Bob Holt - Rants
Exercise: Blood, Sweat, and Cheetos 8/18/2008
The wonders of modern science continue to amaze. This summer we’ve learned that an “exercise pill” may be in the works for humans.Wrestling With Talent Issues 8/12/2008
Many people who have visited this site may think that I am merely a mediocre column writer. And previous to that a mediocre forklift operator. And that was all. But nothing could be further from the truth. The Benefits of Aging 8/5/2008
There has been a lot of talk about whether or not we need to overhaul the Social Security system. I admit that I don't totally understand the numbers being tossed around. It reminds me of the old story about car dealers. "Let's juggle the numbers a little bit and see what they do. I hope too many large numbers don't land on the left." Independent Coffeehouses Offer Moore Perks 7/29/2008
The employees who work in the tallest building in Seattle, the Columbia Center, are faced with many difficult decisions during their daily grind. Would they rather fuel up with coffee from the building’s Starbucks on the first floor or do they ride they elevator to see the new Starbucks which is up forty floors?Unskilled, Mediocre, and Cheap 7/22/2008
With this current economic downturn never seeming to end, it’s getting harder and harder to stretch a dollar even further than you already have. But there are still many more ways in which you can pinch your pennies. And many of them are right underneath your nose. More Proof That We Are Very Near the End of Civilization 7/15/2008
America's professional Father Christmases have been plunged into civil war amid accusations of profiteering, unethical behaviour and even Claus-on-Claus violence. Keeping the American Dream Alive 7/8/2008
Owning a home is harder than it’s been in years due to today’s economy. Foreclosures and high unemployment rates have turned the longtime American dream into a nightmare. Not The Smoothest Operators 6/30/2008
Results from the 2008 National Drivers Test have shown that 33 million licensed Americans would not pass a written drivers examination if it were administered today. This amounts to over 16 percent of the drivers currently on the road, and it begs the obvious question: How did the other 84 percent get through the traffic in time to take the test? Two Tickets to Discount Paradise 6/24/2008
It’s not easy going on vacation during economic times like we are facing today. Too many people have lost their jobs, but they still deserve some form of vacation because of all the service time they have invested in their employer. Editorial Commentary From the Courier Post 6/18/2008
Should Congress suspend the gas tax for the summer?Your Overall Net Worth 6/11/2008
The economy continues to go through tough times, and a lot of companies are offering their older employees severance packages. Or so I’ve heard.Where's The Beef In Your State Slogan? 6/3/2008
It seems like every three years or so New Jersey feels the need to remarket itself. The people who make the laws in New Jersey can’t come to an agreement on a state budget, so they’ve come up with an idea which will cause less damage: creating a new state slogan.Editorial Commentary From the Courier Post 5/19/2008
Should Stephen Sweeney, the state Senate majority leader, also be running for re-election to his Gloucester County freeholder seat? The More Things Change 5/12/2008
Once again we’ve reached graduation time for all this year’s high school and college students. It’s that exciting time when they can finally cut the cords from their parents and make their mark by entering the job market; a place where many of the students will find…their parents.The Communication Gap Is Growing 5/6/2008
“It’s just not cost effective to keep as many numbers on staff during this kind of business downturn. So the restructuring phase of our new marketing campaign will now unfortunately focus on downsizing of our current forces.”Editorial Commentary From the Courier Post 4/30/2008
What can be done to stop large-scale shootings?You and Your Company 4/25/2008
The economy is continuing on its downward spiral as we are speaking today. In my case, the dollar bill is dropping further in value on a daily basis. Stimulating Factors Are Involved 4/14/2008
Income tax time comes at a particularly tough time for the economy this year. Normally, tax time provides a stimulus to the economy, mostly in one way plane trips to Switzerland. Instead, we are about a month away from receiving our economic stimulus checks from President Bush. Editorial Commentary From the Courier Post 3/19/2008
What do you think should be done to fix traffic around the Deptford Mall?Jobs: It Could Be Worse 3/5/2008
Most people come to a point in their lives when they become dissatisfied with their jobs. They feel unfulfilled, and become unhappy because they believe a career change would be more rewarding.Happiness, Relationships. and Other Myths 2/13/2008
Another problem the baby boomer is going to have to deal with as he grows older is that of sex. The kind involving partners.Editorial Commentary From the Courier Post 2/6/2008
What do you think of the governor's plan to increase tolls?Not Changing For The Better 1/22/2008
The approximately 1,137 candidates who still remain in the 2008 Presidential race have finally found an issue on which they can all agree: they support change. You may need to research their positions on the war and the economy, but they will always remind you that they are instruments of change. Wringing Out Another Tough Year: 2007 1/7/2008
The year 2007 became the year of many choices for the American public. We could have chosen to overlook Paris, Britney, Lindsay, and Rosie O’Donnell, but we did not. Editorial Board Commentary From the Courier-Post 1/5/2008
Should a PATCO Hi-Speedline be built in Gloucester County?Santa Version 2.0 12/19/2007
It seems that Christmas traditions are not what they used to be in this different day and age. In recent years we’ve come to see many new ones added. Merry Christmas From E.R. 12/11/2007
Around this joyous time of year, we here at Gift Guide Headquarters always tend to wax nostalgic about Christmases of our past. We remember fondly the Christmas of 1985, which we spent in the emergency room at Underwood Hospital after being trampled at Walmart’s 2 For 1 Nose Hair Trimmer sale display for the holidays. Forgetting The Whole Thing 11/27/2007
After doing complete and thorough research on the subject matter of this week’s column, I forgot what I was going to write about today.On The Job Training 11/13/2007
