enough, he did, he dropped back, I don’t know how far, I remember they had it plotted, and he was within firing range. And so then I just, I don’t know, something really bothered me and really happened to me mentally, because I just said [to myself], this whole thing’s over now, we’re through, we’re done with. And I guess I kind of convinced myself that that was going to happen.
Interviewer: And this is prior to arriving in the Pacific.
Stuparich: Yeah, we were on our way.
Interviewer: So, just to get a sense of it, you’re well aware of what you’ve got on board?
Stuparich : Oh yeah, because I’d already been down in the hole and they’d told us what it was. Yeah, and then you’ve got a— Got this sub, and believe it or not, not very many people knew about it. I mean surprisingly, people were telling Bob [Robert W. Mackenzie] he was crazy. You don’t know what you’re talking about. There was no submarine. Well, I know there was. And when I mentioned it to Bob last year he said, Thank God somebody else knows. And what we’re trying to do is find a third Marine who was on the bridge, but there may not have been a Marine on the bridge.

Mackenzie account:
Interviewer: So explain to me how much you knew about the mission or what you thought or what’s that like?
Mackenzie : We didn’t know anything about it, frankly. You know, I realized that it was more than just a mission. Now by that time, Mary, the Korean War was over with. We were steaming out in ’54? Yes, January of ’54 is when we left San Diego. And Korea had been over for about six months, but the Cold War was extremely hot then. And when I first realized that there was more going on than we realized is when we had full wartime conditions on the ship. And I’d thought, Well, what are we doing here? The ship’s all blacked out at night. We’ve got all these red lights on you see in the movies, like those submarine movies, everybody running and all those red lights on at night. And heavy, heavy drapes in front of every hatch. And you don’t go outside, or as they say, out on the decks without closing that, and then you open the hatch and a red light comes on, then you close the hatch. And they were conscious of sound, of lights. And I said, What’s going on here? You know. And so when I really realized there was more going on is when I was on orderly duty for the admiral. And I was on duty and on duty and on duty and I just couldn’t stand up anymore. So I called somebody in the Marine detachment and said, Well, when is my relief going to be here? It was real late at night, it was like eleven or twelve o’clock, I’d gone on that morning at 6:30, and I’d been standing all day long. That’s what you do. And I just got so I couldn’t stand anymore. So I called down and I was told that the admiral only wanted me and there would be no relief, So just stick it out, Mackenzie. I wasn’t real happy about that. But anyway, so—and I’ll put this right on tape—so a Marine never sits down on duty, but I did. I couldn’t stand up anymore. So I found a chair in an empty officer’s stateroom and I wedged that chair in a real narrow hallway that went into the admiral’s quarters, and I put my feet against the bulkhead and I rocked back and I just kind of rocked with the ship. At least I was off my feet, and I figured nobody could get by me. So I guess, I don’t know if I dozed off or what, but all I know is this sailor was shaking my arm. It was about 2:30, three o’clock in the morning. And he says, “Wake up the admiral! Wake up the admiral!” And I said,”Well, who are you? What do you mean, wake up the admiral? It’s three o’clock in the morning.” [And he said], “Oh, they want him on the bridge right now”. And I said, “Who wants him on the bridge?” [And he said], “Well, the officers, blah, blah, and all that”. I said, “Well, what is your name?” And he gave me his name, and I said, “What’s the officer’s name?” I really realized we were very, very conscious and were trained to be suspicious of everything. I don’t know who this guy is. He wants to go in and see the admiral? That’s my job. Nobody goes in to see the admiral. And so anyway I said, “Well, I’ll go wake up the admiral and you go back and report to the bridge, and I’m sure the admiral will be right there”. I didn’t want him to go in with me. And so anyway, he left. So now I’m saying, How do you wake up an admiral? You know. I wanted to do it maybe like I was back in back in boot camp and scream, say, “Hit the deck”! I says, well, no, I didn’t want to go to the brig, so I didn’t do that. So anyway I said, Well, how do you wake up an admiral? So anyway, I woke him up. And I remember he said, “What is it, Mackenzie?” And he was startled. And I said, “Sir, the admiral’s presence is requested on the bridge immediately”. You don’t want to say “immediately” to an admiral, but I did. Anyway, he looked at me, and he had a phone right next to his bunk. And I always wondered, if he had phone, why didn’t they just call him? I don’t know. You know, you would wonder. And so anyway, he picked up his phone. And like I said, the respect from the naval officers, they’re just really something, Mary, they really are. And so he went up on the deck with his blue terrycloth bathrobe on.
Interviewer: He picks up the phone and confirms?
Mackenzie: Right. And then he puts on his blue bathrobe— He doesn’t even get dressed. Oh no. They want him right now [sound of fingers snapping]. So I thought, Whoo, something’s going on. So I go up there, and it was like an old World War II movie. At my age, I grew up with those World War II movies, you know. And on the bridge, all the lights are out because we’re running at wartime conditions at night, and you can just see the shadows, you know, and those were from the glowing of the instruments and the people moving around the bridge and all that. And right away, the officer in charge of the bridge came up, and everybody was whispering. I thought, What is all this whispering about? You know. And he was talking to the admiral. And that’s part of the job of being an orderly. You’re there but you don’t get too close because if you do—
Interviewer: You’ll hear?
Mackenzie: You don’t want to hear. And the admirals will let you know, and so will the captains. If you’re a little too close to them, they’ll give you one of those, turn their head around, you kind of back up. You realize you’re a little too close. They want to be guarded. They don’t want anybody to get them. That’s your job is to protect them, help them in any way you can, so forth. But anyway, and you’ll kind of back up. But I wanted to hear what was going on, you know. So then all I heard was “submarine.” I thought, Well, so what? You know. But anyway, it turns out that we were being shadowed by a Russian sub.
Interviewer: For real?
Mackenzie: For real. And the sub was directly under us [slaps hands together] like this. And they picked it up. Because I thought, well, how did it get through our screen? We were in a complete convoy, and we had carriers, we had destroyers, we had everything. And I thought, How did this guy get through all that? And they tell me what they do is they know where you’re going. They just sit down at the bottom and wait till you get there and just [slapping hands together] pop up. They don’t have to go through any screens. And I said, Oh.
Interviewer: Oh. So they know from –
Mackenzie: Sure, they know. Yes. They probably knew, with all the spies and all that.
But anyway, the admiral asked several questions, and I guess before, he asked them if they had contact with somebody. And they said,”No, sir, we thought we’d wait for the admiral”, and all that. And he said, “Well, you should’ve. Did you contact anybody to tell them what the situation was? How have you tried to contact the sub?” Evidently they have an international language they use. Then of course they used Russian and they used everything, and no response. And so I always was kidding Kari because this was dramatic, you know. I always said, Whooo, thirty seconds from World War III. Well,
