Cheap Tricks and Costly Truths

Range Resources Blunders

2011-12-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

Ooops...how sneaky of me. Did I lead you to believe that RANGE RESOURCES had actually apologized for the spill? Here's what they really said:

Waller said he believes residents overreacted to the spill out of anger over recent air quality tests that found elevated levels of benzene and other harmful chemicals during several stages of the drilling process at the first Rayzor Ranch well.
Waller said the tests, performed for neighbors by Flower Mound-based Wolf Eagle Environmental, were inaccurate and unscientific.

The Railroad Commission “did call by phone, and we did explain to them what the situation was, and they understood the political issues that were going on for all those people to call,” Waller, of Range, said. “But there’s nothing we can do about it except try to deal with the public there.”

Range Resources

2011-12-03T07:19:00.000-08:00

"Although there are some temporary inconveniences associated with the drilling process, our industry is one of the most technologically advanced and well regulated industries in the world. As a result, we take great care to preserve and protect the environment"

AND THEN:

Range Resources is terribly sorry for the poor judgment of our contractor Pioneer Drilling Company and the foreman has been warned that taking shortcuts of any kind is not an acceptable practice.

Awww...How quaint, they apologized.

Truth?

2011-11-10T19:10:00.000-08:00

This morning as I sipped coffee and watched the morning news, the anchor woman stated that a study completed by the University of Texas's Energy Institute found that no link exists between hydraulic fracturing and ground water contamination. I found this statement hard to swallow.

Upon further reading of other sources this is what has been revealed:

First of all, these are ONLY the preliminary findings and the report will not be completed and released until the early part of 2012.

Second, the word used was "SUGGEST" the report suggests... doesn't that mean to imply? To seduce? To influence? To hypothesize?

Third, the preliminary findings state that when there is ground water contamination that we should look at the surface processes, such as "poor casing" and "shoddy cement jobs". Okay, so we do admit there is GROUND WATER CONTAMINATION.

And the All Mighty Groat, the lead UT geology professor on the study, said this...

"The violations that we've seen are of no, minor or small impact," Groat said. "The impact on groundwater, the impact on the surface is not of anything substantial, certainly not compared to coal mines or metal mines."

Whew...I feel so much better. Heck, it's better than a coal mine (ha ha ha...snort). Kind of reminds me of that silly thing that some presidential wanna be just said recently..."I just don't know the third thing that I'd do away with." Senseless babble.

The Big Machine

2011-11-09T17:11:00.000-08:00

So, if we're part of a big machine that's governed by let's say, certain laws that never change, then it would be a safe or an ignorant assumption to say that most of our choices are predestined. That we have no other way to react or respond, but within those laws. Now, there exists certain particles, or maybe atoms, that are unpredictable, that act randomly and we are unable to determine their course. That part is true, from what I understand, that there are certain elements that swerve, that do not have a particular course.

Let's then assume that we are made of these particles. Some are fixed and adhere to the governing laws, then we are also composed of these particles that act randomly. Let's also say that some of us are mainly composed of the fixed particles and have very few of the unpredictable particles. Therefore, we could say that the majority of us are predictable and follow a rather predetermined course. We react within the normal range of actions.

Then there's a group of people that are composed of the more unpredictable particles and have very few of the more stable law adhering particles. These people do not react in the "normal" range of actions. They tend to be unpredictable and not follow the governing laws.

I wonder if it's that simple? That no matter what you instill in someone, that they have a genetic make up to either be predictable law adhering particles or they have the genetic make up to be unpredictable unlawful particles. What if it's really all in the genes?

The Walking Dead, Yes, I'm Hooked

2011-11-08T18:37:00.000-08:00

Normally I don't do a whole lot of television watching, until recently that is. I can't help myself, seeing that I'm a morbid zombie loving undead watching sorta person, the air waves, or is that radio? have been filled with shows that I just can't get enough of.

I started watching the Walking Dead last season and was immediately taken with the believable characters and wonderful story line and subplots. It's a feast for TV viewers, not to mention that when the Zombies get a chance to feast, they chow down!

Another show that I happened upon is American Horror Story. Zowie! That show is hot, disturbing, hot, wicked, hot... well, you get the point. Basically, from what I have gathered so far is there is this house with a murderous history with an evil presence lurking. And the dead? Oh, yes, the dead not only walk among the living they leave a few more corpses behind!

Switching genres from horror to historical fiction, I viewed the season premiere of AMC's Hell On Wheels. Intense! Being a novice history buff, I rather fancy time period pieces and heroines in distress. I'm looking forward to this coming Sunday's lineup.

So, with now three hours of TV watching a week, I find myself being strapped for time. I spend about 8 hours a week at the gym, 50 hours a week at work, 7 - 10 hours a week cleaning, 6 - 8 hours a week preparing and doing an internet radio show, about 35 hours a week sleeping...exactly how many hours are in a week?

My Buddy Durango Turning 47 Today

2011-08-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Mr. Durango! I sure am glad you decided to transplant your incredible self to Texas. I've been lax in keeping up with my friends as of late or I would have sent you a little something from the desert, but seeing that Fort Worth is on day 41 of drought and heat above 100, I'm thinking that your landscape is starting to resemble my own.

Instead, I'll post for you one of my favorite songs.

The New York Times Joe Niocera Is In Pickens Back Pocket

2011-08-10T14:17:00.000-07:00

Okay, for those of you who love the idea of oil and gas drilling...you know, the Drill Baby, Drill, shrill...please do not read this.

For the rest of you, please read on.

I read a rather disturbing reply by Joe Nocera regarding comments made on his previous opinion in The New York Times. Well, at first I thought that he was just uneducated on the matter of natural gas fracking...but it turns out that he is Picken's lackey. Please tell me you have not forgotten T. Boone Pickens.

What caught my eye about Nocera's opinion was this line:

In Texas and Oklahoma, it has been used for decades, with nobody complaining much about environmental degradation.

Really? NOBODY has complained MUCH? Well, I know for damn certain I have complained A LOT and I live in Texas.

Then, Mr. Informative lists the three main reasons and quickly dispels them without an ounce of back up or provided research.

fracking supposedly allows gas and dangerous chemicals to seep into the water supply. This is pretty implausible.

Well, if I remember correctly I just read an article about an EPA study concluding that fracking has contaminated drinking water. And you know what else? THE NEW YORK TIMES also reported on the same story! Hey, Joe? Do ya not read anything else besides your own bloated arrogant opinions?

The second problem is the disposal of the chemical waste.

Yeah, no kidding. This is a problem and no, Joe, they do not all bury it under the ground in spill proof containers, there are reports of it being dumped late at night off of county roads or kept in big open pits lined with plastic.

natural gas is dirtier than coal.

He quickly dismisses this as a biased opinion. What I find rather ironic (or maybe moronic) is that at the end of the article he then admits that there are problems with natural gas drilling and fracking the Shale, but that with best drilling practices and with strong state regulation (bahahaha, snort, choke...ouch) we, America (covers heart and sheds a tear) can finally end our dependence on foreign oil...and his cliched rhetoric doesn't stop there...

while diminishing the strategic importance of the Middle East, where American soldiers continue to die.

Of course, I wanted to leave my comment on his article, but due to the outpouring of outrage about his uniformed ignorant rant...he is no longer accepting comments.

Being Selfless

2011-08-06T10:48:00.000-07:00

Have you ever made a decision? I mean a real life changing decision? One that you had thought about for several weeks, maybe even a month and you thought you were doing the right thing, but then after the decision, you felt worse than before?

Can you ever go back? Do hurtful things that are said can ever really be forgiven? Or do the words build and build until there's a protective wall that just stays there. I read a quote today:

"Be selfless today if it's going to be for the betterment of someone else's life. U and they will be better off for your sacrifice."

I had planned on trying to reverse my decision today. Go back and undo it, if it could. But after reading that quote, maybe the decision was what was better for the other person. Dang...being a human is so hard sometimes...

Summer Vacation Coming To An End

2011-08-05T06:28:00.000-07:00

Like my good buddy, Durango, posted about an hour ago, it's going to be another hot day here in West Texas. The boys are practicing for football, my youngest will have a guest for the weekend and we are planning on staying around the house and maybe doing a little swimming up at the school pool.

I always get semi depressed at this time of the year. School is about to start, and although I love my occupation, I love the time off just as much. This is the first time of my teaching career that I'm not totally dreading getting back into the classroom. That lack of dread has everything to do with the district I am now employed with.

It will be slightly different this year, because my principal is now at the elementary, and the elementary principal is now at the junior high, my campus. Why was this change made? From what I gather, it's because the junior high campus has it's act together. Well, at least, that's what they tell us.

This is my son's last year in high school and my daughter's last year in elementary. We have a few more things planned before school gets underway, Summer Mummers and the Midnight Cellar Dweller Movie. And before that, I am making a solo trip to Louisiana to pick up a 1965 Ford Mustang.

Some interesting news has been coming down the pike about a correlation between fracking and ground water contamination. The article is easy to read, but just don't stop there...the comments are priceless.

You And Me And The Stock Market

2011-08-04T12:19:00.000-07:00

Okay, I don't know a whole lot about the stock market, but from history classes and news articles and of course from the movie, Wallstreet, I have a basic understanding. This is my understanding, that the majority of the money we "see" in the stock market is soft money. Oh, I know...soft money means a type of political contribution that can't be regulated because it, ahem..."builds" the party. So, why am I using that term with the stock market?

The stock market contains whimsical money that builds the nations' economy. Sometimes it has a really awesome building effect while at other times it has an extremely damaging effect. Like it's having today, with a 400 point drop...people, according to one news source...are already throwing in the towel and moving their money to safer areas, such as bonds.

And then we have been having this whole debt debate thing going on over in Congress for quite some time. Shut it down, start it up, compromise... whatever. I know what's really going on, and knew it before I read Robert Bowden's article, but I'll let him say it for me:

"Instead of trying to reach consensus, political leaders are posturing for their re-election and increasing book sales."

I know what you, the average ordinary non stock market guru is saying..."this is not going to affect me in the least. I will wake up and do what I do, go to work, get paid and pay the bills." I think that's a HUGE misconception, because it will eventually affect YOU! If you remembered correctly, I posted a nice little proposal for a flat tax. I got some positive feedback, so I started emailing my plan to all my elected representatives...so far, no takers.

But here are a few things that all of the above will have to do with the average person:

1. Higher interest rates, less loans
2. Delayed Government checks, except for Congress (there's a law that protects them)
3. Government offices will be closed and some employees on leave
4. Finally, with access to capital(money) being limited; layoffs are on the horizon and costs/prices will increase

What are we going to do? I don't know yet. I have to give this some thought, but I'll be sure to let ya know what I come up with.

Titillate Your Senses In The Tall City

2011-08-02T10:11:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the cult classic, The Rocky Horror Picture Show? Some of us not only remember it, we lived it! Persons that did not participate in a midnight showing probably are a little clueless of what it means to attend an active viewing of the The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

The audience members not only watched the movie, but they usually did so in costume and had every line of the movie well memorized. Props, dancing and crowd participation is what makes the Rocky Horror Picture Show experience truly fun. Of course, it does help if you have a sense of humor and are not offended by transsexuals or crude behavior. There is a guide for Rocky Horror Virgins which could be extremely useful in preparing you for your first time.

Since I now have you thinking about this unique movie type experience and I have your mind primed, pumped and ready, I'm about to drop something just as amazing and interesting on you.

Let's say, that you could see one of your favorite movies of the past, could be something like, Blue Velvet, High Plains Drifter, Heavy Metal or even Evil Dead. And not only could you see it again, but you could view it on the big screen, with surround sound and buttered popcorn for a very low price. Interested?

Coming soon, right here in The Tall City, The Cellar with Bogart and Brando, in conjunction with Basin Bands will be bringing you the Cellar Dweller Midnight Movie. It's not just a movie...contests, discount cards, giveaways, live bands, concessions...and so much more. Titillate your senses in the Tall City!

Here's a sneak preview of what is soon to come!

A Round Up For Express Energy

2011-08-01T16:56:00.000-07:00

I'm not quite sure what Express Energy has been up to lately, but for the past several weeks I have had a lot of traffic searching for information on Express Energy. At one time, Express Energy was siphoning water from the Trinity River, without permits and when my good buddy, Durango, tried to take a few photos...they got really nasty.

So, let me ask...are you searching for information about Express Energy, because they're up to no good again? OR are you from Express Energy checking out your google rating?

I'll make it easy, I did a quick search on my blog and put all the information that I have about Express Energy right here.

That's Why They Call It The Blues

2011-07-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

When you grow up in the Deep South, as I did, you become accustomed to a few things, such as great Jazz and Blues music, smiling politely and saying yes ma'am, and this little bug called the craw fish. Being away from the South, for nearly two decades, leaves this Southern girl feeling a bit discontented at times. This discontentment brews and manifests itself into a longing to get a taste of my childhood on occasion. The perfect opportunity for satisfying this yearning came in the form of the Tall City Blues Festival of Midland.

Jesse, Annie and myself arrived at the festival gates around noon on Saturday and were greeted to a beautiful cloudy cover, with the sound of a soulful crooner and a cooling breeze. Within the breeze, music swayed like effervescent bubbles, infused with the smell of spicy craw fish. I knew at this point in time, I was exactly where I needed to be.

The three of us, with our four pounds of craw fish and iced tea, meandered to a spot on the cement under the trees. While sucking the heads and chomping the tails, we listened to a peppy little tune called Slow Down Sugar by John Lisi and The Delta Funk. I noticed a man, dancing away, and well, I wasn't the only one, because John Lisi called out to him, "This music makes you want to jump right out of your flip flops!"

For some of us, The Blues remind us of home, for others, it can bring on a certain melancholy, while for a few it may elicit feelings of love and passion. Whatever it brings forth in you, that's what the Tall City Blues Festival was all about, bringing people together to appreciate The Blues.

Fly Away LIttle Birdie

2011-07-26T15:30:00.000-07:00

Do you ever take inventory of your life and look back a year, two years and wonder have you actually moved forward? I suppose if you did not plan to move forward, but only to maintain, then that question would not apply to you.

Let me take a walk down memory lane for a minute or two, please indulge me. Two years ago, 2009, I was working for TYC in Pyote, was twenty pounds heavier, in much more debt, finally coming to the realization that my marriage of eight years disintegrated; depressed, floundering, just maintaining.

2010, I found more pleasurable employment within a school district that is closer to home. I resolved to lose those unwanted twenty pounds and did. I cut up my credit cards and started paying off debt, over fifteen thousand to date. Made peace with my failed marriage and filed for divorce; hopeful, determined, gaining ground.

Here I am though, halfway through 2011 and I find myself floundering once again. No, I'm okay with debt, still gaining ground. And no, I'm not gaining weight again, still exercising and eating healthy. Not even giving the failed marriage a second thought, I survived and have put it behind me. So, why am I feeling...a bit discontent?

I think it's the ideology and dogma of others that has infiltrated my otherwise peaceful forward moving life. I can not for the life of me, convince my son to finish his entire senior year here in Wink. He's discontent. I understand discontent and finally, today, I decided that I am no longer going to fight it. I gave him my blessings and wished him well. So, I am preparing for having my son, after his 18th birthday, move to Midland to live with his new friends. Good luck my dear one, I love you and wish only the best for you.

Raise Your Hand For 5% No Exemptions Necessary

2011-07-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

It's really simple, we can begin to lower the debt by getting rid of a bloated and overindulgent tax system. Why is it that we have all these rules? Why can we not have a simple flat tax rate for everyone, regardless of how many dependents they have; how much they donate to charity, or how much interest they pay on certain loans?

If you made $100,000 annually, would it not be extremely simple to know, that no matter what happened that year, you would pay a flat tax? The amount of the rate is still debatable. See, Congress would still have something to argue and complain about.

Don't corporations hire lawyers and accountants to figure out which loop holes benefit them the most? Does not the government have well over 115,000 employees on the full time payroll to process and collect taxes? Tons of people E-file, which I think is fantastic, that's not the problem. The problem is enforcing all the rules. Spending countless hours to ensure you got all your tax breaks. Please, give me a break...pass a flat tax and get rid of the loop holes and deductions!

Back to the rate, let's say that it's 5% across the board. So, if you make $120,000 (like a friend of mine does in Lewisville) then your tax payment would be $6,000. I bet he'd like that, because now his tax payment is $40,000. He's single, no children and owns his own home...no breaks.

I have another friend that makes $1,200,000...which is a considerable sum. He's a small business owner. Under my plan, he would pay $60,000, which is a fantastic break for him since he now pays well over $250,000 in taxes under our inflated ridiculous tax code.

The way I see it, middle America and small business owners finally get a break, big corporations have to pay their fair share, government spending is cut and millions of trees would be spared. I figure it's a win-win for everyone!

Oh, I know what you're thinking...Corporate America would pack up and leave. Let them. I would love to see a come back of the mom and pop businesses. Customer service would increase exponentially, automated systems would go bye-bye (and good riddance!), and people would act more like...well, people. Let's take our humanity back!

Am I being unreasonable? Is there something I'm missing? If I am...I'd like to know. Educate me on this matter, because I can't figure out why it would not work.

Escape From Houston

2011-07-22T08:34:00.000-07:00

It's been quite the summer, and it's not entirely over yet. I made some small trips around Texas and New Mexico, remodeled the kids' rooms and started the Insanity workout. Both my children took solo trips, Princess Annie to Denver for a couple of weeks and Justin to New Orleans for a few weeks.

Justin's return trip from New Orleans was muddled at best. Somehow he managed to procure a ticket to the Warped Tour in Houston, which meant that his flight home would be from Houston, not Dallas.