In recent years we’ve learned that the biggest problem in having a successful career is that all the best jobs are overseas. So it’s time once again to review the obstacles that remain for those of us in the states that are still employed.Editorial Comment From the Courier Post 11/6/2007
Have high property taxes in New Jersey motivated you to vote out all incumbents on Nov. 6, regardless of their political party? The Scariest Time of the Year 10/29/2007
Once again we’ve reached the scariest part of every year. Communities across the US will see little people in costumes knocking on doors soliciting favors for their own enjoyment. I can’t wait until Halloween is over so we can fully experience the sheer terror of another year of elections.The 2007 Ig Nobel Awards 10/13/2007
A study on how to relieve jetlag in hamsters won one of the prizes Pioneering research into a "gay bomb" that makes enemy troops "sexually irresistible" to each other has scooped one of this year's Ig Nobel Prizes. On The Fast Track To Nowhere 10/8/2007
Is it ever too late in life to make a career change? Sometimes at your place of employment you find yourself getting nowhere fast, but making very good time at it. And you don’t have as much time left as you did when you were younger.Once Upon A Time 9/24/2007
It seems like everything you read in the headlines these days is bad news. Myself and others of baby boomer age are preparing to turn over society to the younger generation, but the innocence of youth gets proven guilty much more frequently these days.Statistics: Part of the Problem 9/10/2007
An important part of the news these days is the employment statistics. In any given month, the figures are computed to be up or down, while at the same time the job of tracing unemployment figures is being outsourced to India.What's Love Got To Do With It? 8/22/2007
How do we love thee? Let us count the ways. According to another new study, we’ve counted a total of 237 different reasons that people would like to have sex. The City That Needs A Nap 8/8/2007
I recently spent a week’s vacation in the seaside town of Ocean City, New Jersey. And with all due respect given to New York City, Ocean City just may be considered the city that always sleeps.MIA With a GPS 7/25/2007
As I have ventured down life’s lonesome highway, I have learned that it is wise to allow yourself a break from your normal daily routine to enjoy a few nights of entertainment. Fortunately, there are more than a few avenues in the South Jersey area in which you can spend a pleasant night out. Anti-Tasking 7/11/2007
The wonders of modern technology have allowed us to save enormous amounts of time by getting our work done much more quickly. High speed Internet, cellular phones, and even anabolic steroids will get us where we want to be in a much shorter time than in years past.Raging At Gasoline Prices Again 6/27/2007
A recent survey stated that drivers in Miami are the rudest in the nation. Granted, shooting at other drivers tends to give Miami an unfair advantage in this poll. And while they have held the title for two years in a row, I don’t believe Miami drivers are all that rude. The Journey to the Job Fair 6/13/2007
Class of 2007, you are about to embark upon the journey of your young lifetimes. You will soon take all of the inspiration, young ideas, and healthy attitudes which got you this far and turn them into a future known as “work."Genuine Tap Water 5/28/2007
Unless you've spent the past few days in Alaska, you've noticed that much of our area welcomed summer with our first heat wave of the year this past holiday weekend. One that brings days with the kind of humidity that just saps all the energy from you.Not Just Another Day At The Beach 5/16/2007
New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine recently called himself “blessed” while he was continuing to recover from his automobile accident injuries. A Day at the Races 5/1/2007
With the calendar reaching spring, if you're looking for a little fun and excitement for the whole family look no further. On the first weekend in May, people all across the country become horse racing experts as they anticipate the annual Run for the ATM Machine, the Kentucky Derby.Throwing an Adjustable Hat Into The Political Ring 4/16/2007
We’ve reached that time of year again when everyone’s political focus turns to the 2008 Presidential campaign. To this point we’ve seen approximately 325 candidates and their grandmothers announce that they are now candidates to become the next President of the United States.Not Many Happy Returns 4/2/2007
This year’s 1040EZ tax booklet states, ”Paying taxes is a unifying experience fundamental to democracy and the rule of law. The IRS seeks to help people understand and pay their taxes as easily as possible. Taking a Long Weekend 3/18/2007
Once upon a time in every young man’s life, he comes upon the reality that he is not all that young anymore. And as time marches on, things begin to change in his little corner of the world. The little apple cart he calls his lifestyle is suddenly being upset. Like when his employer calls on Sunday and says he’s welcome to take an extra-long weekend. No Experience Necessary If You Work Cheap 3/5/2007
Between 1946 and 1964, there were 78 million baby boomers born in the United States. They quickly became the epitome of hip and happening, and they were responsible for many important achievements during their formative years. I would tell you what they were, but it’s hard to maintain a train of thought when you’ve fried this many brain cells over the years. Lost Outside of Cyberspace 2/18/2007
Perhaps in your daily routine you may find that you spend too much time working at a computer. Strangely enough, when you spend around three weeks away from the internet, you realize that you had forgotten there are a world of other activities at your disposal outside of your computer room. 2006: The Year Is Now In Rehab 2/3/2007
Since some of us have been out of the loop for three weeks, please pretend this is January 3. Better late than never, perhaps? I just wish this was funny.Voyage Into The 20 th Century 1/27/2007
There comes a time in a young man’s life, or even an old fool’s, for that matter, where he needs to take stock of exactly where he stands in this vast universe. The beginning of year number 2007 proved to be that point for me.Just Another Christmas Newsletter 12/25/2006
