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Guestbook 2000

Guestbook 2001

The main purpose of this Guestbook is to allow Seaham Harbour folk around the world to keep in touch, to find each other, to explore their roots and to share cherished recollections. Seaham Harbour Online will not knowingly carry on its web pages any material which we consider to be politically or socially offensive or of a xenophobic, fascist or paediaphiliac nature. Personal attacks which may be considered to be potentially libellous are not allowed. If you have a criticism it should be supported by facts and is only valid if you identify yourself and your real email address. This is no different from what local or national newspapers would expect.

Thank you for visiting our pages. We would be delighted if you would Add to our Guestbook.

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another friggin wanker
to 'who am I'
- Wednesday, November 07, 2001 at 15:33:59 (PST)

i havn't been around for a short while, on returning to this site i find the topics of discussion relates mainly to gay poeple and religion, as for miss markie i don't want to pass judgement on you, but i honestly think your a closet monster, sacred to come out, it's ok there are plenty of gay religious people out there. don't hide behind those words you write. just admit it. if your gonna answer to that one please don't make it a full 5,000 word essay, cheers chuck. byee!
who am i?
seaham, - Wednesday, November 07, 2001 at 14:22:15 (PST)

I send the president a letter and I got a response on 5-11-01 I would like to thank her back for responding but did the Presidnt really read it.
penny zaccheo <pennyinpalatka@web.net>
palatka, putnam fla usa - Wednesday, November 07, 2001 at 11:23:32 (PST)

deborah k blair special assistant to the presidentdirector of correspondence and preesidential messages
miss penny mary agnes zaccheo <pennyinpalatka>
palatka, putnam fla usa - Wednesday, November 07, 2001 at 11:21:35 (PST)

Howdy Frank
NTJ
- Wednesday, November 07, 2001 at 05:34:57 (PST)

If you want to by-pass this book, send me an email to vasillis@btinternet.com
NTJ
- Wednesday, November 07, 2001 at 02:06:57 (PST)

Thomas, you haven't responded to my entry yet. Is the offer of a drink off now?
NTJ
- Wednesday, November 07, 2001 at 01:54:48 (PST)

Well, Miss Markie has come to her senses, and we got even worse to take her place. How sad.
Wills
Portland, Oregon USA - Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 22:18:43 (PST)

Great Site!
Keira
New South Wales Australia - Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 20:00:42 (PST)

You're a real man then, eh tommy?
billy o'reilly
- Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 14:49:56 (PST)

Oh and Scotland Forever, how clever of you to spot that I'd spelt Poofters wrongly, you're quite right! correct spelling is "Queers"
Thomas Johnson <Ex-Seaham>
- Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 14:13:14 (PST)

Scotland forever, Diction is not your strong point Laddie is it? The best thing about Scotland is there's a road back to England!
Thomas Johnson <Ex-Seaham>
- Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 14:10:00 (PST)

and the money we've sent south of the border obviously hasnt been spent wisely on the educational needs of your area!!learn to spell Thomas,learn to spell.
Scotland forever
- Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 12:16:10 (PST)

Thomas Johnson!!Yes i fully support your quest for english independence!!Only if you and your fellow countrymen cough up the billions,yes billions of pounds in revenue that the oil from Scotlands territorial waters has brought to this isle!!Subsidised my arse you english git!You and your fellow countrymen have been the spongers for years!am i wrong?i think not.
Scotland forever
- Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 12:07:33 (PST)

"Lord Byron" Your thinking is as bad as your spelling!
Thomas Johnson <Ex-Seaham>
- Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 10:56:37 (PST)

Thomas you come over like a N.F looney. Take down your picture of Hitler off the wall and put your dick away. This is the guestbook not the Nazi Appreciation society. If we wanted to read rubbish like yours we go to the KKK web site. You looser.
Lord Byron
Yip, - Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 09:01:32 (PST)

To the little sea anemone, I never said I didnt like the Scots, Irish or Welsh! What I said was I dont like the idea of us English subsidising them to the tune of Billions £££ each year and that I support independance for England, but I admit I have no time or patience for Homo's ie Poofters
Thomas Johnson <Ex-Seaham>
- Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 06:55:40 (PST)

Wish I had a tant, all I've ever had is a few old slappers down the Docks and horse to mount.
Not Funny Really
- Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 05:56:00 (PST)

Seaham Enlightener, you're really not very enlightened at all are you? I never said that Guy Fawkes night was about killing ALL catholics, that is a Markie mis-quote, and if, like yourself I am an ignorant twat, then as I happen to be an ignorant Catholic twat I'm hardly likely to be predjudist against Catholics am I? There's enough predjudice on this book already. To Billy O'Reilly, Thomas isn't just homophobic. He told us ages ago that he's not keen on Scots, Welsh or Irish either.
the little sea anenome
- Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 04:35:41 (PST)

I believe what was implied is tantamount to slander, I only accessed this site at the end of October this year, and have not and would not be abusive to anyone. This is to clarify my position to all other readers, as I'm not concerned with the pathological rantings of J. Markie.
Julie <julie2033@yahoo.com>
Seaham, Durham Durham - Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 02:57:52 (PST)

Homophobia lives! Seaham always manages to live up to it's own, sorry, reputation. As Lou Reed said - "There's only one good thing about a small town, you hate it and you have to leave". Any more pet hates Mr Johnson? Men with beards? Women with beards? Women generally?
billy o'reilly
- Monday, November 05, 2001 at 14:22:17 (PST)

anyone who really wants to know more about guy fawkes night,or "lets kill all the catholics night" as little sea anenome put it!ignorant twat!!should go to www.gunpowder-plot.org,all you'll ever need to know is there.
seaham enlightener
- Monday, November 05, 2001 at 14:02:00 (PST)

Ex Seaham Resident, You cannot even spell Bigot, and probably you dont know its meaning and seems like you're a "Queer" too
Thomas Johnson <Ex-Seaham>
- Monday, November 05, 2001 at 07:31:02 (PST)

No you are wrong, they should ban only biggots like you.
Ex Seaham Resident
- Monday, November 05, 2001 at 00:03:50 (PST)

I think IBM should be charged at least $i,000,000 for the extencive Spanish IBM addvertisement. Send remittance to Dalton Internet within seven working days.
Ex Seaham Resident
- Sunday, November 04, 2001 at 23:57:44 (PST)

One bit of common sense to come out of the Islamic World this week, A far-Eastern P.M. has stated that he will not allow any Homosexual British Minister, who is accompanied by his Partner, to visit his Country. Now that is sensible!
Thomas Johnson <Ex-Seaham>
- Sunday, November 04, 2001 at 11:13:36 (PST)