that’s the way you think of it later, but it’s very true. But the thing that I still remember today is when the admiral walked on the bridge, you get almost like this, your daddy had come home to save you or something. That man had a presence about him. He wasn’t tall in stature. And his name was [RADM H.C.] Bruton. I’m sure he’s gone now. But he walked on that bridge and all of a sudden, you could just—everybody, like, The admiral’s here, we’re going to be all right. You know. And you could feel that. And he asked just a few questions. And the sub, and they were waiting for the reply to come back, Do we take action? Do we take evasive action? Now it’s pretty hard to blow up a submarine when it’s right under you. What do you do, when you think about it? How do you get a sub from under us? But we had submarines with us, too, our subs. And so it came back, they were waiting for the reply to come back, and I thought, My God, this is more serious than I realized. You know, it was kind of like a game until then, you know, it was just wartime conditions. I mean we didn’t think anything about this kind of stuff. And so we knew security was extremely tight. Only certain people could go by us, then go into certain compartments, and I’ll tell you about that in a minute. But anyway, back to the sub. And so it broke away. And you know you say “broke away,” where’d it go? It just broke away. And the admiral, they said—sonar reported or whatever and said, The sub has broken away. They must’ve known how many seconds they had. Later I saw a Tom Clancy movie about that, where they were checking and there were seconds and all, and I said, My golly, I saw the same thing in 1954, except for real, you know. So they said it broke away, and the admiral just calm as could be and he says, Carry on, men, you did a good job. If you need me, call, and he went back and went to bed. And I said [to myself], My gosh, it was almost—it was like nothing to him. He was so in command, just knew what he was doing, asked the right questions, congratulated everybody for the job they did, and went back to bed. Now I’m wide awake. I didn’t sit down anymore for the rest of the night. But I never told any of the guys about it. I just told that guy, one of our fellow Marines, November the tenth. It was the Marine Corps birthday. We all got together here at Dana Point. And I told him the submarine story and he says, “What submarine?” I said, “The submarine”. He said,” Well, I didn’t know anything about any submarine.” And I remembered, I’d thought about it, “Well, why should I worry the guys?” And not only that, if something happened when I was on orderly duty, you don’t pass that around the ship. That’s a confidence between you and the admiral. And so I didn’t pass it on.
Interviewer: I have a couple of questions about this. You’re aware in real time, then, that it is a submarine.
Mackenzie: Absolutely. Because you’re hearing the conversation.
Interviewer: Right. It makes me wonder, as I’m listening to the story, if they had you on duty for all this time, would there have been some knowledge of some kind of danger, that they didn’t let you leave orderly duty? Do you make a connection between the fact that the sub was there and the fact that you had to be on duty for so long? That makes you wonder.
Mackenzie: Well, I don’t know. It does, Mary. I never thought about it that way. I don’t think so. I just really think the reason I was left on duty so long is that we were new at our jobs, and they just didn’t realize that when you’re on orderly duty, you’re attached [slapping hands together], you know, at the hip. And not only that, is the admiral doesn’t want to walk out and say, What’s your name? You know, he wants somebody that he can trust and could read him before he says it. I could tell what he wanted. He was looking around and so I call somebody and say, Hey, the skipper’s out of coffee. You better get some in there. See? So you’re his confidant. He’ll say, Well, how are the men thinking? Because he’s some concerned about the morale, or whatever. So you’re his sounding board. Every admiral’s different. Some really use their orderlies. I’ve had admirals when I reported, they’d say, “Well, I’m a little low on cigars, Mackenzie. Why don’t you go down and get me cigars?” Well, I don’t say, ”What kind do you smoke?” So I’d go down and ask the guy to open up the place where you buy the cigars, what’d we call that? Commissary, I think. And they used to question it. And they’d just say, “Well, you sure these are the kind of cigars you smoke, Mackenzie?” And I said, “These are for the skipper.” And he said, “I don’t think so”. And I said, “Really? Why don’t you call and ask him?” [And he’d say], “Oh, OK”. And so that kind of a thing. So, interesting. But anyway, I never did pass that submarine story on to the troops.
Interviewer: That’s so interesting. That’s interesting.
Mackenzie: And so then, now, as time goes by, Mary, as I watch the History Channel and Discovery Times Channel, all these things are coming back to me. And our main concern was frogmen. We were very afraid of frogmen. And so we figured if they came aboard the ship, how they’d come aboard the ship, what we would do, you know, if one did come on. But I never thought about mines or bombs attached to the ship, and now I think about it. Can you imagine if they could’ve got to our ship, and we had people on their like [J. Robert] Oppenheimer and had all those scientists on there? We had fifty-eight scientists on the ship. We had all the bombs on the ship. I mean what a coup that’d meant for the Russians if our ship accidentally sunk, hit a reef or something, or something went off. You know, you can just see it all right now. It’d be another Cold War incident.
Interviewer: But you don’t know that you’re carrying bombs at this point, or do you?
Mackenzie: Yes, we did. We knew we were carrying pieces of the bombs.
Interviewer: You did.
Mackenzie: Yes. Yes. Because security was so tight, it had to be something like that, when only the admiral and two or three people could go in there. And then we timed them, how long they were in, who they were with, they signed in, they signed out. They had a badge with their photograph on it. The badges were made by, at that time, the Atomic Energy Commission [AEC], and they were watermarked with all the same intensity and security as our money. And the admiral would have his picture on there. And I didn’t just look on his shirt. I had to take it off his shirt, which you don’t like to touch an admiral or a captain. It’s just this—you’ve got that—this little [feeling] like, “Hi, God”- that feeling. And you’d take off his badge like that and hold it up right next to his face, make sure you got a really good look at it, and you’d flip it over and check the watermarks, check the number on it. And when I was on, I’d have a check-off list, and his name better be on there. In fact, our own commanding officer forgot to put his name on there and our guys wouldn’t let him in the post. He said, ”What do you mean?” They said, “You’re not on the list, sir.” [And he said], “Well, you know who I am. I’m Captain [James] Brannaman, your commanding officer.” [They] say, “Sir, we been instructed, if your name isn’t on the list, you don’t get on this post”. And the guys loved doing it to him. He wasn’t real happy but.
Interviewer: Oh, I’m sure. Who was this captain again?
Mackenzie: Captain Brannaman. He’s still alive. Stanford graduate. Super sharp guy. About six-five or so, something like that. Nice man.
Interviewer: I’m not well-versed in military things. Is it usual for an admiral to be on the ship?
Mackenzie: No. Now the admiral on any operation, the admiral has what he calls his flagship, and he can change his flag when he wants. The Curtiss was an unusual ship, Mary, because it was designed as a seaplane tender, 1939, something like that. It was hit at Pearl Harbor, went all the way through World War II, ended up with seven battle stars. Then after that, the Atomic Energy Commission grabbed it and then converted it for all the testing. So the Marine captain isn’t like a Navy captain. What’s confusing to everybody, and it was to me, too, the captain of the ship, the Navy ship, doesn’t have to be a captain. That’s his job title. OK, and now the Marine captain is a captain and he’s in charge of the Marines.
Interviewer: So this is the Marine captain you’re talking about.
Mackenzie: The Marine captain, right.
Interviewer: Got it. Not the captain of the ship.
Mackenzie: Not the ship captain—that’s right.