It's time once again for the annual Christmas newsletter update from the Holt family. That includes me, by the way. Rule Number One: It's always all about me.Merry Christmas Brought to You By Golden Palace 12/10/2006
Judging from the holiday decorations which are popping up all over, the Christmas lights now illuminating your neighborhood, Christmas music in the air right after Halloween, the fourteen mile backup at your local mall, and the people scalping primo $100 parking spaces at the front of that mall when you finally do get there, it's evident that the holiday shopping season is well underway.Flatulence Forces Plane to Land 12/7/2006
Terrorism truly has no boundaries.Man Seeks Record For Arm Hair Length 11/27/2006
Always remember, keep your feet on the ground, and keep reaching for the stars.A Turkey's Opposing Point of View to Thanksgiving 11/22/2006
Thanksgiving is right around the corner. And speaking of turkeys, many of us are still recovering from the fallout of the recent mid-term elections. According to new regulations regarding fair and balanced reporting, the following story is required to provide equal time to opposing points of view about the traditional Thanksgiving holiday dinner.Thai Zoo to Teach Panda to Mate With "Porn" Videos 11/17/2006
The latest in instructional videos.Alternative Energy Comes With a Moo in Vermont 11/14/2006
New energy sources come with cow power.Origin of the Attack Ad 11/4/2006
Once again we are well into another election season. And in order to make the most responsible choice we can in electing the candidate who is most capable of serving the public interest best, we need to know each one's strongest points, and the plans they have to improve their respective community. The Job Interview: 2006 10/23/2006
Despite what you may have heard from certain sources, the job market is anything but secure in this day and age. If the latest consumer reports toward the products made by your particular corporation lean toward fires and explosions, your employment future may not be quite as bright as you'd like it to be.Somebody Extra Looking Over Them 10/21/2006
They didn't notice until Thursday?Defeating the Oil Demon 10/9/2006
Hello, my name is Bob, and I am an oil addict. Top Ten Chapter Titles in Jim McGreevey's New Book 10/3/2006
Blatantly stolen from David Letterman, this is a preview of our favorite governor's collection of too much information.The Company You Keep 9/25/2006
It's often been said that people are judged by the company they keep. No, I'm not talking about your friends. I'm talking about that place in which you are gainfully employed. Skullduggery on the High Seas 9/18/2006
Most holidays have a long and storied history behind them. Christmas, of course, dates back to the birth of Christ, while Thanksgiving takes us all the way back to 1620 with the Pilgrims. This is the tale of one of our newer holidays, which was born on an Albany racquetball court.After The Fall 9/3/2006
People who enter into military service come from all walks of life. Some of them come from off the streets, others are children who are barely out of high school, while many enlisted in search of finding some direction to their lives. Back To School Because I Said So, That's Why 8/22/2006
Hard as it may be to believe, we've reached that time of year again where parents take their children to the mall for back-to-school shopping. It may not be that hard to believe for some of you, who were ready to send them back to school on approximately June 28, when you realized that your home had acquired a clinging ivy plant which had grown out of control and attached itself permanently to the bed or the TV remote.Your Forecast For Today 8/19/2006
Let's see what your forecast from the stars has in store:Just Wondering... 8/16/2006
I was just wondering...Keeping An Open Mind 8/6/2006
According to the looks of today's headlines, America has an awful lot on its collective minds. Like the chances of Britney Spears' child carpooling with Mel Gibson, whether Britney, Madonna, Denise, and/or Heather will still remain friends, or whether or not Ann Coulter will travel to Namibia to deliver her demon spawn from Satan. No wonder so much of the country is stressed.Down to the Bare Essentials 7/18/2006
So our long regional nightmare is over. Once again New Jersey is alive and open for business. Now those non-essential state workers will be able to return from furlough and begin earning a paycheck again. I always thought a furlough was a weekend pass which recruits might receive in military service. Come to think of it, this furlough wasn't much longer than that. How to Age Disgracefully 7/10/2006
I was merely minding my own business the other day when I noticed that according to the calendar on my wall, I am about to turn fifty-two years old. Just how did this happen? Why wasn't I notified sooner? A Little Independence Day History 7/2/2006
With all of the political infighting going on in the country these days, it seems like many of us have different ideas of what it means to be a united nation. This should be symbolized by the upcoming Independence Day. Again this year the Fourth of July will find people celebrating in their own different ways. The Price of Fame in South Jersey 6/19/2006
On many nights during this past season, it seemed like three-quarters of the known universe and perhaps ninety percent of the animal kingdom were tuned in to watch American Idol. And last summer around 600,000 people streamed through Philadelphia to watch the performers who made up Live 8. Vacations: Not Always Kodak Moments 6/5/2006
It's that time of year again. And they're always going to ask, aren't they? "Are you going anywhere on vacation this year?" Of course they just got back from spending two weeks in Hawaii, while the last time you had any time away from work your high point was that Hawaii-Five 0 marathon you watched all weekend on TV Land.Financial Insecurity After Graduation 5/20/2006
It's time once again to offer a few words to this year's class of high school and college graduates. You know, we almost didn't make it to the ceremony today. The combination of your I-pods and cell phones along with the hearing aids of myself and your parents caused a massive blackout across three states earlier this morning. Clearing the Air on a Smoking Ban 5/6/2006
New Jersey recently became the eleventh state to ban smoking in indoor business establishments. The idea of the bill is to protect workers from the harmful effects of tobacco smoke, except casino employees, who are apparently expendable. I believe this bill is known as the New Jersey Smoke-Free In Buildings Other Than Casinos Because People With Money Are Better Than You Air Act.A Sleep Expert Needs a Nap 4/22/2006