Jesse booked Justin a trip to Houston from New Orleans via Grey Hound. It was Justin's first bus ride, seven hours of pure bliss. I think everyone should experience bus travel at least once in their life time.

After arriving in Houston, the experience becomes convoluted. Any and all plans to meet up with his "friend" and her mom were nixed. In my personal opinion, I'm thinking that there never was a "friend" and mom, but that's a different story altogether.

So, let me bring you in where I was brought in. A call comes in from Justin at about one AM, telling me that the worst has happened and then...I lost his call. For a mother, the "worst" entails a ton of horrible things that I'll not hash up at this particular point in time.

All I could gather from the call was that he was stranded in Houston, after spending his last fifty dollars on a taxi to the wrong airport and now he was trying to use the Metro Bus to get across town to Intercontinental.

Since I don't know your name, and my only way of getting this to you is via the internet...thank you, big nice man, that stayed with Justin and guided him through the streets of downtown Houston.

Justin did find his way to the correct airport and to an outlet in the terminal in which he could plug in his phone and call. As he related the story, fatigued, weary, relieved, stressed...I realized that we were fortunate.

Justin experienced the worst and best in people that night. He also found a sense of composure that enabled him to use resources he had never tapped before. He may have lost his luggage that night and all his earthly possessions, but he found so much more.

The Queen Of Wink Is Missing

2011-06-09T12:14:00.000-07:00

Yikes! It has come to my attention that the Queen of Wink has vanished! Wait, hold on a minute...I am the Queen of Wink!

A few days ago, I became utterly disgusted with Facebook. Not so much the social networking vehicle itself, but just the whole convoluted pretentious idea of the Facebook way of life.

Like Durango stated in his blogging of the missing Queen of Wink, I am an avid user of Facebook. Being an avid user, does take an enormant amount of time. (I realize that enormant isn't really a word, but it should be)

Seeing that I have an enormant amount of painting, cleaning and reorganizing to do and only an innormant (again, yes, I know) amount of time to complete these tasks before the kiddos get back from visiting their sperm donors, I've decided to take a much needed hiatus from Facebook.

I am a person, that will admittedly admit, that I have a very addictive personality. If there's junk food in the house...I'm going to eat it. If there's alcohol in the house...I'm going to drink it. And...if there's an avenue to being non productive, let's say by spending enormant amounts of time on Facebook...well, by golly, I'm going to waste that time on Facebook.

The only obvious path of least resistance is to "put away" Facebook for a little while so that I can focus all my energy on more important things. Such as playing Scrabble on Pogo.com and...uh, I mean...of course, remodeling the bedrooms.

My Little Princess

2011-05-24T08:33:00.000-07:00

"I hope when you read this, it kindles your heart and puts a smile on your face." That's what Sarah writes in a letter to her father from the movie, A Little Princess. It happens to be, A Little Princess, that is, one of my most favorite movies of all time. I enjoyed Shirley Temple's performance, but I relish the remake from the 90s.

I guess you're wondering why it is that your hard earned tax dollars are paying for me, a reading teacher, to show this movie to my students in class. That I'm not using my time wisely, and not teaching up until the very last second of the school year. You can be relieved that the movie does tie in nicely with our end of the year projects over India and that the things that the students have been reading about will now have visuals.

Speaking of end of the year projects, my students presented their findings on Monday. For the most part, the presentations were enjoyable and quite entertaining. I also could assess right away whether learning took place. You'll be happy to know that a whole lotta learning took place.

My gifted and talented class were tasked with creating an invention or improving an already created product. Here are some of the inventions that were presented: A Fancy Ball, which can be 6 different balls in one! The Master Mind! Never peel an orange again and have sticky fingers! An I Spy Rock Star Comic, featuring Gene Simmons from KISS and Marilyn Manson. I don't imagine fortunes will be made, but we had an entertaining afternoon dreaming about the possibilites.

Very few of my students had even heard of The Little Princess, but one surely did and grinned a huge smile while saying that she loves the movie. My favorite parts of the movie are those that include Levinia, the two faced horrible bully and the man from India, Rajah. Although, completely different characters in mannerisms, they both bring something that we all need. A little bit of pain and meaness inorder for us to truly understand and appreciate a little bit of joy and kindness.

Reading Time On A Friday Afternoon

2011-05-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

This is the Friday before the last week of school and while my classes have been finishing their super cool end of the year projects, I've been milling around the room and straightening things up a bit. In doing so, I came across a Time magazine from November of 1999. I became interested in this particular magazine because of the cover. On the cover, in big bright lettering I read, "Low-Carb Diets...Meat-loving, bread-banning regimes are the rage. Do they work? Are they healthy? Here's the skinny."

Well, this had me all twitterpated, because finally, I was going to find out if these low-carb diets actually worked! So, as I perused my way through the articles in search of the answer to my long awaited question, I came across a section titled Milestones. When I think of milestones, it usually brings to my mind important, fulfilling moments in one's life. Such as, getting your driving license, graduating from high school, or getting married. But one of these articles, just didn't fit the description.

"Died, Carla Hochhalter, 48, mother of Anne Marie, 17, a student paralyzed in the April shootings at Columbine High. Hochhalter died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound; in Englewood, Colo. At a pawnshop, Hochhalter asked to see a .38-cal. revolver, then surreptitiously loaded the gun with bullets she had brought with her before shooting herself in the right temple. Just days before, her daughter had finally regained some movement in her legs."

I resided in Denver during the Columbine shootings. I could never make myself go by the school that transformed into a momento filled display of people pouring their grief out onto the sidewalk like water from an overfilled tub. Most of us were able to push those memories out of our minds, gone...vanished, but what if...what if, you woke each morning to a constant reminder of those wretched hours being relived time after time. Wishing that it were only a rancid nightmare, but waking to the reality of a child, paralyzed.

I don't know for what reason Carla ended her life, I can only imagine that it may have had something to do with the tragedy at Columbine. I used to think that parents that took their own lives were selfish, but in my wisened older more mature stage of my life, I choose this belief instead, "Don't judge until you've had the same exact experience." And since, we really and truly can not have the same experience as another person, then it's not for me to say

Hmmm...still trying to find that low carb diet article.

Just Another Friday

2011-04-22T05:49:00.000-07:00

Mmm...the possibility of sleeping in, but it's never a reality. As usual, I rose before six and started my morning coffee. Facebooked for awhile, and looked around at the eventual mess that I would have to clean. Thinking to myself, just another half hour of sipping coffee before I tackle the day's work.

Annie had a couple of friends sleep over. They're still asleep, some on the floor, others on the couch and her in her big overstuffed Lazy Boy chair. As hard as she tries, she never manages to stay up and is most often the first to slip off into slumber. I tell her that it's better to not have to do the day sleep deprived, that's not much fun.

I find myself on the verge of completing a lot of small goals. Some I have been attempting for quite a while and others I have just started. I tend to have too many "things" going and never seem to get them completely accomplished, but I fear that's going to have to change.

Today's agenda, although not exciting, is one that must be adhered to. Oh, just simple stuff, such as cleaning out a closet or two, clearing out the carport and cutting a bit of hard West Texas grass. See, obviously, not exciting.

My son is working on his English research paper. Being an English teacher, I don't often come across student writing that knocks me off my feet. You may think that I'm going to be a bit biased, but then you wouldn't know me very well, if you actually thought that. I don't fill my kids' head with unworthy praise. In my opinion, giving them proper praise and encouragement, let's them know that when I really like something they have done...then it means it's really great.

My son has taken on the big question of Free Will vs Determinism. Quite a task, I know and a question that's been around for eons. His approach to writing this paper is rather unique, or maybe it's not, but I've not read a junior research paper ever done like how he has decided to write. I'll let you be the judge and jury and share his first page:

Your alarm goes off, you groggily hit the snooze, at exactly 3 minutes after, it goes off again, and you turn it off, remove the covers and stagger out of bed. You then begrudgingly drag yourself to the kitchen for your morning cup of Joe. Water is poured into the glass pot, the filter is then added along with the coffee grounds and now you patiently wait for your coffee to brew.

As you silently watch your coffee being dripped into existence, you can't help but go back to when you were a child watching the rain and how it would drip from the swing set to the brown patch of dirt beneath it. A soft gurgle brings your mind back into reality. The coffees done, you grasp the pot and pour it into your superman coffee cup. 2 teaspoons of sugar and just a dab of milk, you slowly then ease the cup to your mouth and take a small rewarding sip followed by a much greater one after that.

You look at the clock that's centered on the coffee maker (6:17), you still have a few minutes before you need to get ready for work. So now, you're left alone with your thoughts, you start to remember the argument you got into last night with your girlfriend, about missing dinner that makes you feel like crap. She swears she can't breathe without you, when sometimes you feel you can't seem to breathe with her.

You finish the last of your coffee and start getting ready for work.

Take shower, the steamy water assaults at your body as if attacking an unsuspecting prey, it feels good, a quick and easy way to wake up and deal with the day to day routines of life. That's when you're struck with the thought, is everything we're doing being controlled by a higher power? Do you have a say in what happens to you?

Before you let yourself wonder too far, you grab yourself back into what you perceive as reality.

Brush teeth, the minty paste on the white wire like bristles from your toothbrush enters your mouth and clean and polish your teeth. Is it maybe God that oversees you and governs your every action? You remember back to a time when you were taking a philosophy class at the University of Texas in Austin. Professor David Sosa, you believe his name was. "In a way, in our contemporary world view, it's easy to think science has come to take the place of God. But some philosophical problem remain as troubling as ever. Take the problem of free will. This problem has been around for a long time. Since before Aristotle in 350 B.C., St. Augustive, St. Thomas...these guys all worried about how we can be free if God already knows in advance what you're going to do."

Before you can ponder on this any further, you quickly rinse your mouth out and begin getting dressed for work.

You head to your car, but you can't help but wonder about what else Professor David Sosa said. "So now you might be tempted to just ignore the question, ignore the mystery of free will. Say, Oh, well, it's just an historical anecdote. It's sophomoric. It's a question with no answer. Just forget about it. But the question keeps staring you right in the face. You think about individuality for example, who you are. Who you are is mostly a matter of the free choices that you make. Or take responsibility. You can only be held responsible, you can only be found guilty, or you can only be admired or respected for things you did of your own free will. So, the question keeps coming back, and we don't really have a solution to it. It starts to look like all our decision are really just a charade."

To be continued...

DOOM & GLOOM...What Now?

2011-04-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

The impending government shutdown, I'm sure, is the number one blog fodder this week. So, I thought I would "jump on the band wagon" and join in! I really hadn't given it any thought, until my seventeen year old son, called me with worry in his almost manly voice. He really was afraid. Afraid of anarchy and rioting and chaos...

I listened patiently as he expressed his concerns and woes. Then, I used my motherly calming effect and told him that any government job related to protecting the people and our property would continue. That only nonessential government bloated cheese whiz stinky repulsive jobs would be temporarily shut down. Oh, I wasn't that harsh, but I had to relieve his fears.

Then I went on to tell him that it's happened several times before, this government shutdown thing. I'm thinking somewhere in the neighborhood of about sixteen or seventeen times. That it's just a "stall" tactic, a "scare" tactic, a "bullying" tactic that the political pansies play with each other to get their way. Basically, congress is throwing a big huge hissy fit.

Well, he calmed down a bit and decided to not leave the country. He was already thinking about going to Australia, where it would be safe. Is this being tested on the TAKS? Hey, TEACHERS!!!! Leave your stupid ridiculous idiotic fear ridden psychotic thoughts at home!!!! I don't need your end of the world bullshit infecting my already emotionally hormone challenged teenager. Damn, and I get reprimanded for offing Santa???

TAKS Season and Texas Cuts Education

2011-04-04T06:38:00.000-07:00

It's the beginning of TAKS Season again. I wonder how many casualties we'll have this year? Will the socio economically disadvantaged be left behind or will it be our English as a Second Language students? From what I'm hearing, we in the great state of Texas will all be left behind, due to pending budget cuts.

According to our state legislatures, the administrators of education need to trim down their education budgets by 10 percent. Of course, the powers that be, believe that this "trim" back would be the cutting of "unnecessary" non-teaching jobs.

“Local school district officials are in process of making some very difficult and very painful budget decisions. Leadership is about making choices. We strongly urge them not to be shortsighted by sacrificing the classroom in favor of bureaucratic education establishment.”

But isn't that exactly what our state government is doing? Sacrificing education in order to keep the status quo of bureaucratic education establishment? Isn't all the unnecessary spending actually due to the increasing efforts to improve an antiquated system of assessment? Aren't we now, changing directions and creating a whole new testing system, titled the STAR? When is this testing madness going to END? Oh, yeah...that's right, it became law under George W. Bush.

"HEY, President Obama! Do us a favor and REPEAL the NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND!" Want to make your presidency count for something or are you really the puppet of the Republican party after all?

HEY, Honorable Shapiro...I'm thinking that maybe our lovely state government should do a bit of cutting back as well. How about you fellas and gals make your own phone calls, pick up your own lunches and dry cleaning, mail out your own letters and important documents, lick the back of a few stamps, make copies of valuable propaganda rhetoric, kill a few more trees in the name of TAKS, vacuum the carpeting in your offices, clean the windows, take out your trash, scrub the toilet down the hallway and a few of those other "can't survive without" functions. Then and only then, I'm sure you will possess the ultimate wisdom, the empathy and passion to address the state budget deficit. Since when did becoming an elected official allow one to be an elitist?

Oh, and don't think Shapiro was working alone, she had a bunch of support, here are a few of the names: Sen. Jane Nelson (R-Flower Mound), Sen. Dan Patrick (R-Houston), Sen. Troy Fraser (R-Austin), Sen. Joan Huffman (R-Southside Place), Sen. Robert Duncan (R-Lubbock), and Sen. Craig Estes (R-Wichita Falls). And if you'd like to watch the atrocity of a crime against the children of our great state...be my guest. Once you're there, click on Press Conference: Senator Florence Shapiro.

Brutus, The Flying Dingo Turns Eight

2011-03-22T19:13:00.000-07:00

It's not often, I suppose, that a dog (especially in our care) turns eight, but our Flying Dingo has made it! Princess Annie informed me that we will be throwing a birthday party for our birthday boy Friday night between the times of 6PM and 8PM. She even made invitations with some suggestions for gifts for the amazing Flying Dingo...an old shoe, tennis ball or even an old sock. He's rather easy to please.

In preparation of the big event, I cut and made ready the side lot. The side lot always is home to our own natural prairie, fire pit and totem pole. Spring and Summer evenings spent around a small tidy fire make way for magical memories and Friday will not disappoint.

I received an email from Mr. Robins informing me that he received some information from the man that runs the Orbison Museum in Nashville. Seems that the curator also has a daughter that writes songs and sings. He sent me a link to a little ditty with a touch of country and a bit of rock. It's lively and upbeat and a real gem.

Roy Orbison's 75th Year

2011-03-20T11:37:00.000-07:00

This is Roy Orbison's 75th birthday year. Now, I wouldn't have even known if it hadn't of been for my good buddy, Durango. See, he really does Know All about Texas. He directed a Mr. Wayne Robins my way, who happens to be writing an article about Orbison's birthday bash and what everyone around the world is doing to celebrate. He wanted to know what exactly Wink, previous homestead and mecca to the legendary rock n roll icon, had in store for the annual Roy Orbison Festival, that is usually held in June.

And sadly enough, I haven't a clue. I did direct Mr. Robins to Mrs. Mayberry, who is on the festival's committee for lining up all the events. I sure hope they knew it was his 75th birthday. When I did mention to Mr. Robins about the Pretty Woman contest, he said he might be able to send some of that perfume my way! He even thought I was pretty enough to enter the contest myself! Those New Yorkers...such charmers.

Mr. Robins not only writes/critiques for Billboard, he also has a few graphic novels in the works. He's one of those fellas that has a very creative imagination. One in which he rewrites some of rock history. It makes for an interesting read, if you're interested. I was, and I did read, for a few hours. Tell ya what, I'm hoping that Mr. Robins finds some time to put some of these ideas into a book.

In the meanwhile, I'll keep reading his blog and hoping that he'll send me some of the Pretty Woman perfume he's been telling me about. A Country girl needs a whiff of the big city every now and then!

Durango, My Tutor

2011-03-15T07:31:00.001-07:00

This is my first attempt at taking a screen shot and blogging it. My Tutor, Durango, gave me explicit instructions in a comment right here on this very blog. He is such a fantastic teacher. Although, I think I'm having trouble with my photo software. I should use the one he suggested.

"Japan is a nation of 127 million people with a long history of disasters, both manmade and natural, from a 1923 earthquake that killed 142,800 in the Tokyo region to the country's doomed entry into World War II, which ended with the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki."

This was my true purpose in blogging today...just wanted all the end of the worlders to see...this is not the first natural or manmade disaster Japan has experienced, nor shall it be the last. I don't overshadow this disaster by any means, but I just would like the vision prophecy seekers to lay off. There's enough to worry about without adding apocalyptic hysteria to the mix. And according to the know all of the internet...WIKIPEDIA... "Apocalyptic is a sub-genre of science fiction that is concerned with the end of civilization due to a catastrophe such as nuclear warfare, pandemic, impact event, cybernetic revolt, Technological Singularity, Dysgenics, supernatural phenomena, Ecological disaster, resource depletion or some other general disaster."

Did you happen to see the "key" word? FICTION. In case, you are unsure of what fiction means, it means...NOT TRUE! Take the earthquake for what it is...an earthquake. And take the human suffering for exactly what it is...human suffering. Now, get out there, roll up your sleeves, and lend a helping hand!

