The Ink-stained Wretch Podcast with G. Michael Dobbs

08/08/2024

New podcast! This week's episode features an interview with photographer Chris Marion and a report about the new cannabis dispensary coming to Springfield. Please give it a listen!

Veteran journalist G. Michael Dobbs looks at the news, issues and interesting people of western New England through interviews and commentary.

08/06/2024

Coming up on the The Ink-stained Wretch Podcast with G. Michael Dobbs will be original reporting about the latest cannabis dispensary coming to Springfield as well as a conversation with Chris Marion Photography. Dropping later this week.

08/01/2024

So former President Trump is clearly having a hissy fit on social media because President Biden and our NATO allies worked together to make this prisoner exchange with the Russians a reality.

Considering his humiliation at yesterday's Black Journalist convention, as well as the on-going clown parade featuring his VP (who he three under the bus) as well as the remarks made by his nephew, this has not been a good week for the candidate.

Here are more details"

The U.S., Western allies and Russia exchanged 24 prisoners Thursday in the largest exchange of detainees since the Cold War. The swap that took place in Turkey freed three high-profile Americ…

08/01/2024

Want to know what's happening at the property of the former MacDuffie School in Springfield? That's the topic of this week's podcast!https://inkstainedwretch.libsyn.com/?_gl=1*oxps88*_ga*MTgwMjEyNzc0Mi4xNzIyNTI5NzIx*_ga_6MD8SMG8NT*MTcyMjUyOTcyMS4xLjEuMTcyMjUzMDM3MS4xOS4wLjA.

07/31/2024

What I wrote for The Reminder Publishing this week.

To be clear, I have never been in favor of violence being a change agent in politics. I did not post anything gleeful about the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, because I was not happy that once again someone has decided to affect a political race with a bullet.

07/31/2024

Springfield's Paramount Theater block along with the parking lot behind it will be up to auction. What would you like to see happen?

07/27/2024

So Deadpool and Wolverine is the very best anti-marvel studio marvel studio movie made to date. One would not expect a superhero epic to be filled with references to Hollywood politics or to itself in the manner that Deadpool and Wolverine is. I freaking loved this movie and I will go to it once more in theaters. I will be first in line to buy the Blu-ray. It has amazing action and some of the best profanity I’ve ever seen in a movie. Superb. I wish I could bring my 11-year-old grandson to it but unfortunately I can’t. But once he gets to be 18, he’s going to see the Blu-ray.

07/25/2024

More good news! The Ink-stained Wretch Podcast with G. Michael Dobbs is now available through Apple Podcasts.

07/25/2024

Listen to The Ink-stained Wretch Podcast with G. Michael Dobbs show on Spotify.

Listen to The Ink-stained Wretch with G. Michael Dobbs, News and Views from Western Massachusetts on Spotify. Veteran journalist G. Michael Dobbs looks at the news, issues and interesting people of western New England through interviews and commentary.

07/25/2024

New podcast all about thus year's Homebrew Showcase for All Our Kids, Inc. If you love beer this is a great event and it's this weekend.

https://inkstainedwretch.libsyn.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0AlbuBV-CZzSue-vAMMahPeLRp8k3_JMlRCwS0eDaK2MbXvWw4DiZFXfM_aem_OO1u7zfoBAi0Z0G4ArwdKg

Veteran journalist G. Michael Dobbs looks at the news, issues and interesting people of western New England through interviews and commentary.

07/22/2024

I am seeing more and more memes and references about the recent "divine" intervention in American politics. This concept that the creator of the universe prevented Trump from being killed but allowed a retired firefighter to die is puzzling. While we could have a discussion about why God would save a 77 year-old "billionaire" politician over a man with a young family is beyond me.

(Side note: Why was Trump "saved" when school children in a number of tragic murders were killed? Yes, yes, I know "it's all part of God's plan," but what kind of plan involves the slaughter of innocent children? I'd really like to know.)

So for those of you interested in the role religion has played in the presidency, here is an almost comprehensive look into that subject by PBS. It ends with Barak Obama unfortunately as I would have been interested in what they would have said about Trump.