As part of our celebration of National Sleep Awareness week, we recently "sprang our clocks forward" as part of our yearly observance of Daylight Saving Time. Now I realize we are considered a country of heathens who have become addicted to wasting resources like energy and gasoline. Or so I've heard. But if it isn't too much trouble, could I have that hour of sleep back that I saved some time real soon?Income Tax Returns For Creative People 4/7/2006
In order to earn a living these days, many people find themselves stuck working at jobs they find boring or tedious. They are not in a position to unleash any hidden talent or creativity they may possess. But then once a year income tax time rolls around.Answers to Mediocre Questions 3/24/2006
Answered! Life's most mediocre questions. The most mediocre mysteries of modern mankind are about to be explained right before your very eyes. Why do bad things happen to good people? Why do good things happen to bad people? Why do birds sing so gay? And lovers await the break of day? Cartoons Were More Fun When They Were Funny 3/10/2006
This week, we are forced to take another look at a very important part of the entertainment media. Recent worldwide events have raised serious questions about just how far freedom of the press in the Western world should be allowed to go. And in the past many Christian organizations have been making bold accusations about this particular part of the entertainment business. It seems that the evil cartoon industry is at it again.The New Vulture Culture 2/24/2006
Back when I was growing up, I lived in the small southern New Jersey town of Wenonah. I've always known Wenonah as a nice, friendly city where the grass may have been greener on the other side, but the property taxes were still equally as high.We Love Christmas in July 2/11/2006
The turning of the calendar to another new year can only mean one thing: the holidays are finally over. And you only have about six months remaining to finish paying off Billy's new X-Box 360 that you waited two days outside in line in twenty degree weather to buy and he broke ten minutes after he opened it. Memoirs of a Goofball 1/28/2006
Recent media events have brought to my attention that the lines are being blurred in the art of writing a non-fiction book. And that blurriness may or may not have come as a result of your past cocaine addiction.Shocking News About Coffee 1/14/2006
It seems like the debate about whether or not coffee is healthy for you has been going on forever, and it's time that I offered my own views on the situation. But I find that I am unable to form opinions, or even syllables for that matter, until after my third cup of coffee. 2005: Dropping The Ball Again 1/1/2006
Once again we've reached that special time where we like to take a look back at all of the special moments and fond memories we have from the past year. Unfortunately, that year was 1972. Back then gas prices were on the rise, many people were protesting an unpopular war, and Michael Jackson was still in his pajamas. Thankfully we've come a long way since those days.I Saw Mommy Suing Santa Claus 12/17/2005
Don't look now, but Christmas is right around the corner. According to local retail stores it has been around the corner since about July. And in today's different day and age, we need to take extra precautions to make sure the holiday runs smoothly. Christmas Gifts Which Promise Many Happy Returns 12/9/2005
One of my fondest childhood memories of Christmas morning is waking up bright and early, stumbling out of bed and racing down the stairs to see what great gifts Santa Claus had brought me. Considering that our home had only one floor and the stairs led to the basement, I thought that receiving only one small ankle tear as a youth was a rather remarkable achievement. Greeting Cards For All Occasions 11/26/2005
Often people become depressed when the weather gets colder and they see another year fall off their calendar. Well, there's nothing like a good old-fashioned greeting card to lift someone's spirits when we approach the holidays. Greeting cards are your own special way of telling friends or relatives how you really feel about them on any given day.Answering Butterball Hotline Questions 11/19/2005
As we get closer to Thanksgiving, every year people make plans to get together with family and friends to enjoy a hearty holiday meal. If you're not among those people who are having their turkey thinly sliced, processed, wrapped in foil and delivered by the good people at Swansons(not that I know any such person), then you are likely to have questions about how to properly prepare a turkey dinner. Attacking the Issues-Whatever They Are 11/5/2005
If an election for governor is held in New Jersey and no one cares, will it still make an impact? Early polling results indicate that one voter in ten is willing to vote for Doug Forrester, one in ten will vote for Jon Corzine, while eight out of ten want to know why two multimillionaires want to spend millions of dollars to become the most hated man in the state. Brightening Our Spirits 10/30/2005
Here in South Jersey, the signs of fall are all around us now since daytime temperatures have finally started to dip into the low 90s. Often people let the change in seasons dampen their spirits. But when the weather gets colder and the yuletide decorations start springing up, it can only mean one thing: it's almost Halloween. And I've discovered that many people have ghosts and spirits in their very own home which need busting, dampening, and outright removing. A Series of Commercials 10/20/2005
It's been incredibly hot in this part of the country these days. We've seen the kind of humidity which will quickly engulf you in a pool of sweat if you engage in any kind of strenuous outdoor activity, such as breathing.Career Advancement in Five Days or Less 10/10/2005
Have you ever found yourself saying, "Everything I am today I've created through my own hard work!" Have you ever heard your wife or girl friend respond, "Well, I'm certainly glad to hear you finally admit it."A Detour in the Road Not Taken 10/1/2005
One of the poet Robert Frost's lesser known works is titled "The Road Not Taken." He probably couldn't take that road because the right lane was closed for construction on the Atlantic City Expressway.