Woman Has Brain And Wants To Use It

2011-03-10T19:16:00.000-08:00

"Really good observations lately, CT&CT.

These virtual realities and so called friendships certainly murky reality and true human relationship. Media, but particularly social media, has its up sides. However, for people lacking sophistication or critical thinking skills, like the younger set, it can be sort of de-humanizing. Something the world needs less of, not more...but in clever ways developed by creative but profit driven people of flesh and bones.

Again great posts. Sure miss the real life stories of the mom, teacher, and community activist on small town west Texas, though."

This was a comment that was recently posted on a little fluff piece I wrote about Face Book. I say it's fluff because it is...I didn't have to do any research, I wrote exactly what I thought on the matter. Sometimes, showing your intelligence only lands you into hot water, and if you're a bit attractive you sometimes get approached or treated as if you don't own a brain.

It's true, I haven't been blogging or digging up information on the misdeeds of the oil and gas industry as of late, so I decided to do a little activism tonight just by liking NADR's link. If you know anything about drilling reform then you know that NADR is a group that promotes just that...drilling reform.

And low and behold here come the threats:

Kevin Prather: Oh? You live in Wink, right? You would not even have a job, if it were not for oil & gas, baby. Just a fact.

I wish I knew how to take a snapshot of Face Book and put it onto my blog, but my good buddy Durango has yet to teach me such things.

Reality Check, Please!

2011-03-05T10:42:00.000-08:00

I've been getting lesson after lesson regarding the "reality" of online characters. I use the word character purposely, because well, most of what you see people put out there "online" isn't real. Take for instance the women. I was just commenting the other day how every woman's profile pic on their blogs, Facebook and MySpace reeked of fantasticalness. (Yes, that's a made up word, but I'm an English teacher, so I'm entitled)

I'm in awe and speechless of how amazingly gorgeous all these women are. Then, somehow or another, I'll meet them personally and dang if someone didn't use photo enhance or fix it or a photo from the long distance past. Really? You're that desperate for attention and glory that you would "fake" it? I've heard about faking in the bedroom, but on Facebook?

So, I have this girlfriend of mine that is totally INFATUATED with this freelance writer that is a college student and single dad. He's constantly posting sly witty stuff on his wall as well as flirting shamelessly with every woman that he comes in contact with. He leaves a trail of bread crumbs that she devours without a second thought. I've tried to tell her time and time again, that he's just a house dad. Nothing special. He dabbles. He's not serious or even interesting, it's all a put on.

Imagine my surprise, when I visit this "celebrity's" wall and a he is bitch slapped by a REAL writer! Not just bitched slapped, but also told off that he only posts these "fluff" pieces for attention!

"Write a good story kid. Something we can get a grasp on, something that relates to our experience in life....or make your story so compelling we want to read it. You are young, you have experienced some of lifes pain and impact. You have ...not demonstrated that yet. Get down into your soul and write some stuff that has impact that your readers can relate to. Now...if your readers are your age maybe they can relate. The fact is, if you want to really set things on fire you have to transcend to stuff that has some gut wrenching meat to it. The stuff you put online is all fluff. Ya, you are a good looking guy and you put a lot of stuff up that is sexy. That is not going to make it in the real world. If you consider yourself a talented writer then develop a novel and work your ass off to make it work. I would read it. You have to do something that will ignite your public. I love big muscles so I enjoy pics of you. That was probably an improper thing to say.

You are frustrated. Either you have talent or you do not. Go write some stuff that you like. Ya, you can not be an idiot about basic sentence structure and stuff. Look back at what you have written before. Did it work, or not really at...track much attention at all? Good writing is not a Facebook thing. Facebook is good for being obtuse and or just making a splash with idiots. Go put yourself in recluse for a few months and right something serious, if you want to be a writer. Your stuff on facebook is fluff and designed to get attention. Not that we do not like it. It just is not going to get you accepted as a serious writer. You can still do Facebook, just work your ass off in the background...and do not say a word until your work is published."

Whew...I needed a good laugh, and DAMN, if it isn't a GREAT feeling to know when you're RIGHT!

The Facebook Saga, Part 1

2011-02-16T18:05:00.000-08:00

"Flirting is cheating if you are in a relationship. It is lusting after someone that belongs to someone else. When a person can’t give up ex-lovers something is definitely missing in their relationship.————-"

Over the past several months, I've been "interviewing" people about our most favorite social networking site...Facebook and it's effects on "relationships". These are just a few of the stories related to my inquiring mind and now I'll share them with you!

A woman meets a guy. They hit it off quite fabulously. They become friends on Facebook. (Relationship killer number 1) So, he spends time going through his friends' list explaining who everyone is and what they are to him. Especially the female friends. Not much is going onto his wall. She also notices that he rarely comments on others' walls. She's curious and goes to the pages of a few women that post quite regularly on his wall. Foiled...all their walls are "hidden" and only revealed to friends. Then Facebook created this "see friendship" option. Interesting. One of the ladies posts something directly onto his wall instead of just commenting and the "see friendship" option appears. So, she clicks the option. And what she sees are countless posts and comments made by her fellow on this woman's wall. Not just "friendly" stuff, but things like..."I miss you, honey." "I love talking with you." "I love the way you make me feel." and so on and so on... These posts are dated within the time frame of when he was seeing her exclusively. (I used "was" on purpose)

What she figured out is that her fellow thought he was covering his tracks by deleting his comments and posts on other people's walls by deleting the recent activity from his, not knowing that whenever one of his honeys decided to post...they have opened up their comments and posts to each other to the world. What she also failed to think about or consider is the chat option and private messages. Come to find out through other means...he has been corresponding with multiple women in this such fashion.

Lesson? What you don't see doesn't mean it isn't happening. Also, men are ALWAYS looking for greener pastures. You are only the FLAVOR of the month, and you're awesome, but if he can get the one he's been after...lookout...you're leftovers.

To be continued...

Romping In The Playground In My Mind

2011-02-13T12:28:00.000-08:00

Simply breathtaking. That is the only choice of words I have to describe this day of February. My previous day's company arrived mid afternoon and the wonderful relaxing times never ceased to abound.

Annie had a couple of her friends over to play. Yes, Annie is a girl, but her closest friends are boys. She's not one of them girly girl types. She would much rather play outside, climb trees and build forts. Last night, the trio built a campfire and then implored for it to become real. A real fire to roast hot dogs and melt marshmallows, I, of course, complied.

The three laughed and ate hot dogs, drank Dr. Pepper, burned marshmallows and released into the dusk...tales of apparitions and ghostly visitors. As I watched from the kitchen window, a smile of contentment spread slowly across my face, because while she basked in the glory of being a child maturing into a teenager...I knew that way too soon, she'll trade her tennis shoes for high heels, her bubble gum for lipstick and her baseball caps for ear rings.

Be a story teller...captivate your audience, whether it be two ten year old boys or a coliseum filled with avid fans. Chance is a gift, so act on chance when given the opportunity.

The Dream

2011-02-03T19:26:00.000-08:00

After devouring a most poignant work of writing, I pondered the essence and want to share the most vital parts.

A man, that is not old yet, experiences a terrible tragedy. This tragedy is the death of a family. His friends and parents do all they can to comfort and redirect his sorrow without success. After futile attempts of relaxing vacations, love, and compassion...they became despondent as they watched this man become the former shell of himself. They resign from everything because the man, who was not old, has aged prematurely and himself resigned from life.

One night, he has a dream. In it, he is sitting in a dimly lit room at a round table across from an elderly man who looks much like his late grandfather. They stare at each other in silence for several minutes and then the wrinkled man speaks.

“My son, tragedy is simply a miracle waiting to be discovered. Because within tragedy lie the seeds of love, learning, forgiveness, and empathy. If we choose to plant these seeds, they grow strong. If, on the other hand, we choose to overlook them, we prolong our tragedy and let somebody else to discover the miracle.”

He suddenly realized that instead of using the tragic accident to notice how precious life is, he prolonged the tragedy and ceased to live his life.

Look in the mirror...are you missing someone?

The Unbelievable Request

2011-01-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

Have you ever experienced one of those weeks where you feel as if you've walked out of your front door straight onto a spinning carnival ride? I say carnival with purpose because you know that ride isn't maintained very well and anything could happen. Can you say...out of control?

Imagine receiving a phone call from a person that you have not spoken to in fourteen years. You know nothing of what he/she has done over the past fourteen years or if they are even the least bit trustworthy. Then also imagine that person asking for one of your most loved and valuable possessions. And imagine one more thing. Imagine that this person expects you to hand it over...willingly, without any qualms.

If you were able to imagine such a scenario, then you have imagined this story:

The Unbelievable Request

A young girl falls in love with a young man. The two are married and are given a very small gift. This gift is a house. The house is extremely small, only one room and needs a lot of attention and care. The couple gladly take the gift, even knowing all the while that eventually the gift will have to be returned one day to the original owner. A year goes by and the couple work hard to make the little house into something beautiful. The house is a lot of work and sometimes required a lot of time and attention. The young woman never quit. She labored day and night on that house, but she noticed that her husband began to lose interest. He no longer wanted to spend anytime in the house. He would make excuses to not help with the work on the house and then one day, a couple of years later he never returned to the house. She was all alone in the house that still needed so much time and attention. One would think that maybe she should of given the house back, walked away from the challenge, but the fact was...she loved the house.

Over the years she continued to nurture the house and create a unique dwelling unlike any has ever seen. Fourteen years, she cried, loved, hurt and worked until she had turned that little one room fixer upper into a handsome, strong, reliable, incredible home. Everyone talked about how wonderful her house was, and she was extremely proud. She also knew that very soon she would have to give the house up, because it had become to big for her to keep. The house needed to have new experiences and even transform into something more unique and incredible.

Then, right before she was able to set the house free...she received a call from the man that left her with the house fourteen years ago. Although he never cared for the house and walked away from it for his own selfish desires instead of making the necessary sacrifices...he still felt entitled to the house. He asked the most unbelievable request...
"I want the house. I know that even though I was never there to do any of the work, or even check over the years to see if the house was okay or if you needed any help with the house, I still feel like I should be able to have access to the house. Remember...it was given to me as well."

So, she looked at her home, with tears in her eyes and replied, "You are the home you are supposed to be because of me. I painted your walls, repaired your roof and fixed the broken windows, knowing all the while that this day may come. The choice is yours."

The house responded, "I have to know. Was it me? Was I not good enough for him? This, I have to know."

The woman replied, "Yes, you will have to find that out for yourself, but I already know the answer. He was never good enough for you."

Bogart's Cellar

2011-01-28T05:05:00.000-08:00

Found an interesting and fantastic internet radio show that I haven't missed yet. The talk is witty and bizarre at times. The music ranges from retro to hard rock to blues to...well, you get the point. The show reaches a wide age span and even wider interests. So, if you're up for a good tickle and a treat for the ears...tune in!

Bogart's Cellar

An Italian Boy's Confession

2010-11-26T10:55:00.000-08:00

I normally do not post jokes, poems, yes, but jokes, not so much. But this one I found to be extremely cunning and full of the holiday spirit. As the blessed holidays approach, you will find people becoming brutally animalistic to get what they want. Dollar signs invade the hearts and minds of all, leaving those who keep the spirit of giving alive year round feeling disgusted and on the verge of vomitting. Enjoy!

AN ITALIAN BOY'S CONFESSION

'Bless me Father, for I have sinned.
I have been with a loose girl'.

The priest asks, 'Is that you, little Joey Pagano ?'

'Yes, Father, it is.'

'And who was the girl you were with?'

'I can't tell you, Father. I don't want to ruin her reputation'.

"Well, Joey, I'm sure to find out her name sooner or later
so you may as well tell me now. Was it Tina Minetti?'

'I cannot say.'

'Was it little Teresa Aconito?'

'I'll never tell.'

'Was it Nina Capelli?'

'I'm sorry, but I cannot name her.'

'Was it Dolly Borsato?'

'My lips are sealed.'

'Was it Rosa DiAngelo, then?'

'Please, Father, I cannot tell you.'

The priest sighs in frustration.
'You're very tight lipped, and I admire that.
But you've sinned and have to atone.
You cannot be an altar boy now for 4 months.
Now you go and behave yourself.'

Joey walks back to his pew,
and his friend Franco slides over and whispers,
'What'd you get?'

'Four months' vacation and five good leads.'

By Plane, Train And Blue Tattoos

2010-11-10T17:51:00.000-08:00

My good buddy Durango, says that I get offered the most amazing trips from people I hardly know. That's how I got to go to Vegas during the summer for four sorta interesting days. Love the sights and sounds, but the company...well...not much to say about that. Thing is, once I'm there, I'm gonna have an amazing time, regardless of who I'm with. And why not? I've got one life to live and I intend on making the most of it. Okay, back to this trip offer thing.

I made friends on Jango with a fellow over in Japan. No, he's not Japanese, he's just stationed there. He just spent time in Singapore and is planning a trip to Ireland for the winter break. Then he casually mentions a ten day trip across Brazil and Argentina by rail in May and an invite, "Wanna come?".

Oh, I told him that my days of riding on the back of a stranger's motorcycle to follow the Grateful Dead were pretty much over. Well, then he mentions, "Brazilian steak houses, Argentina wine country, Cheap hotels.........its going to be epic."

Epic? Now that peaked my interest. He says that I have plenty of time to think about it and that he's the funnest guy he knows. So, one has to wonder...how many guys does he know and what exactly is his idea of fun?

Now, methinks I have some pondering to do...

Still Singing The Jango Blues

2010-11-07T14:37:00.000-08:00

Remember a few days ago, or maybe it was further back...hmm...time is such a blur for me. Anywho, a man emailed me on Jango to inform me that the true path to righteousness is through the Roman Catholic church. I'm not even sure why he felt the need to convince me of this, so I didn't respond, but he emailed me again:

Hope I didn't freak you out too much on that last e-mail, Raven, but I'm pretty passionate about being Catholic Christian....I left home when I was 18 searching for God and going through all types of beliefs, finally read a book about the Early Church Fathers and couldn't deny the Catholic Church sounded just like what the early Christians(spiritually and belief-wise) were like. Two good sources if you were interested would be St. Ignatius of Antioch, and Justin Martyr...or Mike Aquilina has a book on the Early Church Fathers......Anyway, have a wonderful day and hope you find God in a meaningful way in your life!

God bless and peace to you, Steve.

Well, isn't that sweet...he hopes that I'll find God in a meaningful way...and on top of that...he even introduced himself to me. Hello, Steve... and here's my response:

Well, Steve...no, you didn't freak me out. And honestly "early church fathers" is another word for men that try to define God. Again, I'm not in search of the "right" religion. Only a true relationship with God. I read His Word, and have prayed and received the gift of interpretation, which according to the bible, any one of us can receive, with faith. Over the past three years since I separated from organized religion, I have found more truths and epiphanies than anyone could ever imagine. It is also not my job to spread what I know...unless someone asks. First, I'll tell you why I just can't get into Catholicism... With the coming of Jesus Christ...there was no more need for intercessory prayer or sacrifices...see Steve, he took all that away and the veil ripping in the holy of holies...is the symbolic and actual sign that ALL the rules that men have made up...are not required. To follow God...all you must do is LOVE HIM with all your heart, have faith and keep HIS commandments. Sorry, hun...

PS
You don't have to hope...I already have :-)

Why is it that when people leave home and do all sorts of really heinous stuff they call it "searching for God". Come on, you were sinning and you liked it, you bastard!

Singing The Jango Blues

2010-11-01T17:14:00.000-07:00

I've been a member of Jango for quite some time. I figured out how to add friends to my wall, taking a term from Face Book, a few months ago. Until then, I listened to my music in peace. I like Jango because I am able to create countless radio stations to match my listening moods. One can add various artists from any genre, such as if I wanted I could have Evanescence and Cheap Trick on the same station, which by the way, I do. I digress, back to listening in peace.

Like I said, I had been listening in peace, then I started accepting friends. These new friends are from all over. You have several options. You can send an email, a one line shout or a thank you. I like the shouts and thank yous. Short and simple. The emails, not so much.

I accepted a friend request from someone named Stu. This Stu person wrote very lengthy emails to which I responded, sometimes in great length as well. Why not? I like to write and read, so it seemed absolutely normal. Oh, we discussed stuff such as religion and relationships, the usual.

Well, then...life happened. I got busier. Flood, surgery, school...you know, the normal stuff. I didn't go onto Jango for a few days, but when I did I had this miserable email from Stu informing me of how awful of a friend I was for ignoring him. I apologized for a bit of chaos in my life. He didn't accept and has deleted his profile from Jango...basically he no longer exists, well...in my world anyway.

How strange. Then I get an email from another fella, that wants to know my religion. Okay, I respond, informing him that I'm not affiliated with any religion that I'm a truth seeker. He then sends off this rather lengthy email informing me the true religion is Catholicism. I'm thinking...hey, when did I ask?

So, I'm thinking I just want to go back to listening to my music in peace...

A Walk Through The Buiral Grounds

2010-10-31T14:37:00.000-07:00

Dusk...the in between time of day's end and night's begin beckoned to the revelers as they writhed warily amongst the headstones of the timeworn burial ground. The cemetery, protected by unbending Weeping Willows with bony branches, breached the night sky to pierce the sickening stillness. All those in attendance whispered a solemn prayer, trusting that the Omnipotent watcher would bequeath spoken boon. As the twilight slipped into darkness, the procession grew more solemn, the resolve a bit weakened like that of the branch of the frail Willow. Just a few more yards and the dare would be completed, triumph within grasp, but then a rasp shattered the stoic silence. The sound intensified and yet the distinct location couldn't be ascertained by the attendees. With never more the fiber to persevere...and stricken with a bolt of fear, they departed never completing the nighttime dare.