I hold out hope that some Trump supporters would read the following so this notion that he is anointed somehow would cease being part of the political discussion, but I suspect it won't.

People don't want their beliefs questioned.

Here is the link:

From Washington to Obama—the presidents' religious beliefs and their impact on politics.

07/20/2024

My most recent column for Reminder Publishing:

As I write this column the Springfield Jazz and Roots Festival is just a few days away. It will draw thousands of people to downtown Springfield — as long as the weather holds — making a sizable economic development impact on the region through restaurant and hotel use.

07/18/2024

This is a serious question: what does the average MAGA voter mean when they say – and I've heard it repeatedly – "I want my freedom [s] back."

Do we as Americans still enjoy the freedom of – or from –religion?

Do we as Americans still have the freedom of speech?

Can we still travel without government interference?

Can we still assemble?

Do we still have freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures?

Do we still maintain the right to due process of law, freedom from self-incrimination, double jeopardy?

Are we still enjoying freedom from excessive bail, cruel and unusual punishments?

Can we still own guns to hunt or protect ourselves?

I really and honestly don't know. Is this part of the anti-woke movement? Do they simply don't want to be exposed to certain parts of American life?

07/16/2024

So I understand that corporate nations news media has long been described as "liberal," but if that bias exists – I question that as a fact – it was certainly not on display during this interview. NBC news anchor Lester Holt had an agenda to promote Trump and he did.

The topics that Holt emphasized were designed to to make Biden look out-of-touch and incompetent. And when Holt was asked by Biden why doesn't the "media" ask about Trump's lies during the debate the anchor side-stepped it.

Did he talk to Biden about issues? Not really.

You know, I've interviewed governors, presidential candidates, a senator and members of the House. If I had the opportunity of talking to Biden I would want to talk about inflation, housing costs, the border, his health, his decision to serve as the president for more than just one term – in other words real issues that matter during this election.

But you see my only agenda – and that of many, many of my colleagues – would be to actually get answers about things that mean something to voters.

I don't want to insult my audience and I don't want to waste the interview subject's time.

Was the attempt on Trump's life terrible? Yes. Is it being investigated? Yes. Is the investigation complete and we have all of the answers we want? No. Why repeat stuff we already know at this point?

The inference that Biden had something to do with it is reprehensible. Yellow journalism at its finest.

This interview was little more than social media gossip. Lester, I know you're famous and important and all that and I'm just a small town journalist, but you blew it.

President Joe Biden sat down for an interview with NBC News anchor Lester Holt.