The wonders of modern science continue to amaze. This summer we’ve learned that an “exercise pill” may be in the works for humans.Wrestling With Talent Issues 8/12/2008
Many people who have visited this site may think that I am merely a mediocre column writer. And previous to that a mediocre forklift operator. And that was all. But nothing could be further from the truth. The Benefits of Aging 8/5/2008
There has been a lot of talk about whether or not we need to overhaul the Social Security system. I admit that I don't totally understand the numbers being tossed around. It reminds me of the old story about car dealers. "Let's juggle the numbers a little bit and see what they do. I hope too many large numbers don't land on the left." Independent Coffeehouses Offer Moore Perks 7/29/2008
The employees who work in the tallest building in Seattle, the Columbia Center, are faced with many difficult decisions during their daily grind. Would they rather fuel up with coffee from the building’s Starbucks on the first floor or do they ride they elevator to see the new Starbucks which is up forty floors?Unskilled, Mediocre, and Cheap 7/22/2008
With this current economic downturn never seeming to end, it’s getting harder and harder to stretch a dollar even further than you already have. But there are still many more ways in which you can pinch your pennies. And many of them are right underneath your nose. More Proof That We Are Very Near the End of Civilization 7/15/2008
America's professional Father Christmases have been plunged into civil war amid accusations of profiteering, unethical behaviour and even Claus-on-Claus violence. Keeping the American Dream Alive 7/8/2008
Owning a home is harder than it’s been in years due to today’s economy. Foreclosures and high unemployment rates have turned the longtime American dream into a nightmare. Not The Smoothest Operators 6/30/2008
Results from the 2008 National Drivers Test have shown that 33 million licensed Americans would not pass a written drivers examination if it were administered today. This amounts to over 16 percent of the drivers currently on the road, and it begs the obvious question: How did the other 84 percent get through the traffic in time to take the test? Two Tickets to Discount Paradise 6/24/2008
It’s not easy going on vacation during economic times like we are facing today. Too many people have lost their jobs, but they still deserve some form of vacation because of all the service time they have invested in their employer. Editorial Commentary From the Courier Post 6/18/2008
Should Congress suspend the gas tax for the summer?Your Overall Net Worth 6/11/2008
The economy continues to go through tough times, and a lot of companies are offering their older employees severance packages. Or so I’ve heard.Where's The Beef In Your State Slogan? 6/3/2008
It seems like every three years or so New Jersey feels the need to remarket itself. The people who make the laws in New Jersey can’t come to an agreement on a state budget, so they’ve come up with an idea which will cause less damage: creating a new state slogan.Editorial Commentary From the Courier Post 5/19/2008
Should Stephen Sweeney, the state Senate majority leader, also be running for re-election to his Gloucester County freeholder seat? The More Things Change 5/12/2008
Once again we’ve reached graduation time for all this year’s high school and college students. It’s that exciting time when they can finally cut the cords from their parents and make their mark by entering the job market; a place where many of the students will find…their parents.The Communication Gap Is Growing 5/6/2008
“It’s just not cost effective to keep as many numbers on staff during this kind of business downturn. So the restructuring phase of our new marketing campaign will now unfortunately focus on downsizing of our current forces.”Editorial Commentary From the Courier Post 4/30/2008
What can be done to stop large-scale shootings?You and Your Company 4/25/2008
The economy is continuing on its downward spiral as we are speaking today. In my case, the dollar bill is dropping further in value on a daily basis. Stimulating Factors Are Involved 4/14/2008
Income tax time comes at a particularly tough time for the economy this year. Normally, tax time provides a stimulus to the economy, mostly in one way plane trips to Switzerland. Instead, we are about a month away from receiving our economic stimulus checks from President Bush. Editorial Commentary From the Courier Post 3/19/2008
What do you think should be done to fix traffic around the Deptford Mall?Jobs: It Could Be Worse 3/5/2008
Most people come to a point in their lives when they become dissatisfied with their jobs. They feel unfulfilled, and become unhappy because they believe a career change would be more rewarding.Happiness, Relationships. and Other Myths 2/13/2008
Another problem the baby boomer is going to have to deal with as he grows older is that of sex. The kind involving partners.Editorial Commentary From the Courier Post 2/6/2008
What do you think of the governor's plan to increase tolls?Not Changing For The Better 1/22/2008
The approximately 1,137 candidates who still remain in the 2008 Presidential race have finally found an issue on which they can all agree: they support change. You may need to research their positions on the war and the economy, but they will always remind you that they are instruments of change. Wringing Out Another Tough Year: 2007 1/7/2008
The year 2007 became the year of many choices for the American public. We could have chosen to overlook Paris, Britney, Lindsay, and Rosie O’Donnell, but we did not. Editorial Board Commentary From the Courier-Post 1/5/2008
Should a PATCO Hi-Speedline be built in Gloucester County?Santa Version 2.0 12/19/2007
It seems that Christmas traditions are not what they used to be in this different day and age. In recent years we’ve come to see many new ones added. Merry Christmas From E.R. 12/11/2007
Around this joyous time of year, we here at Gift Guide Headquarters always tend to wax nostalgic about Christmases of our past. We remember fondly the Christmas of 1985, which we spent in the emergency room at Underwood Hospital after being trampled at Walmart’s 2 For 1 Nose Hair Trimmer sale display for the holidays. Forgetting The Whole Thing 11/27/2007
After doing complete and thorough research on the subject matter of this week’s column, I forgot what I was going to write about today.On The Job Training 11/13/2007