The Kiaser's Talk To Hell

2010-10-24T17:24:00.000-07:00

While in the process of going through water logged items, I came across a box of my Great Great Grandfather Boliver's belongings. A pocket watch, a pair of spectacles and a poem, being typed and signed at the bottom by my Great Great Grandfather. Take a read, let me know...have you seen this before? If not, I can only infer that it was possibly composed by him.

The Kaiser's Talk To Hell

The Kaiser called the devil up
On the telephone one day
The girl at central listened
To all they had to say.

"Hello". She heard the Kaiser say,
Is old man Satan home?
Just tell him it is Kaiser Bill,
That wants him on the phone.

The devil said, "Hello" to Bill
and said "How are you?"
I'm running a hell here on earth
Now tell me what to do.

"What can I do" the devil said,
"My dear old Kaiser Bill,
If there's a thing that I can do,
To help you sure I will

The Kaiser said, "Now Listen
And I will try to tell
The way that I am running things
on earth a modern hell.

I've saved for this for many years
And I've started out to kill,
That it will be a modern job
You leave to Kaiser Bill

My army went thru Belgium
Shooting women and children down,
We tore up all her country
And blowed up every town.

My Zepps dropped bombs on Cities,
Killing both the old and young
And those the Zepplins didn't get
Were taken out and hung.

I started out for Paris,
With the aid of poisonous gas,
The Belgians, Darn them, stopped us
And would not let us pass.

My submarines are devils,
Why you should see them fight,
They go sneaking thru the sea
And will sink a ship at sight.

I was running things to suit me
Till a year or so ago,
Then a man called "Woodrow Wilson,
Wrote me to go slow.

He says to me, Dear William,
We don't want to make you sore
So be sure to tell your U-Boats,
To sink our boats no more.

We have told you for the last time,
So dear Bill its up to you,
And if you do not stop it
You'll have to fight us too.

I did not listen to him.
And he's coming after me,
With a million Yankee Sailors
From their home across the sea.

Now, that's why I called you Satan,
For I want advice from you
I know that you will tell me,
Just what I ought to do.

My dear old Kaiser William,
There's not much for me to tell
For the Yanks will make it hotter,
Than I ever could in Hell.

I've been a mean old devil
But not half as mean as you,
And the minute that you get here,
I will give the job to you.

I'll be ready for your coming,
And I'll keep the fires all bright
And I'll have your room all ready,
When the Yanks begin to fight.

For the boys in blue will get you,
I have nothing more to tell,
Hang up the phone and get your hat,
And meet me here in HELL.

D.F. Boliver

Love Your Enemies

2010-10-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

"Haters of God and his people are to be hated... We must hate in the truest sense, which is to regard with extreme and active aversion, to consider as loathsome, odious, filthy, to detest. ...enemies are recognized by their intense dislike for his people and the work these are doing."

I'm agnostic...I have doubts, but I do know this...I'm not a hater. Why? Because Jesus said so...

"Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." Matthew 5:44. 2 Cor. 11:12-15; 2 John 1: 9 - 11; Luke 6: 35

No Resistance

2010-10-24T08:57:00.000-07:00

I just love those people who spout no resistance for the sake of their beliefs. Don't they realize they have the freedom to have those beliefs because of those that fought to prevent tyranny? I'm thinking more and more...we should of just let Hitler win... Just sayin'

Durango and I Make A Vow

2010-10-17T15:39:00.000-07:00

I'm hoping that Mr. Durango is serious about us doing the Amazing Race together. I am in dire need of some physical activity that only the Dear Durango can provide. I remember when Durango used to be known as Doctor Durango...I could sure use some of his doctoring right about now.

I have tickets to the Black Label Society concert in Grand Prairie on the 30th of October. I had planned on attending said concert with my son and his girlfriend. Now, there are two things amiss that will cause me to fore go the event. First of all, my son is scheduled for ACL surgery this coming Wednesday and he no longer has a girlfriend. Well, the latter is of no consequence, but I can't very well take a hobbled crippled of a child with me to a Rock concert and honestly, I have no other friends that would even be interested. It was like last year when I had to attend the Cheap Trick concert by myself in Dallas.

Instead, since I have an Annie free weekend, I've decided to take in some local entertainment. Listen to a band that goes by the name of Sally Thieves. It just so happens that the drummer and I are on a first name basis.

My Favorite Post Of All Time...

2010-09-26T06:21:00.000-07:00

http://jamminmole.blogspot.com/2009/06/moi-man-hateri-think-not.htm l

I was trying to gather inspiration for a new post by going back and reading some of my older stuff. The time I was referred to as a man hater and my response...my favorite. First of all, anyone who slightly knows me at all... knows without a shadow of a doubt, that statement is far from being true!

Is My Hiatus Over?

2010-09-25T14:03:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like you had absolutely nothing to say? That's been me for the past few months. Do I have something to say now? Not really. I have been sitting back and just watching. Seeing a few of my longtime beliefs change. Has it been change for the good? I'm not sure...

Attending my son's football games this year has found me busy and occupied. I enjoy cheering him and the boys of Wink onto victory and still standing proud when they succumb to defeat.

Annie took her first flight back in May and did very well. Now, she might be taking her first flight alone. Since she is only ten, the flight must be direct...and honestly, I prefer it that way.

Well, I am off for a little nap...gotta get over to Kermit's Celebration Days tonight. I just might take some pictures and I just might write about it, but I'm not completely sure...

Loathsome Creature By Toni Etier Dedicated To BP

2010-08-08T10:16:00.000-07:00

Come now, let's not be complacent. So what...they capped the leak, finally...after how long? A few months? Ruined a few beaches, killed a few animals, destroyed the livelihood of several families, paid off a few claims, cleaned up a little bit, BUT...don't forget...BP is a loathsome uncaring creature. Fixed on profit REGARDLESS the harm and disdain DONE TO others.

Although Toni did not compose this poem with BP in mind I couldn't help but picture British Petroleum as I read it. Relish the vivid description of an industry allowed to flow amok without a care for others in the world. As we all just sit back and breathe in and swallow this nauseous crap!

LOATHSOME CREATURE

So full of self, this creature flowed,

spilling nauseous crap as if it were gold,

twisted views of self worth and of measure,

droning on and on for self pleasure.

Cast your eye with distaste, loathsome creature,

placate your pride with self-righteous favor,

lose your humanity, if ever it was,

to judgement and ego and manufactured buzz.

Captured, your audience by circumstance or choice,

grace us, sweet creature, with your indulgent banter,

impress us, loathsome creature, with your witted candor.

So, loathsome creature in your view it would seem,

fortune reins down on those sat at your knee.

Cast your runes, and spin your tales,

no breath in sight for good sense to prevail.

***alternate ending

(Your ego is rooted, your mind made up,

all that is left to say, now is ...

Shut the fuck up.)

Toni E.

Another One Bites The Dust...Zumanity

2010-08-07T17:16:00.000-07:00

I bet you're wondering if the show Zumanity fared better than Believe. Hmmm...since they were both produced by Cirque du Soleil...not much better. If you are not familiar with Soleil's theme, basically it's interesting people dressed in interesting and colorful costumes performing some pretty incredible feats. And maybe I shouldn't stereotype all of their shows, considering I have only witnessed about four different ones. But somehow, the four different ones all seemed to have a common theme...freakish at times dressed outlandish over the top performers.

Zumanity focused on the "sexual" nature of people. The ring master was a transvestite/cross dresser. Not really sure, didn't ask...a guy dressed in drag. You know what I've notice about performing transvestites? A lot of them make themselves up to look like Liza Minnelli...as did the ring master of the Zumanity show.

There were a pair of chunky twins dressed provocatively, a couple that was a mix of the fifties and the seventies that touted themselves to be sex therapists and a true to life man whore. The man whore was very funny and kinda cute. He managed to make his way throughout the audience, I believe he even made it up to where the girls and I were sitting. He ran his hands across our legs...naughty man.

Those were your main characters that kept reappearing throughout the show. The program resembled circus acts except the characters were scantily clad and the clowns told sexual jokes. That was the only difference. So, if you enjoy circus performers (trapeze artists, acrobats...) and you like for them to be topless at the same time or have their rumps showing, well...then this is the show for you.

My favorite parts? There were a pair of lovely ladies swimming in a gigantic fish bowl performing some amazing water acrobatics and balancing on the rim of the bowl. That was very impressive and quite beautiful. I also enjoyed when audience members were embarrassed thoroughly by the ring master and sex therapists. The funniest moment of the evening came towards the end when a guy sitting behind us exclaimed..."Oh my God! That chick is a guy!"

Criss Angel Believe At The Luxor

2010-08-07T09:08:00.000-07:00

Previously I mentioned a couple of shows and exhibits that the girls and I attended. I was not allowed to take pictures at any of these events. Well, no one was allowed not just me. I also mentioned attending two night clubs, again...wasn't allowed to take pictures. So, the more interesting things about Vegas I couldn't take pictures of. All I can do is paint you a picture with my words. We'll see how that goes!

The first show we attended was Believe, which featured A&E's favorite magician...Criss Angel. To be honest, I preferred the show on A&E and not his stage production. It was cute...I know, me categorizing Criss' show as cute? The Mind Freak? But it was.

Another confession...I just wanted to get in the same room with Criss, that's all. I accomplished that. Now whether Criss realized I was in the same room with him that I can't be for sure about. His show opened with four or five "clown" type fellas. One was extremely short and did some pretty funny Criss Angel impressions.

After several minutes of the joking around, Criss came on stage. He talked about growing up, learning his favorite tricks, his bunny and other things. He mentioned filming the sixth season of Mind Freak and having a party the next week in Vegas.

If you have ever viewed the show, you would know that Criss levitated over the Luxor. A video of that was shown. Honestly...the whole performance in Vegas seemed to be an advertisement for his show on A&E. C'est Dommage.

Shake, Rattle And Roll...The Elevator Ride

2010-08-07T07:22:00.000-07:00

Accommodations at the Luxor left me with a strangeness that I will just have to explain. The slant of the building because of it's pyramid shape led to strange elevator rides. Since I'm an early riser no matter what time I go to bed I always got the morning coffee from the Starbucks down in the hotel lobby. In case you're curious...there were two Starbucks in the hotel.

On one of my early morning return coffee trips I waited patiently outside the elevator. Just waiting for it to come down. It seemed to take a bit longer than usual, but the doors finally opened. A family exited...man, wife, daughter and son. It was the son's face, maybe a boy of 8 years or so, that caught my attention. He was stricken with horror, cheeks wet with tears.

I notice kids. I suppose from the the few years of teaching my observational awareness of children in distress has increased.

I asked if he were okay, he couldn't even speak...his little legs and arms started to tremble. Mom then spoke up and stated that the power in the elevator went out, it had stopped moving and they had been trapped for a good fifteen minutes in the dark. Trapped, until someone pushed the down button to catch the elevator.

I listened as Dad called the management and expressed his disdain for their elevator. I stood out there for ten minutes...management or maintenance still AWOL. Hopefully they showed at some point. I entered the elevators on the opposite wall and crossed my toes, since my fingers held coffee. Although the ride reminded me of an Elvis Presley song....shake, rattle and roll...mission accomplished, I arrived on the 25th floor, the girls' coffees in hand.

Not Being Allowed To Sleep In Vegas

2010-08-05T19:13:00.000-07:00

Usually when I fly I check luggage. I do this so as to not worry about what I have in my suitcase. This time however, I chose to only do carry on. This was extremely difficult. First off, I am a woman and require many changes of clothes and matching shoes for each outfit. After filling my bag with four dresses, three pairs of pants, three pairs of shoes, my makeup bag, hot iron...I no longer had any room for toiletries. And besides, the rule is that all liquids must be in three ounce bottles, of which I had none.

I thought I would just purchase my toiletries and such when I arrived in Vegas. That was a really awful idea. First off, I would have to purchase these items from a store within the hotel because I did not have access to a car. This would mean limited choices and of course high prices. A tiny bottle of shampoo, a small can of shaving cream, a minute roll on deodorant and a minuscule tube of toothpaste rang up to twenty three dollars! Yikes!

Leaving Midland airport at 4:30PM had me arriving in Vegas at 10:30PM. No, it normally doesn't take that long on a direct flight, but I apparently did not have a direct flight. I never exited the plane at any of the stops. I stayed on while others exited and boarded...twice. Yuck!

I really and truly thought that my girl friends would allow me to unpack my belongings in the hotel room and then take a shower and head off to bed. I was mistaken. I was informed that no one sleeps in Vegas. I really had no idea.

The girls booked us a room at the Luxor. It was fairly nice and also home to the Cris Angel show, Believe, which we had tickets to Saturday night's performance. We also had tickets to Zumanity, the Titantic and Bodies exhibits and admission to two night clubs...the LAX and the Cat House. More on all that later.

To Vegas Or Not To Vegas

2010-08-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

In a few days, my summer vacation will come to an abrupt end. No longer will I sleep in late, stay in my pajamas, sip coffee watching the sunrise. No, those days of bliss will soon fade into oblivion only to be replaced with early mornings of dressing hurriedly, scrambling eggs and guzzling coffee instead.

But before I rush into the new school year, let me close this summer properly by first apologizing to my friend Mrs. Cummings. Yes, she informed me that I lacked in my blogging duties over the summer...hey, what can I say? I was on summer break :-)

I got an invite a few weeks ago to go to Vegas...all expenses paid. How many of you would turn down such an offer? Over the past twenty years of my life, I have put myself in precarious situations. Living a most curious life filled with the acceptance of invitations that others would deem strange, but these RSVPs have proved to be by far some of the the most deliciously satisfying moments of my life.

Vegas...a friend commented that it's not like any other place on Earth. I possibly can't make that claim, seeing as I have not visited every place there is to visit on this big blue planet, but I will respond with affirmation that I encountered a most lively culture and also a scene that wears thin quickly.

I spent three nights and four days in Sin City. Heard the phrase, "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" hundreds of times. Played way too many slot machines (which after you play one...they're pretty much all the same). And walked my little feet off.

Tomorrow I'll fill you in on packing for the trip and arriving late on a Friday night. For now, I'm back to reality....clothes to wash, beans to soak and yards to water...ain't life grand?

Gifts For Madden

2010-07-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

A little boy woke this morning without the hug of his mother. A mother and father wonder how they will go on. A question raised of how this little boy, Madden...will know just how special and loving a mother he possessed.

A picture of Karah shared illustrates passion in her eyes, warmth in her smile and a loving kindness in her presence as all whom knew her partook in. Forced to accept a finality so sudden that it leaves us all numb, dumbfounded and without words.

The pain unfathomable. The grief unmeasurable. The same questions will be asked tomorrow and the day after as the surreal becomes all too real. Hold onto those beautiful places in time with Karah. Share your fondest memories of her. Wrap them in love and compassion. Give these gifts to Madden, so he will always know.

Recovering, Relaxing and Rethinking

2010-07-09T17:07:00.000-07:00

I haven't felt like blogging much lately. I usually blog about the things I do and see. Seeing that I am pretty much housebound I have not seen much lately. Why am I housebound? Surgery. Yes, a couple of weeks ago I underwent a major minor surgery. Only a handful of my closest friends know the exact procedure, but it does require a few weeks of very limited activity.

What's a person to do while stuck in the house with only the ability to ambulate a few steps and lift very light objects? Read. Being on pain numbing medication limits my reading ability or I should say my endurance. The words on the page mixed with codeine tends to send me off to slumber quite often.

What's my next option? Watching movies. After about ten movies, well...I'm quite movied out. Then what? Talking on the phone. My poor poor poor friends. I should say that I am quite certain that they are definitely tired of my calling.

I have completed four puzzles, looked out the window a few hundred times, washed all the clothes I could find, dusted everything in sight...facebooked until I am blue in the face and now here I am writing the most uninteresting blog possible.

My Blue Eyes... Toni Etier

2010-07-08T07:29:00.000-07:00

The written word is beautiful to me. When those words are in music, a book or a poem...I must listen. I seek out lyrics and the meanings in between. A while back I blogged about a band and within that band is a drummer. And this drummer has a very special girlfriend. You may remember her smiling face in one of my pictures. Below is a poem that she composed:

My Blue Eyes

my blue eyes betray my thoughts,

they casually drop my secrets like gossip.

my blue eyes sometimes lie for me...

though seldom do they try.

my blue eyes deceive you still,

as honest as they are...

you don't see,

too wrapped up in yourself...

no thoughts of me.

my blue eyes see your heart,

they know your soul.

words....

glance...

words...

nothing.

my blue eyes patiently wait,

they search you for me.

my blue eyes...

close.

Toni Etier

Red White And Blue

2010-07-03T06:58:00.000-07:00

I don't have enormous plans for the fourth. I do know that this is the very first fourth since I've been a mommy that my children will not be with me. My youngest is on the Coast with my mommy and daddy and my eldest is spending the weekend with his girlfriend and her family. So, I'm alone. Being alone reminds me of that poem of the lone rider that brought the message that most of us associate with our independence day.

I'm sure you know the one where the man rides his horse to announce the coming of something rather important.

"A cry of defiance, and not of fear—
A voice in the darkness, a knock at the door,
And a word that shall echo forever-more;
For borne on the night wind of the past,
Through all our history to the last,
In the hour of darkness and peril and need,
The people will waken and listen to hear
The hurrying hoof beats of that steed, "

Long before that night, our nation had been conceived. In pubs and taverns, farmhouses and churches, town halls and public squares...whisperings of what's not fair and change that's needed. Lines were drawn and divisions were born. Loyalists and Patriots, Liberals and Conservatives, the haves and have nots...time has not changed those attitudes, they're still present today.