07/16/2024

This just in: SPRINGFIELD — The seventh annual Homebrew Showcase for All Our Kids will take place at Paddy’s Irish Pub on Saturday, July 27, 2024, from 12-3 p.m. Paddy’s Irish Pub is located at 1060 Wilbraham Road, Springfield.
The event offers sampling of beers made by local homebrewers and as well as dozens of raffle prizes to raise money for All Our Kids, Inc., a 501(c)3 regional nonprofit founded in 2017 to strengthen and support to area foster families. A representative from All Our Kids will also be on hand to provide information and answer questions. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite brewer and the winner will have the opportunity collaborate on a beer with White Lion Brewing Co. at its facility in downtown Springfield.
A limited number of advance tickets are on sale until Friday, July 27, for $15 at https://fosteringaok.ludus.com. Entry at the door is $20. Additionally, raffle tickets can be purchased in advance online. Designated drivers receive free entry, though a donation is appreciated. This is a 21+ event.
All Our Kids’ mission is to strengthen the sense of community among foster and adoptive families in Western Massachusetts, engage the public in supporting these families, and raise awareness about the needs of children in foster care. AOK offers mentorship and resources, local networking, special events, and quarterly in-person social gatherings along with services such the AOK Community closet, a “free store” for baby and kid gear; an online Resource and Support Hub; a comprehensive guidebook for navigating the child welfare system; AOK’s ABC coloring book and more.
“Over the years, the Homebrew Showcase has been the highlight of the summer, and an incredible opportunity to share the AOK mission with the community. Being able to partner with a great local business that genuinely cares about what we do has been amazing! AOK relies exclusively on the generosity of those in our community, and our business partners to ensure we’re able to maintain our programs that support foster and adoptive families. With the backing of local businesses like Paddy’s, we know we’ll be in the position to ensure all children in foster care have the families they need to heal, grow, and thrive,” said Dr. Marianna Litovich, founder & executive director of All Our Kids.
Over the past six events in seven years (with a one-year break for COVID-19), the Showcase has raised roughly $17,000 in support of foster care services and families. This year, the goal is to surpass $20,000 in total.
Chris Maza, president of the AOK Board of Directors and co-organizer of the event, added, “While ‘kids’ is in the name, All Our Kids is about families and building a community that will support and lift them up as they navigated the unique — and at times daunting — challenges they face. Year after year through this event we see an unparalleled level generosity and enthusiasm from people who wish to be part of that community. It never ceases to amaze.”
This year’s participants include last year’s winner, Partyofonebrewing, Catseyesoup Brewing, In Tolerance Brewing, Tell-Tale Brewing, Side-Gig Brewery, Pixelated Pints, Beerfort Brewing, Jumping Comet Brewing, SPARGE Homebrew Club and4 Walls Brewing. Homebrew Showcase alumni who went on to open commercial breweries include Rustic Brewing Co. in Indian Orchard, Drawing Board Brewing in Florence, and Drunken Rabbit Brewing Co. in South Hadley, and Dudleytown Brewing Co. in Windsor, Connecticut.
Those supporting the Homebrew Showcase with raffle prizes and other support include: White Lion Brewing, Zanna, We Do Travel Right, ZaZa Green, Quality Beverage, Samuel Adams, TNT Tent and Table Rentals, New England Patriots, Boston Red Sox, Hartford Yard Goats, Worcester Red Sox, Tree House Brewing, Iron Duke Brewing, Shelburne Falls Coffee Roasters, Hot Table, Loophole Brewing, Drawing Board Brewing, Rustic Brewing, Two Weeks Notice Brewing, Table and Vine, One Way Brewing, Skyline Beer Co. and Dudleytown Brewing.
For more information on the Homebrew Showcase, visit https://tinyurl.com/HomebrewAOK2024. For more information on All Our Kids, go to http://fosteringaok.org/or visit them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/fosteringAOK/.

All Our Kids is committed to supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, s*x (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, s*xual orientation, gender identity and/or....

07/16/2024

For those of you who are keeping track of the podcast's progress, I've submitted it to Apple, which I've been told could take a month for approval. Wow.

07/15/2024

My podcast is now on Spotify. The Ink-stained Wretch Podcast with G. Michael Dobbs

07/15/2024

This podcast is now on Spotify.

07/15/2024

New podcast! Interviews with Adam Gomez and Ken Harris! Western Mass. content!

07/08/2024

So some podcast developments: The Ink-stained Wretch Podcast with G. Michael Dobbs is now on Spotify and the dedicated website has been renamed to https://inkstainedwretch.libsyn.com. I was able to modify the type color on the website so the descriptions of the shows are visible.

Yes I know I should have done this stuff the first week, but I'm learning. Please forgive an ink-stained wretch adjusting to a new medium.

The show will return next week as I need to take some other improvements.

Veteran journalist G. Michael Dobbs looks at the news, issues and interesting people of western New England through interviews and commentary.

07/08/2024

My buddy Mark and I saw "Maxine" yesterday. I can see how a younger, much younger, horror fan might be impressed with this gritty grimy tale from their era of VHS, but for me, the tone and look were highly derivative as well as the idea of someone of s*x worker being stalked.

I get it: The director likes that era of filmmaking and has emulated it in many of his films.

Granted seeing a Buster Keaton look-alike getting his privates crushed by Ma###ine's boot is a new experience for audiences.