The country of Spain has had a greater influence on the rest of the world than that of most countries. In the United States, for example, Hispanic Americans--those whose culture, language, and ethnic identity are rooted in Spain--will soon outnumber African Americans and form the largest ethnic minority. Most Hispanic Americans trace their roots back to countries that were once Spain's New World colonies, such as the many countries of Central and South America, rather than directly to Spain itself. The lion's share of the Western Hemisphere is known as Latin America. Most of its people speak Spanish or Portuguese as a mother tongue and follow the precepts of the Roman Catholic church. This is not surprising when it is recalled that Spain and Portugal led the Europeans into the Age of Discovery and founded the first globe-circling empires. In the 1490s Christopher Columbus colonized the Caribbean islands and set the stage for Hernando Cortez' conquest of Mexico in 1519-21. Francisco Pizarro's invasion of Peru followed in 1531-33. The opening in the 16th century of the route from Mexico across the Pacific to the Philippines placed the Spanish on the edge of Asia and in close competition with the Portuguese, who had come by way of their sea route around southern Africa's Cape of Good Hope, India, and through the Strait of Malacca. Andres de Urdaneta took advantage of the Pacific's westerly wind belt at about 42o N. latitude. This allowed Spain's galleons to return to Mexico directly from the Philippines rather than face typhoons and the perils of attempting to circumnavigate most of the globe. Earlier navigators had returned to Spain by way of the Indian and South Atlantic oceans. A lucrative trade, based on Mexican silver and Chinese silks and other luxuries, began to flourish, and Manila was founded in 1571. The Philippines remained a Spanish colony until 1898, when it passed to the United States as a result of the Spanish-American War. During the early 1540s the area now known as the United States was explored by Hernando de Soto and Francisco Coronado. In 1565 St. Augustine, Fla., was founded to protect Spain's vital sea-lane, which ran via the northward flowing Florida Current and the Gulf Stream that parallel the coastline from southern Florida to North Carolina. In the latitude of North Carolina and Virginia, the treasure-laden galleons caught prevailing westerly winds, which carried them home to Cadiz on Spain's southern Atlantic coast. In 1598, almost a decade before the first English settlement at Jamestown, Va., Spanish pioneers established towns on the Rio Grande headwaters in the present state of New Mexico. Most of the original settlers in the area around Santa Fe were recruited in central Spain, especially in Andalusia and Castile. While Spain's explorers and conquistadors raised their king's banner around the world, its priests labored among the native peoples to spread Christianity. The cross of Roman Catholicism was raised at countless missions throughout the far-flung Spanish empire, and Spanish attitudes, values, and ideals were spread along with religion in a potent mix that still remains strong five centuries later. The Spanish kings also became embroiled in European affairs in the effort to extend their country's political control and religious beliefs. Perhaps because Spain's power was spread so wide, its hold on the empire began to slip, and Spanish influence over the military and political affairs of Europe went into a decline that lasted into the mid-20th century. LAND Spain is shaped like a gigantic bull's hide stretching in the sun between Europe and Africa. Spain's large area of 194,898 square miles (504,784 square kilometers) covers about five sixths of the Iberian Peninsula. In Western Europe, only France is larger. At its widest Spain stretches some 635 miles (1,022 kilometers) from east to west. From north to south the country is about 550 miles (885 kilometers) long. Spain's longest coastline stretches for 1,700 miles (2,740 kilometers) along the Mediterranean Sea from the eastern end of the Pyrenees mountain chain to the Strait of Gibraltar. On the Atlantic Portugal shares the peninsula's coast with Spain. Between the Strait of Gibraltar and the border with southern Portugal at the Guadiana River, Spain faces an embayment of the Atlantic Ocean known as the Gulf of Cadiz. The ports of Huelva, Rota, and Cadiz are on this coast, and up the navigable Guadalquivir River is the ancient transportation center Seville. From the province of Galicia, located to the north of Portugal, Spain's coastline extends almost due eastward along the often stormy Bay of Biscay to terminate at the western end of the Pyrenees, which form the frontier with France. Of all Europe's mountain ranges, the jagged and often snowcapped Pyrenees, 270 miles (435 kilometers) long, have functioned most effectively as a barrier to human movement. Unlike the Alps, the Pyrenees have no low foothills or hospitable valleys to ease access into and through their heights. Rather, the Pyrenees rise abruptly from the flanking plains of France and Spain with only steep gorges and steep-walled natural amphitheaters that lead to almost impassable lofty summits. The French peasant's adage, "Africa begins with the Pyrenees," is not without a large measure of truth in emphasizing the historic significance of the Pyrenees as a barrier in the development of Spain. In the words of the American historian Will Durant, Spain's mountains, particularly the Pyrenees, "were her protection and tragedy: they gave her comparative security from external attack, but hindered her economic advance, her political unity, and her participation in European thought." The continued political independence of the tiny principality of Andorra is largely a result of its remote location amid the Pyrenees between France and Spain. Poets and writers from the time of the Romans to the present have likened Spain to a fortress or citadel. In part these metaphors highlight the remoteness from European influences that have marked Spanish history. They are most accurate when employed to describe Spain's vast central region, the Meseta, as in the following quotation from an official publication: By the very makeup of its land area Spain is a castle, a fortress. Its average altitude is only surpassed, in Europe, by Switzerland. The land is furrowed by high mountains which leave between themselves and the sea only narrow strips of lowlands. To gain an understanding of such a large and diverse country, it is necessary to examine Spain in terms of its major geographic regions. The first and largest of Spain's regions forms the heart of the Iberian Peninsula. Known as el Centro, or the Center, this region is dominated by the high, rugged plateau known as the Meseta. A thinly populated region, it occupies about half of Spain's total area and is home to only slightly more than a quarter of its population. Spain's remaining three regions occupy coastal belts that lie between the Centro-Meseta heartland and the seas washing the peninsula's three sides. The region known as el Norte, or the North, stretches across northern Spain from the Atlantic's breakers on the west to the saw-toothed Pyrenees on the east. The Galician and Basque peoples of el Norte occupy slightly more than a tenth of the total area and number a fifth of Spain's total population. Spain's long Mediterranean coast forms the Catalan-dominated region known as el Este, or the East. While it accounts for just under 15 percent of Spain's total area, el Este is home to nearly 30 percent of the population. Barcelona, Spain's second largest urban-industrial center, is located here. The fourth and final regional division is el Sur, or the South. It is a land with coastal "windows" opening on both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Almost the whole of el Sur's territory is in the autonomous region of Andalusia. In area el Sur accounts for about 17 percent of Spain. The tiny Spanish possessions of Melilla and Ceuta, located opposite Andalusia on Morocco's Mediterranean coast, add only an insignificant 12 square miles (31 square kilometers) to the area of el Sur. Because el Sur lacks a great metropolitan urban complex, its population is slightly less than 18 percent of Spain's total. Centro-Meseta The heart of Spain is the vast, high, central plateau region known as the Meseta. Framed by the Cantabrian Mountains on the north and the Sierra Morena ranges on the south, the Meseta occupies about half of Spain's land area. It is punctuated by several smaller mountain ranges that accentuate the Meseta's overall elevation and stark, windswept spaciousness. One of these ranges, the Sierra de Guadarrama, bisects the Meseta just to the north of Spain's centrally located capital, Madrid. (See also Madrid.) Historically the northern portion of the Meseta-- north of the Sierra de Guadarrama and drained by the Douro River system--was known as Castilla la Vieja, or Old Castile. Today this is the modern Spanish province Castilla-Leon. The southern and slightly lower Meseta, once called Castilla la Nueva, or New Castile, is now known as Castilla-la Mancha. Aragon, another of the ancient regions that form modern Spain, embraces the northeastern flank of the Meseta and is drained by the Ebro River system. The Meseta is one of the bleakest, least hospitable regions in Europe. To a large extent this is the result of the climate. Thanks to its large size, elevation, and surrounding mountain barriers, it tends to be continental in character. In winter, high atmospheric pressure develops over the cold elevated land. The resulting outflowing winds are dry and cold. In summer, wind directions change, but the inblowing winds bring little if any moisture, so drought conditions continue through the yearly cycle. An old Spanish proverb captures the essence of the Meseta's climate by describing Madrid as having "six months of winter and six months of hell" to round out the year. The range of temperatures is also far more extreme on the Meseta than in the coastal regions. Summer days are hot, but when the sun sets, temperatures fall rapidly. In July the mean daily temperature ranges 30o F (-1o C) between high and low. The range from summer heat to winter cold is also great. Long spells of below-freezing temperatures are punctuated by lows that can dip to 15o F (-9o C). Ice-skating in Madrid's parks is not common but occurs occasionally. Highway traffic in both the plains and mountains of Old Castile is often seriously impeded by snowstorms. The fierce summer heat and drought of the Meseta are broken only by occasional thunderstorms, so most crops require irrigation. Without irrigation the landscape is semidesert and good only for grazing. Browns and grays are the prevailing colors, and dust coats the countryside. A haze known as the calina often cuts visibility and adds to summer discomfort on the Meseta. It should come as no surprise that the Meseta is one of Europe's most sparsely populated regions. Only around the metropolis of Madrid is population density high. Over most of the Meseta the density is less than a third that of Spain as a whole. El Norte Although mountainous terrain causes problems for the people of Spain's Norte, the region as a whole is strikingly different from the Meseta. The climate is maritime, due to the proximity of the sea and prevailing air currents. Winters are mild and moist, while the warmer summers are equable and lack extremes. El Norte is a lush, green, forested land with considerable rainfall even in the summer months. Because of the prevailing westerly winds, winter months experience most of the more than 40 inches (102 centimeters) of annual life-sustaining precipitation. In Galicia, in the northwest, the landscape is built on an ancient granite upland much broken by east-west faults. Many of the valleys formed by these faults have been flooded by the sea to form deep, steep-sided inlets that resemble fjords. Not caused by the erosion of continental glaciers, these scenic inlets are correctly called rias rather than fjords. This ria coast has provided the Galicians excellent opportunities to supplement their diets and incomes through fishing. A large part of Spain's annual fish catch is landed at the Galician ports La Coruna and Vigo. Vigo served as a base for the Spanish Armada in the 16th century, when Spanish seapower held sway over the world. Most Galicians were strongly pro-Francisco Franco during the dictator's regime. In part this is explained by the fact that he was born at the naval base town, El Ferrol, north of La Coruna. To honor the local hero, El Ferrol's name became El Ferrol del Caudillo (caudillo means "leader," or "chief," in Spanish). To the east of Galicia the coastal provinces extend to the homeland of one of Europe's most distinctive linguistic groups--the Basques. The Cantabrian Mountains form the spine of this verdant region, which spreads wide as it approaches the Pyrenees. Pais Vasco, the province at the head of the Bay of Biscay, includes one of Spain's historic iron mining and industrial districts developed around Bilbao and San Sebastian. El Este The long, eastward-facing Mediterranean coast of Spain is world renowned as a resort area of attractive sunny beaches and gleaming modern tourist hotels. North of Barcelona the red crystalline rocks of the coastal mountains form the backdrop for the picturesque Costa Brava, a favorite beach resort area for sun-starved tourists from the countries of Northwestern Europe. Barcelona, Spain's major Mediterranean port and host city for the Olympic Games in 1992, is the heart of another of Spain's distinctive linguistic regions, Catalonia. (See also Barcelona.) The climate and natural vegetation found in this part of Spain generally are characteristic of the Mediterranean Basin. The climate is known as dry-summer subtropical, or, in more popular terms, Mediterranean climate. It is a climate characterized by clear, dry, hot summers and moderately moist, mild winters. It is the type of climate found in central and southern California, central Chile, southernmost Africa, and southern Australia. The result of an unaltering wet-dry climatic rhythm is seen in almost every aspect of the landscape in this region of Spain. The long summer drought excludes many of the plants common elsewhere in Europe. The natural vegetation here is made up of plant species that resist excessive moisture loss through evaporation. Some have thickened stems or bark, waxy coatings, or fine hairy coverings on leaves. Leaves are often small, and some are formed like thorns to discourage browsing animals. Succulent (water-storing) plants such as cacti also thrive in Mediterranean regions. Such hardy drought-resistant plants often form dense thickets called chaparral. (The leather leggings that ranch hands in the American Southwest wear for protection are called chaps from the word chaparral.) Human activities are also geared to the annual alternation of wet and dry. Farmers plant and tend crops in the moist winter and harvest them in the dry heat of early summer. Sheep and cattle are moved to higher, cooler pastures in spring as the plains begin to dry up in the Mediterranean heat. In the past more than 77,000 miles (124,000 kilometers) of sheep trails crisscrossed Spain to provide routes for the moving herds. Today trucks and railways have replaced all but a few of the trails once followed by vast herds of sheep, cattle, horses, donkeys, and their drivers. A 100-mile (160-kilometer) arc of the Spanish Mediterranean coast, roughly centered at Valencia, is famous as one of Southern Europe's garden spots. Known as La Huerta, this area supports a lucrative agriculture based on irrigation water provided by the three rivers that enter the sea here--the Mijares, the Turia, and the Jucar. In the midst of La Huerta is Spain's third largest city, Valencia. Much of its industrial activity is devoted to food processing, and its chief exports include the famous Valencia orange. (See also Valencia.) South of Cabo de la Nao conditions become increasingly desertlike. Temperatures are high, and precipitation is so meager and erratic that even wheat fields must be irrigated to guarantee a crop. Where irrigation water can be tapped, lush oases of crops--such as sugarcane, cotton, mulberries, citrus fruits, bananas, and dates--flourish. Water is severely limited, however, so most farmers must rely on such deep-rooted tree crops as figs, almonds, and olives and grape vines for their livelihood. Offshore the Balearic Islands are culturally and commercially oriented to Barcelona. Tourism now dominates their economy, but market gardening and the production of wine and cheese continue to employ many island residents. (See also Balearic Islands.) El Sur El Sur is composed of the ancient region of Andalusia, plus two tiny fragments of empire located across the Mediterranean on the shores of Africa--Ceuta and Melilla. The region has coastal access to both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. The Mediterranean portion is a rugged, semiarid region that spreads between the Sierra Morena edge of the Meseta and the folded ranges of the Sierra Nevada. The Atlantic-facing part of the Spanish Sur, by way of contrast, is dominated by the country's most extensive area of plains--the Andalusian Lowland. In past geologic periods this entire lowland was covered by the sea, but it is now filled with the silt and other alluvium brought by the waters of the Guadalquivir River system. At the river's mouth an extensive sandbar, known as the Arenas Gordas, caused the development of a huge lagoonlike marsh area known as Las Marismas. Large areas of swampland have been improved for rice growing here. The whole of el Sur experiences the Mediterranean climate, and the region as a whole is one of the driest in Europe. Europe's highest temperature, 122o F ), was recorded in Seville. The mountainous areas of el Sur usually intercept enough moisture on their western portions to permit wheat, olives, and grapes to flourish. To the east and inland, however, conditions quickly become desertlike, and irrigation is necessary to produce the region's great crops of oranges and other fruit. Many of the oranges grown in el Sur are of the small, bitter variety known as Seville, which is used for making marmalade. (See also Seville.) The Sierra Morena is often considered to be a mountain range, but in fact it is the elevated and eroded outer edge of the Meseta. In certain of its areas rich ore deposits have been worked since at least the time of the ancient Carthaginians. The Minas de Riotinto district is the location of the historically famous Riotinto copper mines. Huelva became a major port handling the export of copper. Lead, mercury, and pyrites are also produced in the Riotinto mining district. El Sur is the portion of Spain most like Africa, which lies only 8 miles (13 kilometers) away across the Strait of Gibraltar. The strait is one of the most-used sea-lanes in history, as it provides the only natural connection between the Mediterranean Sea and the oceans of the world. The famous Rock of Gibraltar lies at the tip of a peninsula overlooking the Bay of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean end of the strait. The rock is a limestone mass that rises to nearly 1,400 feet (427 meters) above the water at its base, a formidable military position that has commanded access to the strait for centuries. (See also Gibraltar.) PEOPLE Spain's land-bridge location between Europe and Africa and its long history have resulted in a great mixing of races and cultures. Most experts agree that the population of Spain is now basically homogeneous--both in terms of race and culture. The only distinctive minority group generally recognized as outside the racial-cultural mainstream of Spanish society is made up of Gypsies, many of whom still follow a nomadic life-style along the roads and highways. Fairly large communities of settled Gypsies are found in the cities of Murcia, Granada, Barcelona, and Madrid, where their distinctive music and vocal styles add considerable color to the entertainment scene. Some Basque extremists claim an ethnic or racial uniqueness for their group to add fuel to political arguments for a separation from Spain. More objective observers tend to see only a linguistic difference as significantly setting the Basques apart from the rest of Spain's citizens. This is not to underemphasize the significance of language. Increasing autonomy for Spain's Basques and other linguistically distinctive groups has been the rule since the adoption of the constitution of 1978. (See also Basques.) Language Modern standard Spanish, also referred to as Castilian, is spoken throughout Spain and is the official language. But Castilian is often a second language, not a mother tongue. In el Norte two regional languages are widely spoken. One, the language of the Basque people, is called Euskara. It appears to be one of Europe's oldest languages but is quite different from the Indo-European and Uralic languages spoken across the rest of Europe. The Euskara-speaking group spreads beyond the Pyrenees into the adjoining provinces of France. These people were living in this region at the western end of the mountains long before Spain and France gained their political identities. Basques considered this rugged area their homeland even before Rome extended its control into Gaul and beyond the Pyrenees. In spite of the fact that the constitution of 1978 made Euskara an official local language and afforded increased political autonomy to the Basque provinces, violent separatist extremists still carry on a campaign of terrorism against the central government of Spain. In the region of Galicia a language known as Gallego is widely used, and also since 1978 it, too, has been recognized as an official language to be taught in schools. Modern Portuguese evolved from Gallego, which resembles a cross between Portuguese and Spanish. From 80 to 85 percent of Galicia's 3 million inhabitants speak Gallego. Attempts have been made to standardize the spelling and grammar, but they have not been entirely successful. A kind of common Galician language is beginning to emerge as a spoken tongue in the province's larger towns. Catalan is another language that enjoys a special status under Spain's constitution. It is a Romance language with a highly developed literature. Most of the 7 million people who speak Catalan are located in el Este. It is the official language in three communities--Catalonia, Valencia, and the Balearics. Catalan speakers also live in the eastern fringe of Aragon, Andorra, southwestern France, and parts of Sardinia. Catalonia's Generalitat (autonomous government) promotes its official language both at home and in other countries. Religion Most Spaniards are baptized, married, and buried as members of the Roman Catholic church. Under the 1978 constitution the church is no longer Spain's official or established faith, though financial support is still provided by the state. Because of the liberalized and increasingly urbanized way of life since the end of the Franco regime, there has been a decline in attendance at mass. The church's influence in Spanish society has declined sharply, though officially more than 94 percent of the population is reported as being Roman Catholic. The church supported the democratic movement and so helped foster the new attitude of tolerance and personal freedom found in present-day Spain. A major controversy between old-line religious conservatism and the move toward individual liberty came to a climax in 1981, when divorce was legalized. Movements seeking legalization of abortion are gaining strength. Many of Spain's non-Catholic citizens are members of some Protestant church. Small Eastern Orthodox congregations are found along with Muslim and Jewish groups. Among non-Christians Jews form the major community. Population Density Spain is overwhelmingly urban, with 76 percent of its people living in towns and cities. This concentration of Spain's people heightens the impression of emptiness that so often is commented on by travelers, especially those who cross the Meseta. Most of the Spanish portion of the Iberian Peninsula is very thinly populated. In the Centro-Meseta region only the areas around Madrid and Saragossa have pockets of dense settlement. The administrative district of Madrid is home for nearly 5 million, reporting 1,550 persons per square mile (600 per square kilometer), while the density for Spain as a whole is 199 (77 per square kilometer). Belts of dense settlement stretch along the Mediterranean from Barcelona, Valencia, Murcia, and Cartagena. Population density is relatively high over most of el Sur, where Seville and Malaga stand out as the largest centers. Across el Norte another ribbon of dense population stretches from the Galician ports, through the industrial centers of Santander and Bilbao, to San Sebastian in the Basque country. From 1950 to the mid-1970s Spain was a major exporter of workers. The demand for low-cost labor in the booming economies of Western Europe beyond the Pyrenees was like an irresistible magnet for hundreds of thousands of Spaniards. Most of these migrants were from the Meseta. Only the Madrid region of the Meseta showed a healthy gain in population during the period. Here the growth of government services and other economic activities provided sought-after jobs. The recession that began to affect Western Europe in 1974 soon ended the flood of Spanish emigration. Some Western European governments, eager to shorten their unemployment lines, offered economic inducements to migrants to return home. As a result the flow of people from Spain to the rest of Europe is now minimal. Culture Dress. In the past, rural Spanish people wore distinctive regional costumes. Today most Spaniards dress in modern clothes and would be hard to pick out of a group on the basis of their clothing. The beret is still widely worn, especially in the Basque country, and Galician men still favor cloth caps. Jeans, T-shirts, and tennis shoes are now as popular on the Iberian Peninsula as everywhere else in Europe. Cuisine. The Spanish, like other Mediterranean people, are particularly fond of sidewalk cafes, where a cup of coffee, glass of wine, or meal can be enjoyed with friends as the "world" passes by. Seafood is particularly favored on most Spanish menus. Olive oil is used abundantly in cooking, as are garlic, saffron, and peppers. Rice is popular, especially in el Sur and along the Mediterranean coast. Rice and pulses--dried beans, lentils, and chick peas--cooked with fish,chicken, or pork are basics in Spanish cuisine. Bullfighting. One thing that sets the Spanish apart from most Europeans living beyond the Pyrenees is their national spectacle of bullfighting. Every city and most towns of any size boast a bullring, where the crowds cheer their favorite but jeer the inept matador, or bullfighter, as he faces his large-horned adversary. Many Northern Europeans are critical of bullfighting and condemn it as a cruel blood sport. Most Spaniards, however, do not see it this way. To them bullfighting is an exciting test of bravery, skill, and grace. In terms of audience size, soccer fans now rival bullfight audiences. (See also Bullfighting.) Gambling. In the mid-1980s government-run lotteries triggered a craze for gambling that caused a journalist in 1988 to write that "Spaniards have gone gambling-mad." In 1987 a record-breaking 2.75 trillion pesetas (about 24.5 billion dollars) was staked, a figure almost twice that of 1982. Government-run lotteries, casino gambling, football pools, horse racing, bingo, and slot machines are proliferating in the liberal post-Franco atmosphere of today's Spain. In an effort to help the handicapped, Spanish lottery tickets are sold only by registered blind persons. They are a familiar sight on main street corners of every Spanish town. Spanish television advertising features flashy campaigns to boost sales. Because as much as 30 percent of lottery revenues go into the national treasury, the Spanish government backs the gambling craze. Visual arts. Beauty literally crowds Spain's great museums, cathedrals, and monasteries. Spanish kings collected masterpieces of art from all over Europe, but none surpassed the great works of Spain's own painters--Bartolome Murillo, Diego Velasquez, and Francisco de Goya. El Greco, who was born in Greece, is also considered a Spanish painter because he did his greatest work in Toledo. Prominent Spanish-born painters of the 20th century include Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro, and Salvador Dali. The Museum of the Prado in Madrid is one of the great art museums of the world. (See also Painting; Dali; Goya; Greco; Miro; Murillo; Picasso; Velasquez.) Architecture. Many historical architectural masterpieces survive in Spain, and the country made a number of contributions to the field. Such Roman works as theaters (Merida), bridges (Alcantara and Cordoba), and aqueducts (Segovia and Tarragona) remain from 500 years of Roman occupation. The Moors were responsible for Hispano-Moresque structures: Cordoba's Great Mosque (8th to 10th century, since 1236 a Christian cathedral), the Alcazar at Seville (14th century), and the Alhambra at Granada (14th-15th century). Mozarabic style was a derivative, exemplified by the Church of San Miguel de Escalada near Leon (10th century) and the Hermitage of San Baudilio de Barlanga near Burgos (early 11th century). This led to the Mudejar style--a blending of Moorish and Gothic for Christian and Jewish patrons. Notable examples of this style are in Toledo--a 12th- or 13th-century synagogue, now the church of Santa Maria la Blanca, and the 14th-century Synagogue del Transito, now Santa Maria del Transito (see Toledo, Spain). The Catalan Jose Benito Churriguera (1665-1725) gave his name to a style--Churrigueresque--identified with Spanish baroque. It consists of excessive ornament used everywhere in capricious variations. In the early 20th century, the Catalan architect Antonio Gaudi astonished the world with his neo-Gothic and neo-baroque works and his own version of art nouveau. His works are mostly in and around Barcelona, the best known being the unfinished Church of the Holy Family. (See also Gaudi, Antonio.) Literature. Spain has also developed notable writers through the centuries. Miguel de Cervantes' 'Don Quixote' has been translated into all major languages. Lope de Vega and Pedro Calderon de la Barca wrote brilliant plays. Miguel de Unamuno was a noted philosopher. (See also Unamuno, Miguel de.) The 1989 Nobel prize for literature was awarded to Spanish novelist Camilo Jose Cela. Other Spanish Nobel prizewinners were dramatists Jose Echegaray in 1904 and Jacinto Benavente in 1922 and lyric poets Juan Ramon Jimenez in 1956 and Vicente Aleixandre in 1977. (See also Spanish Literature; Calderon de la Barca, Pedro; Cervantes, Miguel de; Jimenez, Juan Ramon; Vega, Lope de.) Music. Musicians and composers have also carried Spain's rich cultural heritage to international audiences. Antonio de Cabezon, Tomas Luis de Victoria, Isaac Albeniz, Manuel de Falla, and Joaquin Turina are some of the best-known composers. Performing musicians such as guitarists Andres Segovia, Carlos Montoya, Narciso Yepes, and Celedonio Romero and his sons Celin, Pepe, and Angel; pianist Alicia de Larrocha; conductor Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos; soprano Victoria de los Angeles; and tenor Placido Domingo are famous. (See also Segovia, Andres.) ECONOMY The term modern miracle is often employed in discussions of Spain's post-Franco economic growth. Spain now boasts an economy that is one of the largest both in the European Union and in the world. Many factors have contributed to this amazing growth, including the return of workers from overseas. Most returning emigrants invest in housing and start small businesses with capital accumulated while working abroad. Even the few who return to their former rural villages usually take up modern market-oriented agricultural pursuits. The returnees and their families have accelerated the spread of consumerism and liberal attitudes throughout traditionally conservative Spain. Household appliances, stylish clothes, television sets, and cars, which were a basic part of their lives while they worked in other countries, no longer represent unattainable luxuries available to only a privileged few. The economy continued to boom throughout the 1980s. In the early 1990s the surge in economic growth was checked to some extent by a credit squeeze and high interest rates. Tourism Tourism has made a major contribution to Spain's spectacular economic growth. Spain is the destination of about 10 percent of the world's international tourists. In 1987 this amounted to more than 50 million, outnumbering the permanent population. Many foreigners spend winters in Spain's warmer climates. Tourism received a boost in the early 1990s, when the Summer Olympic Games were held in Barcelona and a world's fair attracted many thousands to Seville during the summer of 1992. Industry When compared to most partners in the European Union, Spain's industry is characterized by what European economists term "sensitive sectors," more popularly known as "smokestack" industries. This is partly the heritage of extreme economic nationalism and high tariffs. Protectionism, coupled with the Franco regime's constraints on labor unions and a docile labor force, made Spain an attractive setting for heavy industrial development. In the 1970s, when Spain's industrial leaders should have been reorganizing, the country was preoccupied with the highly involved political changeover from Franco's totalitarian regime to a modern democracy. As a result, Spain is behind in the modern industrial world of high technology. Although the large Spanish steel and shipbuilding industries are faced with serious challenges from emerging less-developed countries, the automobile industry is booming. In the 1980s Spain broke into the ranks of Europe's largest producers of automobiles. By 1984 Spain ranked well ahead of Great Britain, exporting 61 percent of production--the highest rate in the world. More than 90 percent went to markets in the European Communities (now the European Union). Now the world's sixth largest producer, Spain is set to become Western Europe's small-car production center. Spain's heavy smokestack industries--such as iron and steel, machine tools, and metalworking--have tended to cluster in el Norte at centers like Bilbao, Santander, and Oviedo. The so-called transformation industries--such as electronics, textiles, and plastics--are most highly concentrated in the Barcelona region of el Este. Madrid is the financial heart of the economy and a focus of light industry and high-technology developments. The automobile industry is spread out, but Madrid, Barcelona, Zaragoza, and Valencia are the chief production centers. General Motors, Ford, and IBM are among the largest exporters in Spain.
tt
s, - Sunday, November 04, 2001 at 09:21:03 (PST)