Generations of contempt have been born. The divisions are too deeply embedded. Differences can not be put aside even for a day. But let's pretend anyway. Fire up the grill, slap on the steaks. Fly the flag and pop the works. Beat your chests and shed that single tear. Smile and be polite have no fear. Kiss and hug your family tight, forget about that fight.

Getting Buttered Up At Summer Mummers

2010-06-13T07:09:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, a friend mentioned taking me to Summer Mummers. I'd never been. I'd never heard of it. I wanted to go. My good buddy Durango, did a little background research for me so that I would be prepared. What I learned before going was that people that you didn't know would want to dowse you in popcorn. I also learned that if you don't have a sense of humor or are a stuffed shirt you just shouldn't go. Finally, one of my friends gave me the best advice, "Don't wear opened toe shoes." That, I think was the best advice ever.

Arriving at the Yucca Theatre in Midland found me showing my ID. The purpose, so I could purchase a margarita. With margarita in hand, my escort for the evening wanted to ensure that I had the best experience possible. He purchased flashing buttons, donned me with Mardis Gras beads and bought an entire rack of popcorn. Some for eating, but the majority would be airborne at some point.

We sat in the pit, putting us directly in front of the stage and behind the piano man. Remember those old serial movies from the old time movie experience? Part of the melodrama played as a movie while actors performed other parts on stage. During the movie playing portion, Mr. Piano man provided the running music.

The premise of the show was a talent search in the desert. The promotional name for the contest was titled STD. The Limp Wrist agency sponsored the contest, the owners Sgt. Pepper and Captain N. Tennille would be leaving the company to their daughter and the winner of the STD would have the privilege of sharing ownership. So, if you have any imagination, the plot consisted of looking for the next big STD.

We were informed that when the Villain appeared you needed to boo and throw popcorn. When the protagonist appeared you should clap and be very enthusiastic. I don't know how I missed snapping a shot of the villain, but I did manage to capture the good guys and their sidekicks.

There's a bit of crowd participation. For instance, the Limp Wrist owners daughter's name is Caroline Goodtimes. When her name was said, "Sweet Caroline..." the crowd responded, "Da Da Daaa"... you know like the Neil Diamond song. In fact, one needed to be a bit familiar with all types of songs in order to get some of the jokes.

Of course, as in all melodramas, the good guys save the day, win the girl's heart...and everyone (except for the villain) lives happily ever after. This melodrama was no exception. Just when I thought it was over, that's when the variety show began.

There were so many acts and one liners I just kept laughing and clapping. I remembered this one joke for my buddy Durango. It goes like this, "How are Old Men and Good Coffee the same?" "They're RICH." I'm sure he'll appreciate that one.

Dancers? Oh, yes...plenty of dancers ranging in gender and age. From the black eyed bees to Les Girls there wasn't a lack of music or dancing. Even the crowd got a chance to dance to the Time Warp from the old cult classic, The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Did I dance? Oh, you betcha.

I would have to say the entire evening was a total blast and I would definitely do it again. The highlight? Hmmm...hard to say, but that pretty girl carrying the cards to announce the next act was pretty entertaining!

Oil Flood Protest New Orleans asks, "Who Dat Gonna Clean This Up?"

2010-06-09T05:12:00.000-07:00

This is a shot of the famous Jackson Square in New Orleans. Usually it's filled with tourists, but not on this day. On May 30th, the Square was flooded with locals demanding accountability. Wondering why it is that the ones in charge have allowed the BP oil leak to continue. They're angry and they want answers now!

Louisiana felt the devastating effects of Katrina but recovered. If you remember the coverage of the hurricane you should also remember how thousands of people were left stranded without help, how the rest of us looked on in horror. I remember that time well, waiting to hear from my brother, my grandparents...I don't want them to feel alone.

Photos by Maria T. Brodine

Roy Orbison Festival June 18th 2010

2010-06-07T21:59:00.000-07:00

It's just around the corner...what our little town of Wink is famous for. The Roy Orbison Festival music and car show extravaganza. I've heard that there's some new blood on the committee of organizers that are sure to spice things up. I'll go and see if I can round up some information for all you Orbison fans. Until then...mark your calenders for June 18th.

"They Didn't Make Us So...We Didn't " Retorted BP

2010-06-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

I know a little something about offshore drilling. My ex husband worked for Duo-Line which was owned by Rice Engineering. Except my ex husband was not an engineer, he was before coming to West Texas a bass player in a band. He landed a job working with cement for casings and within a couple of years moved up into production and then was made the top guy for flying out to Houston to fix engineering problems.

Yeah, there's gaining experience on the job, but really...someone doing an engineer's job without the degree or experience required? Happens all the time. Duo-Line lost their engineer and didn't bother to replace him. So, honestly, it doesn't surprise me that when safety measures are suggested that BP would retort...well, if they're not required...why?

Minerals Management Service questioned the effectiveness of blowout preventers used in extremely deep waters. Their concerns are now our accident in the Gulf. A backup shutoff device was also suggested, but not required by MMS. Why not required? Because the oil and gas industry boo hooed and cried about it. SO...the MMS backed down. Sounds like to me we need some new people with backbones on the MMS. Don't ya think?

Clean up efforts? Hah... all we got now going on is BP pointing fingers at TransOcean who's pointing fingers at Haliburton. Oh, do you remember me begging all of you to demand that Congress pass the Frac Act? Which would require oil and gas companies to disclose what's in Fraccing fluids? Guess what...the dispersants used to "clean up" the spill...an ancient guarded secret...who's feeling foolish now, huh?

Read more about the why, how and who here.

65 Years Later on the Beaches of Normandy

2010-06-06T07:16:00.000-07:00

Sixty Five years marches us through time and away from those beaches in Normandy. Glancing back just does not satisfy the longing to capture that moment, to fully understand the impact of those Allied forces crossing the perilous waters to find themselves gaining entrance to a most menacing rendezvous.

Sixty five years ago British troops hunkered down awaiting orders to move forward. Canadian troops joined the operation staking a claim to Juno Beach. Landing crafts transported American troops and with their doors open they waded ashore under cover of Naval fire. In their crouched positions anticipation of the movement lingered heavy in the air creating deep impressions on that beach. B26 Marauders dotted the skies above Normandy creating a blanket of security for those on vigil.

Sea crafts brought thousands across the English Channel. Scores perished in those waters as they made their final approach. Those that landed first took the brutal brunt for all those that continued to pour in on the waves. Hundreds of thousands met their end that day but not in vain. The liberation of France marked a most crucial turning point in the Western theatre and created a permanent impression in the Wrinkles of Time.

General Dwight Eisenhower looked across those beaches in 1951 to remember the sacrifice and the remembering has never ceased. Year after year, pilgrims come and witness the painted poppies on the beach pebbles. A beach sixty five years ago stained in red still haunts our memories. If you were to stand on that beach today, be certain that you'll peer deep into the eyes of a veteran of that War of 1939 - 1945. Listen to his eyes, they'll tell you a most gut wrenching story. Then give him a single solitary salute, imprint his story onto your mind because one day you'll have to embark on that trip for him.

Annie's First Ever Plane Ride

2010-06-03T20:20:00.000-07:00

Don't have a recollection of my first plane ride. May be because I took that flight at the tender age of six months. Later in life I had many rides I remember well. Annie flew for the first time at a much older age than myself, her hall of flight memory, nine. I like that she experienced it at nine. I tell her all the time that this is her final year of being a single digit. Never ever again will her age only contain a spot for one number.

The thought of it saddens me, but also brings to mind the next few years of being a pre-teen. Not feeling old enough to do anything, feeling too old to do some things and yet wishing all the while to be a teenager. Or at least...that's how I remembered it.

Her first flight, that of one hour and fifteen minutes into Denver went without any surprises. Of course, though on a normal lift off, you get that usual rumbling sound. Except it doesn't feel usual when it's your first time. Annie's eyes widened, her tiny hands gripped the arm rests and she peered deep into my eyes for the reassuring look of comfort. Finding it, she relaxed and witnessed for the first time the ground below her growing minuscule through a tiny window.

She inquired ahead of time of many people what she should expect and how she could prepare for the plane ride. Some offered the advice of chewing gum to alleviate ear clogging problems. Of course, armed with that nifty piece of advice...she repeatedly asked me if I remembered to bring gum.
Another told her that she would need coinage in order to use the bathroom, but that may be she shouldn't use the bathroom for the fear of it sucking her out the plane. Annie decided against using the facilities and passed up a soda in order to prevent the need for a bathroom trip.

Did I mention how the princess loves to be prepared and plan well?

Remembering My Birth On Memorial Day

2010-05-31T07:59:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day. Family get togethers, celebrating school end and the beginning of summer, pools, picnics, wafting smells off the grill, American Flags lining the streets of towns across the USA...these are a few signs that Memorial Day is in full progress.

Our family never lost a soldier on foreign soil. They all returned safely to their families. Grandpa died last year, he served as a medic in WWII. My Uncle died years ago, he had been in the Navy. My great granddaddy died when I was very young, he served in WWI, although a German he served on the Allied side. These are just a few from my family tree.

Daddy was drafted right after he married mommy. And right after he married mommy, they were pregnant with me. They left the Gulf Coast of Mississippi and moved to El Paso, Texas out to Fort Bliss. Mommy was very sick with me. Her blood is AB negative, mine is A positive...there's something deadly about that combination. Remember, I am old...we're talking about the early seventies before all these wonderful advances in medicine.

There's a handy dandy shot today of course that fixes this problem, but before now...negative blood mommies with positive blood babies was a huge dilemma. The Fort Blissian Doctors informed mommy and daddy that their child would be born with no hands, no feet and possibly be born with mental retardation. They encouraged mommy and daddy to abort and never give birth to this child.

Did I ever mention how stubborn I am? I fought that decision tooth and nail. I kicked and screamed, gave my mommy the worse morning sickness I possibly could. I jumped at the sound of my daddy's voice as he sang GI Blues to me. I sucked my thumb and nestled in. I planted my feet sternly against my mommie's back. I dug in and planned to stay.

I was born, despite what the Fort Blissian doctors suggested. And as mommy and daddy held me my very first day, they looked into the deepest bluest eyes of a most perfectly formed little girl and gave her a most fitting name. Joely Ann. Formed from my daddy, Joe, and my mommy Paula Ann.

And Then There Were None

2010-05-27T19:50:00.000-07:00

My last day of school? Had some really tender heartbreaking moments. The boys and I watched one more movie together...Michael. You know, the one with Travolta playing an angel. Then ten minutes before ten o'clock, they were informed transport had arrived and would be taking them to their new facility. They all lined up and hugged us, their teachers for the very last time.

I walked them over to their dorms so they could collect their belongings. Little plastic bags with toiletries and a few other personal items. One of the boys hugged me tightly and whispered that he loved me, that I was like a mother to him...one that he'd never known.

This kid always worked so hard in my class. He has a wonderful creative knack for writing and draws the most beautiful illustrations. I always try to give each kid an opportunity to use his talents in the classroom.

Then something occurred that I'd never witnessed before. The boys were handcuffed and shackled for transport. As the chains were donned, they went from being my little high school boys to hardened criminals. Some of them dropped their heads in shame as their eyes met mine. My heart broke, I'd never seen them this way before...and I couldn't help but tear up and wonder if this experience had been positive enough that it would be a catalyst for change.

I really won't ever know the answer to that question. All I can hope for is that maybe, when these fellas are grown, and have jobs and families, that maybe they'll look up their former English teacher and send me a message. Hopefully that message will inform me that they achieved the one thing I wanted for them. A life full of promise, of success, of always being in the free.

School's Out for Summer Flying To Denver

2010-05-27T04:48:00.000-07:00

This most anticipated and longed for day has finally arrived! It's the last day of school before graduations and summer vacations. The last day to hand in assignments, find missing books, clean out your locker, check the lost and found for that jacket your mom is still pissed about you losing...the last day...ahhh.

Bittersweet feelings trickle through my mind and course throughout my being as a creek meandering along the hilly grassy slope of some quiet place. TYC will close the doors forever on the state school. Teaching at the state school for the past two years proved challenging mixed with hidden delightful surprises.

There's always a diamond in the ruff, and with these boys there were several. I taught English and Writing. They tested for me back in March. I received their results yesterday. The exit level testers...100%. The sophomores...83%. The freshmen...80%. I celebrated the victory with them, serving pizza and sodas...bidding them goodbye and continued success.

It's bittersweet also because of the bonds and friendships I formed with my fellow teachers. And am I ever so proud of Mrs. Cummings! She took and passed her EC-4 certification test! You've come a long way baby!

As soon as school is out the princess and I will be flying to Denver via Albuquerque. We'll be riding with Jesse to keep him company on his way to a relative's graduation. Annie has made it known that she is no longer speaking to Jesse because he rolled down the window when we rode through the cemetery to allow the ghosts to get her. To her chagrin, she was not gotten by ghosts. We'll see how long that no speaking to Jesse lasts when we get to the first convenience store and she's wanting beef jerky!

A Thank You Note

2010-05-26T04:11:00.000-07:00

Subra Is Coming To Town

2010-05-25T12:37:00.000-07:00

Who is Wilma Subra? A Louisiana chemist who doesn't mind dodging bullets to protect us and our children from the negligence of the toxic industry. Okay, I can already hear you sighing and rolling your eyes! I know we need industry, but we also need industry to use safety equipment and non toxic materials in their production and manufacturing.

Wilma helps communities fight against the abuses of chemicals used by companies. She considers it her job to inform and empower neighborhoods with the knowledge of fighting chemical threats.

Sadly, many people ignore her work and warnings...that is until someone in their own family ends up sick. That's when she'll receive a call:

"I've never agreed with you and I've been on the other side but my wife or my child is sick and I want to know what are the potential things they could have been exposed to that caused the illness."

During these moments, Wilma starts the dissemination of information. Through a simple exchange of words, she easily shifts attitudes.

There's plenty of work that needs to be done. Plenty of communities that are exposed to chemical threats. Plenty of companies who need to take responsibility and get it cleaned up.

Wilma Subra is coming to town. Oh, not my itty bitty town of Wink, but to Ft Worth on June 3rd. She will be the guest speaker for NCTCA and dialogue about Air Quality and it's health impacts on us and our children. I know as an educator and mother, this topic greatly concerns me. More details will follow concerning time and location. Go Ahead and free up June 3rd you won't want to miss this granny in action!

Leslie Johnson and Her Mississippi RAG

2010-05-25T10:22:00.000-07:00

Growing up in the Deep South allowed me the fortuitous opportunity to be surrounded by great local artists. My granddaddy was friends with the likes of Arno Pace and Ray Stevens. Grandma and Grandpa took summer trips to Nashville to the Grand Ole Opry . It was akin to heaven for the two of them as Grandpa listened to songs that we all knew he'd be picking on his own dance floor back home.

I veered away from the blue grass and country of my granddaddy's band and found myself more in the tradition of heavier beats. I always found myself listening to more obscure non mainstream type music such as King Crimson or the Sex Pistols. But...I never deny my heritage or roots and sometimes when the mood hits me just right find my heart wanting a little of the blues and jazz.
The Mississippi Rag was the premiere authority on blues in the Delta. Leslie Johnson took that little upstart of a magazine to national and international success with readers in all 50 states and 26 foreign countries. In 2007 the Rag no longer put out 40 to 50 pages of printed sensational stories, but purely went to being an online publication. This was due to Leslie's personal illness and her eventual death to cancer.

My grandpa and grandma were huge fans of The Mississippi Rag and were faithful subscribers. I loved reading through the well done articles and was truly impressed by Leslie's journalistic writing abilities and her way of infusing the excitement of the music into each and ever article.

From start to finish, Leslie Johnson and her beloved magazine will be forever known as the absolute authority on Jazz and Blues around the country. What I admired most about Leslie was her dedication to black musicians. Other journals ignored these musicians, but Leslie never did.

One of her writers had this to say about The RAG:

"The RAG was an exemplary magazine in many ways — the tabloid format she insisted on allowed her to print many and large-scale illustrations, including rare and sometimes unique photos she got from the best collectors of this material."

Leslie left us as the single driving force that hailed early Jazz and ragtime and brought it the notoriety it most richly deserved. These are her parting words to her longtime staff of writers:

"I can't begin to tell you how much I treasure our history together. I am so proud of the quality of each RAG, and it's all due to your talent, creative spirit and willingness to explore the rich legacy of this music. Many musicians owe you thanks, too, because you have, in many cases, revived and/or enhanced their careers.

"Thank you so much. I love you all and will continue to be in touch for as long as possible."

Hearing That New Sound With Outlash

2010-05-23T08:05:00.000-07:00

I've encountered quite a bit of live music in my short existence on this revolving planet. My love affair with music all started when my grandpa purchased a piano for my sixth birthday. He played strings...fiddle, guitar, banjo...anything with strings he could play. He and his buddies put together a band and on Friday and Saturday nights they would get together and play. I loved dancing then and I adore dancing now.

That's how I judge the likability of a new band is their ability to get my feet moving. If I can't be convinced with the hard core heavy strumming of the bass or the rhythmic pounding of the percussion to gyrate to the dance floor then it is not a likable band in my opinion.