I liked the ideas of a p**n star attempting to make a cross-over to "legit" films, in this case a sequel to a horror film. Relatively few performers have done it and with varying degrees of public acceptance (Marlyn Chambers, Ginger Lynn, Traci Lords). The conceit that this film becomes a huge theatrical success is an amusing one considering how low budget horror film were actually made and released in the 1980s.

I know there is a whole fascination with Mia Goth (which I don't really get), who gives a much better performance in this film than in "Pearl," one of the most self-indulgent films I've sat through of late.

Unlike the previous two movies in the trilogy there's actually recognizable actors including Kevin Bacon stealing scenes as the sleazy private detective hired to find Ma###ine by her stalker.

There's gore aplenty in the film but reflecting our era there really isn't any nudity. Geezer horror fans know that if "Ma###ine" had been made in 1985 that would be a prerequisite.

All in all it was okay but not necessarily memorable. In our previous media world this would have been a big release for the corner video story.

07/06/2024

Got to stay cool in his weather

Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and Health and Human Services (HHS) Commissioner Helen Caulton Harris have announced that the city will open Cooling Centers on Sunday, July 7th and Monday, July 8, 2024.

According to local weather services, temperatures are expected to rise into the 90s starting on Sunday with sunny, hot, and humid conditions predicted.

Mayor Sarno states, “Health and Human Services Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris and I want to remind residents to be mindful and take the necessary steps to seek relief during these excessive hot days of summer. Stay hydrated, check on your elderly neighbors, be mindful of your pets, and please take advantage of our cooling centers, libraries, and wonderful park facilities that offer the resources for staying cool during these hot summer days.”

HHS Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris states, “Heat stress is a serious condition that poses a health threat to many people, particularly the elderly. Preventive measures should be taken in order to avoid heat stress including staying out of the sun and drinking plenty of water. I encourage residents to take advantage of our cooling centers and to please check in on your family and neighbors, especially the older folks in our community.”

Cooling Centers will be available at four locations on Sunday, July 7, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.: the Indian Orchard Community Center at Myrtle Street Park, the Senior Center in the North End at Kenefick Park, South End Community Center, and the Raymond A. Jordan Senior Center.


Cooling Center Site
Address
Date
Time
Indian Orchard Community Center at Myrtle Street Park
117 Main St., Springfield, MA 01151
Sunday, July 7, 2024
12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
South End Community Center
99 Marble St., Springfield, MA 01105
Sunday, July 7, 2024
12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Raymond A. Jordan Senior Center
1476 Roosevelt Ave, Springfield, MA 01109
Sunday, July 7, 2024
12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Senior Center in the North End at Kenefick Park
310 Plainfield St., Springfield, MA 01107
Sunday, July 7, 2024
12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Cooling Centers will be available at seven locations on Monday, July 8, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.: Raymond A. Jordan Senior, the Hungry Hill Senior Center, the Mason Square Library Community Room, Indian Orchard Community Center at Myrtle Street Park, the Senior Center in the North End at Kenefick Park, South End Community Center, and the Clodo Concepcion (Greenleaf) Community Center.

Cooling Center Site
Address
Date
Time
Indian Orchard Community Center at Myrtle Street Park
117 Main St., Springfield, MA 01151
Monday, July 8, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
South End Community Center
99 Marble St., Springfield, MA 01105
Monday, July 8, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Raymond A. Jordan Senior Center
1476 Roosevelt Ave, Springfield, MA 01109
Monday, July 8, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m..
Senior Center in the North End at Kenefick Park
310 Plainfield St., Springfield, MA 01107
Monday, July 8, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Mason Square Library Community Room
765 State Street, Springfield, MA 01109
Monday, July 8, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Hungry Hill Senior Center
773 Liberty Street, Springfield, MA 01104
Monday, July 8, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Clodo Concepcion (Greenleaf) Community Center
1187 ½ Parker St., Springfield, MA 01129
Monday, July 8, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Certain medical conditions and prescription drugs can make you more vulnerable to heat stress. Those who have high blood pressure, diabetes, a weak or damaged heart, infection or fever, diarrhea, problems with circulation, skin diseases, sunburn, those who are overweight, or who have had a previous stroke are at a greater risk of falling victim to heat stress. In addition, those who take medication for sleeplessness, high blood pressure, nervousness, depression, or poor circulation are also more susceptible to heat stress. If you fall into either of these categories, please consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Loss of appetite, lack of energy, fainting, and cramps are signs that you are losing the battle against heat. Take the appropriate steps to protect yourself.