Edward - the clock is wr0ng in the Chat room. Can you sort it? It's hard enough trying to figure out the time difference on this page as well as having the wrong time in the Chat Room. Ta, Tim the Time Lord.
Tim <The Time Lord>
- Sunday, November 04, 2001 at 08:19:27 (PST)

Tonight only at Lengs Snooker Club the esteemed Happy The Man.
Happy The Man
- Sunday, November 04, 2001 at 02:12:27 (PST)

I am so thankful that I was able to view this site sent to me by a friend.God Bless You All. This was a very interesting site to read about.God Bless You All.
Marie <marieb@uslink.net>
Pine River, MN. USA - Saturday, November 03, 2001 at 17:23:00 (PST)

let there be light !!!!!!!. seaham town council, for the kids
mad max
- Saturday, November 03, 2001 at 16:04:28 (PST)

jackie , listen to what people are saying to you SHUT UP and stop writing long boring entries PLEASE.
sid snot
- Saturday, November 03, 2001 at 15:45:36 (PST)

Julie, what "negative behaviour" are you talking about? Do not refer to me as if we were still kids at school. We are both adults and quite frankly, back in March you were the one leaving me rude, insulting messages on this guest-book for no reaason. I, on the other hand, yes, I am opinionated, but I make my comments as a response to other people who are asking for suggestion and opinions. And I am certainly not rude to people for no reason. Also, I aoplogise when I have made a mistake or offended anyone. Julie, if we cannot agree to be civil to one another, then, let us just ignore each other - okay? If you have any more comments to me, please E-mail me. Have a good day!
Jacqueline
USA - Saturday, November 03, 2001 at 08:45:54 (PST)