I remember back in New Orleans, I was friends with the lead singer of a band named Zodiac Jukebox. Normally, I wouldn't go for an all cover band, but these guys title said it all. Basically their repertoire of songs was so extensive that they could play any request. They had hundreds of songs memorized and if they didn't have the song all a person had to do was hum it and they could fake it. They gigged at the Cafe Brazil. I have no idea if Cafe Brazil is still around, but that place had a fantastic dance floor. I met these guys while I was performing in the musical, Hair. That was a lot of fun and maybe one day I'll write about it.

While in Denver I happened across another band. An all orginals band. That's a bit tougher to pull off. Fragile X was unique in the fact that their name was the name of a disease. I bet you're thinking that's strange, but actually the band donated 50% of all sales of merchandise to the Fragile X foundation. I worked with them for a little while booking them in the downtown area of Denver...little swanky outdoor cafes. Their music was mostly instrumental with a few vocals. Quite airy and melodic lots of different sounds from nature and various percussion items. I wonder how Fragile X is doing today.

Coming to West Texas has put me at a disadvantage. Most of the genre of live music in this area is purely country. Country is...well...isn't for me. I don't two step and never will. My feet just don't work that way. I tend to be an all over the dance floor kinda gal. Which leads me to the purpose of this post. I found a new band that I thoroughly enjoy. It's a great mix of heavy rocking covers infused with hard hitting metal grooving original music.

Hearing newly created music is a wonderful experience because you just never know when you're going to catch something spectacular. Think about it, every band on the radio started somewhere...in a small bar putting their music out there and somewhere at some point the creation becomes the new sound. Wouldn't be amazing to be there when it happens?

So, I guess you're pondering if I have come across that new sound. I think maybe I have. The excitement of finding Outlash and attending their shows to experience their awesome precise covers and the driving force of their originals has become something I look forward to. Best of all, the members are extremely cordial and a pleasure to be around. I especially like the drummer's girl friend. That's her in the picture giving me a most beautiful smile. That smile matches her personality. She is one of the sweetest people I know. Rock on Toni!

The Lou Gramm Concert and How I Got to be There

2010-05-23T07:05:00.000-07:00

The strangest set of events occurred last week which led to me being in a place I wouldn't have normally found myself. I'll try to explain the best I can and you tell me if this was just a bizarre set of coincidences. Two Wednesdays ago, I was dining with a friend. During this dinner, this friend handed me a copy of a local publication called Good Times Magazine. It's a magazine that features local artists and headline concerts coming to town.
I started flipping through the magazine and briefly scanned an article about Lou Gramm. I didn't recognize the name, but as I continued reading discovered that Lou Gramm had been the vocalist for the band Foreigner. Again, I was familiar with Foreigner, but couldn't quite remember their songs...that is until I continued reading the article. "Juke Box Hero," "Double Vision," "I Want to Know What Love is" and "Cold as Ice" were a few named in the piece and that I could say..."Yeah, I remember those songs."
Then on Sunday, my friend Jesse came by to pick up his puppy. We were sitting at the kitchen table where he informed me that his cousin had acquired tickets to Lou Gramm. I related to him that I had just read an article about that concert and then showed him the magazine. He then informed me that his cousin couldn't go to the concert and wanted to know if I wanted the tickets. Weird, huh? Since I had a kid free weekend, I said sure why not.
Susan and I went to the concert at the Horseshoe Arena in Midland. We listened to the opening band, Seventh Rize. They are a local band from Odessa and performed songs of the classic rock genre. I really stopped listening to classic rock before it came to be known as classic rock. I tend to keep current with music and not stay stuck in the past, but there are quite a few people who still enjoy that genre of music and believe me...all of them were present at this concert.
Finally, after Seventh Rize, Lou Gramm and band took the stage. Hearing the old classics did bring back some memories and it was a feel good moment. Susan and I walked out onto the floor and stood behind a pair of lively ladies. These ladies were hard core Foreigner fans. They played air guitar, sang the songs to one another, head banged (if that's possible) and really enjoyed themselves. I wish I could have video taped these ladies' performance because they were a sight to see!
I would have to say that the highlight of the evening was seeing Don Mancuso, the lead guitarist, play. For an older musician, he still rocked and rocked hard. Perfect playing, with such energy and fluid of motion...he was truly incredible up there on stage and commanded a presence that I truly admired.
Now here comes the really weird part. Saturday night I attended a show in Midland to hear a band called Outlash. Of course, if you read my blog, you'll know that this is the same band that performed the charity benefit for my friend, Erika. While in attendance, I found out that a journalist from Good Times Magazine was also in attendance...to write an article about Outlash! Isn't that crazy?!? We do live in a small world after all.

BP Needs A Good Ole American Revolution Butt Kicking

2010-05-19T03:56:00.000-07:00

I am very familiar with the antics of BP Oil. There's a long list of travesties committed by this severely deficient oil company. The one closest to home for me is the Texas City Refinery explosion. Just five years ago, the BP Oil Refinery explosion claimed fifteen lives. These lives could have been saved if BP had implemented safety improvements and used proper equipment. Even after the explosion...after the investigations...after a court order to make these improvements in equipment, risk management, work culture, maintenance and inspection, and general safety...BP refused to do so. Why do you think that is?

We as a society, have created an environment, where Big Oil & Gas companies feel that they are above the law. Oh, you say..."We would never allow such a thing." Oh, but we have. By not speaking up, by not acting out, by continuing to elect the same old tired faces into congress, whose pockets are being lined by special interests groups and lobbyists...we have allowed this.

Then we have governors of certain states who also feel they are above the law. Why is it that Perry wants to sue the EPA? Have you really wondered and pondered the question? Don't you think that our leader...the one man that's supposed to be looking out for our best interests would welcome tougher regulations against an industry that's been allowed to run amuck? One would think.

What happened to BP after they decided not to implement the court ordered safety improvements? BP was fined 87 million dollars by OSHA. Have they learned their lesson? Apparently not. I briefly watched the CEO of BP spewing out all kinds of double talk. A press release had been issued that stated there was no significant difference in 1000 barrels of oil and 5000 barrels of oil spewing like toxic poo into the ocean. When he was questioned he offered this explanation: "Well, what we meant was that under the water...it physically didn't look different."

I know, incredulous.

Needing A Rescue Beacon For The BP Spill

2010-05-18T22:52:00.000-07:00

With her velvet hair and violet eyes she scans the room like a beacon from a lighthouse piercing the blackness. Is the signal for wayward sailors meant for a lost love? She can't place her finger on exactly what she's searching for, but only acknowledges that something, someone is strangely out of place as a missing puzzle piece that would complete the so longed for image.

Do you find yourself sometimes fantasizing about being a character in a story? Where the end is destined and there is always a middle and a beginning. How simple our lives would translate and operate if we had our very own authors prethinking and penning our every word and deed.

There are times I've wished to have never began a story or subplot, choosing to skip a chapter. Of course, you never know you should of omitted that part of the story until after you've read it, well, and then...it's too late.

Because it's there...already engraved onto your memory, never to be forgotten. What then? You can't forget it so you must find a way to live with it. You also can not erase or change the past. There isn't a device which freely allows you to travel to a previous time in history.

I adore people who embrace tragedy with open arms instead of wallowing in the toxic waste of self pity. Strength and courage of mind and heart bottled into a course of action that flows freely like a river, just like the oil that flows freely beneath the life spring of waters in the Gulf of Mexico. I'm not quite sure where my course of action will take me, but be certain...my river will flow and you will soon know.

Thinking About The HCG Diet

2010-05-16T01:32:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged much lately about the HCG Diet, but just recently a few people inquired about what I did to lose those thirty pounds. I came across the HCG Diet at the Body Focus Clinic in Midland. The crux of HCG is that it mimics the hormone produced during pregnancy. Supposedly, this hormone assists the body in using stored fat reserves...up to 1500 calories a day. The very strict rigid diet while taking the injections or drops, only allows you to consume 500 calories per day. I know...that's not very much. I'll have to say that I stuck with the food list, but not necessarily the amount of calories. See, while I was doing the HCG Diet which only lasts about thirty days, I continued to lift weights and do cardio. I didn't want to not continue with muscle toning and since I was participating in quite a bit of physical activity I ate more.
Of course, I've read plenty of other blogs and articles and opinions about the HCG Diet...most of them negative. There's just one problem with these blogs and articles and opinions...none of the goombahs even tried the diet and yet...bashed and trashed it. I'm not one to jump on a miracle cure, or try the greatest and newest anything. I did my research for several months before even attempting it. I read the original Diet by Dr. Simeons that was released in the 1940s. This isn't a new fad or the latest diet pill. HCG has been around for a LONG time.
The Diet requires a lot of work and watching and careful planning. In previous posts about the Diet, I've referred people to different books, one being the Sugar Busters Diet. This book is fabulous at explaining the glycemic index of foods, which I believe every person should be aware of. If you're diabetic or hypoglycemic (like myself) then this a must read. After altering the type of foods I ingested, I've only experienced five episodes of low blood sugar over the past six years.
Recently, a friend's husband, had his cholesterol tested. It identified him as having the cholesterol levels of a 300 pound man...he is very thin and possibly not even weighing in over 160 pounds...maybe. Thin doesn't necessarily mean healthy. Be careful...listen and know what your body needs.

The Mysterious Case Of Free College Tuition For All Texas Kids

2010-05-15T07:41:00.000-07:00

I've yet again come across a mysterious case. I'm not real clear about how this all came to be. I received an email telling me how lucky my kids were because they live in Texas. Oh, sure...this state is pretty amazing. I'm forever scratching my head and thinking...they did what? Anyway, I digress. I kept reading the email wondering what in the world was this person referring to? As I read, I discovered that people from around our great nation have come to the conclusion based on one little town in Texas, DISH, Texas, that is...that because of our generous gas and oil buddies...all of our children go to state college for FREE! Uh...not.
I don't know how anyone could think this? Maybe DISH has some sort of deal worked out and honestly I'm thinking that since the residents of DISH have been so used and abused and filled with toxic chemicals that the FREE TUITION is more of a payoff to keep quiet. I do know that our oil and gas buddies have made big settlement payments to keep people quiet. I bet the FREE TUITION deal over in DISH is just that...a big payoff to keep those people quiet. I guess it didn't work.

One Is Enough

2010-05-14T18:47:00.000-07:00

This school year is coming to an end in just a couple of weeks. There's a bit of difference about leaving school for summer vacation this year...I won't be returning. Oh, it's not because I haven't loved my job and want to continue teaching here, but it's because TYC of Pyote will be closing it's doors forever.

Some people have asked how I could work in such an environment and all I can say is that a kid is a kid is a kid...and I adore kids. Instilling that little spark for the desire for more learning has been something I've enjoyed for the past six years, and the past two years have been no different.

Will all these boys change their ways and lead a productive and successful life? Probably not. Will just one? Probably so. Then that has been enough...just one. Think that's crazy? Remember the story from the bible about the shepherd who had 100 sheep and all were accounted for except for one? Do you remember what he did? He searched for that one lost sheep. Yes, even one is enough.

Saying Goodbye To Mona

2010-05-13T18:51:00.001-07:00

Wow! This has been an exhausting week both physically and emotionally. Some may remember my posts about Jesse. He's my best friend over here in Wink and the best workout partner I've ever had. Jesse remains a positive figure in my life and has time and time again helped me sort through the jumbled mess that's in my head.

Jesse's sister, Mona, passed away last Thursday from Cancer. Cancer is nothing new for Jesse and his family. He's lost his mother, father, a brother and now two sisters to the terrible disease. Mona's Mass was Monday night and in her honor a bunch of us decided to do the drag in Kermit and Wink as a final tribute. Mona was quite the dragster back in the day so it was only fitting that we take that trip in her honor.

The funeral was held Tuesday. At graveside, as the casket was lowered in the ground, we sent almost 200 hundred balloons skyward to escort Mona's soul to the angels. Mona collected angels and believed that they held special healing and protection.

As I take my final flight, I leave the pain and sadness of this physical world. Where I'm going I shall no longer cry tears of hurt, but only tears of joy...longing once again to be reunited with the ones I left behind. You can't go with me, I must take this trip alone. Don't forget to live...remember I lived once, as well.

You Can't Just Hope It Away

2010-05-02T21:17:00.000-07:00

I recently read a book where the main character said this, "hope is a cruel god." It foreshadowed unknown to me at the time that the one person in her life that offered a sense of completely satisfying her desires would soon be gone...lost to her forever. Would he magically appear in the next book? I think not...he was cremated.

What diminishes hope? A lack of action. You can not hope things into existence. Only action brings about the things we are searching for in our lives. You want a closer relationship with your children? You just can't hope for that you have to do something.

A friend recently came to that conclusion, that they can no longer just hope for good things to transpire but that they have to create an environment in which the desired result occurs. I would say that this friend is on the right path.

Recently it's been in the news, this BP oil spill. A lot of my friends on the Gulf Coast haven't had to deal with the sour effects of Big Oil and Gas. They have not felt the effects of what we here in Texas have felt for decades. As that sickening spill creeps slowly to the coastline and they begin to inhale the noxious fumes and witness the devastation the realization of what has happened begins to settle in.

Questions have surfaced asking how can we have the technology to do all these great things and yet we don't have the ability to shut this down? For so long, we've been conned into thinking that Big Oil and Gas can't be touched. That's an incorrect assumption. Seeing as how they continually touch our lives by polluting our ground water, releasing toxins into the air, instilling a cancer that will literally tear our lives apart we have finally come to the awareness that this has to cease.

We can no longer just HOPE that it gets better. We can no longer just HOPE that the industry will take responsibility. We can no longer ACCEPT because it lines our pockets with good paychecks. It's time to hold the industry accountable.

I've Been Accused Of Being A Liberal By The Wink ISD

2010-04-30T22:34:00.000-07:00

On my blog a couple of days ago I asked a simple question. Here's that question...why is it that the Kermit ISD school board and administration can hire me, but the Wink ISD school board and administration can not. I received a phone call today giving me the answer to that question. Are you ready? It's because I'm too liberal.

Hmmm...so, I had to ponder on what I had done over the past ten years that earned me the title of being too liberal. I suppose after some pondering I came up with a list of events that I think I'll gladly share with you and then you can decide if I'm too liberal. Okay, are you ready? Here goes.

When a concerned mother approached me seven years ago and asked me to be her advocate at a local DEIC meeting with the principal and several teachers, I gladly accepted. During that meeting I found out that the first grade teacher was tearing up children's papers in front of them during class and throwing them in the trash because they had failed to put their tiny little names on their papers. Not only was the paper ripped up a zero was also recorded in the grade book. I asked, "How is it that you can record a zero for that child and yet not allow the child to put his/her name on the paper and give that child credit for their work? What you're doing is humiliating and damaging to that child forever creating a hostile educational environment that instills an intrinsic dislike for learning. Are you prepared to create children that loathe coming to school?" This teacher's response?

"I'm preparing them for the future. Do you think they can fill out a job application and forget their name and get hired for the job? You're not even a teacher so what you think doesn't matter."

The principal allowed her to continue her demeaning practice, but in the meantime I quit my job and went back to college to become what? Yep, you guessed it...a teacher. Not only would I be qualified to state my opinion, but I would have the ammunition to abolish her unfair practices. And sure enough, when my little Annie finally got into her first grade class, I was there that afternoon on the first day of school meeting with her and the principal to inform her that I would not tolerate such a heinous act and now that I was a teacher...I knew what she was doing was wrong. You can not punish academically for behavior. End of story. So, I suppose putting an end to an antiquated horrible act of belittling children makes me a liberal.

Then there was the time that I again became an advocate for a mother whose child was being discriminated against. Seems that every child except for him was getting credit for their work. These worksheets had two sides and a place for the student's name on both sides. This child would forget to put his name on one side earning him a zero for the paper. (I guess she didn't get the memo that that practice had been abolished) After contacting several of the parents who had children in this teacher's class and getting copies of their children's worksheets, sure enough I came across many instances where these students had been given full credit for their work even though their name only appeared on one side, my child being one. After bringing it to the teacher's attention she refused to change the student's grades. I then went to the principal. With the teacher in the room, I pulled my copies of the child who had been discriminated against...and smugly this teacher smiled and said, "Yep, that's my policy. Name has to be on both sides to get credit." Then I asked, "And you are consistent with this policy? You enforce it with every child?" She responded, "Oh, I most certainly do." Then I quietly with purpose pulled a stack of no less than fifty papers...each one showed a child's name on one side, but not on the other and yet grades had been credited for both sides...no zeros recorded. "This child whom you have given zeros to is black, these children whom you have not given zeros to are white. What does this look like to you?" So, I suppose ending racial discrimination makes me a liberal.

Confronting the school librarian who called my daughter a liar by telling her that she indeed checked this book out that had not been returned and would now have to pay for it also qualifies me as a liberal. I had written the librarian several notes informing her that Annie had never checked out this book, that it had to have been a mistake...she ignored my letters. Until the end of the year school party when the day before my daughter was informed that she would have to spend the fun filled day alone in the secretaries' office because she had not paid for this book. My daughter, in the first grade, came home in tears. I was back that very afternoon in the principal's office with that librarian. Not only did I tell her who the child was that checked out that book, but that I had contacted an aide at the school that went to the shelf and found the book improperly placed. I told the librarian that she owed my daughter an apology. Her response, "I'm not apologizing to her. You don't apologize to kids. Your daughter is just overly sensitive." I then informed her that she was base and depraved and pure evil. (not one of my better days.) So, I suppose getting the prinicpal to write a letter stating that Annie never checked out the book and didn't owe the money makes me a liberal. By the way...I still have that letter.