In recent years we’ve learned that the biggest problem in having a successful career is that all the best jobs are overseas. So it’s time once again to review the obstacles that remain for those of us in the states that are still employed.Editorial Comment From the Courier Post 11/6/2007
Have high property taxes in New Jersey motivated you to vote out all incumbents on Nov. 6, regardless of their political party? The Scariest Time of the Year 10/29/2007
Once again we’ve reached the scariest part of every year. Communities across the US will see little people in costumes knocking on doors soliciting favors for their own enjoyment. I can’t wait until Halloween is over so we can fully experience the sheer terror of another year of elections.The 2007 Ig Nobel Awards 10/13/2007
A study on how to relieve jetlag in hamsters won one of the prizes Pioneering research into a "gay bomb" that makes enemy troops "sexually irresistible" to each other has scooped one of this year's Ig Nobel Prizes. On The Fast Track To Nowhere 10/8/2007
Is it ever too late in life to make a career change? Sometimes at your place of employment you find yourself getting nowhere fast, but making very good time at it. And you don’t have as much time left as you did when you were younger.Once Upon A Time 9/24/2007
It seems like everything you read in the headlines these days is bad news. Myself and others of baby boomer age are preparing to turn over society to the younger generation, but the innocence of youth gets proven guilty much more frequently these days.Statistics: Part of the Problem 9/10/2007
An important part of the news these days is the employment statistics. In any given month, the figures are computed to be up or down, while at the same time the job of tracing unemployment figures is being outsourced to India.What's Love Got To Do With It? 8/22/2007
How do we love thee? Let us count the ways. According to another new study, we’ve counted a total of 237 different reasons that people would like to have sex. The City That Needs A Nap 8/8/2007
I recently spent a week’s vacation in the seaside town of Ocean City, New Jersey. And with all due respect given to New York City, Ocean City just may be considered the city that always sleeps.MIA With a GPS 7/25/2007
As I have ventured down life’s lonesome highway, I have learned that it is wise to allow yourself a break from your normal daily routine to enjoy a few nights of entertainment. Fortunately, there are more than a few avenues in the South Jersey area in which you can spend a pleasant night out. Anti-Tasking 7/11/2007
The wonders of modern technology have allowed us to save enormous amounts of time by getting our work done much more quickly. High speed Internet, cellular phones, and even anabolic steroids will get us where we want to be in a much shorter time than in years past.Raging At Gasoline Prices Again 6/27/2007
A recent survey stated that drivers in Miami are the rudest in the nation. Granted, shooting at other drivers tends to give Miami an unfair advantage in this poll. And while they have held the title for two years in a row, I don’t believe Miami drivers are all that rude. The Journey to the Job Fair 6/13/2007
Class of 2007, you are about to embark upon the journey of your young lifetimes. You will soon take all of the inspiration, young ideas, and healthy attitudes which got you this far and turn them into a future known as “work."Genuine Tap Water 5/28/2007
Unless you've spent the past few days in Alaska, you've noticed that much of our area welcomed summer with our first heat wave of the year this past holiday weekend. One that brings days with the kind of humidity that just saps all the energy from you.Not Just Another Day At The Beach 5/16/2007
New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine recently called himself “blessed” while he was continuing to recover from his automobile accident injuries. A Day at the Races 5/1/2007
With the calendar reaching spring, if you're looking for a little fun and excitement for the whole family look no further. On the first weekend in May, people all across the country become horse racing experts as they anticipate the annual Run for the ATM Machine, the Kentucky Derby.Throwing an Adjustable Hat Into The Political Ring 4/16/2007
We’ve reached that time of year again when everyone’s political focus turns to the 2008 Presidential campaign. To this point we’ve seen approximately 325 candidates and their grandmothers announce that they are now candidates to become the next President of the United States.Not Many Happy Returns 4/2/2007
This year’s 1040EZ tax booklet states, ”Paying taxes is a unifying experience fundamental to democracy and the rule of law. The IRS seeks to help people understand and pay their taxes as easily as possible. Taking a Long Weekend 3/18/2007
Once upon a time in every young man’s life, he comes upon the reality that he is not all that young anymore. And as time marches on, things begin to change in his little corner of the world. The little apple cart he calls his lifestyle is suddenly being upset. Like when his employer calls on Sunday and says he’s welcome to take an extra-long weekend. No Experience Necessary If You Work Cheap 3/5/2007
Between 1946 and 1964, there were 78 million baby boomers born in the United States. They quickly became the epitome of hip and happening, and they were responsible for many important achievements during their formative years. I would tell you what they were, but it’s hard to maintain a train of thought when you’ve fried this many brain cells over the years. Lost Outside of Cyberspace 2/18/2007
Perhaps in your daily routine you may find that you spend too much time working at a computer. Strangely enough, when you spend around three weeks away from the internet, you realize that you had forgotten there are a world of other activities at your disposal outside of your computer room. 2006: The Year Is Now In Rehab 2/3/2007
Since some of us have been out of the loop for three weeks, please pretend this is January 3. Better late than never, perhaps? I just wish this was funny.Voyage Into The 20 th Century 1/27/2007
There comes a time in a young man’s life, or even an old fool’s, for that matter, where he needs to take stock of exactly where he stands in this vast universe. The beginning of year number 2007 proved to be that point for me.Just Another Christmas Newsletter 12/25/2006