The full transcripts of the two interviews can be found here:
Interview with Robert William Mackenzie, January 1, 2005 UNLV Special Collections Portal

Interview with G. Nicholas Stuparich, Jr., October 18, 2006 UNLV Special Collections Portal

The cover mainly, it has some creased, white lines I'd like to fix. How do I go about this?

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https://preview.redd.it/2c0dcz3tbx3d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c7709b6377c2e52f936006fa9ef8488539cba126
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The Top 8 Best 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock

1. Inletting of Gunstock Blanks and 1903 Springfield Stock Modifications - A meticulously detailed guide to firearm design and assembly, featuring inletting of gunstock blanks and modifications of the classic 1903 Springfield, now in a rare facsimile reprint form.
2. The Art of 1903 Springfield Service Rifle Manufacture - Delve into the history and manufacturing process of the iconic Model 1903 Springfield Service Rifle with this detailed and well-preserved book from Wolfe Publishing Co.
3. The M1903 Springfield Rifle: A Comprehensive Guide - Discover the history and variations of the M1903 Springfield Rifle with this comprehensive, 440-page paperback from 2001, published by North Cape Publications Inc.
4. Gun Enthusiast's Guide to 1903 Springfield Handbook - This comprehensive guide to the 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock, featuring exploded parts drawings, specifications, service accessories, historical information, and recommended reading references, is a must-have for both shooters and collectors.
5. The Illustrated History of the Springfield 1903 Rifles [Paperback] - Discover the fascinating history and evolution of the iconic Springfield 1903 Rifle with Bill Brophy's comprehensive, photo-rich book, providing authoritative insights into its development, use, and lifelong impact.
6. Inletting of Gunstock Blanks and Modifications of the 1903 Springfield - Master the art of firearm design and assembly with this detailed guide, available as a facsimile reprint of the original work.
7. U.S. Rifles and Machine Guns: Springfield 1903 Model, Enfield, and Three Types of Machine Guns - Experience an in-depth exploration of rifle and machine gun manufacturing in this extensive book, now in the public domain, featuring detailed accounts of the Springfield 1903 model, Enfield rifle, and three types of machine guns.
8. Mastering the Art of M1903 Springfield Performance Tuning - Experience the ultimate guide to tuning and modifying M1903, M1903A3, and M1903A4 rifles with "The M1903 Springfield Performance Tuning Manual," complete with detailed instructions, techniques, and history for both amateur and enthusiasts alike.

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Reviews

🔗Inletting of Gunstock Blanks and 1903 Springfield Stock Modifications

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As an avid hunter and gun enthusiast, I recently came across this fascinating book on the inletting of 1903 Springfield gunstock blanks. The author dives deep into the intricacies of gunstock modification and design, making it a must-read for anyone interested in mastering the trade.
What stood out the most was the wealth of historical context and detailed information the book provides, giving readers a unique insight into the evolution of firearm design. The high-resolution images were equally impressive, making it easy to follow along with the author's techniques and demonstrations.
While the book may not be for everyone, as it requires a certain level of technical understanding, I highly recommend this to anyone wanting to improve their gunstock crafting skills or just looking to learn more about the history behind firearms. Overall, it's a valuable addition to any collector's library.

🔗The Art of 1903 Springfield Service Rifle Manufacture

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I recently picked up this engaging book about the Model 1903 Springfield Service Rifle, and I must say, it's been quite an enlightening read. The paperback, published by Wolfe Publishing Co. , is in pretty good condition despite some age-related wear and handling marks on the cover. However, the content itself is as sturdy as the book's binding.
I particularly enjoy the detailed descriptions and black-and-white illustrations, which make the history of the rifle come alive. While scanning through the preliminary pages, I found a previous owner's embossed stamp and an ink name, adding a personal touch to the book.
Overall, this book is a well-preserved, high-quality read that provides insight into the fascinating story of the 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock.

🔗The M1903 Springfield Rifle: A Comprehensive Guide

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I recently stumbled upon "The M1903 Springfield Rifle and Its Variations" (here's my humanized version: The M1903 Springfield Gunbook) for a bit of casual reading. I have to admit, it's been an unexpectedly interesting journey through the land of rifles!
This paperback book, published by North Cape Publications Inc, doesn't just tell the history of the rifle, but also delves deep into the variations and modifications made to it. From the stock to the bayonet, this book explores it all with an impressive level of detail.
It's actually quite a hefty read, clocking in at 440 pages, so it might not be as portable as one might want. However, this makes sense considering there's a lot of ground to cover when it comes to a topic as rich and profound as this one.
Visually, the book doesn't disappoint. Its pages are filled with accurate and well-crafted diagrams, making the technical stuff much more comprehensible. Despite the depth, I found the narrative easy to follow, making my venture into the world of rifles a less daunting challenge.
That said, the book doesn't exactly go smoothly. Some parts can be a bit hard to read and understand, especially to the uninitiated. It is a niche area, after all.
Finally, the price tag might be a bit steep for casual readers. But for those serious about rifles, it's a worthy investment.
So, would I recommend this book? Yes, with a few words of caution. If you dive in without some prior knowledge of the topic, you might find it a bit challenging. But if you're a beginner wanting to immerse yourself in this intricate world, it's a good starting point. Overall, it's a comprehensive, informative and engaging read.