FOR THE BOOK OF CONDOLENCE. --------------------------- My Wife Gwen (Nee ROUNTREE) & I SEND OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO ALL THE RELATIVES & FREINDS OF THOSE THAT WERE KILLED AND INJURED IN THAT TERRIBLE EVENT THAT TOOK PLACE ON SEPT 11th in NEW YORK MY WIFE HAS 3 SISTERS LIVING OUT THERE,JENNY,MARG, AND DOROTHY AND THE DAY IT HAPPENED SHE WAS WORRIED SICKAS THE FAMILY HAVE DAUGHTERS LIVING NEAR BY THE TRADE CENTRE. ALSO WE SEND THOUGHTS TO ALL THE EMERGANCY SERVICES IN NEW YORK FOR THE EXCELLENT WORK THEY DID. Gwen & Bill Mustard
GWEN & BILL MUSTARD <TOBEY0@aol.com>
BOGNOR REGIS, WEST SUSSEX ENGLAND - Saturday, November 03, 2001 at 08:40:54 (PST)

Oh, and if you do email me, let me know on here as I don't use often check in at that address these days.
NTJ
- Saturday, November 03, 2001 at 06:23:59 (PST)

Thomas, let me know when you will next be in the daisy. Due to Family coms. et cetera I can only show during the week. Roughly where is it, I don't know the Town that well. Would be good to meet B 4 your next trip if possible, you may be able to help me with a project I am about to undertake in the Far East. Tony won't be over for a while so you won't meet him yet, he still hasn't sent the money to fund a 'round' but he did ask how much he should make the Banker's Order out for. You can, with confidence, send me a note to notthomasjohnson@hotmail.com and I'll reply with a phone number so we can make arrangements. On the level.
NTJ <notthomasjohnson@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, November 03, 2001 at 06:22:54 (PST)

Everyone who responds to J. Markie is positiveley reinforcing her negative behaviour. If we all ignore her she may do one of two things: treat the site and other people with respect, or, go away,( either one suits me ). Joolz.
Julie Davis <julie2033@yahoo.com>
Seaham, Durham England - Saturday, November 03, 2001 at 05:04:56 (PST)

Just had a quick look at the once interesting G.B.MARKIE for everyone's sake give it a bloody rest.Have you got no one in that wonderful country you live in to E.M. your continuing drivel to? I'am sure there are like minded god fearing persons somewhere over there,I know they will be hard to find but let me assure you everyone in Seaham will be only too willing to assist you in your quest.Hev a nice day pet......
tony from spain¿
Spain of course - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 15:28:15 (PST)

Miss Markie, Do you have a life? I bet not, otherwise, how would you find so much time to try to ruin everyone elses right to use this web page. With the amount of time you spend telling everyone how wonderful you are, it is obvious you have no friends, and no one thinks you're worth a tinkers damn. Otherwise, you would spend time with the friends you profess to have. Please, do not use this site as your soap box. Your opinions insult me, and as I look at others comments, there are many that feel as I do. This is the Seaham Guestbook, not the Jaquiline, Miss Markie, pulpit.
Wills
Portland, OR USA - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 15:27:41 (PST)

Ms Jaquiline is Bin Laden in disguise
tootsie
kabul, afganastan - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 15:24:33 (PST)

To "little Sea" then who are you? use your real name and stop being a scared mouse - come on, you can come out of your little warm mouse hole and tell us all who you are. Or, you can e-mail me and tell me who you are. If you are Catholic, then I hope you went to Mass today. Hey I just bought a great book called "The Power of The Eucharist" It is really moving. But the book and you will fall in love again with your faith and just have a passion for the Lord. God Bless, your guest-book friend, Miss Markie :) PS The Lord and our Blessed Mother works wonders in my life - I am taught a lot about having "Humility!" and admitting when I am wrong about my historical facts! Just as well I have a good sense of humor and can smile at my own shortcomings. Again, I aoplogise I was so quick to tell you, you were wrong. Again, have a great day!
Jacqueline
USA - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 12:48:09 (PST)

I am a Fartolic
THE FART MASTER <FART@FART>
FART, FART, FART, FART,FART, FART,FART, FART FART - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 10:17:12 (PST)

Does anyone know the whereabouts of Tom Garrett of Seaham. I know he is in the Air Force now, but would love to get in touch. Thanks
Vanessa <vanessa.charlton@citysun.ac.uk>
Sunderland, UK - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 09:50:45 (PST)

I did major in history and I am a Catholic
the little sea anenome
- Friday, November 02, 2001 at 09:15:50 (PST)

Do not underestimate the power of THE FART MASTER.
THE FART MASTER <FART@FART>
FART, FART, FART, FART,FART, FART,FART, FART FART - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 09:05:18 (PST)

To "Little Sea" I apologise that I was wrong and will humbly admit you were right! :) Have a good rest of the day, your guest-book friend, Miss Markie.
Jacqueline
USA - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 08:59:09 (PST)

To "Little Sea" I apologise that I was wrong and will humbly admit you were right! :) Have a good rest of the day, your gest-book friend, Miss Markie.
Jacqueline
USA - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 08:58:43 (PST)

Quite Frankly, people, why do you have to stress that Guy Falks night is also about killing all catholics - Most of the children I work with are catholics as they are from Mexico or south America. Besides, Catholics and Protestants are all Christians - there is no difference in that we all believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God and he died for our sins, so that we may have eternal life with him in heaven. So quit your "dig-inns" about Catholics. There are many Protestant denominations and there is the Catholic denomination, however, our common bond is that we all believe in Jesus Christ. So why bicker over something so trivial as the minor differences within our denominations. By the way today is All Saint's Day - a Holy Day of obligation and tomorrow is All Souls Day, so let us all pray for our loved ones and for all those souls who were killed in the September 11th attacks.
Jacqueline
USA - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 08:56:40 (PST)

To Julie Davis, thank you for the information. Actually come to think of it, I think I know who you are. Have a nice day! Miss Markie.
Jacqueline
USA - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 08:47:39 (PST)

FARTMASTER SAYS.......STOP BICKERING KIDDIES OR I'LL FART ON YOU.
THE FART MASTER <FART@FART>
FART, FART FART - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 08:42:57 (PST)

The Gun Powder plot was carried out by Catholics against James 1st and Calvinism, there are a lot of web sites about it. May I also point out that it is rude to insinuate that other people aren't very clever, indeed it indicates that they themselves are ignorant bigots. I did no think that the site was for such purposes. No response to this required thanks - Joolz
Julie Davis <julie2033"yahoo.com>
Seaham, DURHAM - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 05:59:33 (PST)

To "little Sea" Nope! I think you have your history wrong! I was never taught that bonefire night was also about killing all Catholics. In fact, I do not ever remember being taught anything about killing a certain sect of people. Maybe you should revise your history books - it is obvious you are not a history major. It is a shame, because history is so much fun! :) and informative - it is fascinating! You are missiong out on a lot. Anyway, have a Blessed Day!
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 05:19:19 (PST)

If Lee Bunch is ever out there on the Guest-book, I saw your comments on www.friendsReunited.co.uk - Glad that you remembered me! Yes, I was all teeth - and yes! that was my smile!!!! I still like to smile!!! but I do not think I am as goofy! I too remember Mr. Macneany, you were in my English class and you, Paul Maghan, Richard Whitmore, Glynis Jones, Joanne Bryan and a few others use to make fun of me and said that I read - posh! Now I suppose I read American - Oh, who knows, I just have a funny accent now that is all, but do not sound like I come from Seaham - that is the truth! Anyway, SOOOO Glad you are doing well. If you get this message E-mail me sometime. I will actually pay the 5 pounds on my visa card today so that I can e-mail people from the friends re-united. Take Care and God Bless! Jacqueline Markie
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 04:01:33 (PST)

Jacqueline, I hope that you remeber to tell kids that the burning of the guy is in celebtration of killing Catholics.
the little sea anenome
- Friday, November 02, 2001 at 01:37:50 (PST)

the date was 1605 for bon fire nite. maybe in 300 years time people will be celebrating 11th september 2001 for another terrorist just like guy faulkes by the name of bin laden........
sid snot
- Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 14:48:25 (PST)

Hi, Jacqueline: Guy Fawkes night (Bonfire night) is November 5. My husband used to also celebrate Nov 4 - Mischief night, he claims not really "bad mischief". Do you remember the song - Light up the sky with Standard fireworks, heres to remember the fifth of November (I think thats how it goes!!) We celebrate Thankgiving around October 8. I think it is to thank God for the crops - I could be wrong. I remember Harvest Festival and distributing the food to the elderly in the "Lawns". I live in British Columbia about 1 hours drive away from Vancouver, yes Victoria is a beautiful place, the thing I always notice is people love the flowering baskets and take a lot of time and patience in their gardens. Apparently there is also a brilliant museum but I have never been in it. Thank goodness the rain has stopped for all the little trick or treaters.
Joan <mark_watkinson@telus.net>
Mission, British Columbia Canada - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 13:57:55 (PST)

Joan, I guess Canada and America are very much alike. I too, was telling a group of kids from the children's home about Guy Falks night and how it got started, when Guy Falkes wanted to blow up the houses of Parliment with "Gun powder, treason and plot" which is why we make a guy out of straw or hay and burn him on top of the bonfire. However, I could not remember the date at all. Does anyone know what the date was? It would be useful to me - so when I tell the story behind it, I have a date to back me up. Anyway, the children found it all weird. The kids also find it boring that in England we do not carve Pumpkins and have Pumkin pie and trick or treating. But I explained to them, that it is a difference of customs and traditions in each countries. One thing I often get asked, is "Does England celebrate Thansgiving?" I explain we have Harvest festival in September and the school kids go to church and put their baskest of food, fruit and vegetables at the altar and later they are usually distrubted to the elderly. I know that in Canada Thanksgiving is celebrated at a different date to American Thanksgiving. We have Thanksgiving here on the third Thursday of November and it is a reminder of when the English Pligrims came over on the Mayflower in 1630? (I think? I am not sure of the date - somewhere around there) to be able to have their religious freedom rights. The American native Indians shared their food with the Pilgrims - mainly Turkey and fresh corn (which is why corn is a popular vegetable in America) as well as potatoes and other vegetables. Is the Canadian Thanksgiving celebrated for any significant historical fact, or is it more of a Harvest fesival as it is in England? When I was in Canada, the summer of 1992 for a month visitng friends in Toronto, adn Hamilton the Canadians do not like to be compared to Americans; which is similar to the Scottish, they do not like to be compared to the English - but we are all British. Anyway, I had a lot of fun in Canada it is very nice. Though, I have heard that British Columbia, Victoria is absolutely beautiful!
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 12:06:26 (PST)

Thanks for your reply Sara, but it has to do with the inside of your computer
charlton <charlton1937.fsnet.com>
seaham, durham england - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 11:57:04 (PST)

Yes I had forgotten that part, we did call the turnips, Jack Shine O' Maggies, was that just a Geordie word, my husband is from Yorkshire and didnt use that word, although they did carve turnips. Happy Halloween. Do you still have bonfires and Penny for the guy, and burn him on the top of the fire? I told my kids about doing that and they thought it was very weird.
Joan <mark_watkinson@telus.net>
Mission, Canada - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 11:02:05 (PST)

BRANDY, Bessies hole is still there, the pits have all gone, and so has the wooden bridge. Where the Cosy used to stand has been developed, and there is half of Malvern left. The rest of it was sold and the properties refurbished and turned into private houses. They are really nice, in fact my daughter lives there, hope that answers your questions. John Armes you saddo wht are you doing on this site? Hope you are well and like your new house.
Julie Davis <julie2033@yahoo.com>
Seaham, Durham England - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 08:27:18 (PST)

Eastlea Community Centre now boasts a beautiful brand new IT suite. There are courses available for everyone, from drop-in for older users to homework clubs for younger users. Elaine the IT development manager will be on hand to help with any queries and assist you if you get stuck. We have the internet, a web cam, a scanner and all sorts of good ideas to share. Do call in, you'll be made very welcome.
Elaine Marriott <elli@manisty.freeserve.co.uk>
seaham, durham england - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 08:21:33 (PST)

New Project for young people at Eastlea Community Centre. It's called the E-TYPE (Education and Training for Young People into Employment)and is for 16-25 year olds. Has lots to offer, can help with practically any problem young people face and staff will support and help them for as long as it takes. So if you are a young person or you know a young person in need, remember we are here. Have a nice day !
Julie Davis <julie2033@yahoo.com>
seaham, durham England - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 08:12:40 (PST)

BRUCE, The Water Babies seems an appropriate book for you to read! and in keeping with your limited vocabulary, so keep at it Lad, one of these days you will "grow up" we hope and make a worthwhile contribution to this G/book
Thomas Johnson <Ex-Seaham>
- Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 04:56:46 (PST)