What you should do if the weather is extremely hot:

Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.
Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tables unless directed to do so by a physician.
Drink plenty of water. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much as possible.
Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.
Keep your four-legged friends safely and comfortably at home during the extreme heat.
Never leave an animal in a parked car. Car rides can quickly turn deadly as the inside of a car can reach temperatures in excess of 120 degrees in several minutes.
Bring outdoor animals into cooler areas of your home. If they must stay outside, ensure they have protection from the sun. A dog house does not provide relief or protection from the heat. Access to plenty of shade and cool potable water is critical to their well-being.
Limit exercise to hours when the sun is down and take it easy or better yet, wait until the heat wave ends. Pets are prone to heat exhaustion just like people. In addition, hot asphalt can burn their feet.
Animals are susceptible to sunburn. Be sure any topical sunscreen products you use are labeled for use on animals.

07/05/2024

This week’s commentary from Reminder Publishing:

When I first lived in Springfield from 1957 to 1962, I attended kindergarten, first and second grades. I remember the school days starting for the first and second grades with the Pledge of Allegiance, singing a patriotic song and then a prayer, often accompanied with a reading from the Bible.

07/04/2024

It might seem harsh to say, but if you support the notion the Jan. 6 insurrectionists are persecuted patriots, then you have no right to celebrate the birth of this nation today, as the actions taken on Jan. 6 were an effort to kill this republic.

For those of us who actually believe in the Constitution, have a great Fourth and know in the next few months there will be a lot of work to do to preserve the Union.

07/03/2024

https://sites.libsyn.com/526083/bob-charland-and-pedal-thru-youth

Here's the latest podcast.Hope you give it a listen.

Bob Charland has become a bit of a legend in Western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut through his non-profit organization, Pedal Thru Youth. Originally starting as an effort in his home’s garage to repair donated bikes and get them to kids who want a bike but can’t afford one, Bob and his ...

07/03/2024

I will be talking about my new book today at 3 on “The Fabulous 413” heard over NEPM at 88.5 FM and online at https://www.nepm.org/. I hope you will tune in!

New England Public Media endeavors to share new voices and inspire new conversations through a deep commitment to independent local journalism, trusted educational content, inspired cultural offerings and civic engagement.

07/02/2024

If you're a comics fans or a creator, this article is required reading.

https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/steve-ditko-spider-man-life-legacy-1235047781/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2EoUIjWCV-8jXC3SF-1s7OyTihrsEjxdgXubZhgjlPq1oaFkop6WkRO2I_aem_FwdZsgou7pgBOdlQIGQgKA

He helped create the web-slinging hero in his own image — but who was the man behind the mask?

07/01/2024

Attention fireworks fans: Chicopee Parks and Recreation is thrilled to announce the rescheduled date for the
highly anticipated Chicopee Fireworks Celebration. The event will now take place on Friday, July
19th at Szot Park, with a rain date scheduled for July 20th & 21st .
This spectacular fireworks display promises to be a highlight of the summer, offering a festive way to
celebrate America's birthday with friends, family, and the entire Chicopee community.
"We are excited to bring this cherished tradition back to Chicopee," said Ben Strepka, Superintendent
of Chicopee Parks and Recreation. "We invite everyone to join us for an evening of patriotic spirit
and community camaraderie."
The fireworks will commence at dusk, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good
viewing spot. Food vendors will be on-site to provide refreshments throughout the evening.

07/01/2024

Today is a dark day for the American Constitution and some of the basic premises for our form of government.

06/29/2024

So my Springfield neighbors, do you think spending $49,500 on signs that are supposed to discourage giving to panhandlers is an effective use of funds?