🔗Gun Enthusiast's Guide to 1903 Springfield Handbook

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As someone who enjoys spending time at the range and has an appreciation for unique firearms, I was thrilled to come across the 30 Model 1903 Springfield Handbook. This book has become my go-to guidance when it comes to disassembling and reassembling my trusted firearm. The clear, detailed diagrams make it a breeze to understand the intricate workings of the rifle.
One of my favorite features of this handbook is the triple saddle-stitched binding, which gives it a sturdy feel and ensures it remains intact even after multiple uses. The over 60 photos and line drawings are a bonus, providing visual aids that make the process even more understandable.
However, I do wish the book had a more comprehensive service and maintenance section. While it does cover the basics, I would've appreciated a more in-depth guide on taking care of my firearm, including information on recommended cleaning solutions and maintenance techniques.
All in all, the 30 Model 1903 Springfield Handbook is a valuable addition to any shooter or collector's library. Its detailed illustrations and straightforward language make it an excellent resource for anyone looking to dive into the world of 1903 Springfield rifles.

🔗The Illustrated History of the Springfield 1903 Rifles [Paperback]

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The Springfield 1903 Rifles: The Illustrated, Documented Story of the Design, Development, and Production of All the Models, Appendages, and Accessories is a comprehensive and in-depth exploration into the history and service of this legendary rifle. The book, penned by Bill Brophy, is an exhaustive lifetime work that features over 1500 high-quality photos, showcasing every aspect of the 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock in meticulous detail.
Using this book as a daily companion transformed my understanding of the rifle's development, role in both World Wars, and its continued use as a popular hunting rifle. The extensive research and knowledge exhibited by Brophy in the book are truly exceptional, and the extensive photo documentation really brings the subject to life.
However, while the detailed and thorough nature of the content is one of the book's main draws, the sheer amount of information can be overwhelming for some readers. While this work is ideal for collectors and enthusiasts who seek a comprehensive reference, casual readers may find some sections difficult to navigate.
In summary, The Springfield 1903 Rifles is a remarkable resource that delves deep into the history, production, and service of the iconic 1903 Springfield. With exceptional photo documentation and profound research, this book is a must-have for all collectors and aficionados of the 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock.

🔗Inletting of Gunstock Blanks and Modifications of the 1903 Springfield

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Discover the intricate world of firearm design and assembly through this fascinating book, specifically focusing on the inletting of gunstock blanks and modifications of the 1903 Springfield. As someone who's dabbled in gunsmithing, I found this book to be a valuable resource.
One of the features that stood out for me was the detailed illustrations and step-by-step instructions. They were easy to follow and allowed me to learn the intricacies of inletting gunstocks. The format of the book, in particular the hardcover edition, is another positive aspect. It lends a sense of sturdiness and durability.
However, there are a couple of downsides to note. Firstly, the language of the book is German, which might be challenging for some English-speaking readers. Additionally, a significant number of pages are dedicated to the history of the 1903 Springfield, which may not be as relevant for those purely interested in gunsmithing techniques.
Despite these minor drawbacks, this book is an essential addition to any gunsmith's library. Its practical insights make it worth the read, even if you're not a seasoned pro.

🔗U.S. Rifles and Machine Guns: Springfield 1903 Model, Enfield, and Three Types of Machine Guns

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I recently picked up "United States Rifles and Machine Guns: A Detailed Account. . " and let me tell you, it has been quite an intriguing journey through the history of firearms manufacturing. The book itself is a hardback, giving it a solid feel and a sense of durability that I appreciate.
Diving into the content, I was immediately captivated by the meticulously detailed descriptions of the methods used to create the iconic Springfield, 1903 Model Service Rifle. The author leaves no stone unturned - from the fixture details to the man power and machinery employed, it's all laid out for the reader. As a true enthusiast, this wealth of information has been both educational and enjoyable.
That being said, there are a couple of areas where the experience could have been even better. Firstly, the shipping and delivery process was considerably slow. It's a minor issue in the grand scheme of things, but it's worth mentioning nonetheless.
Secondly, while the book is replete with fascinating information on the history and creation of these firearms, I found it lacked an engaging narrative that would have brought the story to life in a more captivating way. Despite this, the book remains an invaluable resource for anyone with an interest in the manufacturing process of these historic pieces.
Overall, though, "United States Rifles and Machine Guns. . " is a well-researched and comprehensive guide for anyone looking to learn more about the evolution of firearms manufacturing in the United States.

🔗Mastering the Art of M1903 Springfield Performance Tuning

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I recently came across "The M1903 Springfield Performance Tuning Manual" while looking for tips on how to optimize my vintage hunting rifle. As a first-time gun enthusiast, I was eager to learn more about this classic firearm and its potential for accuracy.
The book dives deep into the world of the M1903, providing a wealth of information on the rifle's history and how to care for it properly. From cleaning techniques to action tuning, the author leaves no stone unturned. I particularly appreciated the section on choosing the right ammunition for my rifle, as it helped me understand the importance of customizing my firearm to suit my needs.
However, there were a few aspects that I found less engaging. Firstly, while the book is filled with photos, they are mostly of the author's own firearms, which may not be as visually appealing or representative as professional photographs. Secondly, the section on stock modifications felt a bit overwhelming, with so many options available it was challenging to decipher which one would be best for my rifle.
Despite these minor drawbacks, "The M1903 Springfield Performance Tuning Manual" has been an invaluable resource for me, providing both practical knowledge and expert tips on how to improve the performance of my vintage hunting rifle. It's a must-read for anyone interested in this classic firearm, regardless of their level of experience.

Buyer's Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive buyer's guide for 1903 Springfield Sporter Stocks. This guide is designed to help you make an informed decision when purchasing this type of firearm stock. We'll cover important features, considerations, and general advice about the product category, ensuring you have all the necessary information to make a smart choice.
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Important Features

• Material: 1903 Springfield Sporter Stocks are typically made from wood, specifically American walnut, known for its durability and aesthetic appeal.
• Design: They feature a classic, hand-cut checkering pattern for improved grip and control during shooting.
• Fitment: Ensure the stock fits your specific 1903 Springfield rifle model, as different models may require different stock dimensions.
• Finish: Some stocks come pre-finished or with raw wood, allowing you to customize the appearance by staining or painting.