3rd of November Lengs Snooker club. The one and only HAPPY THE MAN. For all your New Order, Erasure, OMD, Pet Shop Boys needs.
Happy The Man <happy@home.com>
Seaham, Durham England - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 04:52:34 (PST)

Excellent web site. I was born in Seaham in 1951 & moved to Burton-on-Trent in Staffordshire in 1954 & it must be 25years since i last visited Seaham. good to see Seaham seems to be getting some investment for regeneration after the devestation of the coal industry in the 1980's. agree with comments about art, seaham is a traditional community. need a list of hotels / guest houses on tourism site. I have gained a lot of information about me place of birth from both your web site & SULPHa's. I hope to revisit seaham in the near future to do a 'root's' type visit.
tom raworth <tw.raworth@ntlworld >
hilton, derbyshire - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 04:15:59 (PST)

To "Bruce" and "CB" Now hey, there is no need to be so rude or mean. If someone on the guest-book writes an entry and asks for an opinion, as "Lesley Roberts" from Arizona did, just last week on the topic from what she read in the "on line" Sunderland Echo, of course I was going to answer her back and give her an opinion, as that was what she asked for. Therefore, if she had not asked for an opinion, I would most likley not have made an entry on such an issue. Also, if Victoria had not made her opinion in regards to Our American President, George W. Bush, on the issue of homosexuals, again, I would most likey not have answered her or made an opinion on the topic. I am NOT blaming others, what I am saying is, if people on the guest-book are going to ask for opinions, then I am going to give one. Furthermore, you do not see me, writing back rude and insulting comments to those who do make opinions. This guest-book may also not only be used to contact old friends, it can be used for whatever people want it, as long as it does NOT become insulting to others; and I do not think opinions are insulting. In fact, it is a good thing we all have differences of opinions, as it gives a balance and a moderation in society - and it opens a door for discussions. So come on! people! stop being so miffed over small things - haven't you heard of "Don't Sweat The Small Stuff In Life." There are much more important things to be concerned over. I think we all learned from the September 11th attacks that life is too short and too precious to be fussing over trivial things. I think you all get annoyed with me because I just say it how it is and I am not afraid to stick to my convictions - well, just get over it. I am not rude to any of you. Anyway, have a nice day and Happy Halloween!!!
Jacqueline
USA - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 03:40:08 (PST)

HI DOES ANYBODY KNOW THE WEREABOUTS OF SUSAN @ VALERIE BELL FROM PARKSIDE WAITING TO HERE
DURAN
USA - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 22:40:20 (PST)

MISS MARKIE---Why don't you get a life and keep your drivel off the internet. This site was not meant for idiots to release their feelings to the world. You and a few of your cronies have ruined it.
CB
Brampton, Ont Canada - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 16:51:50 (PST)

Joan, those turnip lanterns - we called them "Jack Shine O'Maggies" did you? Mind you, when I was a kid we said things like "coined off" as well. Nowadays people just turn a corner!
John Armes
- Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 15:43:32 (PST)

Miss Markie, I am not miffed, just totally fed up of your attempts to hijack this guestbook and in the process put off other people from contributing worthwhile entries, how about limiting yourself to one sensible entry per week, less is more as they say, your need to appear in print so frquently must surely be a sign of some insecurity, unlike other guestbook friends I will not be providing oxygen for your flame, and as such this correspondence is now closed. Bruce.
BRUCE <hairychest@postmaster.co.uk>
SEAHAM, UK - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 15:30:00 (PST)

To "Bruce" Actually I do meet old school chums on this guest-book. if I did not contribute with such a strong opinion, then I would not have attracted the attention of a friend who I have not heard from in years. We are now e-mailing each other. So Bruce, you continue to enjoy this guest-book as most of us do and if you cannot debate without being miffed, then do not debate and ignore the topics. By the way, "Happy Halloween" everyone. Joan from Canada is right, the same applies here in America - Halloween is a big celebration. I also remember just carving out turnips and I carve out pumpkins with the children and wear halloween sweeaters! and just have so much fun! Take Care everyone and God Bless!
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 14:03:17 (PST)

Can anyone tell me if Bessies Hole is still there? Can anyone tell me if the Cosy is still there? Can anyone tell me if the wooden railway bridge at Deneside is still there? Can anyone tell me if the Nack pit is still there? Can anyone tell me if Malvern Cersent is still there?
Brandy
Ex Seaham Resident, - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 13:35:44 (PST)

Happy Halloween everyone: it is 20 years since I had a Halloween in Seaham, but here in Canada people go crazy, commercially I think it is almost as important as Christmas, houses are decorated, and tons of money spent on the perfect costume. I remember as a kid, my mam or dad carving out a turnip - it must have taken some work, and putting a candle in it (we ate turnip for a week!!) thank goodness over here we carve pumpkins (do they do that in Seaham now?) In Seaham we would carry the turnip around the streets. Now my kids carve pumpkins and the pumpkins sit on the deck with a candle in. Kids dress up and go from door to door asking for treats. By the end of the night they have a carrier bag full of goodies. I have some great childhood memories of Halloween. Hope everyone has a good one. It will soon be Bonfire night - something we don't do here - more great memories.
Joan <mark_watkinson@telus.net>
Mission Canada - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 13:30:48 (PST)

It is quite apparrent from the lack of genuine entries on this guestbook that people are treating this facility as the joke that it has become and dont wish to waste their time using it for its original purpose of stirring old memories, and contacting friends, family and people who owe them money. Miss Markie, why dont you use your time more productively? i`m afraid you are simply boring the pants off me and many other people with your ability to have an opinion on EVERYTHING, as far as your childhood goes, have you ever sought counselling? it must be great to have worked in Germany but thats wearing a bit thin now. As far as your abhorence of gay people goes, why not read Charles Kingsleys "The Water Babies," you will find a very good character called Mrs Doasyouwouldbedoneby, if people stopped ramming their interpretation of the Bible down other peoples throats and took this lady as their example, then the world would be a much nicer place. OOh my cat has just broken wind, lets all stand by for an important announcement from Jacqueline on the affect this has on the ozone layer.
BRUCE <hairychest@postmaster.co.uk>
SEAHAM, UK - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 12:59:08 (PST)

Great game against Arsenal on Saturday. Peter nearly got it right playing three centre halves. But if he wants it better with the present squad he needs to play Varga as an attacking centre half not as a sweeper. Hasn't it gone quiet about Sinclair!
Peter's Mentor
Seaham, UK - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 12:38:14 (PST)

I see that the Judiciary in their "wisdom" have reduced Tony Martin's sentence to Manslaughter and given him 5 years instead of a life sentence, One of Dickens characters once said "The law is an Ass" and this 5-year sentence seems to prove it! Tony Martin was just a frightened Man, who must have been frantic when he pulled the trigger on that young thug, who broke into his home. I regret the loss of any life, but my sympathies are on the side of Tony Martin, I think the Appeal Judges are sticking up two fingers to the Public, whose thoughts are with the Accused, lets hope a further appeal will be more benificial to Tony. and sorry for the strong language1
Thomas Johnson
Ex Seaham, - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 12:28:57 (PST)

Colin, I hadn't realised that you were in charge of censorship. Were you going to delete the site from your computer, or from the face of the earth?
vix <drvmccabe@aol.com>
- Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 12:26:59 (PST)

just passing thruogh,hello to anybody who went to st.bedes1971-76.
rob
seaham, durham england - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 12:25:22 (PST)

Unfortunately, I have only one tongue, so cannot respond to both your entries. Also unfortunately, you have allowed this page to be dominated by the unadulterated garbage issuing by the Markies of this world.It is very clear she has a very jaundiced view of the world, and intends sharing it with everone here whether you want it or not.Consequently, the site has very little to do with Seaham.
Colin Hall
Wellington, New Zealand - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 12:23:38 (PST)

Okay, people of this guest-book, I guess I have done it again and bugged you all - and why? I think because I am not afraid to give my opinion to a topic and have a debate and stick to my own beliefs. For heavens sake! each time I debate and speak my opinion, y'all start bombarding me. At leastI can make some insightful contributions to this guest-book. You know, we can all learn from each others life's experiences and opinions. Actually, I learn a lot from my dear friend, Victoria, she is a lot more liberal than I am, and gives me a whole new perspective on issues. I may not always agree with her, but at least it opens a door for thought and discussion. So come on people, stop getting miffed at my contributions. Remember, life is too precious and too short to be getting miffed over something as trivial as my guest-book contributions. Have a great day everyone! God Bless!
Jacqueline <Mary Markie@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 12:21:56 (PST)

Colin Hall, Cat got your tongue?
Seaham Resident
- Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 14:43:07 (PST)

Colin Hall, Cat got your tongue?
Seaham Resident
- Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 14:28:09 (PST)

I agree with Sid Snot, people are getting tired of your prolonged and boring lectures regarding your personal life and background. Lets get on with how life is now and how we can make it better for all. When it comes down to it we all have a story to tell but most prefer not to let the whole world know.
Lil
USA - Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 08:21:42 (PST)

Hello to all the people who read this.For two years I staied in Seaham with an exchange.It was a nice time there and I want to come to Seaham again in the next years.When you know Leanne Johnson, say "Hello" from me.Have a nice time.Bye p.s. sorry for my bad English.
Stephanie <servusle@aol.com>
Gerlingen, Germany - Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 08:20:23 (PST)

Jaquiline, or Markie as your e-mail address suggests. If you have trouble with this gay woman, why do you still associate with her???? I think we all know who is sick. Why do you insist putting your drivel here? Go find a chat room that caters to your kind instead of bothering the people that really want this page to be used as intended.
Wills
Portland, Oregon USA - Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 08:18:05 (PST)

Victoria, I had the discussion with my gay female friend what she think of gay couples raising children. My friend, was married a long time ago, had two children, a few years afterwards, she got divorced. She did not raise her children, her ex-husband did. Her opinion is this: Gay couples should NOT raise children as it confuses the children as to what is suppose to take place morally between a man and a woman. My friend, though she is gay, she is also a practicing Catholic and realizes being gay is sinful toward the Christian teachings. Therefore, she refrains from acting out the sinful actions of having a relationship with the same sex. She strongly feels that gays should NOT raise children as it really does send the wrong message to children and it can, in actual fact, have a tremendous impact and influence on the children. So there you have it! And of course, as I work everyday with children as I have for the past 14 years, of course I am more conservative in my ! way of teaching and I know exactly what society is doing to children and quite frankly, soceity is way too liberal and laxy-daisy and is sending the wrong messages to children. Victoria, I think you are a great person - as I remember you from school and you are very accomplished - so I feel kind of bad that I completely disagree with you on most of the issues discussed on this guest-book. I hope you do not take it personally -we just have differences of opinions. But again, that is okay as it helps gives a balance in society.
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 08:16:05 (PST)

hi i am just responding to jacqueline markies comment about when she was at school and she was bullied i knew her and she was never bullied especially by my self or a few others she said i would like for u jacqueline to contact me and see what kind of live i have now
jackie <mad_aunt@hotmail.com>
seaham, durham england - Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 08:13:28 (PST)

Jacqueline pet you seem to be a very unwell person. Can I suggest you see your doctor - you have a need to talk. Best wishes
P. Catching
- Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 08:11:29 (PST)

Colin Hall, When was the last time you contributed a serious topic to the Guest Book? stop knocking this wonderful G/book and lets see you make some worthwhile topics or arguments!
Seaham Resident
- Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 08:10:24 (PST)

Sid Snot, ta for pointing out how boring other peoples' messages are, while leaving such an entertaining message yourself.
the little sea anenome
- Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 08:09:19 (PST)

Richard Thorpe; Thank you, I couldn't have said it better myself. There is so much unadulterated rubbish written that I was seriously considering deleting the site.
Colin Hall
Wellington, New Zealand - Monday, October 29, 2001 at 07:44:21 (PST)

Hello to Richard Thorpe and Goodbye! keep your word and don't return for 6 Months or hopefully longer Cheers.
Tom Mix
- Monday, October 29, 2001 at 07:42:56 (PST)

miss markie and dr vix why dont you give each other your phone numbers instead of boring everybody else with your long tedious messages
sid snot <sid@snot>
- Monday, October 29, 2001 at 07:41:43 (PST)

charlton, does SIMMS stand for Seaham Intermediate School???
Sara
Seaham, - Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 12:58:38 (PST)

To Richard Thorpe. You've got a point Richard, but I think people have a riht to discuss whatever they want on the GB as long as it's not offensive (there is always the AGB for that). If everyone was like you and only visited the GB every 6 months there wouldn't be much going on would there?
Sal
Seaham, Durham UK - Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 12:56:45 (PST)