There are many other events over the past 10 years that I could relate to you, but we'd be here for days recounting them all. I suppose the nail in the coffin event was when I was interviewed by the superintendant. He told me he was concerned that in the past I wasn't a team player. My response? "You're correct if not being a team player means protecting the right of every child to a fair and equitable education. You're also correct in identifying me as not a team player because I provide parents with accurate information and resources to help their struggling child. And you're definitely correct in assuming that if you want me to violate the teacher code of ethics by denying a child special education services that I wouldn't do it...yep, then I'm not a team player."

All ye of narrow minded thought processes listen closely...no one runs me out of town and no one puts baby in the corner.

Being a NRFU Agent

2010-04-29T14:17:00.001-07:00

I completed my week of Census Training and now I am officially a NRFU Agent. I'll see if you can figure out what acronym NRFU is. There were TONS of acronyms in the NRFU training manual. HU, WHEHU, EQ and various other such tid bits of exciting information.

I'd love to be able to tell you that training was extremely fun and riveting, but alas...I can not. Since I had gone through the previous training most of the first couple of days was a recap of stuff I already knew. I really tried not to be a know it all, because I just can not tolerate know it alls. To pacify myself and keep my ADD from kicking in, I texted friends and read a book during the parts I already knew. I didn't think I had bothered anyone, but the next day our CL advised me about excessive texting, she didn't seem to mind the two ladies sitting at the end of my table that talked constantly. In response I limited my texting to breaks and lunch but continued to read my book, which I finished yesterday.

I guess you might be wondering how a teacher managed to take off time during TAKS testing. Normally, I wouldn't have been able to do that, but since the school I am employed by is shutting their doors for good on May 28th, and we haven't had a math teacher for over a month, I didn't think they would mind much. I'll see when I return to work on Monday.

Others have asked what I'll be doing for employment. Well, just yesterday I was informed by the Kermit ISD, a little district about seven miles from my abode, hired me. Yep, the school board met last night and voted to accept my application. Hmmm...that's something the Wink ISD school board could never do. I wonder why?

I was also delighted about the salary. It's good. The drive, a fourteen mile round trip, will be the shortest commute I've had since moving to Texas back in 2001. I've gone from one hundred four to ninety eight to thirty four and now just fourteen miles! I'm so very very excited!

Traveling HWY 18 everyday this week to Census Training had me passing something unusual. It involves wheels, carts, blue containers and a man. I think tomorrow I am gonna stop and take some pictures and figure out what this little man is up to. Should make for an interesting day.

Water Balloons, Butterscotch and A Return

2010-04-25T13:05:00.000-07:00

Today is my daddy's birthday. His favorite flavors are butterscotch and black licorice. When deciding on baking my daddy a birthday treat, I decided better go with butterscotch. Whipped up a fantastic butterscotch cupcake recipe and soon I'll have those delicious morsels cooling and topped with butter cream icing with a hint of butterscotch.

Mommy took daddy to their usual get away retreat...to the Ft Davis Mountains. The kids and I also like the mountains of Ft Davis and do a bit a hiking there periodically. Another favorite fun activity the kids and I adore is fighting each other with water balloons. The most difficult part of having a water balloon fight is the preparation. I think I get the wettest filling up all the water balloons!

Our backyard is a hodge podge of different hiding places. A big shed, a play house, trees and all sorts of neat concealed places where one could hide in ambush. My daughter Annie has a real talent for hiding and jumping out when you least expect it.

Those simple pleasures bring me back to a time of innocence. I never thought I'd go through divorce twice, didn't plan on it, but the scars it left behind sometimes plagued me with a feeling of being stained and blotted. Days like today help me get back to a time of innocence before all the ugly things have happened.

We Just Want To Celebrate...A Benefit Performance By Outlash for Erika

2010-04-22T09:47:00.000-07:00

When good people get together for an awesome cause great things happen!Friends and family of Erika Berry gathered at the Texas Moon in Kermit
April the 10th to show their love and support. Local businesses and individuals donated time, items for auction and monetary gifts to make the Rocker Chick Benefit a huge success.

Outlash performed for the benefit at no charge between the live auctions. JR Sanchez, lead guitarist and former Wink graduate said, "We always have a good time when we come to Kermit. We couldn't pass up an opportunity to
help out a good friend." As the band began "We Just Want To Celebrate"the entire crowd sang along because we were there to celebrate Erika's second chance at life.

Fonda white MC'ed most of the evening and was a natural at it. She presented Erika monetary gifts from local businesses and individuals. One particular gift from Jackie and Wes Perry of Midland grasped my attention. The Perrys did not know Erika personally, but her story touched their hearts. In February of 2006, the Perry's daughter, Dara, passed away from a ruptured arotic aneurysm. She was a school and missionary nurse that traveled to Uganda often to minister to the children of Africa. As Fonda related the story to the crowd, Erika's eyes filled with tears because not only did they send her a gift, but they also checked on her status and continue to do so.

A grand total of $7,270 was raised for Erika that night. "I am so grateful. It was absolutely amazing! I bet I cried twenty times or more that night!" said Erika. A big thank you goes out to everyone that attended, donated time and items for the benefit.

There are a multitude of amazing people that live in our community and we would like to express our sincerest gratitude for all their assistance.

Laurie Sharp
Sheila Butler, Midland
Annie Dominquez, Midland
Fonda White, Midland
One Body Salon, Midland
Gasoline Alley, Kermit
Wink Vol. Fire Dept
Rodney Hayes

Edward Scott
Baldwin Electronics,Odessa
LInda Barrick
Destiny Garcia
Mary Nell Hailey
Cynthia Flynn
Texas Moon
Cissy Pilkington
Scott Riggs
The Brotherhood of the 74, Kermit Chapter
Chucky Wilhelm
Wendy Medina
Jesse Moya
Tracy & Dano Jackson
2 Wheel Motion-Kermit Chapter
Prestige Parties & Events, Midland
Kathy Jackson, MIdland
DRM Trucking (Jamie Meek), Midland
Jackie & Wes Perry, MIdland
John & Thenia Micheletti, Midland
Terry & Cindy Carpenter Dentistry, Midland
David Rumade
Klines Pumping Service (Jack Kline)

Steven & Tony Underwood
Tessco, Kermit
Outlash, Midland
James "Chip" Parks
Tammie Lujan
Jerrie's Cafe
Raymond Thomas

The Writing Blues

2010-04-11T16:55:00.000-07:00

I haven't felt much like writing lately, can't say exactly why. I suppose there are times in one's life when all that living catches up to you. I'll have to say, now that I've pondered a few seconds on it, that's what has happened in mine.

Let's recap and take inventory of the past few months of the new year. School closure, census training, census working, trip to Ft Worth, trip to San Antonio, two benefits, looking for a new job, planning a surgery and finally the ex hubby has decided...well...I'll not divulge exactly what he's decided except that I don't like it.

Then there's this whole losing of my appetite thing. I'm not sure what's going on, and mind you, in the past I would have loved to have had this problem, but...now that I've taken off weight, I'm not really in any condition to be losing more weight. This recent weight loss can not be attributed to the HCG Diet which I tried out last year and had successful results with. So, you're wondering what the weight is now? Hold on, let me weigh and I'll tell you. One hundred ten pounds. Yes, in the middle of the day fully clothed. I'll have to check it in the morning to see if it's even lower.

Possibly, it could be the really warm weather we've been having. It's difficult for me to eat hot things when it's hot outside. That reminds me I need to get my chilled soup recipes out and stock up on salad fixings.

I did have a fantastic time at the Rocker Chick Benefit which I'll blog here in a few days, once I get access to some pictures from that night. I can confidently report that over $6000 was raised for Erika. As soon as I get all the details I'll let you know.

Rocker Chick Benefit Performance By Outlash

2010-04-08T20:17:00.000-07:00

The Texas Moon in Kermit, Texas will be hosting a Rocker Chick Benefit for Erika Berry. The event starts at 5PM with brisket plates going for $7, and a live auction of cakes, vintage items and tons of rock memorabilia. West Texas' very own heavy rock band, Outlash, will be performing starting at 9PM. The band has waived their usual fee of $500, and a cover charge of $5 will be collected. All monies from the brisket and live auction, as well as the band's fee and cover charge will be given to Erika to assist with her medical expenses. Come on out Saturday and let's raise the roof!

Outlash...West Texas' Good Time Band

2010-03-30T21:17:00.000-07:00

Why am I so fond of this metal band? Not only do they know how to please a crowd, but their dedication to fans and friends can't be surpassed. When lead guitarist J.R. Sanchez heard of his long time friend and fan, Erika Berry, need for assistance he knew he could count on Outlash to provide some help. Within a matter of minutes, J.R. confirmed that Outlash would do a benefit performance with all proceeds going towards Erika's medical expenses.

Outlash is a new breed of West Texas metal whose name has become synonymous with precise, melodic, and catchy hard rock. They appeal to a wide and varied audience with music that is heavy enough for hardcore listeners, but still radio-friendly and accessible to the masses.

The sound can best be described as a style of groove metal with a slightly technical edge, coarse (not harsh) vocals and thick-sounding riffs, and a melodic core with head-banging beats. Lyrically and stylistically original themes dealing with everything from tattooing to emotional pain and suffering, the overall musical mood is dark and melancholy, but doesn't focus on political or religious subjects thereby avoiding pretentiousness. But it is definitely metal, and definitely engages the listener.

Formed in October of 2008, the band draws its creative force from the input of four prominent local musicians whom each bring a unique perspective and talent to the writing process. The line-up consists of vocalist and guitarist Ed Alvarado (Driveshaft and Easy to Empty), lead guitarist J.R. Sanchez (Black Tooth Grin and Easy to Empty), bassist Evan Bouten (Driveshaft and Section-8), and drummer Tony Diamond (Lotus and Red-Effect).

All members have extensive stage and studio experience, bringing their various backgrounds together to produce the powerful music of Outlash. With a vast repertoire of covers to compliment their original music (everything from Pink Floyd to Pantera), Outlash is suitable to any rock venue and is eager to entertain and engage all crowds, small or large, with their impressive stage presence and powerful sound. They have also recently recorded and released a full-length demo, Machine Precision, and have a full line of merchandise available for their fans.

band bio provided by J.R. Sanchez

Erika's Story

2010-03-30T20:55:00.000-07:00

You just never know when there's a ticking time bomb in your head. Sounds unheard of, but that's exactly what happened to Erika Berry.

On the morning of Friday, January 29th, Erika, getting ready for work, was feeling fine, but all that drastically changed When she stepped out of the shower. Erika's condition went from the usual and ordinary to her dropped to her knees by a sharp pain behind her right eye.

Erika said, "I was also having pain in the back of my neck and could no longer move very far. I was hot and sweaty so, I laid over on the
tile to cool off."

That was all Erika managed to remember because it was at that point she lost consciousness and didn't wake up until almost 6 that afternoon.

Erika managed to stand up, grab the trash can and make her way to the
bed. She continued to slip in and out of consciousness for several hours
until her friend,Deborah, found her and rushed her to Medical Center.

Erika recounts, "I was in the ER for several hours having tests ran.
When they did the first CT, they noticed a sub arachnoid hemorrhage.
They then sent me for an angiogram where the aneurysm was very
apparent. I was finally placed in ICU around 6am Saturday morning."

Erika was flown to UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas for surgery
Sunday morning. An incision was made from the front of her left eye,
behind the hairline and down to the front of her right earlobe.
Erika's scalp was pulled back, the right jaw was dislocated and a piece
of her skull was removed to access the aneurysm.

Erika continued telling all about the surgery, "A small clamp was
placed at the aneurysm. The piece of skull was replaced and closed
with titanium plates and screws. The scalp was closed with 34 staples.
In all, I spent 10 days in the hospital in Dallas."

The doctors were so amazed with her progress that she was released
almost 5 days before her scheduled date. She continues to improve
everyday. Erika was happy to report that at her last check up
all went exceptionally well and she is not due back until April 27th.

Photo by Erika Berry

Recovering From The Alamo

2010-03-24T19:47:00.000-07:00

The girls and I traveled to San Antonio for a quick trip. While there we visited my doctor, swam in a very cold pool, sat in the hot tub, ate at the Rain Forest Cafe, saw the Alamo, walked the River Walk, went on a Ghosts and Legends tour, got completely lost, and finally spent a day at Sea World.

I won't bother you with the details of seeing the doc, but Durango was able to decipher the nature of my visit correctly. That's right I'm having breast reduction surgery. These bad boys are causing a great deal of back pain. And seeing that Durango has first hand experience with extra large bosoms, it would only make sense that he should be consulted.

The same day of doc seeing also had us city seeing. We parked at Dennys and walked to Alamo Plaza, just a few blocks away. Upon arriving, we passed right in front of the Alamo. I remember taking the tour when I was fourteen and was amazed to find the Alamo in downtown San Antonio. Of course, being from Mississippi I really didn't understand the reasoning, until later after having a bit of Texas History. The fort would have been the center of town. Makes sense, at that time this was hostile territory so you'd need a fort with defenses and naturally the city just "formed" around it. Well, that's my simplified version.

There's so much to tell and well, I just haven't been able to catch up since being back...whew...I need another Spring Break!

New Political Party-- WE THE PEOPLE

2010-03-15T23:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, jokingly I suggested to a friend today that I was going to create a new political party. This party is all inclusive. This party only has one purpose--to protect the people. As I thought about the absurdity of my statement, I began to really ponder it. Why not? Protecting the people means protecting all individuals rights from all sorts of abuse. Poorly funded schools, poverty, corrupt politicians, greedy corporations, eminent domain, and all those things that have plagued our society for years and which we the people have complacently accepted.

I've come to this decision after experiencing an unbelievable turn of events. I'll not repeat what happened to Steve Doeung, if you don't know click here to find out. I reside in a very small town of just 900 people. I'm friends with Jesse, who has had five family members stricken with cancer and all but one has succumbed to the disease. Cancer is something that Jesse takes personally and cares about. He decided one day to create from nothing, an event to benefit the Hope House in Midland, Texas. In about a month's time, Jesse and a few of his friends worked together and organized a tournament to raise donations for Hope House.

The benefit went off without a hitch, and in this little bitty town of only 900 people, $5000 dollars was raised. Next month another benefit is being done to raise money for a single mom friend of mine that underwent brain surgery. She has no health insurance and people have rallied around her in support. I can almost guarantee that the amount raised will be doubled. In March I sat at a table in the Texas Moon and I listened to the guitar player of a local band and the manager of a local bar...people who've had NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE in fund raising plan and organize this event within a matter of minutes.

Why am I telling you this? Because I find it nearly impossible to believe that in a town the size of Ft Worth, with the so called experts of fund raising, the experts of organizing, the experts of community activists that not one single penny was raised to help provide legal defense for Steve Doeung. And these people had an ENTIRE YEAR to do it!

Why is it that "concerned" people are not taking action? Why is it that they are only talking? How is it that "people" with experience in organizing huge events haven't been able to put together a simple bake sale outside a Walmart, or find a local band to perform a concert and collect a cover charge at the door, or do a softball tournament where the proceeds would be donated? Do they have a hidden agenda? Are they being made promises by city officials to put on the guise of help in exchange for monetary benefits? Are certain protections being offered in exchange for martyrdom silence?

I know what you're thinking. You're thinking that these are some harsh unfair questions. But guess what? I have the right to ask them...are you going to answer them?

My Sources Have Just Informed Me...HOTT OFF THE PRESS

2010-03-15T14:46:00.000-07:00

This morning I told you that I have come privy to hearing some news that sent me into outrage and feeling all melancholy at the same time. I still don't have the proper words to express it, but Durango does. And if that doesn't completely satisfy your curiosity then looking here just might.

On a different spin, and I mention spin because now I'm referring to the Star Telegram. I believe it to be a certain newspaper in the Fort Worth area that just last week failed to mention in their reporting on the Steve Doeung vs Chesapeake case that a rally had taken place on the steps of the courthouse.

Well, my sources from this same courthouse, the County Court at Law in Tarrant County, have just informed me that a reporter from the Star- Telegram was making inquiries. Inquiries about what you ask? Seems that this reporter of the Star-Telegram was wanting a copy of the order that Judge Sprinkle signed condemning Steve's property, among a few other things. Hmmm...didn't the Star-Telegram report that Chesapeake had already won the court case? I suppose that this reporter is now looking for proof to back up his story.

Now, before I go, let me leave you with this one thought. Don't be hearers of the words only, be doers as well. With that said, please look here.

Hope Renewed For Gifts Of Hope...But Not For Steve

2010-03-15T11:16:00.000-07:00

I had an amazing weekend full of fun and excitement. Early Saturday morning I baked muffins for a benefit of which the proceeds would be donated to the Hope House in Midland, Texas. The bake sale was part of an all day event taking place in Wink, Texas at the school's fitness center. The event was spectacular and proved to be a huge success!

The KISS party wagon attended providing us with great dance music and the DJ giving updates on the tournament. We had a few young dancers that partook in the day's festive atmosphere. The DJ was also an avid supporter of the benefit and showed this by buying TONS of goodies from the bake sale.

There were nine teams that showed to play in the tournament. Some of our players had to forfeit due to being called out to work, the industry just never takes a break. Jesse, our tourney coordinator also played and has more details to come on just who won and the prizes awarded. I do know that every participant received a very nice T-shirt and gift bag.

On a more somber note, posters in dedication lined the wall of the fitness center reminding all of us that cancer doesn't affect just a few, but that everyone of us is touched by it in some way, either through a friend or relative...or perhaps being a cancer survivor.