Considerations

• Budget: Determine your budget beforehand, as prices for 1903 Springfield Sporter Stocks can vary significantly depending on the material, design, and finish.
• Functionality: Consider factors such as grip comfort, ease of installation, and compatibility with other accessories you may already own, like scopes or slings.
• Customization: If you prefer a personalized touch, look for stocks that allow for custom engravings, checking patterns, or finishes.

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General Advice

When shopping for a 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock, it is essential to do your research, read customer reviews, and consult with experts to ensure you make an informed purchase.
During the installation process, be cautious not to damage your rifle. Enlist the help of a professional if needed.
Lastly, remember that regular maintenance, proper storage, and careful handling will help prolong the life and performance of your 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock.
We hope this buyer's guide has provided valuable insights and information to help you choose the perfect 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock for your needs. Happy hunting!

FAQ

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What is a 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock?

The 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock is a type of rifle stock that is designed for hunters and sport shooters. It is a high-quality, durable stock that is made of select walnut wood, providing a natural and aesthetically pleasing finish.

What makes the 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock different from other rifle stocks?

The 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock is known for its exceptional craftsmanship, which includes hand-selected walnut wood and precise fitting. This attention to detail results in a stock that is both attractive and functional. Additionally, the stock is compatible with the 1903 Springfield, making it a great choice for those who own this classic rifle.
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Who would benefit from using a 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock?

Hunters and sport shooters who own a 1903 Springfield rifle would benefit from using a 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock. The stock is designed to improve the rifle's performance, comfort, and aesthetics, making it a great choice for those who take their shooting seriously.

What is the process for installing a 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock?

Installation of a 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock typically involves removing the old stock and replacing it with the new one. This process may require some basic woodworking skills and tools, such as a saw and sandpaper. It is recommended to consult the manufacturer's instructions or enlist the help of a professional if you are unsure about the installation process.

How long does it take to install a 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock?

The installation time for a 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock will vary depending on your experience and skill level. If you are confident in your ability to perform the installation, it may take only a few hours. However, if you are unsure or new to woodworking, it may take longer to complete the process.

What are the maintenance requirements for a 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock?

Proper maintenance of a 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. This includes regular cleaning, oiling, and checking for any signs of wear or damage. It is also important to store the stock in a dry and secure location when not in use.

Are there any customization options available for a 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock?

While the 1903 Springfield Sporter Stock is a high-quality and durable stock, some customers may choose to customize it further. This can include options such as different finishes, inlays, or even custom engraving. It is best to consult with the manufacturer or a qualified woodworker to discuss your customization options and ensure that the work is completed to a high standard.
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~Hillary & Alec’s IG Stats~

• January 2024 = Hillary 17 posts & Alec 28 posts
• February 2024 = Hillary 8 posts & Alec 20 posts
• March 2024 = Hillary 2 posts & Alec 21 posts
• April 2024 = Hillary 4 posts & Alec 15 posts
• May 2024 = Hillary 5 posts & Alec 28 posts

Hillary’s IG Stats Overview

• May 2022 = 433 posts including the Chantecaille Episode = Hilz received lotions from luxury brand Chantecaille and posted a pic of Edu in a diaper with said lotions. The company didn’t repost, nor did they partner with her. Two days later, she donned her sewer slippers and accosted unsuspecting “needy” people, handing them gifts bags filled with Chantecaille lotions and $50 bills (and recorded herself doing so).
  
• May 2023 = 18 posts including the infamous “humpy yoga” fiasco featuring unnerving eye contact.
  

Every choice in this video was wilder than the last.

• May 2024 = 5 posts

~Recap~

• May started with Alec appearing on the “Our Way with Paul Anka and Skip Bronson” podcast. I tried recapping it, but it was basically three boring privileged old white men rambling about their wealth and privilege. Anka’s description of living in a “Murdoch created” gated community near Malibu near the “good airport” – to avoid the unwashed masses at LAX one presumes – was where I gave up on the recap idea and just listened with a scowl.
• Some lowlights:

On Having More Kids & Moving to Vermont
Alec: Well, in my family now, I'm the only person I know who drops four kids off at school in the morning and comes home and I still have three kids waiting for me. When I get home, I have seven - I have eight children. Ireland, my oldest daughter who's married, Ireland has a baby, and she and her boyfriend are living in Oregon. And I met my wife and I got remarried and I had seven kids in nine years. It's crazy. (I think you meant to say, “my wife is batshit crazy.” The devil is in the details, Zander)
And then, all of a sudden, I met my wife, who I love dearly, (I think he repeats this in virtually every interview to counter the years of talking shit about Kim Basinger) every time the baby would get to be two years old, we’d go, maybe it's time for one more baby, one more baby, so we have seven kids. But we're actually selling our house, moving to Vermont. We bought a place in Vermont, and I'm trying to get everybody to start to acclimate up there…I think my wife wants a little change of scenery now, it's so crowded out here…I love Vermont. It's so peaceful. We got a great deal. We got fifty-five acres; house was built in 1792. It's very pretty.
The Kids Want Alec Around All the Time
Host: What do you do away from your family? Meaning, do you play golf? Do you play tennis?
Alec: I play tennis all summer...The thing that's happened in these last ten years, especially the last three or four years, is my kids are used to me being around…I mean they really rely on that… when I'm gone, they're like, you know, they're on FaceTime. If I travel to go away for a couple of days to get a paycheck, they’re on my FaceTime going you know, where are you? What are you doing? You know, they're completely baffled when I go away. (God bless those kiddos and I’m preeetttttty sure they rely on Leonela/Leonetta a whole lot.)
Drug & Alcohol Use
Alec: Every day for two years, I think I snorted a line of cocaine from here to Saturn. We did one on the rings of Saturn. Then we came home. We took it back home. I mean, cocaine was like coffee back and everybody was doing it all day. I did a lot of coke and then I and then February 23rd, 1985…I stopped doing drugs and my drinking increased, which is they tell you that's going to happen, and that did happen. I just started drinking. I mean, and the thing, I miss drinking. I don't miss drugs at all, but I do miss drinking. I like to drink. (I appreciate next to nothing about this man, but I appreciate the honesty of this statement).
Host: But because you don't drink, and because you don't do drugs, what do you do? Do you meditate? What do you do to deal with the pressures of the outside, you know, forces, (I think you mean “lawsuits”, Paul) what do you do to get away from that?
Alec: (deadpan) Drink. I drink. I lied; I've been drinking nonstop since 1985. I lie. I tell people I'm sober and I drink my balls off. (Laughs) But no, I do miss drinking, I must say…New York relaxes me. I walk around and I see aspects of it that I've never seen before. I look at a building and I'll go, my god, I never noticed that about that building. Those doors. You know. New York is like a European city. You walk around and keep your eyes open. And I have lunches and coffee with my friends. (Um is he talking about the owner of Madman Espresso? Because that’s the only coffee related person we’ve ever seen him around.) And, I'd like to get out of here because the city is chaotic. (But also relaxing? What the hell?) But we live in the village. It's a little bit more residential. I love New York. I go to the symphony and the opera and the ballet all the time, you know, pretty regularly. But I do try to meditate. Meditating with seven children is like trying to play ping pong on the deck of an aircraft. It's a real pain in the ass. (But they rely on you, Alec?!?!)