Anybody out there can fix me up with any old SIMMS memory
charlton <charlton1937.fsnet.com>
seaham, durham england - Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 12:52:15 (PST)

Could I please ask why everyone seems to be discussing sexually related topics in a Seaham Harbour guest book. Could I also say hi to all those people visiting this website outside of the seaham area. Hope you enjoyed it. Anyone from Seaham, e-mail me, Ive never actually spoken to anyone else from seaham online! thanx, luv Lyndsey
Lyndsey <www.kickassiny2k@aol.co.uk>
Seaham, Durham England - Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 12:50:27 (PST)

To Victoria, I am more comfortable around gay men, for just exactly what you said, that gay men are not likely to fancy me, than gay women are and I know that, because my friend, who is female, who is gay, has the "hots!!!" for me and I am So VERY UNCOMFORTABLE around her. It annoys the heck out of me. I find it to be sick, perverted and pure un-natural. In fact, I rarely get together with her for coffee or lunch because she stares at me all the time and my goodness! it is the most uncomfortable feeling - it is not natural for a member of a sex to be so attracted to the same sex. To me it is sick! Think how you would feel if one of your gay female friends fancied you? I bet deep down you would feel uncomfortable. Furthermore, associating on a regular basis with someone who is gay, who thinks they are in love with you, is only encouraging perverted thoughts for the gay person - it does not help the situation and it encourages sin. It is like if I find a man attractive! and I am having sexual thoughts about him, because I think he is so very cute, then by hanging around him, when he is not available, then I am just encouraging myself to have impure thoughts.
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 12:48:03 (PST)

Miss J.Markie is the new Joan of Arc.
The Pope
- Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 12:44:59 (PST)

Jacqueline, hi! I just re-read the bit about you being more comfortable around a gay man than a gay woman. I find this hard to understand. Gay people are not more likely to fancy you, or to be predatory, or to be perverted. Do you feel uncomfortable around all heterosexual men?
dr vix
- Saturday, October 27, 2001 at 13:04:47 (PDT)

Hi Jacqueline, I can't help but disagree with you. You've written when you think about homosexuality you have to agree that it's unnatural; well I don't. You say you have gay friends and then go on to say that you think it's not normal to be gay. If someone ever called me abnormal I wouldn't consider that person a friend. You mention high divorce rates and yet you seem to think that most children would only think it was normal to have two parents; one male and one female. This is a very out of date idea of a family unit. I was brought up by my mam, who was a single parent, and I didn't think this was abnormal. If a child is brought up in a safe and loving home then why should their environment seem abnormal to them? By the way I just got back from seeing a Mark Thomas gig in Edinburgh. He was fantastic and got a well deserved standing ovation. I don't think that you'd agree with his view-point that the U.S. is the greatest supporter of terrorism (supplier of arms to,! and trainer of terrorists) in the world though.
dr vix
- Saturday, October 27, 2001 at 13:03:26 (PDT)

To "Lesely" Yes, I am very conservative, however, I am NOT an extremist! I am very vocal when it comes to speaking out my own opinons on issues. However, I am also open to listening to other people's point of view. Take Victoria for example, she is, in my opinion, a lot more liberal than I am. However, she always gives me something to think about. I take the time to read her comments and evaluate and reflect what she has said about a certain topic. Then, if I agree, I agree, if I don't agree, then I don't. But at least I take the time to reflect. I have friends who are not of the Catholic faith, I have a good friend who is agnostic, I have friends who are African American, in fact, next week she and I are going to the city to the spa, to lunch and to shop! :) (My favorite thing!) If I was so right wing, I think my parents would have made quite a few comments when they were visiting me this past March, but even they noticed, as much as I am conservative, I try very ha! rd to accept people for who they are. I think I come accross as a judgmental, critical, right wing extremist, when really I am not. I am just NOT SHY when it comes to voicing my own opinions and preferences.
Jacqueline <Mary markie@aol.com>
Chicago, USA - Saturday, October 27, 2001 at 13:01:45 (PDT)

Being Seaham born and bred I once visited this site regularly, but over the last six months I have not bothered until now. I find it incomprehensible just how much drivel, personal attacks, sniping, backbiting, and downright stupidity is allowed in the enrties on the guestbook. Isn't it about time that everyone read the note on the guestbook header where people are invited to contribute. It says "The main purpose of this guestbook is to allow Seaham Harbour folk around the world to keep in touch, to find each other, to explore their roots and to share cherished recollections." Somehow it seems impossible for contributors to follow this suggestion. From reading the comments over the last six months I suspect there are only around 20% that are justifiable entries. This viewpoint is probably one of the eighty per cent not justified but I had to say something, and having had my say I probably won't be visiting this guestbook for another six months or so. It's about time ! Ed took a hard line and tidied up things with all the drivel and un-related contributions being confined to the alternative guestbook where they belong. Richard Thorpe (not a pseudonym).
Richard Thorpe <thorpe53.freeserve.co.uk>
Sunderland, - Saturday, October 27, 2001 at 12:59:52 (PDT)

Lesley, I just read your entry, and this is just what I have been talking about for a long time now - people have just become so darn too liberal for words! To supply 13 years old with condoms and the morning after pill, is just encouraging sexual intercourse among teenagers. Come on adults! Be with me on this one. Why are we not teaching our children to wait until marriage before engaging in sexual intercourse. (Or at least to wait until they are emotionally mature enough to deal with a sexual relationship. Teenagers do not have the emotional capability to understand the full depth of an involved sexual relationship.) Why are we no longer teaching children/teenagers/young adults about having respect for their bodies as well as their partners bodies? Why are we no longer teaching morals and the morals of the Christian teachings are the same morals of any religious group. In fact, the muslim faith is one of the strictest when it comes to people staying virgins until m! arriage. Our world no longer knows "what is sin" because we have become so liberal and it is all a "free for all" attitude. If you just look at the magazines in the stores at the checkout counter, what are most of them about? Sex! and having the perfect body, money, greedy, power, control. We have a pathetic T.V show called, "Sex in the City" it is directed to the age group of the 20's I would say, however, many high school kids watch it, and what is the message it is giving out? Yes, that is right, It is giving the message that it is okay to just have sex with whoever, whenever - not a thought on personal self-respect. In fact, more than half of the televisions shows are focused on free sex, money, greed, power, control and plain selfishess! You know, children today are just growing up too fast - faster than their emotional maturity can keep up and parents and other adults encourage it. I see children everyday, and everyday I can see their innocence slowly been taken away fro! m them. Children are now desensitized against violence, sex, greed etc... because that is all they see playing those video games, and the movies they go and see. Families no longer teach that girls are ladies and boy are gentlemen. I was on a date the other week with a very nice man, and he was complimented because I let him pay for my dinner. Whereas, some women he has gone out with are so liberal, they want to pay for their own dinner and this gives the message to the man, that a woman no longer wants to be treated with gentleness. Now, after I have gone on a few more dates with a man, then I offer to pay for dinner or take him out for dessert or lunch. I believe in "Women's Rights" but it has just gone over board and now look at the message we are sending to our young children, who, by the way, are our future leaders - what a mess! So what is the other alternative to not handing out comdons or supplying the morning after pill? I guess the alternative would be more teenage! pregnancy - we are in a "catch 22!" Children are just exposed to far too much these days - I mean for goodness sake take a look at the music that is focused toward children. Brittany Spears for one - all her music is about is sex! and she gears her music to 8, 9, 10, 11 years old and parents go and buy their children this type of music. Come on adults, Wake Up!!!! Lesley, I have no idea what the answer is - I just think we all need to go back to morals and values and go back to whatever religion we are comfortable with and turn back to God because the world is just getting out of hand! There is just too much sorrow in our world today and we are doing it ourselves - we only have ourselves to blame. As of yet, I am not married and therefore do not have children, but at times, I think to myself, I am not sure I want children, because I do not know if I would want to raise my children in such a loose, selfish, greedy, imoral society - it has just got so out of hand! Another examp! le, I sent my nephews some things from America and not one of their parents can sit down with the children and teach them to write me a thank you note and they are older kids. I mean, that is just manners in general and it is a value of appreciation. - just where is the respect for one's self and for others these days? Because I think it has been lost for years now and I am not sure we are doing a good enough job at finding it back again. Well, I have had a good rant and rave, so I am off for now. Have a good day everyone. I would be interested to read other people's comments.
Jacqueline <Mary Markie@aol.com>
Chicago, USA - Saturday, October 27, 2001 at 12:57:16 (PDT)

: I just finished reading the Echo online today. How about a new line of conversation. In an attempt to cut teenage pregnancies in Sunderland kids as young as 13 can register for condom cards for free condoms and they'll be making available the morning -after pill. Thoughts on this anyone.
Lesley Roberts <ladyboss67@yahoo.co.uk>
Phoenix, Arizona USA - Saturday, October 27, 2001 at 02:02:36 (PDT)

Come on Brian B. Give Hacqueline a break. At least she is sharing her opinions, you don't have to agree with them. And her submissions to the GB have caused some good discussions. If you want Mad Max use the AGB.
Sal
Seaham, Durham UK - Friday, October 26, 2001 at 15:17:38 (PDT)

: Whether you agree with it or not Jacqueline, you'll have to join the rest of the 21st Century in recognizing what is a valid sector of society. You seem to have a hard enough time assimilating with the rest of modern society that doesn't share your cloistered views. Do you really think people would submit their lifestyle to the scrutiny and scorn of people like you just for the fun of it and to be fashionable. You will always have the extreme fringe groups whose behaviour you find objectionable (Right-wing extreme christians and the KKK for example} As long as a child has two loving parents whatever their gender what's the big deal! Some would think that your views shoved down
Lesley Roberts <ladyboss67@yahoo.co.uk>
Phoenix, Arizona USA - Friday, October 26, 2001 at 15:14:34 (PDT)

How long will Seaham Harbour on Line have to put up with mary markie@aol.com I ask myself? Come back MAD MAX all is forgiven.
Brian B <beresford.b@lineone.com>
Southampton, Hampshire England - Friday, October 26, 2001 at 15:11:44 (PDT)

Seaham Enquirer, I must need to get out more as well cos I thought it was bloody funny. Can you do better?
Isaac
- Friday, October 26, 2001 at 15:09:47 (PDT)

Miss Markie if you open your Bible it will tell you that you do not have the right to judge others and that includes the Gay people.Now for your sins say 5 Our Fathers,5 Hail Marys and go live with a Gay couple for 2 months.Amen
Father Ted <Sitting@therighthand>
- Friday, October 26, 2001 at 15:08:38 (PDT)

This message is for JOHN ARMES Please make sure someone tells him there is a message for him. Hi John, I just got off the phone with Susan Wicks, as you know she is the Vicar of the Church in Whitburn. I had called her to tell her that I will be keeping her and her mom in my prayers tomorrow at my Rosary prayer group. Anyway, Susan and I were having such laughs at how WE ALL use to behave when we were in St. John's Church Choir many, many moons ago! Oh, John, we were just funny and annoying as anything to each other. Gosh! don't you wish you could go back to those days and then change everything about how we were and how we acted? I do! Also, when I think of days gone by, school days and church days etc... it makes me feel so old! Also, it makes me think that I was such a little pain in the butt! Anyway, just wanted to let you know that you were also in our conversation. Hope you are well! God Bless! your friend, Jacqueline. PS. I bet you still look like Tom Cruise! ! as cute as can be! You should be married, 'cos, I just remember you were just so good looking! Anyway, have a nice day!
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
Chicago, USA - Friday, October 26, 2001 at 15:07:10 (PDT)

To - Seaham Enquirer, come on , didn't you even crack a smile ? I know you have a sense of humour.I do get out , we aren't all convicts over here .I also thought "The Life Of Brian " was funny , mine has It's moments too
Oz Brian <balhaven@iprimus.com.au>
South Australia - Friday, October 26, 2001 at 15:04:43 (PDT)