Wink is an itty bitty town...maybe only 900 people or so. And yet, these people have the most generous caring giving spirit I've ever had the pleasure to come in contact with. The official count isn't done, but I've been told that the little benefit has raised over $5000 dollars for Hope House. Isn't that amazing?!? Which makes me even sadder when I think about the call I received from Steve Doeung this morning. I'm in a state of melancholy and outrage just thinking about the events that have unfolded...you will be too.

American Citizens Are Unhappy With Chesapeake Energy

2010-03-11T04:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I didn't get much accomplished outdoors, it was too dang windy! I did however manage to muck up something quite simple, but my computer hero repaired my error and the blunder ended up leading us to an even better solution. I also blogged about a natural gas line explosion in San Antonio which I then made a prediction for those residents on Carter Avenue over in Fort Worth. You see, somehow someway our GOVERNMENT has declared that natural gas and oil companies are synonymous with public utilities. At first glance, you're thinking...so what? What's the big deal? I know, we never see the "full" picture until much later...isn't that always the case? Now, what this means is that Chesapeake (and I'm dropping the last name--Energy) gets the right of way to put natural gas pipelines--again, don't confuse these suckers with the small one inch lines that pipe natural gas to homes for heating and cooking--anywhere they want! Here's a pretty cool comment that my blogging prompted yesterday:

"Nicely put CT/CT. I checked out the report from the local SA tv station and IT BLEW MY MIND--the flame shot up to 3-4 stories high and charred a vehicle parked at least 40-50 yards away. Those homes on Carter Ave. are just 4-10 yards away. Forget about finding evidence and remains if such were to happen. Plus such a major explosion will probably trigger and spread to other pipelines FROM UTILITIES like the 1-inch gas and water pipelines criss-crossing the whole neighborhood. I see why Steve D. had used the expression "insult and injury"--I would feel insulted and denigraded too when realizing that CHK AND THE CITY were viewing my life and those of my children, families, friends and neighbors as expendable--cheap enough to take the "risk" of cramming these down those poor people's throats simply for money and power. Have they no shame or any sense of decency? Do people owning stock, leasing land, and doing any kind of business with this company (and city) know what heartless and inhumane practices they're engaging in? If child labor to make tennis shoes is morally unacceptable, then CHK's conduct on Carter Ave. is......?"

I agree with the correlation...if it's immoral to put children at risk by having them manufacture tennis shoes then shouldn't it also be correct in thinking that putting a highly pressurized natural gas pipeline under their tennis shoed feet also be immoral? Gives one something to ponder...

Carter Avenue Foreshadowed

2010-03-10T08:33:00.000-08:00

A peaceful San Antonio neighborhood sees it's children off to school on a Wednesday morning. Yards are watered, dishes cleared and washed after breakfast and the usual morning routines are in play. What's so different about this neighborhood from other Texas neighborhoods? Along the public road, below the surface runs a 24" natural gas pipeline. Close to the size that Chesapeake Energy wants and plans on running under the homes on Carter Avenue in Fort Worth, Texas.

The events that transpired at 10:15AM, May 6th in 2009, rocked the Greystone subdivision with a cataclysmic force that not only shut the neighborhood down, but the adjacent streets as well. The gas line exploded. What if, it had been a Saturday morning, and our children were not at school, but playing outside? What if the pipeline was run under the homes instead of along the public road? Can you ever be guaranteed safety in your own home, your yard, the street that you live on?

Accidents do happen. That's why being proactive instead of reactive is the best possible course of action. Why can't Chesapeake Energy, a private natural gas company...NOT A PUBLIC UTILITY...take the alternate route proposed? Why do they insist on running a dangerous, highly pressurized, 16" natural gas pipeline under the homes and children on Carter Avenue? Why do they insist on putting American Citizens lives in danger?

Remember, "We the People" grant what limited power government has. As a society of free people we have lost sight of the fact that we are indeed the ones who have the final say so through the power of free speech and our franchise. We will no longer cowtow to the powers that be in Cow Town.

Anybody Ready For Some Racquetball?

2010-03-09T21:29:00.001-08:00

Date: Saturday, 13 March 2010
Registration Fee: $50.00 Per Player
Registration deadline: 03 March 2010
Place: Frank R. Barton Physical Fitness Center, Wink, TX
Event: Double Elimination, Singles Tournament
Prizes: Prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd, & 3rd places. All participants will receive a tournament T-Shirt.
It's not too late to register for the Gifts of Hope, Inc. Racquetball Tournament to be held in Wink on 13 March 2010. If you need more information let me know. If you can't play make sure you come out and enjoy a day of food and fun. 103.3 KISS-FM will do a live-remote broadcast from the Fitness Center in Wink, the ...day of the tournament. Come out and support a great cause!

All proceeds to benefit The Hope House of Midland.

Will You Please Send An Email To Judge Sprinkle?

2010-03-08T18:23:00.000-08:00

Honorable Judge Sprinkle,

I implore you to not sign the order allowing/granting Chesapeake eminent domain on Carter Ave. I live in West Texas, I have seen the effects of high pressurized gas lines...explosions that rocked our little town. Chesapeake is not a public utility company, we all know that this is a company that drills for profit. How can the public representatives allow the safety of these people to go unchecked? How can Fort Worth's elected officials grant Chesapeake full and free access to Carter Ave and other neighborhoods when in fact an alternate more viable route is available. Please, I ask humbly...don't sign the order. I was there in the courtroom. I observed Steve fighting for his rights. How unfair that he doesn't have legal representation. Is justice only a protected right of the wealthy? A protected right of only the criminal? Where is justice for those who abide by the law and yet can't afford to hire a lawyer.

Sincerely,
Joely Trujillo
Wink, TX 79789

The above is my email to Steve's judge. Yes, I called him Steve's judge. You see, he's the only person in the justice system that can give Steve any assistance. The Institute of Justice won't help...they're afraid of the Big Oil & Gas companies. Local Fort Worth attorneys won't help...they're afraid of the Big Oil & Gas companies, as well. All we have are the words in our heads. Please, take a moment and compose an email...then hit the send button. It's just that easy.

vgsprinkle@tarrantcounty.com

A Child's Perspective On Justice

2010-03-07T19:46:00.000-08:00

Annie and I waited patiently for our Ft Worth downtown courthouse escort to arrive. While we waited, I finished coloring in the word "representation" on our protest poster and Annie read aloud from her AR book. It wasn't long before our friendly escort arrived and briskly took us to the steps of the courthouse.

A nice group was already on the scene with Steve and his family, holding signs and enticing those around to join in a collective support for Steve. The rally began with all the children present leading of us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

I noticed the children, bundled up in blankets, that very cold morning. Maybe they knew what was at stake. Maybe they understood that the very fabric of our justice system has been weakened by the lure of greed. Maybe those children sensed the anxiety of a father that seeks to protect his home and family from ultimate destruction.

Are we going to allow Chesapeake Energy to hide behind the corrupt and abusive power of eminent domain? Do they get a free pass to run rampant all over Ft Worth? Are we going to sit back and allow Mike Moncrief to continue to collect profits despite the obvious conflict of interest so blatantly displayed?

How will you answer to the children? What will you tell them?

A Journey Towards Justice

2010-03-05T04:11:00.000-08:00

Most of my perspective is a bit different from the average adult. My point of view includes that of my nine year old daughter, and honestly...I enjoy observing things through her eyes.

We started preparing for the Carter Avenue Rescue Rally about a week ago, planning our get away and route. We've taken this trip many a time, but never with this type of purpose.

Annie excitedly told her classmates and grandpa that she was going to court to help Steve and Lizzy fight Chesapeake. She wondered if in that fight would water hoses be turned on her and the others. She wondered if she could be in trouble. This is what was troubling. I understand the need to teach history facts, but I believe where we let our children down is that we fail to inform them that through the adversity, change for the better can and does occur. And after years of injustice, when that injustice is met with a righteous collective voice, that the system does indeed change.

May I Have Your Attention Please, There's Gonna Be A Rally!

2010-03-01T04:09:00.000-08:00

Here's Steve Doeung and a Silent Partner in their own words describing March 4th's Carter Avenue Rescue Operation Rally.

Nice job Steve! But you know what I'm thinking? Steve's had too many "Silent Partners"...it's time to make some NOISE!

Shouldn't The Carter Ave Rally Be On The Institute For Justice's Event Website?

2010-02-28T13:59:00.001-08:00

The Institute for Justice has a web page specifically designed to show events and rallies directly related to eminent domain. Well, I checked it today, looking at March 4th and do you know what I didn't see? That's right...I didn't see the Carter Avenue Rescue Operation Protest and Rally.

Now, I'm fairly certain that Texas contains a great deal of eminent domain. I'm thinking that I read recently that Tarrant County was the capital of eminent domain. Maybe one of my smarter friends can verify that for me.

Seeing that the Institute for Justice is all about rendering aid to those Americans in need of getting Justice served, you'd think at the very least they would at least put the Carter Avenue Rescue Operation Protest and Rally on their event page. I'm truly confused.

Why Doesn't The Institute of Justice Give Legal Assistance to Steve Doeung?

2010-02-28T09:35:00.000-08:00

We all thought it would be a fantastical idea to contact the Institute of Justice to ask them for help in Steve Doeung's fight against Chesapeake Energy and the City of Forth Worth and their Lackey of a Mayor, Moncrief. Then come to find out...the Institute of Justice was already contacted and they refused to help?

I took a look at their website, and you should as well. According to what they preach they're all about protecting the freedom of speech and people's personal property rights against eminent domain abuse. Well, I decided to look at a few of the cases they've been involved with, maybe I'm barking up the wrong tree.

San Juan County v. No New Gas Tax. I read that a private law firm stood to gain privately from not rolling back the gas tax. Well, isn't that very similar to a certain Mayor of Fort Worth that stands to gain privately by allowing Chesapeake to run their dangerous non-odorized pipeline under the residents' of Carter Avenues' houses? And when Steve was ticketed for violations that were directly related to him displaying a visual protest against Chesapeake Energy...wasn't that an attempt to "shut him up" and suspend his right to free speech?

So, HEY...Institute for Justice...what gives? Why not this case? We haven't even looked at the eminent domain abuse aspect of Steve Doeung's case, but we will.

2010-02-27T06:08:00.000-08:00

A total whirlwind of a week that ended with some great and wonderful news. All week long I have trained to be a member of the 2010 Census. I can't say that everyday of the training has been tantalizing, but I have learned a whole bunch, met some people, and acquired my area assignment for the next three weeks.

We went from having a snow day on Tuesday to having a shorts and tee shirt day on Wednesday, very bizarre weather. On my snow day, stuck inside, I emailed and talked long distance to some good people over in Fort Worth and within a matter of DAYS, a most important crucial rally was birthed.

On top of that, do you remember me mentioning how proud I was of my former Pecos middle school students that are now Pecos high school students? My former Pecos students PROTESTED the unfair removal of Coach Henson from the Athletic Director spot at Pecos High School. This PROTEST included the students making posters with slogans such as: "NO COACH, NO SCHOOL"...that's right, then the students refused to go into school.

I know what you're thinking, "Good for them, but you know...nothing is going to change." I kid you not, I have heard those very words uttered all week long since the PROTEST showed up on the evening local news. NOTHING IS GOING TO CHANGE...well, my dear friends, something has changed. Just last night, with only two months on the job, Superintendent Lujan has decided to RESIGN.

Now, I don't know if the SAVE CARTER AVE PROTEST RALLY next Thursday, March 4th will bring about the same type of change as did the PECOS PROTEST RALLY, but I do know this. This is not the end. Chesapeake, beware...

You've called down the thunder and well now, you've got it!

2010-02-25T18:55:00.001-08:00

HOT OFF THE PRESS!!!

The Carter Avenue Rescue Operation will be holding a rally on the Courthouse steps Thursday, March 4th at 7:30 a.m. Everyone is invited to attend.

This rally will be held prior to Steve Doeung's court appearance in his battle with Chesapeake Energy. Steve Doeung is attempting to stop Chesapeake Energy from using eminent domain to take his home in order to put a pipeline beneath the homes along Carter Avenue in Fort Worth.

Steve Doeung does not have legal counsel. He is a Lone Ranger battling Chesapeake Energy. The last time Steve Doeung was in court he was virtually alone against Chesapeake Energy.

This time we do not want Steve Doeung to be alone. We want Steve to feel the support of his fellow Texans, with a solid, loud expression of the American Spirit.

The Court hearing begins at 8:30. Please come witness this historic moment in Fort Worth and Texas and show your support for Steve Doeung and the residents of Carter Avenue.

All North Texans should be concerned with the process and outcome of this hearing. A recent Fort Worth Business Press article named Tarrant County, the eminent domain capital of Texas, which by default likely makes Tarrant County the eminent domain capital of America.

YOUR neighborhood could be next.

Speakers at the event include:

Louis McBee - Vietnam Veteran, Business Owner, Community Leader, Former Mayoral Candidate and Treasurer of NCTCA

Glen Bucy - Afghanistan Veteran, Former City Council Candidate, and Local Community Activist

Billy Mitchell - Rancher, Eminent domain abuse victim, Community Activist

And special guest - DISH, TX Mayor, Calvin Tillman - Mayor Tillman has been leading the way with his determination and resolve to ensure the safety of resident's rights concerning gas drilling, not only in DISH, but the entire state of Texas. He was recently invited to speak to citizens in New York about their concerns with gas drilling issues.

CARTER AVENUE RESCUE OPERATION begins at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 4, 2010 at 100 W. Weatherford in Fort Worth. That is the Old Historic Courthouse at the north end of downtown, across the street from Heritage Park. Just follow the signs, downtown, to Sundance Square, where you will find plenty of parking lots.

Refreshments will be provided. Please plan on attending and bring your family and friends!

Census Training Cancelled By Snow Storm

2010-02-23T07:16:00.000-08:00

That's the view from my front door looking across my yard into my neighbor's yard. That's a lot of snow and it's still coming down. I've complained to Old Man Winter already, but he's not taking complaints. I'm done with Winter. My Rose bushes were done with Winter, they had already started budding. I took the week off from my teaching assignment to do a week of training for the 2010 Census. Why would someone take a week off from their real job in order to train for a part time gig?

The school in which I teach will be closing soon. We were promised and assured by the leaders in Austin that we would have until August 31st of 2010. Then suddenly, an email was sent by Cherie Townsend stating that if West Texas State School and Victory Field closed early, let's say, by April 2nd of 2010, it would save the state 3 million dollars and possibly meet the budget cut requirements set forth by Governor Perry.

If the school closes April 2nd, then I'll have to drive four hours a day to Iraan in order to continue to work. I'm thinking I just might not do that. I'd have to leave the house around 4:30AM and that means waking my nine year old and getting her over to mommy's and daddy's at that time. Wouldn't you consider this quite a hardship?

The 2010 Census isn't really a part time gig. Seems that I have the opportunity to work seventeen weeks. That's a lot of guaranteed money. Also, I'm getting back into the insurance business, Medicare to be specific. And if Congress is able to create a National Payor, they're going to need a lot of insurance representatives, and that's something I know how to do REALLY well.

Considering I'm snowed in for the time being, I should probably use my time wisely and do a bit of cleaning and organizing. I should probably make some soup as well, I'm thinking Crab Bisque would be good. Yummy!

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1 1/2 cups half-and-half cream
1/2 pound pre-cooked crab meat
1/2 cup white wine

1.In a large saucepan, melt butter over a low heat. Stir in flour, salt, white pepper, bouillon granules, and onion. Blend 3/4 cup half-and-half cream into the mixture. Mix in shrimp and crab meat. Turn the temperature to medium heat and continue stirring until the mixture thickens.
2.Blend the remaining half-and-half cream and wine into the mixture.

CARO Carter Avenue Rescue Operation

2010-02-22T19:57:00.000-08:00

This is your chance to become a fan of something really good! Steve Doeung, our lone ranger on Carter Avenue, rides back into court to take on Chesapeake Energy in the latest showdown. Stay up to date with comments and notes by Steve himself. You may even see a letter or two from the infamous Durango. There could possibly be a regal visit by the Queen herself.

Take a moment and check out the page. If you have a Face Book account, become a fan and help us spread the word. On March 4th, we need people...planes, trains and automobiles, even motorcycles, of people to support Steve! Meet at the courthouse, make some noise...let the man know you have his back.

Listening To Your Heart

2010-02-21T19:20:00.000-08:00

When you're a child you imagine wispy wonderful whimsical widgets. Your heart speaks suddenly and soundly like a stoic soldier issuing commands. These ideas and commands comforts the idealistic nature of your soul, they're aligned with your inner wants and desires. I have the belief that in your childhood your destiny is revealed, that if you only paid it a bit of attention we would grow up knowing exactly what we need to accomplish, become and love.

Take for instance, my most favorite scene from It's A Wonderful Life. It's when George is a kid, old enough to be a soda jerk. He takes his place behind the counter to get Mary some ice cream. As he's scooping her ice cream, George explains that he'll be a famous explorer. But Mary has other plans, she leans over the counter while he's bent down and whispers:

Is this the ear you can't hear in? George Bailey, I'll love you until the day I die.

You can find Mary whispering the sweet sayings at 5:52. Mary clearly knows she loves George and never forgets it. I make it a habit of listening to my children when they express their inner desires and things they like. We keep a scrap book of all the thoughts, ideas and things they want to do...sort of a bucket list.

One of Annie's childhood dreams is to open an animal shelter with one of her friends, Mallory. They already have a really cute name picked out, Annnie-Mals. She also has a list of characteristics for her future mate, one is that he must be extremely fond of animals. We've been adding to this scrap book yearly, it will be my graduation present to her one day, and hopefully she'll always remember her childlike wants and wishes, and truly have a wonderful life.