• Back on IG, Alec commented on a video that Ireland posted of Kim Basinger and Ireland’s partner, André, playing with baby Holland, apparently in the backyard of Kim’s home. The doting abuelo’s comment was “I know that pool deck!” – dude, say something, ANYTHING, about your daughter’s child.

He probably screamed at poor Kim on that pool deck.

• An “entertainment” channel on YouTube posted an AI narrated video entitled “Laughing Through Parenthood: Alec and Hilaria Baldwin's Hilarious Family Adventures.” Friends, there is nothing remotely funny about this cheesy video, hence the 246 views (I’m responsible for one of them, sorry) and zero likes.
• Alec posted a picture of Marilu captioned “Louie…” and an actually lovely picture of Rafa dancing in a dance studio. Hopefully he and his bargain bin Salma Hayek wife are moving toward just occasionally posting pictures like this (face obscured, not invading the kid’s personal space) instead of the hundreds of invasive and inappropriate pictures Hillary used to post of the kids in the pre-Rust era.

An irate comment on Alec's IG: \"I cannot believe he is wearing street shoes on those floors!\" Now deleted.

• People magazine published a puff piece entitled “Alec Baldwin Is 'Understandably Worried' as His Rust Involuntary Manslaughter Trial Looms” (Exclusive Source). Here’s the entirely of what the exclusive source Yoel had to say:
  • "Alec is stressed. He is understandably worried."
  • "He has an excellent legal team. I don't think anyone is thinking jail time but given the decision for Ms. Gutierrez-Reed it’s hard to know."
  • "You have to understand that at the end of the day Alec is a professional actor, so when he's on set, you wind him up, you say action, he pulls out the gun and does whatever he's supposed to do on his job. Then suddenly he's facing criminal charges. It's like, how did that even happen?"
• In real news, the manslaughter charging document was released – interesting read!
• Surprisingly, Alec did not post a tribute to his wife to honor her “mi cultura upbringing” on the first Sunday in May - when it's celebrated in Spain.
• On May 6th, Alec’s lawyers vultures-for-hire filed additional motions to have the case dismissed while Said the Pap for hire posted a pic of himself with Crackhead Barney (who was wearing not much besides some Daisy Dukes a la Hillary Lynn) and Alec was spotted in the wild (with a nanny in tow, because only the peasants walk around without staff).

Imagine having to listen to this guy bloviate in addition to raising his kids.

• Rory Kenndy’s lawyers responded to a subpoena issued April 19th to provide video/audio of the Baldwin documentary in the works. Kennedy’s team responded that:
  • it would be “burdensome to comply” – Ah, kinda like when people asked Hillary Lynn Hayward-Thomas how much time she actually spent in what she called “the motherland” and she replied, “I think it would be maddening to do such a tight timeline of everything. You know, sometimes there was school involved. Sometimes it was vacation. It was such a mix, mishmash, is that the right word? Like a mix of different things.” Burdensome, Hilz. We get it.
  • the footage’s value would be destroyed if they released it. At least this point is honest – it’s all about the $$$
• Hillary decided to break her tradition of starting the month with a dose of crazy and eased into May on the 9^th with the first of 5 posts for the month: a story of her two youngest girls captioned “sisters.” Suuuuuuuuper coincidentally, y’all, this is the day Hailey and Justin Bieber announced that they are having a baby. Like, what are the odds, right? Also, StepTía Hilly did not like Hailey’s post (but 11M others did).

A pepino prayer: Lord, keep the nannies safe and sane. Amen.

• Over on his scintillating IG account, Alec posted the news that he will be co-directing a production of Macbeth with Geoffrey Horne for Shakespeare Downtown this summer. Good thing this will be in June, because there might be a bit of a scheduling conflict for Alec in July.
  
• Alec posted two pictures of Edu: one totally scrunched in a too-small stroller and one making the patented Baldwin duck lips. Against all logic, the pic of the kid perched on a tiny stroller became the picture Alec chose as his new profile pic.
  
• On Mother’s Day, Alec dug deep, looked back on his grid, landed on this picture he first posted in December 2023 and said, “this is the one!” It features Alec, his wife, one of their 7 kids, two very hungry caterpillars, and stars the ubiquitous Madman Espresso single use coffee cup. ¡Feliz día de la madre, Híláríá!
  

Low effort personified.

• Speaking of madres, Dr. Kathryn Hayward is selling her life/relationship coaching shenanigans hard on YouTube and the mother of the child actor featured in Rust is thirsty AF. She posted a video of Alec and her son, Alec reposted the video - a lovefest. Good parenting vibes all around!

Obsessed with the one and only comment this video garnered: “what’s the stethoscope for?”

• Hannah Gutierrez Reed appealed her conviction as Alec was out on the town, glad-handing away with no Guest Baldwin in sight.

Oh Daniel, where to begin?

• To add to his long list of RIP posts, Alec paid tribute to Dick Summer (radio personality). Comment highlight 1: “I wish everyone would stop dying. It’s getting me down.” Comment highlight 2: “Did you shoot him, Alec?”
• Despite the “would you follow my wife on IG to get to 1M followers” campaign of just four months ago, Hilz is now at 989K followers while this sub is at 53K.

\"To be honest\" is not a phrase typically associated with Grifty McGrifter.

• The day a judge heard the motion to throw out Alec’s indictment was also Romeo's birthday so Hillary posted a story (#2 of 5 posts) of her, Alec, and the birthday boy as well as a grid video collage set to John Lennon’s “Beautiful Boy” (#3 of 5 posts) – a solid choice, nothing bad to say here. Alec, on the other hand, did not make a happy birthday post but found time to repost a “Crush the Can” fundraising campaign video from the Baldwin Fund. These videos are not good, if only they had connections to folks the filmmaking industry…

Bye, Wig!