Victoria, on the subject of homosexual parents raising children, think how confusing it must be for the children to have to deal with trying to understand why their two dads or two moms do not have normal relationships with the oppoiste sex as most people do. Also, how confusing it must be for the children to see their two moms or two dads kiss each other. When you think about it it is really quite un-natural. Furthermore, here is something to think about: Are children a product of their environment? Most people are and some either escape the negativity by driven to determination, whereas as some children go completely the opposite of their positive loving home environment. When it comes to children of gays and lesbians, do you think they are influenced by their home environment? I know from some of my own life experiences I have indeed been influenced by my home environment. I am afraid of marriage and commitment due to the divorce rate in my natural family and due ! to the divorce my sister experienced. I am careful with relationships and very cautious. For the most part, we as adults, are indeed influenced by how we were raised and by our home environment. I would be very surprised if children who are raised with homosexuals do in fact learn how to have a healthy relationship with the opposite sex. Just as children who have been raised in abusive homes have to teach themselves as adults, how to learn to have a healthy relationship with the opposite sex. I work alot with children of all backgrounds and social economical environments and I can tell you, I am NOT in favor of children being raised with gay parents.
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Friday, October 26, 2001 at 04:48:18 (PDT)

Can David and Doris O'connor who emigrated in 1967 please leave their new e-mail address
curtz
seaham, durham england - Friday, October 26, 2001 at 04:45:32 (PDT)

Miss Markie lets all get together and be one big gay happy family
Big Girls Blouse
- Friday, October 26, 2001 at 04:43:58 (PDT)

oz brian,you really should get out more if you think thats funny!!!!!!
seaham enquirer
- Friday, October 26, 2001 at 04:42:49 (PDT)

To - Believe it or not , that leaked memo was a great piece of comedic writing and very funny
Oz Brian <balhaven@iprimus.com.au>
South Australia - Thursday, October 25, 2001 at 12:36:47 (PDT)

J.M.Markie;Yes I did! I can see by what you wrote back that you just do'nt get it and never will,so again,enough said.
F.X.Riley
Ca USA - Thursday, October 25, 2001 at 02:02:11 (PDT)

WOW...Jaquelin sure is a right wing extremest. George W. Bush is one also. No wonder she is blinded by him. He doesn't speak very much on any media because he always stumbles over his words, repeats himself, and comes across as very poorly educated. Wait he was poorly educated. He barely skated through an American college. Guess it was the Cocaine and sexual adventures that he was having that affected his grades. Too bad that was swept under the rug. We all have a right to our own opinions, I would just like to make sure that the people that I have met in Seaham are aware that not all Americans share the view of this extremist.
Wills
Portland, Oregon USA - Thursday, October 25, 2001 at 02:00:34 (PDT)

Hi Victoria, I read your entry on the Guest Book this morning and really I am not sure what to say in regards to your friend who is gay and has a daughter. As you said the daughter's father died along time ago and her mother just now realized she is in love with another woman. So what should become of the daughter? While I am not in favor of homosexuals raising children, in this situation I am stummped for words. (You do that often to me - you give me something to think about) Here is another senerio: The long term affects of children being raised in abusive homes are horrrendous. However, I think the long term affects of children being raised in homosexual homes are equally horrendous. How can a child learn what is a "normal" healthy relationship that is suppose to take place between a man and a woman as a married couple. But I know, there again, how can children learn what is a healthy relationship when a man and woman, who are married, are being abusive toward one! another and abusive toward the child. Victoria, I am just not sure on this answer. I just know that I know what is moral and what is not. I have 2 gay friends myself, I have known one since I worked in Germany almost 15 years ago and I have known the other for three years - one is a guy and the other is a female. I can say I am more comfortable with my gay guy friend than I am around the female gay friend. I think because I am NOT GAY and therefore do not at all comprehend it - to me it is sick and un-natural. it is not the way we were made. We were made as man to love woman so that our love can be enjoyed in an intimate way and that children can be produced. Otherwise, our world would not survive without people. To me the "Gay" thing is just not natural. I also get annoyed when I hear of the gay rights parade that they have here in Chicago and New York and San Fransisco etc... Not because I think they should be treated any differnet as other people, but because I cannot stan! d how they "flaunt" their behavior. They dress progative, they cross dress, they kiss and squeeze each otehr in public and touch their private areas - they wear next to nothing and they act like slutty animals and it is an insult to the human race. I think too, that people now think they are gay when really they are not! It has now become the "in" thing to say, "I am gay." I think too, too many young teeagers who are at an impressionable age are being influenced by these homosexuals. I mean to me, it is just perverted - it is just NOT NATURAL!!! and I am not too comfortable with children being raised with homosexual parents. Now folks that is just my personal opinion - it is NOT A JUDGEMENT!!!
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, October 25, 2001 at 01:58:13 (PDT)

believe it or not, that was a classic my friend, to others I say, do not mock, it could happen! Realname: Seaham Resident
Seaham Resident
- Thursday, October 25, 2001 at 01:54:50 (PDT)

Dr Vix........I recently bought a fish and when I cut it open to prepare it for lunch, I found a syringe in its stomach. Was it a drug haddock? Ho Ho Ho Ho Ho Ho Hee Hee Hee.
Mark E Smith
- Thursday, October 25, 2001 at 01:53:34 (PDT)

Check this out people. A leaked memo sent to yours truly by a man on the inside of the E.U. reads as followed “The European Commission has announced an agreement whereby English will be the official language of the E.U. rather than German. As part of the negotiations, Her Majesty’s Government conceded that English spelling had some room for improvement and has accepted a five-year phase-in plan that would be known as ‘Euro-English’. “ In the first year the letter ‘s’ will replace the soft ‘c’. Sertainly, this will make the sivil servants jump with joy. The hard ‘c’ will be dropped in favour of the ‘K’. This should klear up konfusion and keyboards kan have one less letter. “There will be growing publik enthusiam in the sekond year when the troublesome ‘ph’ will be replaced with ‘f’. This will make words like ‘fotograf’ 20 per cent shorter. In the third year, publik akseptance of the new spelling kan be ekspekted to reach the stage where more komplikated changes are possible. Goverments will enkourage the removal of double letters, which have always ben a deterent to akurate speling. Also, al wil agre language is disgraseful, and they should go away. By the fouth year, peopl wil be reseptiv to steps such as replasing ‘th’ with ‘z’ and ‘w’ with ‘v’. “During ze fifz year, ze unesesary ‘o’ kan be dropd from vords kontaining ‘ou’ and similar changes vud of kos be aplid to ozer kombinations of letters.After zis fifz yer,ve vil hav a reli sensibl riten styl. Zer vil be no mor tubl or difikults and evrivun vil find it ezi to understand ech ozer. And ze ve vil tak over ze vorld!”
believe it are not <topman@the.E.U.>
- Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at 10:24:23 (PDT)

: I agree FX Riley. Thanks for saying what needed to be said to Ms. Markie. She does have a way of going on and on and on.
Lil
USA - Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at 10:21:12 (PDT)

Jacqueline, hi! Of course I don't mind what you call me - I've been called a lot worse than Victoria. I respect your right to your opinions but I do not have to agree that Bush is better than Clinton. I'm also not sure where the several places in the bible that condemn sex before marriage are found. I'm a bit more new testament and wonder why Jesus was such good mates with Mary Magdeline if sex was such an issue. Plus I certainly do not believe that homosexuality is abnormal or harmful to kids. One gay friend of mine is a teacher and knows more about child care than I do. I know a gay couple who have been together for over twenty years, and theirs would be a very stable environment to bring up a child. None of these people have kids, but I'd like to ask you what your answer to this situation would be. I have a close friend who I've known for about 14 years. She's had several boyfriends and has always thought of herself as heterosexual. Last time I saw her she was goi! ng through a bad time 'cos she'd fallen for a woman and was scared about the predjudice she might recieve from others when she came out. Her girlfriend felt the same, and had a daughter. To simplify the moral argument as far as infidelity is concerned, the kid's dad had died, a long time ago. When these people got together as a couple what should happen to the daughter? Should she go into care? Or should the two women not be allowed to live happily together, just to appease other peoples' predjudices? I'm interested to know what you think.
dr. vix
- Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at 10:19:03 (PDT)

To "FX Riley" Well..... I guess you just told me! Also, you know that you are also a person who judges. You are judging George Bush on what he did 20 years ago. Actually, here is some news for you, we are all judgemental people, because we are human and it is the humanistic thing for us to do. That is: to make an opinion about something or someone and most likely and often enough our opinion comes across as if we are passing harsh and cruel judgement; when in actual fact all we are doing is stating our own views/opinions. Therefore, I conclude that ALL of us are guilty of being judgementalat sometime or another in our lives.
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at 10:16:49 (PDT)

"Father Ted" Oh stop!!! I am NOT 45 years old - I am a young, very young looking and trim 32 years old. Also, did you not know that it is very rude to imply a woman's age - it is not good etiquette.
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, October 23, 2001 at 15:50:52 (PDT)

J.M. Markie; You tell me not to judge that idiot Bush but then you sit there and judge Clinton for something that the Republicans made public knowledge of because of sour grapes toward the Democrats for winning the election over Bush Sr.It seems to me that you get up in the morning and are controlled by the Republican Party and the Catholic Church like a little wind up doll and you ca'nt see past the nose on your face unless one of them tell you to.I would suggest you look in the mirror before you say someone should'nt judge someone else for something,because you are the most judgemental person on this Guest Book.Enough Said!
FX Riley
Ca, USA - Tuesday, October 23, 2001 at 15:49:17 (PDT)

Miss Markie as you are now in your 45th year. Is it not time you got married.
Father Ted
- Tuesday, October 23, 2001 at 11:37:03 (PDT)

To "Little Sea" Sorry, I did not phrase myself too well. I meant Margaret Thatcher was a well respected leader from people around the world.
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, October 23, 2001 at 02:07:25 (PDT)

Victoria, (By the way, I hope you do not mind that I address you as Victoria and not as Dr. Vix. I address you as Victoria as that is who I remember you by, and I have never been a one for shortening names, so it is not out of disrespect to your Degree.) Anyway... to my point, If George Bush is trying to encourage teenagers to stay celibate until marriage (Of course I agree 100%) and it is not happening, then who is to blame? Certainly not George Bush. The media, Hollywood and parents are to blame! If parents do not install some form of morals in their children and teach them that their bodies are special and sacred and should only be used when marriage vows are taken, then children/teenagers will never learn to respect their own bodies and those of their partner. We as adults can make our own decisions and we know what is moral and what is not; if we do not make the right and moral choice then we only have oursleves to blame if something goes wrong in our relationsh! ips after we have had sex. Teenagers, on the other hand are still growing and learning about life and the world they live in. Furthermore, we would not have as many unwanted pregnancies or abortions if people waited until they were married before having sex - as we all know contraceptions are not 100% safe. Besides, sex or rather "love making" is suppose to be more beautiful when shared with only the person you are married to. It is in numerous places in the Bible where it says it is best to wait until marriage before engaging in intercourse. I think, President Bush is trying very hard to just be the best president he can be. You have to admit he is 1000 times better that Bill Clinton who vetoed partial birth abortion (A child can be aborted up to term - that is sick and evil!) The President is being the best he can be and he just cannot please everyone as we all have difference of opinions. Furthermore, Victoria, the condons in the schools in New York were invented when Presi! dent Bill Clinton came into office 8 years ago - that was not the doing of President George W. Bush. Also, when President Clinton cameinto office, it was when the schools were encouraged to read books to elementry children addressing the issues and almost encouraging that it is okay and normal for children to live with gay and lesbian parents. Now, Victoria, I am aware you have a much more liberal way of thinking than myself, however, don't tell me you think it is normal for children to be raised in a homosexual home environment.
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, October 23, 2001 at 02:05:46 (PDT)

Jacqueline. I had no idea that Mrs. T is from around the world. That does make her very special. To be honest I'm mostly just frightened of her hair.
the little sea anenome
- Monday, October 22, 2001 at 15:01:39 (PDT)

As a supporter of the IRON LADY i feel it is my duty to pass on the details of lesley robert's whereabouts to the appropriate authorities,because what i hate are whinging arseholes that complain mightily about things in general but fail to pay their dues.Stay in the US you TAXDODGER!we dont need the likes of you here.
seaham enquirer
- Monday, October 22, 2001 at 15:00:22 (PDT)

Leslie, hi! I hope you're happy and well. I seem to agree with most of the views that you hold - opposing predjudice is one of my favourites too. I suppose given the fact that we live on opposite sides of the Atlantic it isn't altogether surpirising that we have different views about the current bombings in Afghanistan. I can't help but fear for the people who are going to starve this winter in Afghanistan. I don't think the West have been complacent about maniacs since the Gulf war. I've read that the U.S. worked with Bin Laden during the cold war, and believe that most governments are only interested in their own agendas at any given time. I heard the other day that while 6000 people died in the U.S. as a result of the terrorist attacks, which were very terrible and evil, the U.N. reports are every month since the Gulf war, 6000 children die as a direct result of U.S. sanctions in the Middle East. I'm not sure about the accuracy of reports in the press, but I wish ! that there was some way the bloodshed could be stopped, rather than increased.
dr. vix(again)
- Monday, October 22, 2001 at 14:58:51 (PDT)