It's time once again for the annual Christmas newsletter update from the Holt family. That includes me, by the way. Rule Number One: It's always all about me.Merry Christmas Brought to You By Golden Palace 12/10/2006
Judging from the holiday decorations which are popping up all over, the Christmas lights now illuminating your neighborhood, Christmas music in the air right after Halloween, the fourteen mile backup at your local mall, and the people scalping primo $100 parking spaces at the front of that mall when you finally do get there, it's evident that the holiday shopping season is well underway.Flatulence Forces Plane to Land 12/7/2006
Terrorism truly has no boundaries.Man Seeks Record For Arm Hair Length 11/27/2006
Always remember, keep your feet on the ground, and keep reaching for the stars.A Turkey's Opposing Point of View to Thanksgiving 11/22/2006
Thanksgiving is right around the corner. And speaking of turkeys, many of us are still recovering from the fallout of the recent mid-term elections. According to new regulations regarding fair and balanced reporting, the following story is required to provide equal time to opposing points of view about the traditional Thanksgiving holiday dinner.Thai Zoo to Teach Panda to Mate With "Porn" Videos 11/17/2006
The latest in instructional videos.Alternative Energy Comes With a Moo in Vermont 11/14/2006
New energy sources come with cow power.Origin of the Attack Ad 11/4/2006
Once again we are well into another election season. And in order to make the most responsible choice we can in electing the candidate who is most capable of serving the public interest best, we need to know each one's strongest points, and the plans they have to improve their respective community. The Job Interview: 2006 10/23/2006
Despite what you may have heard from certain sources, the job market is anything but secure in this day and age. If the latest consumer reports toward the products made by your particular corporation lean toward fires and explosions, your employment future may not be quite as bright as you'd like it to be.Somebody Extra Looking Over Them 10/21/2006
They didn't notice until Thursday?Defeating the Oil Demon 10/9/2006
Hello, my name is Bob, and I am an oil addict. Top Ten Chapter Titles in Jim McGreevey's New Book 10/3/2006
Blatantly stolen from David Letterman, this is a preview of our favorite governor's collection of too much information.The Company You Keep 9/25/2006
It's often been said that people are judged by the company they keep. No, I'm not talking about your friends. I'm talking about that place in which you are gainfully employed. Skullduggery on the High Seas 9/18/2006
Most holidays have a long and storied history behind them. Christmas, of course, dates back to the birth of Christ, while Thanksgiving takes us all the way back to 1620 with the Pilgrims. This is the tale of one of our newer holidays, which was born on an Albany racquetball court.After The Fall 9/3/2006
People who enter into military service come from all walks of life. Some of them come from off the streets, others are children who are barely out of high school, while many enlisted in search of finding some direction to their lives. Back To School Because I Said So, That's Why 8/22/2006
Hard as it may be to believe, we've reached that time of year again where parents take their children to the mall for back-to-school shopping. It may not be that hard to believe for some of you, who were ready to send them back to school on approximately June 28, when you realized that your home had acquired a clinging ivy plant which had grown out of control and attached itself permanently to the bed or the TV remote.Your Forecast For Today 8/19/2006
Let's see what your forecast from the stars has in store:Just Wondering... 8/16/2006
I was just wondering...Keeping An Open Mind 8/6/2006
According to the looks of today's headlines, America has an awful lot on its collective minds. Like the chances of Britney Spears' child carpooling with Mel Gibson, whether Britney, Madonna, Denise, and/or Heather will still remain friends, or whether or not Ann Coulter will travel to Namibia to deliver her demon spawn from Satan. No wonder so much of the country is stressed.Down to the Bare Essentials 7/18/2006
So our long regional nightmare is over. Once again New Jersey is alive and open for business. Now those non-essential state workers will be able to return from furlough and begin earning a paycheck again. I always thought a furlough was a weekend pass which recruits might receive in military service. Come to think of it, this furlough wasn't much longer than that. How to Age Disgracefully 7/10/2006
I was merely minding my own business the other day when I noticed that according to the calendar on my wall, I am about to turn fifty-two years old. Just how did this happen? Why wasn't I notified sooner? A Little Independence Day History 7/2/2006
With all of the political infighting going on in the country these days, it seems like many of us have different ideas of what it means to be a united nation. This should be symbolized by the upcoming Independence Day. Again this year the Fourth of July will find people celebrating in their own different ways. The Price of Fame in South Jersey 6/19/2006
On many nights during this past season, it seemed like three-quarters of the known universe and perhaps ninety percent of the animal kingdom were tuned in to watch American Idol. And last summer around 600,000 people streamed through Philadelphia to watch the performers who made up Live 8. Vacations: Not Always Kodak Moments 6/5/2006
It's that time of year again. And they're always going to ask, aren't they? "Are you going anywhere on vacation this year?" Of course they just got back from spending two weeks in Hawaii, while the last time you had any time away from work your high point was that Hawaii-Five 0 marathon you watched all weekend on TV Land.Financial Insecurity After Graduation 5/20/2006
It's time once again to offer a few words to this year's class of high school and college graduates. You know, we almost didn't make it to the ceremony today. The combination of your I-pods and cell phones along with the hearing aids of myself and your parents caused a massive blackout across three states earlier this morning. Clearing the Air on a Smoking Ban 5/6/2006
New Jersey recently became the eleventh state to ban smoking in indoor business establishments. The idea of the bill is to protect workers from the harmful effects of tobacco smoke, except casino employees, who are apparently expendable. I believe this bill is known as the New Jersey Smoke-Free In Buildings Other Than Casinos Because People With Money Are Better Than You Air Act.A Sleep Expert Needs a Nap 4/22/2006