• A public service announcement for the Reddit Cares brigade: not posting about a kid’s birthday on IG or not liking a family member’s IG post is not usually an issue. I am well aware that countless people live offline and exchange private messages; however, we are gathered here today and most days to talk about Alec and “Hilaria” Baldwin. They use social media, and IG in particular to cultivate a brand/façade/public persona. Given that, liking/not liking or posting/not posting is of note. This concludes our announcement.
• Listen, at this point in the game, I am HERE for Said the Pap. I am just going to lean into the theory that he’s an agent of chaos and a savvy social critic because this picture is a true gift to this sub. Live long and prosper, amigo.

Tiny. Baby. Sewer. Slippers. And is she holding a phone?? Call for help, sweet pea.

• On the day of Holland's first birthday, StepAbuela Hilly posted a “candid” shot of her and her three oldest boys, skipping through NYC in a light rain (post #4 of 5). When I tell you I cranked up the Gypsy Kings, poured a sangria, and flamenco flurried my way over to the comments – and was delighted:
  • u/FamousOhioAppleHorn: When I see a woman dressed like that in FL, I know she's gonna buy 5 Hour Energy, cigs and scratch off tickets while telling everyone her entire life story.
  • u/NightOwlsUnite: Subway...in fucking slippers. She's a walking germ factory. If and when the next pandemic hits, thank her.
  • u/smallpepino: Typhoid Larry.
  • u/Sun_will_rise_again: Those slippers are going to walk themselves to the trash…. They’re DONE, they’ve been through enough 🚮 Also this looks like something Britney Spears would write…. Just a jumble of random shit.
  • u/ ca17miledrive: There she is again. The Dope of Greenwich Village.
  • u/MallorcanMalarkey: The rain in Spain falls mainly on the insane.

So many pockets, so little sense.

• Since Hilly is being so shy about showing her face. It’s a good thing the trusty folks at the Daily Mail have no such qualms. Alec and Guest Baldwin attended the 25^th anniversary of a pretentious restaurant that gleefully reposted a picture of the duo calling them “amazing stars.” Restaurant Sirs, you have been bamboozled.

Maybe she should have kept the sweatshirt from the other day on her head?
MichWho was also there- if only Hillary's mallet could tap some life into the frozen tundra of Mich's mask/face.

• Also, is this iteration of Hillary’s face giving Danielle Staub and/or Countess LuAnn vibes, or no?

Does one just ask for the squinty and taut special?

• On May 23rd, Alec met up with Ireland, her partner and her baby in Chicago and she posted pictures of their visit to the Museum of Ice Cream (I mistakenly thought they were at the MoIC in NYC, my bad). Alec reposted the pictures along with another “Crush the Can” campaign video from the Baldwin Fund.

\"PeePaw\" just about took me out.

• The next day a New Mexico judicial district judge denied the motion to dismiss the involuntary manslaughter case. This means that Alec must stand trial in July; sometimes the judicial system works in the interest of fairness. If nothing else, it is gratifying to know that he is spending through the nose to mount this legal defense.
• With her usual ham-fisted timing, Hilz got to work and posted a grid video of Alec showing his phone to Ilaria Sin Hache (props to u/Longjumping-Stage647 for the moniker). It’s cute – who doesn’t love a baby in a onesie trying to talk and toddling around? Hilz for damn sure knows the value of her “vending machine of joy” and captioned her video: “I want dada, I want dada”….shes talking more and more. This is her first sentence 🤍. They love watching puppies together. The sweet things we are grateful for…that laughter. It calms the heart ⛅️”

23,791 of Hillary’s 989K followers liked this video.

• Hilz responded to some comments and then a few zingers found their mark:
  • Commenter 1: Daddy’s little girl 💕💜💕💜
  • Hillary: “def…I was a little jealous…all our other 6 said mama first, but this one said dada 😂. All kidding aside…it’s such a beautiful relationship. Gives him life and strength ❤️”
  • Commenter 2: Such a sweet little one. I miss your updates. Come back ❤️
  • Hillary: I will…I promise 💚
  • Commenter 3: This is a cute sitcom. Far from reality as many things on social media. But cute and happy, and that is what we want to see. Not the maids, fights, and tantrums
  • Commenter 4: Awe so cute! Grandparents are the best!!!
• May 26^th was the two-year anniversary of Carol Baldwin’s passing and Alec posted a picture of the two of them captioned (verbatim): “two years ago today Your work continuesWe all miss you”

Alec was more effusive in his RIP post about Sam Rubin, an LA entertainment reporter who passed, than about Carol.

• I offer you Billy Baldwin’s caption for the picture of himself and his mother the same day:
  • My Mom: Honey... HOOOOONNEEEEYY!!!
  • Me: Yeah Mom!!!
  • My Mom: Do me a favor??
  • Me: Sure Mom.
  • My Mom: Go grab me the... the... the whatchamacallit?
  • Me: The what?
  • My Mom: You know... the thingamajig that has that little doohickey on the side. It's in the kitchen junk drawer next to the whooziwhats!!!
  • This never meant the same thing twice but every time she said it... I knew exactly what she wanted. Gone two years today. Smart, funny, tough, wacky, wild... and a heart of gold. Miss you dearest Mama!!! ♥️
• Maybe Alec couldn’t focus on a more heartfelt tribute to his mother because was distracted by his wife’s unusual move of taking an Uber – quite normal for many but for Hillary My Ancestors Arrived on the Mayflower Hayward- Thomas, it’s usually a private car double parked for maximum chaos or sewer slippers slapping against the grime of NYC sidewalks, so this middle ground must have been confusing for PeePaw.

Your body is nice, Hillary. You don't need the alien appendages on the right or the multiple bras at once on the left.

• Alec’s defense team added 9 new witnesses on the last day they were permitted to do so (5/6/24) and did not provide witness statements. Prosecutors argued that this was done in bad faith and that “the State has now been prejudiced by the defendant's strategy to gain a tactical advantage as the State is unable to file pretrial motions as it relates to the new witnesses, is unable to properly investigate the statements of the witnesses and list its own new witnesses to refute the testimony of the belatedly disclosed witnesses.” So on 5/31, the prosecutors moved to exclude the witnesses from the trial. Stay tuned…
• As this legal mess was going down, Alec and Hillary made their signature move: a staged pap walk in NYC wearing ill-fitting clothes, clutching phones and Madman Espresso products. How the mightily mediocre have fallen…

The unfiltered images must be...something else.