Jacqueline, I'm not sure that George Bush's moral crusades are very moral. Take his drives to encourage teenage Americans to remain virgins until they are married for example. 87% of Americans have sex before marriage so who is his campaign aimed at? His 'morality' schemes take money from programmes that provide advice and contraceptives to poor people and teenagers and dish out downright lies about sex, for example about how effective contraceptives are instead. The campaigns also dish out gender stereotypes about what men are like and what women are like that are pretty backward and damaging in my opinion. It probably won't surpise you that I agree with the former Bishop of Durham that Mrs. Thatcher's government was an evil one. Taking milk away from school children, taxing merchandise that was being sold to help starving people, privatising our national wealth. I don't think that hate is too strong a word to describe how I feel about that woman.
dr vix
- Monday, October 22, 2001 at 14:56:57 (PDT)

Jacqueline, on which planet have you been living. Thatcher is about as popular as a fart in a space suit with most people in the UK. She was elected by a minority of the adult population and her policies were aimed at a minority of the electorate. Anyone who had money got more, anyone who hadn’t much of anything got even less. Her eleven years in office saw unemployment rise from 650000 to over 4 million. She introduced the hated Poll Tax. The wealth gap grew ever bigger and investments in our public services were slashed to unmanageable levels. She was a member of a party opposed to equal pay for women and a national minimum wage. You wont read these things in her book – you had to be here to witness it. Where were you?
Isaac
- Monday, October 22, 2001 at 14:55:26 (PDT)

To "Seahan Enquirer" Glad you agree! Margaret Thatcher did a great job as well as she could.
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 14:53:41 (PDT)

To "Micky" in a way I admit that I agree with you and I feel a little shameful. On the Thursday after the attacks, when Bush made his big talk to the nation, he said, (not word for word) bu that we need to wipe out all terrorism and those countries who were supporting terrorism would not go unpunished. I thought immediately, "Well, he had better do something about his own country supporting the IRA." Even here in Chicago, the Irish hold BBQ's and the prodeeds go to the IRA. I once went to a summer picnic, and I was astonished that the preceeds were going to the IRA, so I immediately left! I said, I am not supporting any Terrorist group! I am ware that in Boston, for years and years they have supported the IRA. Also, too, yes, America has now made sure that nothing like the September 11th bombing will never happen again. However, there is no such thing as "never" there are always going to be terrorist groups who want to destroy America and the American people. But I d! o think that if it had happened elsewhere, we most likely would have got involved somehow or another. But there again, during the time we were sending our troops to Kosovo, in 1999, at the same time in Sudan, Africa 1000 of Christians were being slaughted and we never did a bloody thing about it. Yet, we went to Somalia in 1993, but nope! we never went to Sudan - how sad. If we are going to help countries, we should make sure we help ALL countries in humanitarian need. Now I am actually feeling pretty bad for the civilians in Afghanstan - I think we are going over the top and I am talking to both the Americans and the British. Yes, our goal is to destroy the Taliban and Osma Bin Laden, but hey, I think we are getting a bit of an ego, and I am nervous for the outcome of all of this - we are already seeing some of it with the Anthrax scare.
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 14:52:08 (PDT)

To "FX Riley" Okay, well I may just look into the past of George Bush. But then again, on the other hand, why should I judge him by his past mistakes from 20 years ago. Would you like to be judged about how you were 20 years ago? How does one's past of 20 years ago, affect who he is this present day? It does NOT! One's past behavior has nothing to do with who the person is today. If the person has reedemed himself, as Bush appears that he has, from his faith and beating the alcohol problem he once had, then why hold the past over his head. It is how we behave in the present that counts and makes all the difference - not how we were 20 years ago or so. Why don't you just admit, that Bush is doing it better than the other guy we had in office for 8 years. Admit that Bush has put some dignity and respect back into the White House. Have a great day!
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 14:49:14 (PDT)

To Lesley, well that is fine, we are all entitled to our own opinions. By the way, I never paid poll taxes either because I had already left the country and was working in Germany. I am glad you defined your level of "hate" but hating people in my opinion, is at a different level of hating food - I hate sushi - but that is a food and not a person. The food has no soul or emotional feelings, but people do as we are human beings and human beings should try very hard not to have hatred toward one another. When referring to people, we should just say, we really dislike the individual and disagree with all he says, does and stands for. That is a more diplomatic way of expressing ones instense dislike to a person. Hope all is well in Arizona and that you are not having as many Anthrax scares. Have good day!
Jacqueline <Mary Markie@aol.com>
USA - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 14:46:52 (PDT)

Jacqueline; I can understand how Leslie can say that she hate Bush,before you worship the ground he walks on find out a little about the mans past.In the 80's he was involved in the loan scandals but Daddy quickly got it hushed-up while baby George made his fortunes off other peoples losses,not to mention the last crooked Presidential election.If you check the man out as a person and not a Republican you might see past all his Bull-crap.Leslie is not alone in her feelings for the man.
F.X. Riley
Ca USA - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 04:50:41 (PDT)

To "little sea" Sorry to hear you have such hate for Margaret Thatcher. She was a wonderful and well respected leader from around the world. Her only mistakes toward the end of her 11 years in office, was the fact she brought out the Poll Taxes. I see everyone loved her during the Falkland War crisis - she did an excellent job. I have read her biography and she really was a down-to-earth woman. She is an inspiration as she only came from a Butchers daughter and worked her way up in society. You should read her biography and then maybe you would have a more positive view of her. let me tell you, she was never in favor of Britian being united with Europe and I agree 100% Also, during the time she was Prime Minister, all those who were seeking the "dole" had no complaints - that was because they were better off on the dole, lazing their bums off, and getting benefits - she made life easy for those on the dole. Buy her book and read it and then I would like to hear your ! opinion of her.
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
Chicago, USA - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 04:48:41 (PDT)

: Hi John, nice to see you on the Guest-Book, hope you and your family are doing well. I will be mailing your parents their yearly Christmas card at the beginning of December. Hard to believe that Christmas is just around the corner. Anyway, in response to your reply, No! I do not believe at all that George Bush got elected under suspicious circumstances. Al Gore had the state of Forida recount the votes I think four times, he just wanted them to keep counting the votes until he had got the most counts - when each time it was George Bush who was gaining the most votes. Besides, guess what? we have a moral president with a faith in God and it was about time, Bill Clinton just made America the laughing stock of the world. No, George Bush is Not perfect, but who is? Are you? Because I am certainly not! and I attend Mass almost every day and go to regular confession and belong to prayer groups and humanitarian groups, but it does not make me holier than thou or perfect - b! ecause none of us are that good or perfect. However, I firmly believe our President of America, President George W. Bush has a sincere heart and is really trying his hardest to be the best President he can be and to do his work with a sense of values and morals - He has put Dignity and Respect back into the White House. Anyway, how is life going for you? I hope good! you were alway a nice enough guy; you deserve to have things going your way for a change. Did you hear that Susan Wick's mom had a stroke. I am actually going to write to Susan, and will mail it to either her dad or to Jane Barkers, to be sure it is passed on to her. My mom did tell me that Susan is the vicar of a church, but I have forgot where now. Boy! it seems so long ago since we were all young pre-teens and teenagers in St. John's Church choir. I hear the church now has no young faces - which is quite a shame. My Nephew, our Sharon's oldest boy, who is ten and a half years old, is actually in the Boy Scouts ! - not sure if he attends the evening where your mom is the leader, but he loves it anyway. How is your Jacqueline doing? I hope she is well, send her, your Michael and your parents my kind regards. Take Care and God Bless, your old time friend, Jacqueline! :)
Jacqueline <Mary Markie@aol.com>
Chicago, USA - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 04:46:25 (PDT)

Blimey, Jacqueline....Congratulations! You really have opened the old proverbial "can of worms"!
Joanne Curtis <gingejozee@hotmail.com>
Seaham, - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 04:43:25 (PDT)

Blimey, Jacqueline....Congratulations! You really have opened the old proverbial "can of worms"!
Joanne Curtis <gingejozee@hotmail.com>
Seaham, - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 04:43:22 (PDT)

Jacqueline I think that there are worse feelings to have towards objects than hate. Also I don't think that I hold it in the same context as your delicate vocabulary. I also hate spinach, sushi, ignorant and predjudiced people and also hated Maggie Thatcher who was one of the reasons I moved, and I also hated her lousy poll tax which I never paid by the way.
Lesley Roberts
Phoenix, Arizona USA - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 04:41:39 (PDT)

like it or not anenome!!Mrs T put this country on the map again as a economic and political power.She had,and probobly still has more balls than that pussy Blair.
seaham enquirer
- Monday, October 22, 2001 at 04:39:57 (PDT)

Dear Leslie I am sorry but I do the think the USA have overreacted BIG STYLE!! Like I have said, because this happened to the good ol' US of A the world has to come to its aid. Yet America turns its head when money flows from its shores to Belfast to blow woman and children to bits. America calls China most favoured nation, as it tortures and kills thousands upon thousands of Tibetan's. I think that if Paris was attacked instead of New York, America would be urging restraint. What happened that day was unforgivable but blowing up red cross hospitals and killing innocent people will not bring back loved ones. One atrocity does not deserve another.
Micky
- Monday, October 22, 2001 at 04:38:47 (PDT)

Jacqueline.Didn't George Bush get elecetd under suspicious circumstances.I'm not sure he's so moral.
John Armes
- Sunday, October 21, 2001 at 08:40:07 (PDT)

Jacqueline. You may not hate any politicians but I truely madly deeply hate Mrs. Thatcher for being a mad evil old cow.
the little sea anenome
- Sunday, October 21, 2001 at 08:38:40 (PDT)

Hi Lesley, most of the times I enjoy reading your comments, even though I may not always agree with you, you have a way of writing down your thoughts without offending people. Though, I am NOT offended by your recent comment, I am a bit surprised at how you can "Hate" anybody! The word "HATE" is such a strong, negative word with much feeling. I mean, I really did not like that Timothy M'cveigh or Terry Nichols, or anyone who purposely hurts others and are malicious. However, to hate our President George W. Bush is a bit over the top - don't you think? As much as I disagreed with Bill Clinton and quite disliked him - I still did not know him enough to want to have "hateful" feelings toward him. Let me tell you, George Bush is a moral man. Yes, he may have not lived the perfect life before his Presidency - but which President has? NONE! Bush continues to seek the advice from his wonderful cabinet, he gets together with Religious leaders to prayer and seek advice. He is! truly trying very hard not to offend any particular group in America. He has a lot of pressure on him from the Christian Fundamentalists, but he certainly tries to do the right and moral thing - even though we may not always agree with how he does things. He is 10000 times better than Bill Clinton or than Al Gore, There is no need at all for you to be "hating" George Bush. What has he ever done to you? You do not even know the man. Besides, as you have said yourself, he is doing a very good job with this Afghan crisis - so do not be hating the man, he is trying to save your butt and everyone elses, but of course when there is war, there are always casualities. If you want to hate someone or some people, dislike the terrorists who are trying to destroy the country we have chosen to live in. Have a nice day!
Jacqueline <mary markie@aol.com>
Chicago, USA - Saturday, October 20, 2001 at 09:36:47 (PDT)

Hi there I used to live in Seaham and have been recently looking at your website to see how the town is getting on. By the way great website. Brings back a lot of memories of when I was living there. Even though it just five years since I once lived there I have lost contact with all my friends as living down here in the North West has became a bit of a strain. But this place ain't so bad. I've got some great mates and with them around to be there for me, I don't feel so alienated. I'm not askng for you to find my friends for me and I don't expect you to. But if you could get a message to my old Primary School Headmaster (Mr Coates) at Ropery Walk Primary School it would be fantastic. I have visited quite a number of times but never had the chance to stay for a great number of time to contact my friends. And as you can imagine travelling to the North East is a bit of a journey thank you and I'll check out your website again soon. Simon Gowland
Simon Gowland <gowlandsi@yahoo.co.uk>
Westhoughton, Lacashire England - Thursday, October 18, 2001 at 12:28:53 (PDT)

Micky I agree the French and Germans wouldn't have reacted this way, but only because they don't have the military resources to do so. But I bet you my years pay if it had happened in London Tony Blair would have done exactly the same with the US aiding him. I hate George W Bush but this is the only time I actually agree with him. I also believe that since the Gulf War we've all been a little complacent about the other maniacs out