As part of our celebration of National Sleep Awareness week, we recently "sprang our clocks forward" as part of our yearly observance of Daylight Saving Time. Now I realize we are considered a country of heathens who have become addicted to wasting resources like energy and gasoline. Or so I've heard. But if it isn't too much trouble, could I have that hour of sleep back that I saved some time real soon?Income Tax Returns For Creative People 4/7/2006
In order to earn a living these days, many people find themselves stuck working at jobs they find boring or tedious. They are not in a position to unleash any hidden talent or creativity they may possess. But then once a year income tax time rolls around.Answers to Mediocre Questions 3/24/2006
Answered! Life's most mediocre questions. The most mediocre mysteries of modern mankind are about to be explained right before your very eyes. Why do bad things happen to good people? Why do good things happen to bad people? Why do birds sing so gay? And lovers await the break of day? Cartoons Were More Fun When They Were Funny 3/10/2006
This week, we are forced to take another look at a very important part of the entertainment media. Recent worldwide events have raised serious questions about just how far freedom of the press in the Western world should be allowed to go. And in the past many Christian organizations have been making bold accusations about this particular part of the entertainment business. It seems that the evil cartoon industry is at it again.The New Vulture Culture 2/24/2006
Back when I was growing up, I lived in the small southern New Jersey town of Wenonah. I've always known Wenonah as a nice, friendly city where the grass may have been greener on the other side, but the property taxes were still equally as high.We Love Christmas in July 2/11/2006
The turning of the calendar to another new year can only mean one thing: the holidays are finally over. And you only have about six months remaining to finish paying off Billy's new X-Box 360 that you waited two days outside in line in twenty degree weather to buy and he broke ten minutes after he opened it. Memoirs of a Goofball 1/28/2006
Recent media events have brought to my attention that the lines are being blurred in the art of writing a non-fiction book. And that blurriness may or may not have come as a result of your past cocaine addiction.Shocking News About Coffee 1/14/2006
It seems like the debate about whether or not coffee is healthy for you has been going on forever, and it's time that I offered my own views on the situation. But I find that I am unable to form opinions, or even syllables for that matter, until after my third cup of coffee. 2005: Dropping The Ball Again 1/1/2006
Once again we've reached that special time where we like to take a look back at all of the special moments and fond memories we have from the past year. Unfortunately, that year was 1972. Back then gas prices were on the rise, many people were protesting an unpopular war, and Michael Jackson was still in his pajamas. Thankfully we've come a long way since those days.I Saw Mommy Suing Santa Claus 12/17/2005
Don't look now, but Christmas is right around the corner. According to local retail stores it has been around the corner since about July. And in today's different day and age, we need to take extra precautions to make sure the holiday runs smoothly. Christmas Gifts Which Promise Many Happy Returns 12/9/2005
One of my fondest childhood memories of Christmas morning is waking up bright and early, stumbling out of bed and racing down the stairs to see what great gifts Santa Claus had brought me. Considering that our home had only one floor and the stairs led to the basement, I thought that receiving only one small ankle tear as a youth was a rather remarkable achievement. Greeting Cards For All Occasions 11/26/2005
Often people become depressed when the weather gets colder and they see another year fall off their calendar. Well, there's nothing like a good old-fashioned greeting card to lift someone's spirits when we approach the holidays. Greeting cards are your own special way of telling friends or relatives how you really feel about them on any given day.Answering Butterball Hotline Questions 11/19/2005
As we get closer to Thanksgiving, every year people make plans to get together with family and friends to enjoy a hearty holiday meal. If you're not among those people who are having their turkey thinly sliced, processed, wrapped in foil and delivered by the good people at Swansons(not that I know any such person), then you are likely to have questions about how to properly prepare a turkey dinner. Attacking the Issues-Whatever They Are 11/5/2005
If an election for governor is held in New Jersey and no one cares, will it still make an impact? Early polling results indicate that one voter in ten is willing to vote for Doug Forrester, one in ten will vote for Jon Corzine, while eight out of ten want to know why two multimillionaires want to spend millions of dollars to become the most hated man in the state. Brightening Our Spirits 10/30/2005
Here in South Jersey, the signs of fall are all around us now since daytime temperatures have finally started to dip into the low 90s. Often people let the change in seasons dampen their spirits. But when the weather gets colder and the yuletide decorations start springing up, it can only mean one thing: it's almost Halloween. And I've discovered that many people have ghosts and spirits in their very own home which need busting, dampening, and outright removing. A Series of Commercials 10/20/2005
It's been incredibly hot in this part of the country these days. We've seen the kind of humidity which will quickly engulf you in a pool of sweat if you engage in any kind of strenuous outdoor activity, such as breathing.Career Advancement in Five Days or Less 10/10/2005
Have you ever found yourself saying, "Everything I am today I've created through my own hard work!" Have you ever heard your wife or girl friend respond, "Well, I'm certainly glad to hear you finally admit it."A Detour in the Road Not Taken 10/1/2005
One of the poet Robert Frost's lesser known works is titled "The Road Not Taken." He probably couldn't take that road because the right lane was closed for construction on the Atlantic City Expressway.
© 2005 Bob Holt - All rights reserved.