Radu Hagiu
For the 20th anniversary of the repose of the holy and Venerable Dionisie of Romania and Mt. Athos (1909–2004), who will be canonized in 2025.
The following article was originally published in “Familia Ortodoxa” No. 5 (64), May 2014.
Cell of the Great Martyr George at Colciu Skete. Photo: Fr. Silviu Cluc
“So you can direct your mind and it will be closer to God, forever…”
In 1965, when Fr. Gimnazie departed to the Lord, his beloved brother in flesh and spirit Fr. Dionisie was forced to take the wholeburden of the priesthood and spiritual fatherhood upon his shoulders; and in 1979, when Fr. Gedeon also reposed, he became the abbot of the cell, according to the rules of the Holy Mountain.
Father described the order of the ascetic life:
It’s exactly the same in the cells as it is in the monastery. You have a set time when you have to go read Vespers. There’s an appointed time after Vespers when you can refresh yourself with some food; a set time after dinner when you go read Compline. After that you go to your cell, and if there are a few hours left before you have to go to church, then you read the lives of the saints, that is, spiritual books that a monk needs to know—the lives of all the ascetics of piety. And you definitely have to complete your usual rule before the church bell starts to ring. You make 150 prostrations and go twelve times around your prayer rope with bows from the waist. It takes an hour or so. You should commune of the Holy Mysteries once every two weeks, because that’s how it was when I came to the Holy Mountain. After the service on Friday morning, you had to go tell your confessor about your thoughts, how you sinned, what you did. After you confess, go back to your cell and read the rule for Communion,
This is what he had to say about the rule of the Jesus Prayer:
In the Cell of St. Anna, the old-timer monks say that at the large skete, they would fulfill their rule and even the Vigil by praying the Jesus Prayer. Out loud. It was for everyone. They would go out to the middle of the church one by one and pray: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on us. Lord Jesus Christ…” And the other monks would listen attentively, not dozing. Then one of the fathers, adorned with grace, saw the Savior descend to the middle of the church and stand there, listening to their prayers.
Therefore, we have to say the Jesus Prayer. If a man, a monk, would say, “Lord Jesus Christ,” with every breath, then little by little he would learn noetic prayer and be adorned with it. Now it may be impossible for us to achieve noetic prayer, but to say the Jesus Prayer all day is the most blessed work. The enemy hears it and can’t draw near to you.
At the end of the twentieth century, with the arrival of Elder Joseph to Vatopedi Monastery and with the new flourishing of cenobitic life there, Colciu Skete also saw a multiplication of the number of monks, which rejuvenated and strengthened the old brotherhood.
A little later, God permitted a new trial for Fr. Dionisie: He lost his sight. Although he found it difficult to bear, as he was very physically active, Father later said:
“I prayed to the Mother of God to send me a gift: that I wouldn’t grumble from this blindness, and that she would have mercy on me. Now she’s made it clear to me that the state I’m in is good for me. And now I’m calm. It was and is useful for me to be like this.”
One of the few consolations left to Fr. Dionisie after he went blind was to sit on a bench near his cell and listen to the sounds of nature:
“When I listen for a bit, this is my consolation. Because if you can’t see anymore, then how can you rejoice? You have no joy at all. How many photos, how many icons I could see… but how to rejoice if you can’t see? But thank God! May God help us; may He fulfill my desire for holy salvation!”
“Rarely have I seen a man so noble as Fr. Dionisie”
Archimandrite Ephraim, abbot of Vatopedi Monastery, with Elder Dionisie on the threshold of his cell
Fr. Dionisie gave rest to whomever knocked on the door of his cell. Romanians, Greeks, Russians, Bulgarians, laymen and monks coming from the most unexpected corners of the world would receive an answer to their existential questions and counsel and help to know the depths of their hearts and acquire peace. The Elder wasn’t like the sages of this age, and strictly speaking, he had no education; he spoke to everyone according to their needs. And as we knew him and understood him, three virtues remained in our hearts that he, whether by word or through his life, humbly placed before those who came to him thirsting to hear words of eternal life. And these three virtues are obedience, patience in tribulations, and humblemindedness,
recalls Archimandrite Ephraim, the abbot of Vatopedi Monastery.
When he learned that many people had photographed him without his knowledge, Fr. Dionisie lamented and said:
“What photos? What’s there to photograph? A poor old man who can barely walk? They want to make a saint out of me. But I’m like a dead man—a little while longer and I’ll be gone.”
Elder Joseph of Vatopedi
Elder Joseph of Vatopedi, a disciple of the great Elder Joseph the Hesychast, saw him as his co-laborer in prayer, and until his last days would visit Elder Dionisie for counsel and Confession, and other Vatopedi fathers would send various pilgrims to him who were looking for spiritual nourishment. Father would humble and reproach himself:
“Vatopedi keeps sending people to me, telling them I’m a spiritual man, but it’s not true. I can’t even see them—what am I supposed to tell them? I don’t have the gift of words! What should I, a poor blind man, tell them?”
Having attained the measure of perfected wisdom, Father taught his disciples:
We know that our way of life tends not to be so monastic anymore, receiving laymen, serving them, and this despite the fact that many come here only to tempt us. And we don’t really know their hearts; it’s all just how it seems to us. Let us try to have love, to show them love. Although we know that it’s hard and quite vexing, we have to do it so as not to harm ourselves from this side and that—because Orthodoxy doesn’t oblige us to see the mistakes of others, but to see ourselves, humble ourselves, and consider ourselves worse than all.
Perhaps the best description of Elder Dionisie’s earthly existence and angelic manner of living was given by the same Fr. Ephraim of Vatopedi:
He moved to the Cell of St. George at Colciu Skete in 1937, and until his departure to the Lord, he spent nearly seventy years in a humble room, all of fifty-four square feet, in patience and the thirst for silence. But he came to know Christ there and immutably understood that, as Geronda Joseph the Hesychast said, at the end of patience, when all human consolations are gone, the sweetness of Divine consolation descends into the heart.
His entire being breathed humility: his bright face, his warm smile, his meek and edifying word, his modesty, kindness, and simplicity, the way he hid his monastic labor and his deeds—in a word, his spiritual nobility. Rarely have I seen a man so noble as Fr. Dionisie.
May his blessing be upon us!